SCENE I
Road outside Bethlehem. Sky, stars, snow. Up, centre, a little to left, a stump of a tree. As curtain begins to rise, there is sung by invisible Choir....[2]
GWHEN Christ was born of Mary freeIn Bethlehem, that faire citie,Angels sang there, with mirth and glee,In excelsis gloria!Chorus (repeat).In excelsis ...2. Herdsmen beheld those angels bright,To them appearing with great light,Who said, “God’s Son is born to-night,”In excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]3. The King is come to save mankind,As in Scripture truths we find,Therefore this song we have in mind,In excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]4. Then, dear Lord, for Thy great grace,Grant us in bliss to see Thy face,That we may sing to Thy solaceIn excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]
GWHEN Christ was born of Mary freeIn Bethlehem, that faire citie,Angels sang there, with mirth and glee,In excelsis gloria!Chorus (repeat).In excelsis ...2. Herdsmen beheld those angels bright,To them appearing with great light,Who said, “God’s Son is born to-night,”In excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]3. The King is come to save mankind,As in Scripture truths we find,Therefore this song we have in mind,In excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]4. Then, dear Lord, for Thy great grace,Grant us in bliss to see Thy face,That we may sing to Thy solaceIn excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]
GWHEN Christ was born of Mary freeIn Bethlehem, that faire citie,Angels sang there, with mirth and glee,In excelsis gloria!
G
Chorus (repeat).In excelsis ...
2. Herdsmen beheld those angels bright,To them appearing with great light,Who said, “God’s Son is born to-night,”In excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]
3. The King is come to save mankind,As in Scripture truths we find,Therefore this song we have in mind,In excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]
4. Then, dear Lord, for Thy great grace,Grant us in bliss to see Thy face,That we may sing to Thy solaceIn excelsis gloria. [Chorus.]
Then, enterZachary(L.);walking with a stick, carrying a bundle and a lantern. His shoulders are covered with snow. He walks very slowly. In centre of stage he halts, looks about him slowly.
Zach.Now, God have mercy! I must rest awhile,For mile on weary mile, and mile on mile,I’ve trudged on foot since break of day began,And, sure, I’m but an old and ancient man.[He goes across to stump, and sits on it slowly,disposing his stick and bundle and lantern.He settles himself deliberately, folding his arms.Time was, once, long ago, when I would runAnd leap and swim as good as any one.Aye, aye,—to run a race or climb a wall—Aye, aye,—I’d beat ’em all, I’d beat ’em all.[Shakes his head reminiscently. Then passeshis hands slowly down his knees.But, sure, I’m stiff, and my poor bones are old,And night is bitter cold—’tis bitter cold....Yes, yes [begins to look about him]. I’ve come a mighty step to-day.Why, but—[Stands up suddenly, stares out(R.),under hand.Is that the town so far away?I thought ’twas nearer. But this pesky snow——!At Rachel’s tomb the neighbours bade me goA mile or two.... Yes, yes, they told me so....[Sits again heavily.And now I’m wearied out ... and not so nearAs I had thought.... (turns to(L.),stares out.)God bless me! who comes here?
Zach.Now, God have mercy! I must rest awhile,For mile on weary mile, and mile on mile,I’ve trudged on foot since break of day began,And, sure, I’m but an old and ancient man.[He goes across to stump, and sits on it slowly,disposing his stick and bundle and lantern.He settles himself deliberately, folding his arms.Time was, once, long ago, when I would runAnd leap and swim as good as any one.Aye, aye,—to run a race or climb a wall—Aye, aye,—I’d beat ’em all, I’d beat ’em all.[Shakes his head reminiscently. Then passeshis hands slowly down his knees.But, sure, I’m stiff, and my poor bones are old,And night is bitter cold—’tis bitter cold....Yes, yes [begins to look about him]. I’ve come a mighty step to-day.Why, but—[Stands up suddenly, stares out(R.),under hand.Is that the town so far away?I thought ’twas nearer. But this pesky snow——!At Rachel’s tomb the neighbours bade me goA mile or two.... Yes, yes, they told me so....[Sits again heavily.And now I’m wearied out ... and not so nearAs I had thought.... (turns to(L.),stares out.)God bless me! who comes here?
