1. A friend of noble traits and purest heart
Recounted to me tales of one true to his art

2. I said, though many swords in battle clash
No sword compares to Dhu'l-Faqar's shining arc

3. And if my friend proves but an ass that brays
When the ferocious lion stirs and comes to war

4. Let him speak of our verse as he desires
No slander makes the graceful beauty mar