1. Alas! Would that God restore to me the room
Where I stood till dawn on weary feet -

2. With fleas and bugs well mixed together there,
Like peppercorns strewn amid bran grains.

3. When the mosquitoes saw me they conversed
And danced a rhythmic dance, full of skill.

4. The fire of its heat had ripened my body,
But with a ripening that tended to char.

5. I passed the night as if, from the fierce heat,
Whole from their bites, lacking poultice or drug.

6. Small wonder I almost perished from their meal;
Nay, wonder how the rest of me survived!

7. Till dawn revealed itself with slow brightening
And I could feel some remnants of my soul.

8. I made swiftly for the door, seeking refuge,
So glory to Him who restored and freed me!