Page:A Selection of Hymns Used in the Parish Church, and the Church of the Holy Trinity, Ulverston, Ed. by R. Daniel.djvu/99



While shepherds watch'd their flocks by night,

All seated on the ground,

The angel of the Lord came down,

And glory shone around:

"Fear not," said he, (for mighty dread

Had seized their troubled mind,

"Glad tidings of great joy I bring

"To you and all mankind.

To you in David's town this day,

"Is born of David's line, -

The Saviour who is Christ the Lord;

"And this shall be the sign;

"The Heav'nly Babe you there shall find

"To human view display'd,

"All meanly wrapt in swathing bands,

"And in a manger laid."

Thus spake the seraph, and forth with,

Appear'd a shining throng

Of angels, praising God, and thus

Address'd their joyful song:

All glory be to God on high,

"And to the earth be peace;

"Good-will henceforth from Heav'n to men,

"Begin and never cease."

While Thee I seek, protecting Pow'r,

Be my vain wishes still'd;