_Be we merry in this feast,_
_In quo Salvator natus est._
In Bethlehem that noble place,
As by prophecy said it was,
Of the Virgin Mary full of grace,
Salvator mundi natus est.
_Be we merry, &c._
On Christmas night an angel it told
To the shepherds, keeping their fold,
That into Bethlehem with beastës wold,[25]
Salvator mundi natus est.
_Be we merry, &c._
The shepherds were compassèd right,
About them was a full great light;
‘Dread ye nought’, said the angel bright,
‘Salvator mundi natus est.’
_Be we merry, &c._
‘Behold to you we bring great joy;
For why[26] Jesus is born this day,
To us, of Mary, that mild may,[27]
Salvator mundi natus est.’
_Be we merry &c._
And thus in faith find it ye shall,
Lying poorly in an oxes-stall.
The shepherds then God lauded all,
Quia Salvator mundi natus est.
_Be we merry &c._
[25] Would go.
[26] Because.
[27] Maid.