The first king was very young.
   O balow, balow la lay.
With doleful ballads on his tongue.
   O balow, balow la lay.
He came bearing a branch of myrrh
Than which no gall is bitterer,
O balow, balow la lay,
Gifts for a baby King, O.

The second king was a man in prime,
O balow, balow la lay.
The solemn priest of a solemn time,
O balow, balow la lay.
With eyes downcast and rev'rent feet
He brought his incense sad and sweet,
O balow, balow la lay,
Gifts for a baby King, O.

The third king was very old,
O balow, balow la lay.
Both his hands were full of gold.
O balow, balow la lay.
Many a gaud and a glittering toy
Baubles brave for a baby boy.
O balow, balow la lay,
Gifts for a baby King, O.