“Be not afraid,” the angel bade.

“I bring good news to king and clown,

To you here crouching on the sward;

For there is born in David’s town

A Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

“Behold the babe is swathed, and laid

Within a manger.” Straight there stood

Beside the angel all arrayed

A heavenly multitude.

“Glory to God,” they sang; “and peace,