1. He deserted Abu Harb and fled away,
Grasping his sword before the battle.

2. A smooth-flowing torrent saved the grasping one,
Passing as if it were the evening star.

3. With it you struck the right hand so it kept falling
Like a hawk's swoop on a shaded day.

4. So it came as if swooping down on an eagle
With a long trunk, lofty in its plumage.

5. And when you saw the horses coursing along,
Racing with the smooth cheeks of the hillocks,

6. On the foam of the crooked fetlocks
Swift of gallop, folding back in succession,

7. It guarded you and did not fail you when
It saw you mingled among the left wing.

8. For had you galloped it would have left you to blame
And your cousin would have deserted you.

9. Do you not know - may God requite you ill -
That death is the goal of men?

10. So strike a blow the report of which will rise
High in the talk of the people in turmoil.

11. No, by your father, O son of Abi 'Uqail,
After it you will no longer be soaked in urine for me.

12. You forgot his company and turned away from him
As the wild cows turn away from the shadows.