1 Hush! the virgin’s song is ringing
Through the lowly manger’s shed,
Joseph’s voice the chorus singing
O’er their glorious Infant’s bed.

2 Sleep! my Child, for in the manger
Softest hay beneath Thee lies;
Loveliest Infant, here no danger
Can Thy precious life surprise.

3 Sleep! my Child, my crown, my beauty,
Lulled with nectar from my breast;
Sleep! whilst sweet maternal duty
Watches o’er Thy balmy rest.

4 Sleep! my Child, so full of sweetness,
Sweeter than the honey comb;
Sleep! my joy, my life’s completeness,
Offspring of my virgin womb.

5 Sleep! my Child, and I will render
To Thy wishes full supply;
Thy dear mother’s pleasure, tender
As the apple of her eye.

6 Sleep! my Child, my heart’s sole treasure,
Giving joy which fears not death;
Angels seem to whisper pleasure
When I hear Thy sleeping breath.

7 Sleep! my Child; Thy mother singing
Lulls Thee now to calm repose;
Joseph’s voice responsive ringing
Softly as the chorus flows.

8 Sleep! my Child, for I am pouring
Rose and violet on Thy bed:
Hyacinths bestrew Thy flooring;
Lilies lie around Thy head.

9 Sleep! my Child; were minstrels needed
I would send for Bethlehem’s swains;
Never are their songs unheeded,
None can waken holier strains.