1. Al-Saluki once said to his steed
As he was led to the hunt, reins in the lead:

2. "For God's sake, tell me O friend of delight
You know in me loyalty and love unite

3. Are you not the noble steed of the chase?
The stalwart mount of the trail and race?

4. Were you not gifted the traits ideal
That stir the poet's verse with zeal?

5. "Yes," said the horse "All you say rings true
These gifts I bear, and my fame they accrue"

6. "Why then, my friend" said the poet, distressed
"When the hunt calls, the hawks take wing with zest

7. Do you balk and jib at your master's crop
No whip, for the steed, was ever meant or wrought

8. Bucking and plunging in sweat profuse
Head hung low, and courage obtuse

9. While I, Al-Saluki, patient remain
And docile to my master's rein"

10. The horse replied "Gentle teacher of hearts
The enlightened look beyond surface parts

11. The rapture of birds and animals free
Is not found in your shanks, steadfast as they be

12. Passion flies where desire leads
For the belly commands, and hunger heeds

13. See how birds, though fragile of frame
Cross continents, when love lights aflame"