Zach.Now, God have mercy! I must rest awhile,For mile on weary mile, and mile on mile,I’ve trudged on foot since break of day began,And, sure, I’m but an old and ancient man.
[He goes across to stump, and sits on it slowly,disposing his stick and bundle and lantern.He settles himself deliberately, folding his arms.
Time was, once, long ago, when I would runAnd leap and swim as good as any one.Aye, aye,—to run a race or climb a wall—Aye, aye,—I’d beat ’em all, I’d beat ’em all.
[Shakes his head reminiscently. Then passeshis hands slowly down his knees.
But, sure, I’m stiff, and my poor bones are old,And night is bitter cold—’tis bitter cold....Yes, yes [begins to look about him]. I’ve come a mighty step to-day.Why, but—
[Stands up suddenly, stares out(R.),under hand.
Is that the town so far away?I thought ’twas nearer. But this pesky snow——!At Rachel’s tomb the neighbours bade me goA mile or two.... Yes, yes, they told me so....
[Sits again heavily.
And now I’m wearied out ... and not so nearAs I had thought.... (turns to(L.),stares out.)God bless me! who comes here?
[Enter(L.)Eliphaz,Nadab, andUzziel,together, arm-in-arm; richlydressed; muffled up; carrying bundles, walking with sticks.Nad.carries a lantern. They come across briskly as they reach stump.Zach.suddenly stands up, pulling his forelock. They start violently apart.
Zach.Good gentlemen——Eliph.Why, murrain take the manFor frighting of us so! I never canAbide these rustics.[He crosses over(R.).Others remain(L.).Nad.They’ve no sense, I say,To fright three gentlemen upon their way.See here, old man! (Lifts stick threateningly.)Uzz.No, no. Let be! let be![He interposes his arm.See here, old man! I’d have a word with thee.Are you a native here? (Zach.nods.) Why, then, I’ll layYou’ll guide us, for, I think, we’ve lost our way.A piece of gold or so’ll help you tell——Zach.Why, no, good sir; I need no gold——Eliph.(interrupting).Well, well——We’re three good merchants, come, as you can see,For this enrolling, down from Galilee,And now we’ve missed our way.Zach.Yes, yes, good friend,I’ll set you on your way, if you’ll but lendAn arm to my old arm to bear me up;For sure I’ve never had a bite or supSince break of day.Uzz.Yes, yes, old man; but tellUs first our way; and all will then be well.Zach.(pointing(R.)very deliberately).Why, down the hill straight on, another mile,Then to your right, and so beyond the stile[He makes gestures of pointing.To where the vineyards stand—(remember them),And that’ll bring you straight to Bethlehem.[He turns, and gathers stick and bundle.And now, sir—[comes forward]—your good arm.Uzz.(avoiding).Why, no, no, no,You’ve given us all we asked. We could not goWith such a bag of bones! That’s not the wayTo make a contract. Come, be off, I say![Threatens him asZach.approaches again.Zach.Sir, sir; I’m wearied out! I’m done to death!I’m old and weak of limb, and short of breath.I pray you— [SeizesEliphaz’sarm, who shakes it off.Eliph.Why, here’s impudence as well!Is’t so you speak to men of Israel? [Threatens.Zach.Sir ...for the love of God ...Uzz.Why, that’s too good!“The love of God!”—I’ve always understoodThat God was Justice! Eh! good Nadab, eh?[He turns toNad.What do you think? That never was the wayWe learned at school![ThreatensZachary.Hands off! old man! I say![Eliph.crosses(L.).Zach.Sir, for Messias’ sake!...Uzz.Why, who is He?Zach.(solemnly).Sir, it is He told of in prophecy,Who surely comes one day to set all right,And judge in love and justice. Why, this nightMaybe, He’ll come.Uzz.Nay, nay! That’s past a joke!Come, gentlemen; enough of crazy folk!We must be going on a mile or twoTo shelter; and, my friend, good-night to you![Exeunt(R.)three Merchants, salutingZacharyironically.Zacharystands looking after them, handsraised. He totters a step or two,then he lets hands sink slowly.Zach.Now, God have mercy! But I’m wearied sore.[Begins to limp back to stump.So wearied I have never been before.[He sits heavily on ground, leaning against stump.Then, after a pause.My limbs that heavy![Lifts hands, and lets them drop.My old eyes, that dim![Stares about, bewildered.Why—if He came—I could not look at Him....[His voice grows weaker.Dreams, did they say?... And old Isaias too?...[He rolls his eyes.David.... And Balaam ... and the Fleece of DewThat Gideon saw.... Why, now, how soft the snow....