the test as first published in 1881

DECK THE HALLS (1881 version)

Deck the halls with boughs of holly
fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la
'Tis the season to be jolly
fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la
Fill the mead cup, drain the barrel,
fa-la-la la-la-la la-la-la
Troll the aincient Christmas Carol
fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la

See the flowing bowl before us!
Strike the harp and join the chorus.
Follow me in merry measure
while I tell of beauty's treasure.

Fast away the old year passess
Hail the new, ye lads and lassess
Laughing, quaffing, all together.
Heedless of the wind and weather.