Nollaig ann an Devon.
Le P.B. Phillips

Beneath the empty, oaken boughs

Lies iron chains, and rusty ploughs

 

Dreys stabled, in barn tonight

Lanterns lit, cast yellow light

 

Old farmer feeds, chosen goose

Wife waves, hens to roost

 

Fire warms, stone floor kitchen

Grandma rocks, and does her stitching

 

Cider spiced, and chestnuts roasting

Port decanted, just needs toasting

 

Mistletoe hung, and holly sprigged

Pies all baked, and pudding figged

 

Tree is set, and candles flicker

Young and old, hearts beat quicker

 

Children know, it’s time to sleep

But excited eyes, through curtains peep

 

To get a glimpse, through frosted panes

Of Father Christmas, in snowy lanes.

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