The Yule Tree

Now on the night when Christ was born, bring in The evergreen and heavenward pointing fir, By Winfrid blessed a thousand years ago To be the emblem of eternal life And fragrant hardihood through all its days. Well has it served to keep the forest cheer, To shelter the wild creatures from the snow, For sill and rafter and quick kindling fire. Ever aspiring and unbowed it grows, Saving the good committed to its care, And to its holy fruitage comes at last,— Bearing upon its boughs the gifts of love, Immortal memories and glad surprise, Making the children's eyes to shine like stars.