Within and without these chalets are mural inscriptions and symbols:
“Quarter’d o’er with scutcheons of all hues,
And proverbs sage, which passing travellers
Linger to read, and ponder o’er their meaning.”
They are put upon the beam, upon panels, carved in the cornices everywhere to catch the eye. They are most various in character, friendly welcomes, praises of their native land, exhortations to unity, to freedom, and to courage. On the great projecting beam supporting the roof, called sablière, are often painted, amid ornaments and flowers, the initials J.M.J. (Jesus, Mary, and Joseph), as well as the name of the man for whom the house was made, and that of the master carpenter who built it. Those of the Bernese Oberland have inscriptions reminding man of his duty and the solemnity of life; of which the following are samples:
“The friends from whom we needs must part
’Twill pleasure give to meet again.
’Gainst malice, lies, hypocrisy,
Closed may this house forever be.”
“My God, my strength, whom I will trust,