1. Though my excuses to you seem ugly,
Suffice it good that consciences conceal.

2. And if I broke my promise, by the One
Who kept for you his overt and covert pledge,

3. I slipped up—human forgetfulness made me—
Seeing you change course when a stumbler stumbles.

4. So do not blame me for all of my sins,
Since constant is your pardon of my sins.

5. If not for your pardon alone, then your pardon
In them is partner, sharing in common.

6. What’s wrong if a brother falls into vice
When vice from him and you alike arises?

7. No harm if your nobility grows greater
Since I am faulty and you are forgiving.

8. I put the yoke of humiliation on my neck—
Hearing and obeying. My being away

9. From you a day, I have excuses.
I was busy hunting antelope until I caught him.

10. Whoever flees your bounty prospers,
Whoever waters at your bounty prevails.

11. Does shortcoming become or absence earn excuse
When I am commanded and you command?

12. No tutor blames me
If I’m absent while benefit is present.

13. You asked, “Were you absent and the wine cup dominant
In my absence? Or losing, then failed?”

14. I missed no gain or loss in both,
Once insights reached the discerning.

15. Enough gain for me: my absence sought something you need
Even had it been fraught with hazards.

16. Enough loss for me: that I came to glance
At you while my heart was gazing.