Twas the night before Christmas and all thru the castle

Not a creature was stirring- not lord, lady or vassal.

 

The stockings were hung by the hearthside with care

In hopes that St. Camber soon would be there.

 

The children were nestled all snug in their beds

While visions of Christmas sweets danced in their heads.

 

And I, in my nightshift and warm sleeping fur

Had just settled down, not till morning to stir.

 

When out in the keep, there arose such a clatter,

I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter!

 

Bundled in cloak, furred slippers on feet,

I took my lord's sword, this intruder to meet.

 

First to the window, where waiting in snow

Were four golden angels, aligned in a row.

 

My mind all a-wonder, a noise at my back

Caused me to turn, sword raised for attack.

 

A figure stood by, robed and cowled in grey,

"Who goes?" I cried- he had nothing to say.

 

But drew back his cowl, letting golden aura appear

To give me to know I had nothing to fear.

 

He spoke not a word

Still a voice soft I heard:

 

"This is the feast of our Lord Savior's birth.

Now we must see what your future is worth.

 

I give you a gift on this special day

To spread peace and joy as you go on your way.

 

For it must begin with each single one

Or war, hatred and fear will never be done."

 

He reached out to touch a hand to my brow

I looked again- no one there now.

 

I ran to the window- the angels aloft

Were singing a song both lovely and soft.

 

I heard them exclaim as they rose out of sight:

"Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a Good Night!"