THE NATIVITY 
 
CHRISTMAS 1897 
 
THE Virgin lies at Bethlehem. 
(Bring gold and frankincense and myrrh !) 
The root of David shoots a stem. 
(O Holy Spirit, pity her !) 
 
She lies alone amid the kine. 
(Bring gold and frankincense and myrrh !) 
The straw is fragrant as with wine. 
(O Holy Spirit, pity her !) 
 
Mine host protects an honest roof. 
(Bring gold and frankincense and myrrh !) 
His spouse sniffs loud and holds aloof. 
(O Holy Spirit, pity her !) 
 
The Angel has not come again. 
(Bring gold and frankincense and myrrh !) 
Why did God deal her out such pain ? 
(O Holy Spirit, pity her !) 
 
Her love-hours held the Holy Ghost. 
(Bring gold and frankincense and myrrh !) 
Where is he now she needs him most ? 
(O Holy Spirit, pity her !) 
 
 
29