1. The best of men are her companion,
Her advisor, and her confidant.

2. Goodness has Heaven as its tryst;
Its shade, its wine, its ecstasy.

3. Evil has Hell as its tryst,
Its rage, its moaning, its despair.

4. No love for an abode where fear
Does not fill its torrents and its flames.

5. Most wretched in the world are they
Who make it their beloved companion.

6. I seek God's refuge lest you be deceived
By its blossoms and its shining veneer,

7. That embittered potion, though it seems
Graceful, pleasant, and unique.

8. Turn away, for you are its prisoner;
Renounce it, and you will be set free.

9. Leave that which, if you pursue, will not
Make smooth for you the path you seek.

10. Often the closest of intimates betrays,
While the most distant holds fast and loyal.

11. The test of men comes in days
When hearts are open or confined.