Past Three O Clock - Traditional

Past three o'clock,
On a cold and frosty morning,
Past three o'clock,
Good morrow, masters all!

The cock did crow,
To welcome in the day,
And then the woods
They rang aloud.

Past three o'clock,
On a cold and frosty morning,
Past three o'clock,
Good morrow, masters all!

Born is a Babe
Of pure virgin bred,
To save us all
From sin and dread.

Past three o'clock,
On a cold and frosty morning,
Past three o'clock,
Good morrow, masters all!

Let's sing with joy
To greet this morn,
For Christ is born
To save forlorn.

Past three o'clock,
On a cold and frosty morning,
Past three o'clock,
Good morrow, masters all!

Past Three O Clock lyrics were arranged by George Ratcliffe Woodward to an old tune using the refrain of a watchman to frame the Christmas story. The song describes the cold frosty morning and the light of the star that remains bright as the dawn approaches. It serves as a reminder of the vigilance and expectation of the Advent season. By singing the Past Three O Clock lyrics the faithful participate in a rhythmic and historical narrative that portrays the birth of Christ as a significant event occurring in the quiet hours of the world bringing a new day of hope to all.