1. He sees his Lord when misfortune descends at dusk,
As it spreads through the gloom and he wanders lost.

2. So she stands, miserable, for an hour she cannot endure
Of time: even the keenest hounds have slept their fill.

3. She saw him lolling, prone to the ground, legs folded under him,
His body limp, his arms collapsing.

4. His belly flat, except for the flow of blood
Inside, or grime from a burst gallbladder.

5. He is a close, loyal friend, and a hostile opponent.
His eyes glitter, both filled with eager malice,

6. Like the swaying branch of a hissing viper.
When he fears injustice from a foe, his claws

7. And his muscular flank attack.
Though he spends a night alone, it doesn't confine him;

8. He starts the next day not humbled.
For hours of the night he walks secure and calm,

9. Though childbirth makes the women's quarters tremble.
When he takes refuge in a village for rest,

10. He moves furtively on to another, blending with the wind.
If a land distrusts him he simply finds

11. Another straightaway, content, relaxed.
If he steals from a miser's cattle, taking them unawares

12. While keeping watch, the miser complains—
Even if the raider were his own son—when the spirits

13. Of winter storms begin to blow.
You sleep like a leopard, satiated, near someone on guard

14. Who eats his food though you remain hungry.
You sleep with one eyelid closed, while the other eye

15. Keeps careful watch for enemies. Lying down, you're awake.
When you get up you stretch your full length, extending

16. Your firm belly, jumping nimbly to your feet.
You bare your jaws till, mutually hostile,

17. They pull apart, then squat, while the land lies barren.
You went on watching over the army till the whores

18. Disappeared, and bushes blocked them from your view.
When you set out one day, you see a swirl

19. Of birds, looking to see what you will do.
You intend one thing, then resolve to do another,

20. And when matters grow too tight, you always find more room.