THE LIBATION. 57 THE LIBATION. H. WARE, JR.—"FEAST OF TABERNACLES." HIGH-PRIEST. The praise is said. Another rite "T is done. Attend him, ye that will; and, ye that will, WOMEN. They go; they pass the gates; the sacred courts SONG (WOMAN). Flow on, flow on, thou bright, clear stream! The sun above, thy waves below, The Temple crowns Moriah's height, And pour them on the mountain's head. PRIEST. (Trumpet.) They come, they come! their signal notes resound; Their steps approach; their gladdening songs draw near. PEOPLE (returning). Hosanna! hosanna! we bring the libation, HIGH-PRIEST. Now let the sacred element be borne To the high altar's top; there, with the wine THE LIBATION. 59 Let it be mingled. With a reverent hand PEOPLE. Hosanna! hosanna! pour out the libation! With gladness we draw from the wells of salva tion Waters of life, ever flowing and free. Joy to thee, joy to thee, life-giving river! The streams of salvation roll onward for ever, HIGH-PRIEST. Now tell your children what this rite intends; What mean these glowing forms, these words of joy. PRIEST. The prophet gave the blow; Recalled to life, the dying band Pressed eager to the destined land. So, in some latter day, When Israel lies in woe and fear, Her great Anointed shall appear, To chase her dark dismay. From Him a holier stream shall flow, To save the world from darker woe. O, haste the glorious hour! Hosanna! let the people cry; PART III. THE GOSPEL. A CHRISTMAS HYMN. ALFRED DOMETT. It was the calm and silent night! Held undisturbed their ancient reign, 'T was in the calm and silent night! |