Christmas-greetings [from a fairy to a child]
Lady dear, if Fairies may
For a moment lay aside
Cunning tricks and elfish play,
'Tis at happy Christmas-tide.
We have heard the children say-
Gentle children, whom we love-
Long ago, on Christmas-Day,
Came a message from above.
Still, as Christmas-tide comes around,
They remember it again-
Echo still the joyful sound
"Peace on earth, good-will to men!"
Yet the hearts must child-like be
Where such heavenly guests abide;
Unto children, in their glee,
All the year is Christmas-tide.
Thus, forgetting tricks and play
For a moment, Lady dear,
We would wish you, if we may,
Merry Christmas, glad new year!
Lewis Carroll 1869