1. I have wandered the abodes of Sa’d
In the darkness, like a frightened deer,

2. On a night which extended its darkness
Over its boughs like a stormy night.

3. And dawn sought its place of rising
By the star of Delnos, which gives no guidance.

4. My companion, who did not guide me,
Was running ahead, sharp witted.

5. So I walked along moaning, leaning
On a Mount Sinai bedecked with splashings.

6. I could not find my way, the night being dark,
Save by the scent of musk and misk.

7. Until I daringly entered the abode
Proffering there my love and affection,

8. She woke up frightened and alarmed—
Doe eyed, smooth cheeked maiden.

9. She said, “who is murdered?” I said, “The one
Whom you murdered by being standoffish.”

10. She said, “my love is murdered.” I said “Yes indeed,”
She said, “Yes, by your being cold and turning away.”

11. So I halted my steed, not expecting
To descend from one breast mound to another.

12. And I drew near her while she was blaming
As if she wanted to blame me.

13. Then we embraced while she was frowning
At me, and she spent the night with my arm as her pillow.

14. I sheathed my sword between us, and it became
Like someone else she would fend off deliberately.

15. Until, when the embrace became tight for us—
An embrace whose ardour would melt stones—

16. She said, “May I ransom you, put it aside
The clasping of your spear is enough for me.”