REGINALD HEBER

REGINALD Heber, born in England, 1783; died

in India, 1826. In 1823 he was consecrated bishop

of Calcutta. His hymns and poems are his title

deeds to remembrance.

CHRISTMAS HYMN

BRIGHTEST and best of the sons of the morn-

ing!

Dawn on our darkness, and Iend us Thine aid!

Star of the East, the horizon adorning,

Guide where our infant Redeemer is laid!

Cold on His cradle the dew-drops Ye shining,

Low lies His head with the beasts of the stall;

Angels adore Him in slumber reclining,

Make and Monarch and Saviour of all!

Say, shall we yield Him, in costly devotion,

Odors of Edom, and offerings divine?

Gems of the mountain and pearls of the ocean,

Myrrh from the forest or gold from the mine?

Vainly we offer each ampler oblation;

Vainly with gifts would His favor secure:

Richer by far is the heart’s adoration;

Dearer to God are the prayers of the poor.

Brightest and best of the sons of the morning!

Dawn on our darkness, and lend us Thine aid?

Star of the East, the horizon adorning,

Guide where our infant Redeemer is laid!