Classic Poem

Shame not the Cross , dear Templars! word and deed
Be holy while you bear the mystic sign!
The Master's wounds, alas! too freshly bleed
Whene'er His votaries unto sin incline.
The All-seeing Eye is ever bent to catch
Each deviation from the Templar's vow, —
In constant vigil, therefore, wait and watch,
Nor shame the Cross which marks the Templar now.
Shame not the Cross — Shame not the Cross.

Shame not the Cross! a host of witnesses,
Eager to slander, waiting to decry,
Is gathered round, and shall we pleasure these
To be their byword and a mockery?
Ah, no; be true, brave Templars! By the sword
Which speaks of Calvary from its very hilt,
Resolve to honor J ESUS as the Lord ,
Nor foul His emblem with a stain of guilt.
Shame not the Cross — Shame not the Cross.