RESPECT the Gavel, Brethern, nor forget
Thatj’tis but wielded by a master-hand ;
And well remember that ye here are met
Under the rulership of its command,
Our Master is but human -- he may err --
“To err is human -- to forgive, divine”
And each true Mason is a worshipper,
And bows when this great emblem is his shrine.
For as the Gavel smote from off each stone
Its rude deformities, and made serene
All that before had most unshapely been,
So we may take this lesson for our own: --
And Gavel down each harsh, ignoble deed
That otherwise would rank dissension breed.

By Bro. Dr. F. Forshaw, LL.D.