In Paris at the dawn of light, To work two masons hied; And mounting to a scaffold's height, Their labour briskly plied. Soon their frail foothold in the air Cracked, threatening to give way; Too weak the weight of two to bear— For one a trembling stay. "Jacques," cried his mate, "I have a wife And children three alive." "Farewell!" said Jacques, and gave his life A sacrifice for five. O hero! known as "Jacques" to Fame, That deed's unselfish love In full, we trust, shall cause thy name To be inscribed Above! |