Classic Poem

(Medieval origins)

When Joseph was an old man,
An old man was he,
He married Virgin Mary,
The Queen of Galilee.

As Joseph and Mary
Were walking one day:
" Here are apples, here are cherries
Enough to behold. "

Then Mary spoke to Joseph
So meek and so mild:
" Joseph, gather me some cherries,
For I am with child. "

Then Joseph flew in anger,
In anger flew he:
" Let the father of the baby
Gather cherries for thee. "

Then Jesus spoke a few words,
A few words spoke he:
" Let my mother have some cherries;
Bow low down, cherry-tree. "

The cherry-tree bowed low down,
Bowed low down to the ground,
And Mary gathered cherries
While Joseph stood around.

Then Joseph took Mary
All on his right knee:
" O, what have I done?
Lord have mercy on me! "

Then Joseph took Mary all,
All on his left knee:
" O, tell me, little baby,
When thy birthday will be. "

" On the sixth day of January
My birthday will be,
When the stars in the elements
Shall tremble with glee. "