Sol 6.1

  1. In what abode of youthful passion have I not alighted?

    And by what reprover's words have I not been reproached?

  2. This dwelling, since love resides in it, does not deserve

    to be slighted by the pause of one in haste.

  3. If you stand there, entrust its questioning to tears;

    for tears are more eloquent than questioning the dwelling.

  4. O woman, if you have no gift to give,

    then promise one; and if you are not gracious, appear gracious.

  5. Be generous; if you know not how, then learn

    benevolence from this bountiful vizier.

  6. Abu Nasr's bounty has infected Time; so if

    we asked it to bestow youth, it would not be stingy.

  7. His rule is the realm of piety and protection,

    through mastery of both pen and sword-hilt.

  8. O enricher of the hopeful, is there for one circling in thirst,

    save rain, anything more life-giving than a benefactor?

  9. I rejoice in prosperity and a festival, meeting

    in you an embodiment of good fortune that will not depart.

  10. And enjoy your excellence, for it is the most splendid garment;

    and dwell in your glory, for it is the most impregnable stronghold.

  11. And test my sincerity whenever you wish; there will become clear

    to you the sincere one's intent, distinct from the pretender's.

  12. Never have I said to a benefactor, 'Give me'; yet

    I have desired to win your regard, so grant it to me.

  13. So now success has risen above my hopes,

    through my innate good fortune, not through my efforts to gain access.

  14. And I knew I was fortunate; the sign of good fortune

    is that I sought refuge from you with Muqbil.

Sol 6.1