Brightest and best of the suns of the morning,
Dawn on our darkness, and lend us thine aid;
Star in the east, the horizon adorning,
Guide where our infant Redeemer is laid.

Cold on His cradle the dewdrops are shining,
Low lies His head with the beasts of the stall.
Angels adore Him, in slumber reclining,
Maker and Monarch, and Savior of all!

Vainly we offer each ample oblation,
Vainly with gifts would His favor secure;
Richer by far is the heart's adoration-
Dearer to God are the prayers of the poor.


Jean Ritchie (Granny Catty's melody goes to this, she sang it always on her Christmas Eve, January 5th, at the fireside in our house. One verse is left out here- and the first verse given above is actually the chorus).