During the Fourth Circuit.

(Psalm cxxvii.)

A Song of Ascension by Solomon.
If the Lord lendeth not His aid, All useless is man's toil
To build the house, or safely guard The city free from spoil.

'Tis useless that at early dawn, From slumber ye arise,
And until midnight labour on For your necessities.

But if God's grace your work attend, If it by Him be bless'd,
He brings it to successful end, And gives the toilers rest.

Behold! the children whom ye love, Are blessings from the Lord,
A heritage sent from above To mankind for reward.

He who is bless'd in early life With children's loving smiles,
Is like a warrior arm'd for fight, "Whose darts his quiver fills.

Such man shall never turn aside, But at the gate appear;
Speak to his enemies with pride, Nor shrink away in fear.