[Sleepy voice; closing eyes.I’ll sleep ... a bit ... a bit ... before ... I ... go.[Sinks down. Music begins very softly, and verse ofcarol is played through as he falls asleep. ThenMarthaandAbelbegin to sing, off.And ... God ... have ... pity on ... all ...poor folks ... here below.Mar. and Abel.[3]The Lord at first had Adam madeOut of the dust and clay,And in his nostrils breathed life....[Enter(L.)MarthaandAbel,carryingbundles, with sticks, over shoulders,hand in hand.Marthacarries a lantern.E’en as the Scriptures say.And then in Eden’s ParadiseHe placed him to dwellThat he within—[Stop abruptly.Mar.Why, Abel, what’s that lying by the tree?[Abelclings to her, lets go, tries to run.Nay, nay, be quiet! Here, take hold of me.[She is staring atZachary.Abel.Oh! Martha, Martha, I’m afraid—[Tries to pull her away.Mar.No, no.[She goes closer with him; looks.’Tis but an old man, sleeping in the snow.Why—look how white he is! How white and old!He’ll take his death! The night is bitter cold.[Advances close to him with lantern.Sir, sir! Wake up.... Here, Abel, take the light![Hands him lantern. He shrinks away.You silly boy! With God nor day nor nightCan harm His children.... Here, sir, wake, awake![Shakes him by arm.The night is cold. Sir![She kneels by him.For Messias’ sake![Zacharymoans gently, lifts his head,looks round, sinks back.Zach.(sleepily).Messias! eh? Messias? Why ... they ... said ...’Twas dreams ... all dreams.[She shakes him.Why ... what is this?... my head ...Is heavy ... let me sleep....[Rolls over a little.Ah! let me sleep....And dream Messias’ coming ... lest ... He ... weep ...To find no welcome.Mar.(rapidly).Abel, here—[He is sobbing.Don’t cry....Quick, boy, I tell you ... lest the old man die.[Together they lift him slowly, first up to tree, thenon his feet. He clings to them. They moveabout; finally he sits down on stump, andbegins to recover himself.Zach.(rubbing eyes).Why, ’tis but children! And I thought that HeHad sent His angels down to succour me,And bring me tidings that His Christ was here.[Looks round, then drops his head.No, dreams! All dreams it is.[Marthatakes him by arm.Mar.Sir! can you hearMe speak, good father? Can you see me plain?[He looks at her; recovers further.Zach.Why, yes.... I heard you singing. Sing againThat which you sang.[Releases his arm.Nay, nay, child, let me go!I’m well awake enough. ’Twas but the snowBewildered me. What was that song so sweetI heard so plain?[Marthacomes a little forward,smiling shyly.Mar.Sir, to beguile our feetWe sang a carol, made—Oh! long ago,Of times when God walked once with men belowIn Eden’s garden; whence all woe beganFrom Satan’s tempting and the sin of man.That was the little song you heard so plainAs we were coming.Zach.Sing the song again.[MarthaandAbelstand side by side(R.).Mar. and Abel.The Lord at first had Adam madeOut of the dust and clay,And in his nostrils breathed life,E’en as the Scriptures say.And then in Eden’s ParadiseHe placed him to dwell,That he within it should remainTo dress and keep it well.[They turn toZach.Zach.Why—[Chorus suddenly begins from behind scene. Childrenare terrified.Zach.stands up, frightened.They cling to him. During the singingthey recover themselves a little. They lookabout, standing all together(R.)facing(L.).Abelleaves the others and begins to moveacross stage, looking in all directions.Invisible Chorus.Now let good Christians all beginA holier life to live;And to rejoice and merry beFor this is Christmas Eve.4. Now mark the goodness of the LordWhich He to mankind bore,His mercy soon He did extendLost man for to restore;And, therefore, to redeem our soulsFrom death and hell and thrall,He said His own dear Son should beThe Saviour of us all.Chorus.Now let ...Abel(letting go).Why! What was that? Who’s singing there below?...[Runs toMartha,who is looking(L.).I’m frightened, Martha.... Martha! let us go.[Zach.,also staring(L.).Zach.Why! Who comes here?[He goes a step.An old man and a maid!Is that their singing?... No ... she seems afraidAnd weary. Children! See how slow they wind![Looks intently, under hand.Children! look closer.... Who comes on behind?...No ... he is gone again.... I thought I sawFigures who came and went, behind, before,As if to keep them.... Children, do you see?[A silence.
