1. If a soul were cast in silver according to merit
It would, when most refined, turn to purest gold

2. A man has no pedigree worth noting
Save by perfection of his qualities and manners true

3. Seek then, my son, knowledge and gentility
That fortune's hands may reach thee - grasp and ask them bold

4. God's grace on him, a man whose noble line
Is the flower of nobleness in very deed

5. What but thy deeds defines a gentleman
Thy constancy, thy kindness to thy neighbor, though he chide

6. He whom our Prophet's faith refined not, made him pure,
Will wander perplexed amid events, distraught.