Page:Quatrains of Omar Khayyam (tr. Whinfield, 1883).djvu/310

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THE QUATRAINS OF

378.

The people say, "Why not drink somewhat less?
What reasons have you for such great excess?"
    First, my Love's face, second, my morning draught;
Can there be clearer reasons, now confess?


379.

Had I the power great Allah to advise,
I'd hid him sweep away this earth and skies,
    And build a better, where, unclogged and free,
The clear soul might achieve her high emprise.


380.

This silly sorrow-laden heart of mine
Is ever pining for that Love of mine;
    When the Cupbearer poured the wine of love,
With my heart's blood he filled this cup of mine!


378.   C. L. N. A. I. J.

379.   C. L. N. A. I. J.   This recalls the celebrated speech of Alphonso X., king of Castile.