1. While simple rural chickens
Were strolling in their quaint abode

2. A haughty rooster of foreign breed
Stood loftily at the door like an unbidden guest

3. Saying, “God give you life, O multifaced one!
Never shall I see you brought low.”

4. I’ve come to bring my excellence to you
And judge amongst you all with equity.

5. Everything you have is forbidden to me
Save water and a place to sleep.

6. Then the chickens’ madness flared anew,
And for a cure they opened up their coop.

7. He strutted in a royal prance,
Blessing every chick and cock.

8. He spent that fortunate night
Delighted with his newfound home.

9. The chickens passed the night in safety
Dreaming of servitude and humiliation.

10. Until, when dawn spread its light
And shadows drew from it illumination,

11. Their verbose friend crowed
“Long live my fine dwelling!”

12. They woke from their ill-omened sleep
Terrified by the scream of the betrayer.

13. “What is this condition between us?” they said.
“You have betrayed us, by God, plainly.”

14. The Indian laughed until he lay down
And said, “What blindness, O you fools!

15. When did you ever own eloquent tongues?
This was so before the door stood open.”