Classic Poem

I cruised with Sindbad the Sailor
When this old world was new;
We entered ship at Bassora
And down the Tigris flew.

We traversed the Gulf of Ormus,
Where chanting Peris roam,
And Mermen abide in cities
Beneath the whispering foam.

We coasted the shore of spices,
The incense-breathing capes;
And we reached the marvellous island
Where dwell the Manlike Apes

But what those Eldermen told me
I never dared rehearse,
Lest mollah and mufti and softa
Should clench their fists and curse.