Stanza 25


25

So now the clerics demonstrate concern
For they have great anxiety to learn
The reasons why the mayor feels such hate.
The sayyid says, "If we can mediate
On the behalf of your respected chief,
This situation might not end in grief.
What can you tell me of the mayor's case
That makes him think the infantry have base
Intentions towards these honest villagers?"
The local cleric says, "The foreigners
Have used their might against our enemies.
When they arrived, they sent some companies
Against the terrorists who caused us fear.
Since then our foes have yet to reappear.
Three days ago, the mayor entertained
The base commander, but he has refrained
From telling me what happened that inspired
The anger that our trusted chief acquired."
To this conclusion Ibrahim assents.
"I do not know why he took such offense."