1. Alas! My lonely heart clung closely, obstinately,
Yet did not commit itself to lasting love.

2. With her I left Mecca's valley after dusk prayers
When darkness filled the mosque and it grew dim.

3. No late worshipper remained, no straggler lingered there
Through the long night until the darkness thinned.

4. Past Leith's steep valley the camels sped as though
They rushed to gain a share of morning spoil.

5. They crossed Bazwa's valley while the night spread wings
Over Bazwa, halting there to rest awhile.

6. They passed by Ashshan of Rauqah at dawn, no lip
Or eye sought water in the morning light.

7. Scarce had the sun's first rays appeared when ahead
Loomed Aleppo's plain, radiant, decked in white.

8. No drinking-stop before, however thirsty, till
I turned the camels, fearing we might fail,

9. And said: "You could outstrip a less fine she-camel,
And Wadi Birk this morning wears a veil."