Topband: preserving hemp rope…?

[edmund weber]

Greetings to the Forum,
I'm looking for opinions on the proper preservation of large diameter hemp rope. Auction fever took over
during bidding on a 500' spool of 7/8'' Navy surplus material. I'd like to use it with a pair of large blocks
and a couple of eucalyptus trees.  What oils or chemicals would be appropriate for the job? What would be
a realistic life expectancy ...and a ballpark working load?
Thanks, Ed.
KA6ZMI