HERE sang twelve sparrows on the wall
At even-fall, at even-fall.

When gloomed apace the village doors
Between the silent sycamores,

They heard a sound from mystic shores,
And sang their song for gladness’ sake —
The birds of God were all awake.

   
   
   

 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  

There lowed twelve oxen at the bin
Behind the inn, behind the inn.
Along the dark, across the lea,
They knew a sign no man could see.
There was a wonder soon to be;

O, secret of the sons of Shem!

Who told the beasts of Bethlehem ?

There flew twelve angels, clothed in light,

At middle night, at middle night ;

With countless peers of kindred wing =
They called, as distant bugles ring,

“ Behold the cradle of the King!

The Son of Heaven, the Prince of earth

Becomes a babe of human birth!”