We served apart in separate capitals
I think of you as a tumbleweed too
your arrival brings back the past
for ten years we've held different posts
the year is late and the clouds have settled in
thin homespun is no longer enough
a traveler's lot is a miserable one
you came through the passes in the wind and snow
but a festive wine puts a smile on your face
and your fine words have freshened the air
we began with a belly of regret
and made it last all night
why sell a treasure so cheaply
this cherished talent and rarest of officials
but who pays attention to an honest man
the new year means nothing when you're poor