Music for the Second Day of Christmas: Now May We Singen

I'm reposting this from last Christmas. As a bonus, I can now say that I have met Cecilia McDowall, who is a wonderful composer from England. I like her "sound."

The Virginia Chorale sings Cecilia McDowall's setting of this 15th Century traditional Christmas carol.

Chorus: Now may we singen as it is

Quod puer natus est nobis.

1. This Babe to us that now is born,

Wonderful works He hath (y)wrought

He would not loss what was forlorn,

But boldly again it bought;

        And thus it is

        For sooth ywis,

  He asketh nought but that is His.

2. This bargain lovëd He right well,

The price was high and bought full dear.

Who would suffer and for us feel

As did that Prince withouten peer?

        And thus it is

        For sooth ywis,

  He asketh nought but that is His.

3. His ransom for us hath ypaid;

Good reason have we to be His.

Be mercy asked and He be prayed,

Who may deserve the heavenly bliss.

        And thus it is

        For sooth ywis,

  He asketh nought but that is His.

4. To some purpose God made man;

I trust well to salvation.

What was His blood that from Him ran

But fence against damnation?

        And thus it is

        For sooth ywis,

  He asketh nought but that is His.

5. Almighty God in Trinity,

Thy mercy we pray with whole heart,

Thy mercy may all woe make fell

And dangerous deread from us to start.

        And thus it is

        For sooth ywis,

  He asketh nought but that is His.