A Gift for Baghdad — Page 113
Reply to the Announcement & Letter 113 Your country is a garden of beneficence; Accordingly, Sir, godliness is expected from you. How strange that a gentleman like you would inflict harm on me, While in Baghdad many blessings are encountered. I have observed, O beloved, that you have mentioned me with insult; Why is this so, when your normal behaviour is characterized by kindness? We have taken everything that you have offered as a precious gift, And acted with sincerity towards you and have become exceedingly delighted. So, accept my response as a gift from me, But remember the initial step was taken by you. When my talons clutch the opponent; Then, his only recourse is exemplary punishment or submission. However, if you approach me amicably and peacefully, Then there will be glad tidings and success for the visitors. If you approach not the flowing rivers, You cannot expect to be given water from the wind. Extracting water from solid ground is easy if you dig hard, But you will perish if you remain sitting or supine.