1. She greeted us with her fingers,
And fingers like hers greeted back,

2. Then she said, while the people of the tent were present -
Some lighthearted, some reserved in speech -

3. "My intention in this visit was to be sure
That, despite your vow, you feel no bitterness.

4. Come visit before we're parted,
The cowards who'd prevent it are gone.

5. I said the best meeting's in a place
Where no harm's feared from the young and strong."

6. We'll deny having met to any who suppose we might
And trust any who wish us ill, in their chests.

7. We'll stay away one night, then, be sure,
Another two nights - agreed?

8. Passion makes the horses lead the way; how elegant
The women are who accept what we desire!

9. Healthy and lithe like jinn, or broad hipped,
Rounded bellies, full breasts - pure delight!

10. At the curve of every dune they're held back,
When passion calls they scarcely rein it in.

11. As we descended from the dusty hill and earth's
Haze hid us from all eyes,

12. She lit a fire whose light led, with night,
A hand that gently beckoned us and winked.

13. I said, "Hasten, before they sleep, and we'll see
More clearly what we hope for."

14. And I said to companions whose every word
To the women seems charming and kind,

15. "Come, it's time we met our date - go now
And wait for her; the moment's due."

16. She came, walking gently, and around her
Gazelles paced gracefully.

17. When we met, each confessed his secret,
Though aware that such talk stays hid.

18. I spent a night not matched by any place
For one who'd savor it, keeping clear of spies.

19. In a depression, by a hillock and meadow
We were sheltered - who'd suspect we were there?

20. The night passed quickly by and dawn
Came, waking us, the however awake and alert.

21. We left, our talk revealed by neither foe
Nor loose tongues giving us away.

22. And she said, her tears flowing as the drops
Run quickly down a slender branch:

23. "Can I hope that one day after this
There'll come a time we meet again?"