100 HYMN OF NATURE. That wrestles singly with the gale, When, side by side, their ranks they form, GOD of the light and viewless air! The fierce and wintry tempests blow; GOD of the fair and open sky! How gloriously above us springs God of the rolling orbs above! Thy name is written clearly bright HYMN OF NATURE. In the warm day's unvarying blaze, Or evening's golden shower of light. For every fire that fronts the sun, And every spark that walks alone Around the utmost verge of heaven, Were kindled at thy burning throne. GOD of the world! the hour must come Her crumbling altars must decay Her incense fires shall cease to burn; 101 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all thro' the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse: The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; A VISIT FROM ST. NICHOLAS. 103 The children were nestled all snug in their beds, Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap- I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name : "Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer! now, Vixen! On! Comet, on! Cupid, on! Donder and Blixen- 104 A VISIT FROM ST. NICHOLAS. He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And he looked like a pedlar just opening his pack. His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry! He spoke not a word but went straight to his work, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose. He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, |