Soft To The Manger Stealing

Cradle Song of the Infant Jesus

For Christmas

Words by K. W. Simpson

Melody: An Old German Wiegenlied.

Source: Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #151, pp. 28-29.

1. Soft to the manger stealing,
    Beside the Christ-Child kneeling,
Our gifts before Him pouring,
    Worshiping and adoring.
Sweet little Jesu, sweet little Jesu.

2. Come set the cradle swinging, 
    In happy numbers ringing, 
Our joyous songs upraising 
    In thankfulness and praising, 
Sweet little Jesu, sweet little Jesu.

3. Come set the cradle swaying, 
    Like a soft Shadow straying; 
With gentle hand and loving 
    Come set the cradle moving. 
Sweet little Jesu, sweet little Jesu.

4. O Babe so dear and tender,
    What sign to show Thy splendour, 
Save loving hearts that claim Thee, 
    And trembling lips that name Thee. 
Sweet little Jesu, sweet little Jesu.

Sheet Music from Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #151, pp. 28-29.

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