Songs for Sufferers :: :: University of Virginia Library

Sometimes in the noiseless hours,
When the shades are shyly flocking,
I am one with stars and flowers;
Then I prove my baby powers,
In a cradle dimly rocking.
Mary sings, I know not why,
Lulla lulla lullaby.

I am born again, and she
Takes me of her own dear pleasure,
Helpless and divinely free;
Mary is the world to me,
And I am her dearest treasure.
Mary sings, I know not why,
Lulla lulla lullaby.

Sheltered from each shock of harm
While I rest in her sweet folding,
Shielded by that soft white arm;
There I guess the secret charm
Of all lands, and their upholding.
Mary sings, I know not why,
Lulla lulla lullaby.

What doth Little Mary say,
She who Maiden is and Mother
In her gentle joyous way,
Turning night itself to day,
Till I feel night is my brother?
Mary sings, I know not why,
Lulla lulla lullaby.

Yes, the Baby Christ am I,
Born to be a benediction,
When I live and when I die;
Bound in what doth greatly tie
God and man, by crucifixion.
Mary sings, I know know why,
Lulla lulla lullaby.

Ah, I see that Mary's breath
Bringeth life and bringeth death—
Is earth's cradle-song of love,
For the happy heaven above
And for happy earth beneath.