an embassy to the Greek Emperor at Constantinople. Yousef's
poetry must be looked upon merely as a jeu d'esprit suggested
by the beauties of the vale of Bozâa, as he passed through it.


TO ADVERSITY[31]

Hail, chastening friend Adversity! 'Tis thine
The mental ore to temper and refine,
To cast in virtue's mould the yielding heart,
And honor's polish to the mind impart.
Without thy wakening touch, thy plastic aid,
I'd lain the shapeless mass that nature made;
But form'd, great artist, by thy magic hand,
I gleam a sword to conquer and command.

_Abou Menbaa Carawash_.


[31] The life of this prince was checkered with various adventures;
he was perpetually engaged in contests either with the neighboring
sovereigns, or the princes of his own family. After many struggles
he was obliged to submit to his brother, Abou Camel, who
immediately ordered him to be seized, and conveyed to a place
of security.


ON THE INCOMPATIBILITY OF PRIDE AND TRUE GLORY[32]

Think not, Abdallah, pride and fame