Zach.Good gentlemen——Eliph.Why, murrain take the manFor frighting of us so! I never canAbide these rustics.[He crosses over(R.).Others remain(L.).Nad.They’ve no sense, I say,To fright three gentlemen upon their way.See here, old man! (Lifts stick threateningly.)Uzz.No, no. Let be! let be![He interposes his arm.See here, old man! I’d have a word with thee.Are you a native here? (Zach.nods.) Why, then, I’ll layYou’ll guide us, for, I think, we’ve lost our way.A piece of gold or so’ll help you tell——Zach.Why, no, good sir; I need no gold——Eliph.(interrupting).Well, well——We’re three good merchants, come, as you can see,For this enrolling, down from Galilee,And now we’ve missed our way.Zach.Yes, yes, good friend,I’ll set you on your way, if you’ll but lendAn arm to my old arm to bear me up;For sure I’ve never had a bite or supSince break of day.Uzz.Yes, yes, old man; but tellUs first our way; and all will then be well.Zach.(pointing(R.)very deliberately).Why, down the hill straight on, another mile,Then to your right, and so beyond the stile[He makes gestures of pointing.To where the vineyards stand—(remember them),And that’ll bring you straight to Bethlehem.[He turns, and gathers stick and bundle.And now, sir—[comes forward]—your good arm.Uzz.(avoiding).Why, no, no, no,You’ve given us all we asked. We could not goWith such a bag of bones! That’s not the wayTo make a contract. Come, be off, I say![Threatens him asZach.approaches again.Zach.Sir, sir; I’m wearied out! I’m done to death!I’m old and weak of limb, and short of breath.I pray you— [SeizesEliphaz’sarm, who shakes it off.Eliph.Why, here’s impudence as well!Is’t so you speak to men of Israel? [Threatens.Zach.Sir ...for the love of God ...Uzz.Why, that’s too good!“The love of God!”—I’ve always understoodThat God was Justice! Eh! good Nadab, eh?[He turns toNad.What do you think? That never was the wayWe learned at school![ThreatensZachary.Hands off! old man! I say![Eliph.crosses(L.).Zach.Sir, for Messias’ sake!...Uzz.Why, who is He?Zach.(solemnly).Sir, it is He told of in prophecy,Who surely comes one day to set all right,And judge in love and justice. Why, this nightMaybe, He’ll come.Uzz.Nay, nay! That’s past a joke!Come, gentlemen; enough of crazy folk!We must be going on a mile or twoTo shelter; and, my friend, good-night to you![Exeunt(R.)three Merchants, salutingZacharyironically.Zacharystands looking after them, handsraised. He totters a step or two,then he lets hands sink slowly.Zach.Now, God have mercy! But I’m wearied sore.[Begins to limp back to stump.So wearied I have never been before.[He sits heavily on ground, leaning against stump.Then, after a pause.My limbs that heavy![Lifts hands, and lets them drop.My old eyes, that dim![Stares about, bewildered.Why—if He came—I could not look at Him....[His voice grows weaker.Dreams, did they say?... And old Isaias too?...[He rolls his eyes.David.... And Balaam ... and the Fleece of DewThat Gideon saw.... Why, now, how soft the snow....[Sleepy voice; closing eyes.I’ll sleep ... a bit ... a bit ... before ... I ... go.[Sinks down. Music begins very softly, and verse ofcarol is played through as he falls asleep. ThenMarthaandAbelbegin to sing, off.And ... God ... have ... pity on ... all ...poor folks ... here below.Mar. and Abel.[3]The Lord at first had Adam madeOut of the dust and clay,And in his nostrils breathed life....[Enter(L.)MarthaandAbel,carryingbundles, with sticks, over shoulders,hand in hand.Marthacarries a lantern.E’en as the Scriptures say.And then in Eden’s ParadiseHe placed him to dwellThat he within—[Stop abruptly.Mar.Why, Abel, what’s that lying by the tree?