1. Nobility gleams through his noble traits
Flawless, so none can reproach save the envious

2. Abu al-Fadl's nobility appears to his foe
Who, seeing him, knows him though denying before

3. Had he persisted in false rejection
Witnesses' testimony would reveal his deeds

4. As my years advanced, so did the years of grace
I feared senility would overtake us both

5. Until I saw you shouldering his place
So I clung to that care as to a rope

6. As if, seeking you, a thirsty man
Passing a valley stream stopped to drink deep

7. I see reversals have established their course
But tuning my cares to you, they retreat