THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM. 
187 
And how a new bright star, till then unknown 
To the clear depths of midnight’s azure skies. 
Sages from farthest East 
With gifts prophetic* led. 
Led — till at last it stood, with fixed beam, 
Where peaceful lay a manger-cradled Babe, 
Low at whose feet they bend 
And their choice treasures pile. 
Here stays thy history, beauteous chronicler. 
Sweet sister of that pale mysterious flower 
Which, oh ! how fitly ends 
The tale by thee begun. 
* It was the common opinion of the Fathers of the Church, that the 
offerings of the wise men had a reference to the threefold character of 
Christ; that of prophet, priest, and king. 
