Psalm 127. Nisi Dominus.

1. EXCEPT the Lord build the house, *
   their labour is but lost that build it.
2. Except the Lord keep the city, *
   the watchman waketh but in vain.
3. It is but lost labour that ye haste to rise up early, and so late take rest, and eat the bread of carefulness; *
   for so he giveth his beloved sleep.
4. Lo, children, and the fruit of the womb, *
   are an heritage and gift that cometh of the Lord.
5. Like as the arrows in the hand of the giant, *
   even so are the young children.
6. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them; *
   they shall not be ashamed when they speak with their enemies in the gate.