Now Let Us Sing I Pray Thee

For Christmas

Words: Chantons, je vous en prie, Traditional Burgundian Noël
Words Translated by K. W. Simpson

Music: Traditional Burgundian Noël (Early form of melody)

Source: Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #77, pp. 20-21.

1. Now let us sing, I pray thee!
In exultation laud
The honour of Our Lady,
Her name by all adored.
        To her the living races
        Saved from a bitter death,
        Lift up their joyous faces
        In messages of faith.

2. In love and veneration
Hath her renowned name
Lived through each generation
In dignity and fame!
        Now tell us, tell us Mary!
        Who was the Messenger
        Who sought thee, to prepare thee,
        For mystery so dear.

3. An Angel did bespeak me –
(Compassionate he stood!)
'Twas Gabriel who did seek me,
To bring his Master's word!
        He spake, and said to Mary,
        Regarding her a space,
        'O Maid! Thou art most blessed
        In all this earthly place!'

4. And where shall this Messiah –
This Son of Love and Peace –
To dwelling-place aspire?
In kingly palaces?
        T'is in a manger lowly
        Beneath the open skies,
        In poverty, most lowly
        He openeth His eyes!

5. 'Now tell us, blessed Maiden!
Who visiteth with thee?
Do kings and princes laden
Pour off'rings at His knee?'
        'The Shepherds came to find Him,
        O'er many a lonely mile.
        Their flocks they left behind them,
        To worship here awhile.

6. With humble hearts and fervent.
O Blessed Maid we pray:
That thou wilt bless each servant
Around the Babe this day!
        That, on the unknown morrow.
        When all men judged shall be,
        He sleepeth safe from sorrow,
        Who hath been bless'd by thee!

Sheet Music from Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #77, pp. 20-21.

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