14
This Lord did noble presents give,
Which all the servants did receive.
They prayed God to enrich his store,
For they never had so much before.
15
And likewise to the child he gave
A present noble, rich, and brave;
It was a charming cabinet,
That was with pearls and jewels set.
16
And within it was a chain of gold,
Would dazzle eyes for to behold;
A richer gift, as I may say,
Was not beheld this many a day.
17
He charged his father faithfully,
That he himself would keep the key,
Until the child could write and read—
And then to give him it indeed;—
18
"Pray do not open it at all
Whatever should on you befall;
For it may do my godson good,
If it be rightly understood."