No, nor the niche close by in the wall,

Where, on the straw, the Bambino was lying,

While the oxen knelt in the stall.

Rude are the images, tinsel the flowers;

But a tear to the eye unconsciously starts,

Beholding the tribute the children have rendered,

In the votive gift of “hearts”!

Among them a little gold watch was hanging,

That told of some sick child’s treasured wealth,

Sent with a prayer that his Christmas present