Christmas Greetings

1869

Lady dear, if fairies mayFor a moment lay asideCunning tricks and elfish play—'Tis at happy Christmas-tide.

We have heard the children say—Gentle children, whom we love—Long ago, on Christmas DayCame a message from above.

Still, as Christmas time comes round,They remember it again—Echo still the joyful sound'Peace on earth, good will to men!'

Yet the hearts must child-like beWhere such heavenly guests abide:Unto children in their gleeAll the year is Christmas-tide!

So, forgetting tricks and playFor a moment, lady dear,We would wish you, if we may,Merry Christmas, glad New Year!

From Phantasmagoria and Other Poems (1869), via the English Wikisource transcription.

Public domainThis poem is in the public domain. You may read it, copy it, recite it and publish it without asking anyone.