Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

Jolly Old Saint Nicholas ( Good old Saint Nicholas ) is a Carol from the United States. The author of the lyrics and the composer are unknown. It was probably written in the 2nd half of the 19th century or early 20th century.

It opens into a wish list with the following final verses:

As for me, my little brain Is not very bright; Choose for me, old Santa Claus, What you think is right.

In translation:

As for me, my head Is not very bright; Choose for me out, old Santa Claus, What do you think is right.

Text

Jolly old Saint Nicholas, Lean your ear this way! Do not you tell a single soul What I'm going to say; Christmas Eve is coming soon; Now, you dear old man, Whisper what you'll bring to me; Tell me if you can. When the clock is striking twelve, When I'm fast asleep, Down the chimney broad and black, With your pack you'll creep; All the stockings you will find Hanging in a row; Mine will be the shortest one, You'll be sure to know. Johnny wants a pair of skates; Susy wants a dolly; Nellie wants a story book; She thinks dolls are folly; As for me, my little brain Is not very bright; Choose for me, old Santa Claus, What you think is right.