Copyright © 2004 Paul Howarth

Still the night and calm the ocean,
Dazzling bright each wintry star;
Scarcely felt the vessel's motion,
When we heard from out afar
Softly pealing,
Gently stealing,
Silv'ry bells in volleys ringing
Ringing out in holy glee;
E'en to us glad tidings bringing,
E'en to us glad tidings bringing,
Christmas bells at sea.

Wrapt in awe around them gazing,
Mute the crew in wonder stand,
Whence could come those sounds amazing,
Far from sight or sound of land?
Rising, falling,
Home recalling,
Thoughts of home and heaven bringing,
Sure a silent mystery
'Twas to hear their silv'ry ringing,
'Twas to hear their silv'ry ringing,
Christmas Bells at sea.

Vain Thy ways, O Heaven, to measure:
Who thy secrets can divine?
In our hearts enough to treasure
Tokens of Thy love benign
Where no steeple
Calls its people
Tidings of a Saviour bringing,
Angel hands are set by Thee
From a cloud built belfry ringing
From a cloud built belfry ringing
Christmas Bells at sea.

By Arthur Sullivan
Generated by NoteWorthy Composer

Christmas Bells at Sea
Lyrics
Vocal
Piano RH
Piano LH1
Piano LH2