Classic Poem

Good Saint Joseph held his peace
When he saw the Baby,
Whom he held upon his knees,
Tenderly as may be.
Not a palace, this (thought he);
But a cattle stable.
Yet I chose this hostelry
Just as I was able.

This is scarce a place, indeed,
For the Lord who made all.
I have little for His need;
Even lack a cradle.
Yet my watchfulness shall guard
Him, the King, from danger;
Hay shall make his couch less hard,
In the cattle manger.

This is He, whose humble birth
Was foretold in story,
Who shall dazzle all the Earth
With His ancient glory:
He whom nothing shall amaze,
Shepherd ever wary,
Thee shall all the nations praise,
Blessed Virgin Mary.