This work portrays the animals who protected Jesus and Mary during Jesus' birth. Each animal proudly takes its turn announcing its contribution. The donkey carried Mary "up hill and down." The dove "cooed" the Child to sleep. At the end of the song, all of the animals reappear in quick succession - donkey, cow, sheep, and dove - and recount the gifts they brought to Immanuel. The clarinet plays a featured role, enhancing the message of the lyrics.