1. When merit adorns the chest, then
Your chest is adorned with gilded merit

2. And if others admire the like of it
None can admire or marvel at your like

3. For he who gains distinction by chance
Is not as one known since cradle days at play

4. And he who seeks a medal for his chest
Is not as one who sought and strove away

5. And would man admire his medal’s grace
If his traits noble did not grace inspire?

6. You have the traits whose diffusion was lost
Sweeter than wine old, pure or mixed entire

7. Had nature your traits, her spring
Eternal blooms, scenting sweet fire

8. When in you the Caliph truthful saw
Zeal beyond lands, he did admire

9. He favored you as your intellect merits,
Wise counsel, seasoned and approved

10. So you, Alfred, won his kindness still
Bathed in the crescent’s glow, beloved

11. Thrice third, twice second, honors gained
And now I, foremost, draw near