Minstrels

The minstrels played their Christmas tune To-night beneath my cottage-eaves; While, smitten by a lofty moon, The encircling laurels, thick with leaves, Gave back a rich and dazzling sheen, That overpowered their natural green. Through hill and valley every breeze Had sunk to rest with folded wings: Keen was the air, but could not freeze, Nor check, the music of the strings; So stout and hardy were the band That scraped the chords with strenuous hand. And who but listened?—till was paid Respect to every inmate's claim, The greeting given, the music played In honour of each household name, Duly pronounced with lusty call, And "Merry Christmas" wished to all.