Classic Poem

Quietly the world lay sleeping,
Save on fair Judean plain;
Faithful Shepherds watch were keeping,
Lest their tender flocks be slain.

Silently the snowy mantle
O'er the hill and vale was spread —
Emblem of seraphic pureness —
Carpet fit for angels' tread.

Lo, in eastern skies appearing,
Backward seems the night to roll;
The prophetic star is nearing,
Heaven opened as a scroll.

Then the heralds gladly singing,
Came to announce the Prince of Peace,
All the heavenly harps were ringing —
Praises chaunt and never cease.

Then a cloud of golden glory
Filled the air with heavenly mirth,
Angels sang the wondrous story,
When the Christ-child came to earth.