1. God nurtured an era long past whose rights I did not fulfill,
Though I was gentle in my ways, experienced in life's affairs.

2. Those nights when your winds weren't northerly toward me
Nor your lightning hostile.

3. Nights when I was true to love beyond its due,
With a loyalty, a sincerity, and a courtesy.

4. I've never seen affection that returned as sin, though epochs have passed,
Lacerating the heart of one who yearned in youth.

5. Nor have I seen an arrow rend armor and proceed
Straight to the heart, then fall short or turn away.

6. No excuse for a swordsman if he's reached the foe
Yet failed to make his blade strike home.

7. No excuse for a steed outstripping the wind, sound of limb,
Who falters or drips sweat or stumbles.

8. What argument have I for my failings and coolness
And covenants made firm in the days of youth now betrayed?

9. When a sinner is punished according to his crime
Reproaching him after punishment is usury.