The New York Age

CHRISTMAS CAROL.
Written for The Age by Miss Fannie A. Parker, Bermuda.

The bells of Heaven are ringing
To welcome in the day,
Whilst earth takes up the echo,
And chants a joyful lay.
"Peace and good-will to all men!"
Through all the world shall ring,
And hope, love, joy and gladness,
Shall from the Fountain spring.

Before the wond'ring nations,
The Star resplendent shone;
Its glory threw a radiance,
That ne'er before was known.
And now our lips are bidding
Its lustre on us shine,
For at this festive season,
Our hearts should not repine.

"Behold, I bring glad tidings!"
So spake the seraph's voice.
The world, once robed in darkness
Will this glad day rejoice.
From mountain top to valley,
Shall peace, the herald, go,
To lift the heavy burden,
And cheer the heart of woe.

Yea, countless voices mingle
The songs of joy and mirth,
That hailed the sovereign advent,
And crowned the lowly birth.
Before the world, in judgment,
The King has come to reign,
The Sword of Peace and Mercy,
Within His hands remain.

May many happy wishes,
Within our hearts find place.
And send them forth to mankind,
Of every land and race.
Accept the humble greeting
I from my pen let fall,-
"A Merry, Merry Christmas,"-
Dear readers, one and all.