Sequence 28. St. Nicholas

December 6th.
LET us all exult together, as with one united
voice
We upon his solemn feast-day 'in St. Nicholas
rejoice ;
Who, whilst in his cradle lying, by observing duly
fast,
Heavenly joys began to merit even at his mother's
breast.

In his youth he chooses letters, that his study they
may be,
To all evil lust a stranger, from all sinful passions
free.

This blest confessor,
Whom, as worthy of the office, 'twas a voice from
heaven praised,
Thereby exalted,
Amongst bishops to the very highest rank is forth-
with raised. lo
There was too in his character benevolence ex-
ceeding,
And many a bounty he bestowed, the tale of sorrow
heeding.

With gold he saved some maidens, who had else
vile lives been leading,
Relieving all their father's want, when help most
sorely needing.

Certain sailors once, when sailing,
And fighting 'gainst fierce waves with struggles
unavailing.

Shipwrecked nigh through stress of weather ;
Hope of Hfe already faihng,
Amid such dangers set, aloud their fate bewailing.

Lift their voices altogether :
" Blessed Nicholas ! O steer us
From the straits of death so near us
To the haven of the sea !

To that harbour in the distance
Draw us, who dost grant assistance
Through the grace of charity ! "
" Lo ! " — while thus they cried, nor vainly, —
" I am here ! " a voice said plainly,
" To watch o'er you and to aid ! "
Instantly blow favouring breezes,
Instantly the tempest ceases,
And to rest the sea is laid.

We, now in this v/orld abiding,
Have been wrecked, as we were riding
O'er the deep abyss of vice :
Draw us, Nicholas most glorious !

To the home of peace victorious,
To the port of Paradise !

From his tomb, to heal diseases,
Oil abundant floweth forth,
Which the sick from pain releases
Through his prayers' availing worth.

' May we of the self-same ointment
Through thy pious prayer to God
Gain possession,
Which did by the Lord's appointment
Heal the wounds of Mary's load
Of transgression !

Let them joy throughout all ages, who observe this
holy day,
And, when this life's course is ended, crowned in
heaven by Christ be they !

Amen ! let all creatures say !
176 i". STEPHANUS.