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The words of this English carol were first published in 1666. The wonderfully bouncy tune in 6/8 is thought to be a traditional English melody. Some historians attribute it to Derbyshire. The three ships were originally meant to represent the three wise men, but later they came to symbolize the Holy Family. No matter the interpretation, it one of the most delightful and enduring Christmas carols of all time.

I saw three ships come sailing in
On Christmas day, on Christmas day
I saw three ships come sailing in
On Christmas day in the morning

And who do you think was in them then?
On Christmas day, on Christmas day
And who do you think was in them then
But Joseph and his lady

He did whistle and she did sing
On Christmas day, on Christmas day
He did whistle and she did sing
On Christmas day in the morning

And all the bells on earth did ring
On Christmas day, on Christmas day
And all the bells on earth did ring
On Christmas day in the morning

And all the angels in heaven did sing
On Christmas day, on Christmas day
And all the angels in heaven did sing
On Christmas day in the morning

I saw three ships come sailing in
On Christmas day, on Christmas day
I saw three ships come sailing in
On Christmas day in the morning