BETA

Christmas.

Rejoice ! for Christmas Eve is here once more,1
With all its charm of mirth and Eastern lore.2
Although you see no star not seen before,3
Nor laden Magi wending by your door ;4
Although two thousand years have almost passed5
Since in the fields, that dim and distant night,6
The shepherds saw the herald-angel bright,7
And mystic music heard from heights downcast :8
Pile up the fire, spread forth the festal board,9
Dig out the roadway from the drifted snow,10
And bring in holly, bay, and mistletoe,11
That we may keep the birthday of our Lord.12
Rejoice ! I trust Joy, Peace, and Love will be13
Among the guests who share the feast with thee.14