1. O Abu Nasr, why should one boast
In this fleeting life of empty words?

2. Your grinding poverty made you a true friend,
Though it exposed you to blame and slurs.

3. Some lavished their gems freely on knowledge,
While you begrudged your pittance - how absurd!

4. No, by my life! One like you should spurn
A course you scorned and found absurd.

5. Be not like those whose hands recoiled
From bonds of love they later snapped.

6. Or those whose hands, when asked to help,
Gave for a while, then quickly snatched.

7. Most deserving of regret is one
Whom God had raised, but he collapsed.

8. Do not lose a sincere friend like me,
Loyal in health, and free of faults.

9. So treat me well, for I am one
Who for each kindness will give thanks.

10. Preserve my words as a treasure,
When other words have lost their banks.

11. Let it not seem to the elect
As something extra, but a must.

12. While the free man sees it as
A duty - not a bonus - trust!