1. I reproached, though reproach is better withheld,
One whose covenant with me was ever true, my closest friends.

2. When I was sorely tried, and it rent
My limbs asunder and tore my vitals through,

3. I thought that he on whom my pain inflicts
Its heaviest burden would be first to my view,

4. That he would come and look on me, as lovers
Are wont to do, and see if I recovered.

5. At first, to spare me, he forbore to ask
If I still lived or perished of my woe;

6. But neither this nor that - no trace survived
Of that dear friend, alas my bitter blow!

7. His excuse was that, amid his cares, the thought
Of asking had escaped him. Fair enough!

8. Can one in direst need, whom death awaits,
Or life prolonged but to endure its strife,

9. Can such a one forget the friend he loves?
No, by the Bestower of love, from Pe to 'Ayn!*

10. Nay, but man's fortune is a wanton thing
That wounds e'en where the body shows no sign.

11. Patience must be my comfort; God forgive you, friend,
Though love abides my friend, despite your wrongs.