[Abelclings to her, lets go, tries to run.Nay, nay, be quiet! Here, take hold of me.[She is staring atZachary.Abel.Oh! Martha, Martha, I’m afraid—[Tries to pull her away.Mar.No, no.[She goes closer with him; looks.’Tis but an old man, sleeping in the snow.Why—look how white he is! How white and old!He’ll take his death! The night is bitter cold.[Advances close to him with lantern.Sir, sir! Wake up.... Here, Abel, take the light![Hands him lantern. He shrinks away.You silly boy! With God nor day nor nightCan harm His children.... Here, sir, wake, awake![Shakes him by arm.The night is cold. Sir![She kneels by him.For Messias’ sake![Zacharymoans gently, lifts his head,looks round, sinks back.Zach.(sleepily).Messias! eh? Messias? Why ... they ... said ...’Twas dreams ... all dreams.[She shakes him.Why ... what is this?... my head ...Is heavy ... let me sleep....[Rolls over a little.Ah! let me sleep....And dream Messias’ coming ... lest ... He ... weep ...To find no welcome.Mar.(rapidly).Abel, here—[He is sobbing.Don’t cry....Quick, boy, I tell you ... lest the old man die.[Together they lift him slowly, first up to tree, thenon his feet. He clings to them. They moveabout; finally he sits down on stump, andbegins to recover himself.Zach.(rubbing eyes).Why, ’tis but children! And I thought that HeHad sent His angels down to succour me,And bring me tidings that His Christ was here.[Looks round, then drops his head.No, dreams! All dreams it is.[Marthatakes him by arm.Mar.Sir! can you hearMe speak, good father? Can you see me plain?[He looks at her; recovers further.Zach.Why, yes.... I heard you singing. Sing againThat which you sang.[Releases his arm.Nay, nay, child, let me go!I’m well awake enough. ’Twas but the snowBewildered me. What was that song so sweetI heard so plain?[Marthacomes a little forward,smiling shyly.Mar.Sir, to beguile our feetWe sang a carol, made—Oh! long ago,Of times when God walked once with men belowIn Eden’s garden; whence all woe beganFrom Satan’s tempting and the sin of man.That was the little song you heard so plainAs we were coming.Zach.Sing the song again.[MarthaandAbelstand side by side(R.).Mar. and Abel.The Lord at first had Adam madeOut of the dust and clay,And in his nostrils breathed life,E’en as the Scriptures say.And then in Eden’s ParadiseHe placed him to dwell,That he within it should remainTo dress and keep it well.[They turn toZach.Zach.Why—[Chorus suddenly begins from behind scene. Childrenare terrified.Zach.stands up, frightened.They cling to him. During the singingthey recover themselves a little. They lookabout, standing all together(R.)facing(L.).Abelleaves the others and begins to moveacross stage, looking in all directions.Invisible Chorus.Now let good Christians all beginA holier life to live;And to rejoice and merry beFor this is Christmas Eve.4. Now mark the goodness of the LordWhich He to mankind bore,His mercy soon He did extendLost man for to restore;And, therefore, to redeem our soulsFrom death and hell and thrall,He said His own dear Son should beThe Saviour of us all.Chorus.Now let ...Abel(letting go).Why! What was that? Who’s singing there below?...[Runs toMartha,who is looking(L.).I’m frightened, Martha.... Martha! let us go.[Zach.,also staring(L.).Zach.Why! Who comes here?[He goes a step.An old man and a maid!Is that their singing?... No ... she seems afraidAnd weary. Children! See how slow they wind![Looks intently, under hand.Children! look closer.... Who comes on behind?...No ... he is gone again.... I thought I sawFigures who came and went, behind, before,As if to keep them.... Children, do you see?[A silence.
