Il Sultano di Babilonia e la prostituta [English translation]

Once, friar Francis left to go overseas,

as far as the lands of Babylon, to preach.

With his companions on the way of the Saracens;

the poor lads were caught and cudgelled.

Friar Francis spoke,

and he preached so well

that the Great Sultan listened

and admired him very much,

he freed him from his chains.

So Francis left

for Babylon to preach.

Friar Francis stopped to rest,

and a woman decided to approach him.

Beautiful her visage, but treacherous her heart;

with her body, she was inviting him to sin.

Friar Francis spoke:

«I will sin with you»,

he laid down into the fire,

stretched out his arms toward her,

she repented, she converted.

So Francis left

for Babylon to preach.

• Artist:Angelo Branduardi