TO THE READER

Their minds to guage, the olden sage
Taught Wisdom's book unto the few,
But brought his age no priceless page
When false was held above the true.

That thoughtless time outgrown, the prime
Of man the thinker yet would be:
What peak sublime he then would climb,
Strong through the mind's maturity!

So passed the night; then rose the light,
No burst of unexpected sun,

But, goodly sight! a shaft of white;

Thus Wisdom's work was well begun.

The wise ones came, not seeking fame

Since humble service pleased them best: In Wisdom's name all else were shame— They lived their lives, and men were blest.

Ere Palestine, that chosen line

Gave golden precepts to their race: Those precepts shine with light divine, And in the heart hold hallowed place.

To all aware, the times prepare

For things of Wisdom unrevealed:
They seek with care, a further share
From deeper deeps that now are sealed.