Hail Shepherds Hail!

For Christmas

Words written for the tune by K. W. Simpson.

Melody: A Besacon Noel, –
(Chantans! Borgies, Noue, Noue.)

Source: Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #60, pp. 6-7.

1. Hail! Shepherds hail! A King is born!
Come with us this happy morn!
Heavenly Choirs around are singing,
    Shepherds, all the world is ringing!

Chorus. Hark how each quiv'ring leaf doth tell:
                    'Noel, A glad Noel!'

2. List! Shepherds List! The clear bells sound!
Rise ye up from off the ground!
Patiently now your lambs enfolding,
E'er the Lamb of God beholding!
    Chorus. Hark how each stirring bird doth tell:
                        'Noel, A glad Noel!'

3. See! Shepherds see! Each glowing flower
Thinks t'is Summer in this hour!
See how the Star above us crieth:
'Come ye where the dear Babe lieth!'
    Chorus. Hark how each rosy cloud doth tell:
                       'Noel, A glad Noel!'

4. Shepherds arise and come away!
Hasten now 'ere it is day!
Hark how the hills repeat the story:
'Jesu born! The Prince of Glory!'
    Chorus. Come Shepherds, joyfully, and tell:
                       'Noel, A glad Noel!'

Sheet Music from Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #60, pp. 6-7.

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