She brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:7
Words: Author unknown. Translated from Latin to English by Henry R. Bramley in Christmas Carols New and Old (London: Novello, Ewer & Company, 1871), number 33.
Music: John Stainer (1840–1901) (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good photo of Bramley (head-and-shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels), would you ?
The virgin stills the crying
Of Jesus, sleepless lying;
And singing for His pleasure,
Thus calls upon her Treasure,
Refrain
My Darling, do not weep,
My Jesu, sleep!
O Lamb, my love inviting,
O Star, my soul delighting,
O Flower of mine own bearing,
O Jewel past comparing!
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My Child, of Might indwelling,
My Sweet, all sweets excelling,
Of bliss the Fountain flowing,
The Dayspring ever glowing,
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My Joy, my Exultation,
My spirit’s Consolation;
My Son, my Spouse, my Brother,
O listen to Thy mother!
Refrain
Say, wouldst Thou heav’nly sweetness,
Or love of answering meetness?
Or is fit music wanting?
Ho! Angels, raise your chanting!
Refrain