1. Would that my day were by Euphrates' shore,
For there life seemed most sweet, and more and more

2. The vicissitudes of fate from it withdrew,
And there the joys of life our steps pursue.

3. Our steeds we'd race, while noble steeds contend;
Though stirred to strife, as noble steeds they'd end.

4. Or standing still, their heads held high, they'd seem
As spear-like columns fixed, or so I deem.

5. If spurred by heel or whip, their souls take flight
And leave their bodies in most wondrous plight.

6. The pebbles, if they pass in full career,
Like locusts scattered by their hooves appear.

7. Carefree they bear the youths who love delight
And heed no mentor bidding them do right.

8. Taste ye life's joy, let generosity
Like steeds race with you through your days; so be

9. Generous when Time gallops like steeds whose pace
Scatters the pebbles in the headlong race!

10. "Do ill, Grief," to my soul I say, "provide
Provision ere misfortune shall betide!"

11. Long hath your promise tortured and confined
Release it now, though evil and unkind!

12. You cannot keep your troth, whate'er you vow,
Whoe'er would wish may break his plighted vow

13. No lover true is always passion's slave;
This has a sword that doth men's vitals cleave!

14. One day I spent in sighs and bitter pain
That seared my heart and burnt it amain,