What visage is this before the caravan,
As if the camel driver holds a candle in hand?

It seems as though Solomon rides in the howdah,
With the breeze of dawn carrying his throne afar.

The beauty of a moonlike figure atop the heights,
Resembles the radiant moon in the sky at night.

A heavenly face concealed within the litter,
Like a tower with the sun shining at its center.

Those wise and discerning find it strange to see,
A sun hidden beneath the shade of a canopy.

Like a lotus upon water or the sun behind clouds,
A fairy-like face lies veiled within silken shrouds.

The one hidden beneath the veil unveiled her face,
At once revealing her splendor and grace.

The camel moved ahead of me in stride,
For my burden is heavier to abide.

Oh, faithless one of fragile loyalty,
How heartless you are in your cruelty.

If this is the depth of your friendship for me,
Then let our bond reflect the same loyalty.

O camel driver, halt for a moment more,
The promise of reunion still lies in store.

We stayed true, yet betrayal was our reward,
Go, Saadi, for such is their accord.

Did you not know, as old age approaches fast,
It is no time to wrestle with youth at last?