The Holly and the Ivy

(page 15) 

1.

The holly and the ivy,
When they are both full grown
Of all the trees that are in the wood
The holly bears the crown
O the rising of the sun
The running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
Sweet singing of the choir

2.

The holly bears a blossom
As white as lily flower
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To be our sweet Saviour
O the rising of the sun
The running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
Sweet singing of the choir

3.

The holly bears a berry
As red as any blood
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To do poor sinners good
O the rising of the sun
The running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
Sweet singing of the choir

4.

The holly bears a prickle
As sharp as any thorn;
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
On Christmas Day'n the morn.
O the rising of the sun
The running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
Sweet singing of the choir

5.

The holly bears a bark
As bitter as any gall;
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
For to redeem us all.
O the rising of the sun
The running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
Sweet singing of the choir