In This Time Of Christmas

Words: From Christmasse Carolles, Wynkyn de Worde, 1521.

 

Compare: In this tyme of Chrystmas (Middle English)

Source: Edith Rickert, Ancient English Christmas Carols: 1400-1700 (London: Chatto & Windus, 1914), p. 71.

In the honour of Christës birth
Sing we all with joy and mirth

1. In this time of Christmas,
Betwixt an ox and an ass,
A maiden delivered was
    Of Christ, her dear Son dear.

2. The husband of Mary
(Saint) Joseph stood her by,
And said he was ready
    To serve her if need were.

3. When she her dear Son see,
She set Him on her knee,
And sang, 'Hither to me,
    Come buss Thy mother dear."

4. On her lap she Him laid,
And with her pap He played,
And ever sang the maid:
    "Come buss Thy mother dear."

5. With lips culling (His),
His mouth oft she did kiss,
And said: "Sweetheart mine,
    I pray You, make good cheer."

6. To this Child let us pray,
That born was on this day,
Of Mary, the mild may,
    To grant us all good cheer.

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