King Solomon was presiding over a feast celebrating the laying of the
cornerstone of his Temple.
He arose and called to the Entered Apprentices asking, “What is great,
judicious and distinct in architecture?”
The Overseer of the Work answered: “A solid cornerstone. Smooth
ashlars. Properly laid out work.”
“What say the Fellow Crafts?” asked Solomon.
After deliberation, they answered: “Plumb walls, a level floor, square
corners.”
“How about the Masters? Surely they know.” called Solomon once more.
The Chief Architect arose and answered: “Well-drawn plans. Correct
placement of the parts of the building. Appropriate decorations and
detail-work.”
King Solomon then said, “It is good.”
He continued, “Master Hiram, you have been quiet. What is your
answer?”
Hiram answered: “Rough stones. Dull tools. Dirty aprons.”