Charles Dickens

Legends and Lyrics Charles Dickens

Through the blue and frosty heavensChristmas stars were shining bright; Glistening lamps throughout the CityAlmost matched their gleaming light; While the winter snow was lying, And the winter winds were sighing, Long ago, one Christmas night. While, from every tower and steeple, Pealing bells were sounding clear, (Never with such tones of gladness, Save when Christmas time is near, ) Many a one that night was merryWho had toiled through all the year. That night saw old wrongs forgiven, Friends, long parted, reconciled; Voices all unused to laughter, Mournful eyes that rarely smiled, Trembling hearts that feared the morrow, From their anxious thoughts beguiled. Rich and poor felt love and blessingFrom the gracious season fall; Joy and plenty in the cottage, Peace and feasting in the hall; And the voices of the childrenRinging clear above it all!Yet one house was dim and darkened; Gloom, and sickness, and despair, Dwelling in the gilded chambers. Creeping up the marble stair, Even stilled the voice of mourning-For a child lay dying there. Silken curtains fell around him, Velvet carpets hushed the tread. Many costly toys were lying, All unheeded, by his bed; And his tangled golden ringletsWere on downy