How far is it to bethlehem?

Ho-ow far is it to Bethlehem? Not very far
Sha-all we find the stable room lit by a star?.

Can we see the little Child? Is He within?
I-if we lift the wooden latch, may we go in?.

May-ay we stroke the creatures there, ox, a*s or sheep?
May-ay we peep like them and see Jesus asleep?.

If we touch His tiny hand, will He awake?
Wi-ill he know we've come so far just for his sake?.

Great kings have precious gifts, and we have nought
Little smiles and little tears are a-all we brought.

For all weary chi-ildren, Mary must weep
Here, on His bed of straw, sleep, children, sleep.

God in His mother's arms, babe in the byre
Sleep, as they sleep who find, their heart's desire