A CHRISTMAS HYMN
   Words: Arnold, Compleat Psalmodist, 2d ed., 1750.
   Music: CHRISTMAS HYMN in Wyeth's Reporitory, Part 2d, 1813,
     and JUDEA in Billings, Singing-Master's Assistant, 1778.

   A Virgin unspotted the Prophet foretold, 
   Should bring forth a Saviour which now we behold, 
   To be our Redeemer from Death, Hell and Sin, 
   Which Adam's transgression involved us in. 
      Then let us be Merry, put Sorrow away, 
      Our Saviour, Christ Jesus, was born on this day. 

   Through Bethlehem City, in Jewry it was,
   That Joseph and Mary together did pass; 
   And for to be taxed when thither they came, 
   Since Caesar Augustus commanded the same. 
      Then let us be Merry, &c.

   But Mary's full Time being come as we find,
   She brought forth her First-born to save all Mankind:
   The Inn being full, for this heavenly Guest,
   No Place there was found where to lay him to rest.
      Then let us be Merry, &c.

   But Mary, blest Mary, so meek and so mild,
   Soon wrapt up in Swadlings this heavenly Child;
   Contented she laid him where Oxen do feed;
   The great God of Nature approv'd of the Deed.
      Then let us be Merry, &c.

   To teach us Humility all this was done, 
   Then learn we from hence haughty Pride for to shun; 
   A Manger's his Cradle, who came from above, 
   The Great God of Mercy, of Peace, and of Love. 
      Then let us be Merry, &c.

   Then presently after, the Shepherds did spy
   Vast numbers of Angels to stand in the Sky;
   So merrily talking, so sweet they did sing,
   All Glory and Praise to our heavenly King.
      Then let us be Merry, &c.