Shepherds, in the field abiding, Tell us, when the seraph bright Greeted you with wondrous tiding, What ye saw and heard that night: Gloria in excelsis Deo. We beheld (it is no fable) God incarnate, King of bliss, Swathed and cradled in a stable, And the angel-strain was this: Gloria in excelsis Deo. Quiristers on high were singing Jesus and his Virgin-birth; Heavenly bells the while a-ringing 'Peace, goodwill to men on earth:' Gloria in excelsis Deo. Thanks, good herdmen; true your story; Have with you to Bethlehem: Angels hymn the King of Glory; Carol we with you and them: Gloria in excelsis Deo.