J.M. Neale, The author of 'Good King Wenceslas,' also wrote a terrific song "Over the Hill and Over the Dale". It's the best song ever about the Three Kings. OVER THE HILL AND OVER THE DALE Over the hill and over the dale, Came three kings together Caring naught for snow and hail, Cold and wind and weather. Now on Persia's sandy plane, Now where Tigris swells with rain They their camels tether. Now through Syrian lands they go, Now through Moab faint and slow Now o'r Edam's heather. Over the hill and over the dale, Each king bears a present Wise men go a child to hale, Monarchs seek a peasant. And in front a star proceeds, Over rocks and rivers leads Shines with beams incessant. Therefore onward, onward still, Ford the stream and climb the hill Love makes all things pleasant. He is god ye go to meet, Therefore incense proffer He is king ye go to greet, Gold is in your coffer. Also man he comes to share, Every woe that man can bear Tempter, railer, scoffer. Therefore now against the day, In the grave when him they lay Myrrh ye also offer. Over the hill and over the dale, Riding east together Caring naught for snow and hail, Naught for wind and weather Warned by God from Herod's door, Each king turns for home once more Hearts and footsteps lighter. Now behind them shines the star, Which they followed from afar, Shining ever brighter. We recorded it on our 'When I See Winter Return' CD and it's also on one of John Roberts & Tony Barrand's fine "Noel" CDs.
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