Page:Works of Voltaire Volume 36.djvu/173



lived, in days of yore, A youth bred in Mahomet's lore; His well-turned limbs were formed with grace, With blooming beauty glowed his face; His name was Azolan, with care The Koran he had written fair; Was on its study ever bent, To get it all by heart he meant. From the most early youth his breast By zeal for Gabriel was possessed; This minister of the most high Descended to him from the sky. "The zeal that in thy bosom glows," Said he, "thy guardian Gabriel knows: To Gabriel gratitude is dear, To make your fortune I'm come here; You'll in short time as first divine Of Medina and Mecca shine; This, next to his place who is chief Of all who hold the true belief, Is the most high and wealthy station In holy Mahomet's donation. When you your duties once begin, Honors on all sides will pour in; But you a solemn oath must make The whole sex female to forsake;