1. You sought refuge with the beasts, my friend
And did not seek refuge with anyone else

2. They protect you while you sleep, fearing
The hearts of men may let cruelty loose

3. Is it not strange that a lion
Should protect the flock from its own kind?

4. And that man should be protected by beasts
Though called their brother in mankind

5. You trusted those who cannot be bribed
And never forget what they are owed

6. Yet they killed you when you trusted them
Though pacts of honor they loudly crowed

7. Had he witnessed your murder in Damascus
He’d have stained with guilt those who slew