The History of Christmas

"The History of Christmas" is a study of Christmas and the celebration of this Holy Feast, particularly in England, in the olden times, through the middle ages, and to modern days. "Has the early dream of youth faded away purposeless?—the ambition of manhood proved vanity of vanities? Have riches made themselves wings and flown away? or, has fame, just within the grasp, burst like a bubble? Have the friends, the companions of youth, one by one fallen off from thy converse; or the prop of advancing age been removed, leaving thee weak and struggling with the cares of life; or, has «the desire of thine eyes» been taken from thee at a stroke? Under these and other trials, the Christian looks to the anniversary of the Nativity (that rainbow of Christianity) as the commemoration of the birth of the Blessed Redeemer, who will give rest to the weary, and receive in his eternal kingdom all those who truly trust in him. And well may His name be called, 'Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace!'"