THE SCHOOL HYMN

 

 

"Foundation"

Nisi Dominus Frustra.

 

Words:  J. ASCHER.

Music:  A. R. CHART-LEIGH.

 

 

Father, hallow this our dwelling,

Firmly founded, fashioned fair;

Vain its strength and vain its splendour

If Thy Spirit come not there.

Hallow, Lord, our hearts to serve Thee,

Make us worthy of this place;

Brotherhood and friendship faultless

Bind us here in close embrace.

 

Father, mould our minds receptive,

Kind in judgment, slow to chide;

Vain our thoughts and vain our learning,

If our souls be flushed with pride.

Open, Lord, Thy scroll before us.

Radiant with Thy living lore,

Wisdom won by saint and scholar

Truth enduring evermore.

 

Father, bless our lives with beauty,

Hand and brain in skill combine;

Vain our art and vain our vigour

If we heed not Thy design.

Grant us, Lord, the crown of courage,

Strength to strive, till discord cease.

Dedicate this house to manhood,

Us, Thy ministers of peace.

 

 

(Composed for the opening of the old building in 1927)