Zach.Good gentlemen——
Eliph.Why, murrain take the manFor frighting of us so! I never canAbide these rustics.[He crosses over(R.).Others remain(L.).
Nad.They’ve no sense, I say,To fright three gentlemen upon their way.See here, old man! (Lifts stick threateningly.)
Uzz.No, no. Let be! let be![He interposes his arm.See here, old man! I’d have a word with thee.Are you a native here? (Zach.nods.) Why, then, I’ll layYou’ll guide us, for, I think, we’ve lost our way.A piece of gold or so’ll help you tell——
Zach.Why, no, good sir; I need no gold——
Eliph.(interrupting).Well, well——We’re three good merchants, come, as you can see,For this enrolling, down from Galilee,And now we’ve missed our way.
Zach.Yes, yes, good friend,I’ll set you on your way, if you’ll but lendAn arm to my old arm to bear me up;For sure I’ve never had a bite or supSince break of day.
Uzz.Yes, yes, old man; but tellUs first our way; and all will then be well.
Zach.(pointing(R.)very deliberately).Why, down the hill straight on, another mile,Then to your right, and so beyond the stile[He makes gestures of pointing.To where the vineyards stand—(remember them),And that’ll bring you straight to Bethlehem.[He turns, and gathers stick and bundle.And now, sir—[comes forward]—your good arm.
Uzz.(avoiding).Why, no, no, no,You’ve given us all we asked. We could not goWith such a bag of bones! That’s not the wayTo make a contract. Come, be off, I say![Threatens him asZach.approaches again.
Zach.Sir, sir; I’m wearied out! I’m done to death!I’m old and weak of limb, and short of breath.I pray you— [SeizesEliphaz’sarm, who shakes it off.
Eliph.Why, here’s impudence as well!Is’t so you speak to men of Israel? [Threatens.
Zach.Sir ...for the love of God ...
Uzz.Why, that’s too good!“The love of God!”—I’ve always understoodThat God was Justice! Eh! good Nadab, eh?[He turns toNad.What do you think? That never was the wayWe learned at school![ThreatensZachary.Hands off! old man! I say![Eliph.crosses(L.).
Zach.Sir, for Messias’ sake!...
Uzz.Why, who is He?
Zach.(solemnly).Sir, it is He told of in prophecy,Who surely comes one day to set all right,And judge in love and justice. Why, this nightMaybe, He’ll come.
Uzz.Nay, nay! That’s past a joke!Come, gentlemen; enough of crazy folk!We must be going on a mile or twoTo shelter; and, my friend, good-night to you!
[Exeunt(R.)three Merchants, salutingZacharyironically.Zacharystands looking after them, handsraised. He totters a step or two,then he lets hands sink slowly.
Zach.Now, God have mercy! But I’m wearied sore.[Begins to limp back to stump.So wearied I have never been before.[He sits heavily on ground, leaning against stump.Then, after a pause.My limbs that heavy![Lifts hands, and lets them drop.My old eyes, that dim![Stares about, bewildered.Why—if He came—I could not look at Him....[His voice grows weaker.Dreams, did they say?... And old Isaias too?...[He rolls his eyes.David.... And Balaam ... and the Fleece of DewThat Gideon saw.... Why, now, how soft the snow....[Sleepy voice; closing eyes.I’ll sleep ... a bit ... a bit ... before ... I ... go.[Sinks down. Music begins very softly, and verse ofcarol is played through as he falls asleep. ThenMarthaandAbelbegin to sing, off.And ... God ... have ... pity on ... all ...poor folks ... here below.
Mar. and Abel.[3]The Lord at first had Adam madeOut of the dust and clay,And in his nostrils breathed life....[Enter(L.)MarthaandAbel,carryingbundles, with sticks, over shoulders,hand in hand.Marthacarries a lantern.E’en as the Scriptures say.And then in Eden’s ParadiseHe placed him to dwellThat he within—[Stop abruptly.
