She brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:7
Words: Author unknown. Translated from Latin to English by Henry R. Bramley in Christmas Carols New and Old (London: Novello, Ewer & Company, 1871), number 33.
Music: John Stainer (1840–1901) (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good photo of Bramley (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
The virgin stills the crying
Of Jesus, sleepless lying;
And singing for His pleasure,
Thus calls upon her treasure,
Refrain
My Darling, do not weep,
My Jesu, sleep!
O Lamb, my love inviting,
O Star, my soul delighting,
O Flower of mine own bearing,
O Jewel past comparing!
Refrain
My Child, of Might indwelling,
My Sweet, all sweets excelling,
Of bliss the Fountain flowing,
The Dayspring ever glowing,
Refrain
My Joy, my Exultation,
My spirit’s Consolation;
My son, my spouse, my brother,
O listen to Thy mother!
Refrain
Say, wouldst Thou heav’nly sweetness,
Or love of answering meetness?
Or is fit music wanting?
Ho! Angels, raise your chanting!
Refrain