Hiram, King of Tyre

Hiram, King of Tyre. [No. 51]

Tis well when Rulers can allow the Sword
To rest within the Scabbard; it is wise
To strive alone in peaceful enterprise,
Binding each Land in Commerce,—silken chain
Which never chafes. ’Twas wise in Israel’s King 5
To make such Treaty with the King of Tyre,
When he to Build the temple did aspire.
Even now we seem to hear the Axes ring
In Lebanon’s big Forest. How they fall,
Those Pines and Cedars! And Sidonian skill 10
Soon carves them into shape; the Craftsman’s will
Bringing rude matter into forms which all
Admire for Strength and Beauty. So must we
Carve Thoughts and Feelings with true Masonry.

by George Markham Tweddell 1st published c 1887