TRUE FRIENDSHIP (from Panchatantra)

'Tis hard to find in life

A friend, a bow, a wife,

Strong, supple to endure

In stock and sinew pure,

In time of danger sure.

False friends are common. Yes, but where

True nature links a friendly pair,

The blessing is as rich as rare.

To bitter ends

You trust true friends,

Not wife nor mother,

Not son nor brother.

No long experience alloys

True friendship's sweet and supple joys;

No evil men can steal the treasure;

'Tis death, death only, sets a measure.