In Bethlem Town

Verse 1

In Bethlem town the Christ was born. They laid him down that starlit mor-ee-orn Amidst the corn, in swaddling gown Unbleached and worn, with hay his crown.

Chorus

Too-loo-ree-loo, too-loo-ree-lay, Too-loo-ree-loo: 'twas Christmas Day.

Verse 2

On hills nearby, poor shepherds graze Their flocks. The sky explodes in prai-ee-aise, With angels' lays to God on high: "Fear not, this day salvation's nigh!

Chorus 2

Too-loo-ree-loo, too-loo-ree-lirth, Good will to you, and peace on earth!"

Verse 3

The shepherds then of one accord To Bethlem ran to greet the Lor-ee-ord. They found him sleeping in a trough, Convolved in cheap, unwhitened cloth.

Chorus 3

Too-loo-ree-laid, too-loo-ree-lotched, They knelt and prayed as Mary watched.

Verse 4

From Persia far, wise Parsees came, Led by his star, to praise his name-ee-ame. They brought presents of gold and myrrh And frankincense--and beaver fur,

Chorus 4

Too-loo-ree-lurr, too-loo-ree-lee, Then went home sur-reptitiously.

Verse 5

King Herod had bequestioned them, With motive bad, about Bethlem-ee-em. The crafty sages Herod left In royal rage, of facts bereft--

Chorus 5

Too-loo-ree-lilled, too-loo-ree-lents, So Herod killed the Innocents.

Verse 6

God said to Joseph and his wife: To Egypt go, to save your li-ee-ife. Thine ancient namesake as a slave To Egypt came your folk to save.

Chorus 6

Too-loo-ree-lask, too-loo-ree-lun, A sim'lar task awaits your son.

Verse 7

Good people all, consider ye, Whom God hath called to liberty-I-ee-- Consider well the awful cost The Scriptures tell in children lost;

Chorus 7

Too-loo-ree-low, too-loo-ree-laid, Consider now the ransoms paid.

Verse 8

God's peace to you; now merry be, For 'tis all true, of verity-I-ee. The baby born, ye know it well, That holy morn, hath vanquished Hell,

Chorus 8

Too-loo-ree-loss, too-loo-ree-lee, Upon the cross, and we are free!