1. Bending o'er a cradle low
Sang a mother long ago,
"This is Christ the Holy Child."
Shepherds, wise men, angels smiled;
"What care I for palace walls;
What care I for kingly halls!
In my arms the King of kings
Listens while the angel sings.
Peace on earth, good will for aye,
Hail the blessed Christmas Day!
Hail the blessed Christmas Day!"
2. Echoing down the ages long
Comes the herald angel's song,
Still do shepherds heed the voice,
Wise men listen and rejoice;
While to greet the King of kings
Earth her noblest offerings brings.
And the blessed Christ is born
In each heart on Christmas morn.
Sing, then, peace, good will for aye,
Hail the blessed Christmas Day!
Hail the blessed Christmas Day!
Hans. Gretel, I believe St. Nicholas will come anyway, I just believe he will. [Gretel gives the yarn to her mother, Hans remains sitting on the box.] When we aren't thinking about it he'll just walk right in—I'll show you how. [Jumps up and runs out of the door.] Now, I'm St. Nicholas. [Comes in again, speaking in a loud and pompous tone.] How do you do, little Miss Gretel,—how are you little—no, big Hans! [Shakes hands with Gretel and with an imaginary Hans.] Well, Mother Madelon, have these children been very good indeed?
Mother. Yes, good saint, I couldn't ask for two better, dearer children, or any that I love half so well.
Hans [in his own voice]. Oh, Mother, do you truly think so?
Gretel. Then, Hans, if we've been good children, I 'most know St. Nicholas will come.
Hans [dancing to look out of door]. Oh, he will! He will! Mother, give me something to do so I won't keep thinking about it.
Gretel. Oh, Hans, let's have a story!