1. Silent stars were watching
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Over hill and plain,
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Humble shepherds only
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Heard the joyful strain,
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When by angel voices
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Were the tidings told,
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Sung by angel legions
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With their harps of gold.
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2. Then, in haste, the shepherds
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Heedless of their fold,
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Seek King David's city
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As the angels told.
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There they find the manger
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There the Infant King,
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There they tell the story
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To the wondering.
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3. In the East, the wise men
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Journeying from afar,
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Guided to the manger
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By the mystic star.
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Gold and fragrant incense
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Costly gifts they bring,
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In the stable lay them,
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Kingly offering.
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4. And on this our Christmas,
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While our hearts we bring,
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Hear the wondrous story,
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Joyous carols sing;
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To the holy Christ-child
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Grant, O Lord, that we,
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Like the kings and shepherds,
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May be led by Thee.
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