1. Watch-man, tell us of the night,

what its signs of promise are.

Traveler, o’er yon mountain’s height,

see that glory beaming star.

Watch-man, does its beauteous ray

aught of joy or hope foretell?

Traveler, yes; it brings the day,

promised day of Israel.

2. Watch-man, tell us of the night;

higher jet that star ascends,

Traveler, blessedness and light,

peace and truth its course portends.

Watch-man, will its beams alone

gild the spot that gave them birth?

Traveler, ages are its own;

see, it bursts o’er all the earth.

3. Watch-man, tell us of the night,

for the morning seems to dawn.

Traveler, darkness takes its flight,

doubt and terror are withdrawn,

Watchman, let thy wanderings cease;

hie thee to thy quiet home.

Traveler, lo! The Prince of Peace,

lo! The Son of God is come!

Words: John Bowring (1792-1872) Music: Aberstwyth, Joseph Party (1841- 1903)