The First Christmas Carol.

Ring, Christmas bells, the story repeat, Tell of the Star that led to His feet; Show us the shepherds kneeling with kings, While high in the heavens the first Carol rings, Through the tumults of time the great words stand still:

“Peace be on earth, to men good will.” Ring till our hearts in its concord abound, Ring till the whole world is swayed by its sound.

Ring, Christmas bells, ring clear and sweet, Learned and unlearned, we kneel at His feet. Shine, herald Star, from God's innermost deep. Banish hate's spectres that stalk in our sleep. Sing, bright seraphs, as at the Child's birth: “Good will to men, peace be on earth.” Ring out, O Carol, our false gods confound, Ring till the world's King in triumph is crowned.

—Alma Adams Wiley.

* * *