The Valley of the Shadow of Death.

The Valley of the Shadow of Death. [No. 53]

Dark is the Valley where Death’s Shadow flings
Its sombre hue around: most dense to him
Whose life being evil, all before is dim
To his Soul’s vision. The Master Mason clings
Fast to Hope’s anchor, and perceives a Light, 5
At first seen faintly glimmering in the East,
To guide him onward,—which he knows at least
Is no mere quagmire flame, delusive, bright
To lead astray. That Light is seen more clear
When worldly cares have ceased to dim our sight, 10
And, like true heroes, we resolve to fight
Life’s battle bravely; deeming nothing dear
To wise and worthy Masons here below
Which will not on Mankind true Happiness bestow.

by George Markham Tweddell 1st published c 1887