Mar.Why, Abel, what’s that lying by the tree?[Abelclings to her, lets go, tries to run.Nay, nay, be quiet! Here, take hold of me.[She is staring atZachary.
Abel.Oh! Martha, Martha, I’m afraid—[Tries to pull her away.
Mar.No, no.[She goes closer with him; looks.
’Tis but an old man, sleeping in the snow.Why—look how white he is! How white and old!He’ll take his death! The night is bitter cold.[Advances close to him with lantern.Sir, sir! Wake up.... Here, Abel, take the light![Hands him lantern. He shrinks away.You silly boy! With God nor day nor nightCan harm His children.... Here, sir, wake, awake![Shakes him by arm.The night is cold. Sir![She kneels by him.For Messias’ sake!
[Zacharymoans gently, lifts his head,looks round, sinks back.
Zach.(sleepily).Messias! eh? Messias? Why ... they ... said ...’Twas dreams ... all dreams.[She shakes him.Why ... what is this?... my head ...Is heavy ... let me sleep....[Rolls over a little.Ah! let me sleep....And dream Messias’ coming ... lest ... He ... weep ...To find no welcome.
Mar.(rapidly).Abel, here—[He is sobbing.Don’t cry....Quick, boy, I tell you ... lest the old man die.[Together they lift him slowly, first up to tree, thenon his feet. He clings to them. They moveabout; finally he sits down on stump, andbegins to recover himself.
Zach.(rubbing eyes).Why, ’tis but children! And I thought that HeHad sent His angels down to succour me,And bring me tidings that His Christ was here.[Looks round, then drops his head.No, dreams! All dreams it is.[Marthatakes him by arm.
Mar.Sir! can you hearMe speak, good father? Can you see me plain?[He looks at her; recovers further.
Zach.Why, yes.... I heard you singing. Sing againThat which you sang.[Releases his arm.Nay, nay, child, let me go!I’m well awake enough. ’Twas but the snowBewildered me. What was that song so sweetI heard so plain?[Marthacomes a little forward,smiling shyly.
Mar.Sir, to beguile our feetWe sang a carol, made—Oh! long ago,Of times when God walked once with men belowIn Eden’s garden; whence all woe beganFrom Satan’s tempting and the sin of man.That was the little song you heard so plainAs we were coming.
Zach.Sing the song again.
[MarthaandAbelstand side by side(R.).
Mar. and Abel.The Lord at first had Adam madeOut of the dust and clay,And in his nostrils breathed life,E’en as the Scriptures say.
And then in Eden’s ParadiseHe placed him to dwell,That he within it should remainTo dress and keep it well.
[They turn toZach.
Zach.Why—
[Chorus suddenly begins from behind scene. Childrenare terrified.Zach.stands up, frightened.They cling to him. During the singingthey recover themselves a little. They lookabout, standing all together(R.)facing(L.).Abelleaves the others and begins to moveacross stage, looking in all directions.
Invisible Chorus.Now let good Christians all beginA holier life to live;And to rejoice and merry beFor this is Christmas Eve.
4. Now mark the goodness of the LordWhich He to mankind bore,His mercy soon He did extendLost man for to restore;
And, therefore, to redeem our soulsFrom death and hell and thrall,He said His own dear Son should beThe Saviour of us all.
Chorus.Now let ...
Abel(letting go).Why! What was that? Who’s singing there below?...[Runs toMartha,who is looking(L.).I’m frightened, Martha.... Martha! let us go.[Zach.,also staring(L.).
Zach.Why! Who comes here?[He goes a step.An old man and a maid!Is that their singing?... No ... she seems afraidAnd weary. Children! See how slow they wind![Looks intently, under hand.Children! look closer.... Who comes on behind?...No ... he is gone again.... I thought I sawFigures who came and went, behind, before,As if to keep them.... Children, do you see?[A silence.
Joseph and Mary, walking.Why! Who comes here? An old man and a maid——See how slow they wind!
Why! Who comes here? An old man and a maid——See how slow they wind!
Mar.(looking).I see a maiden, and a man like thee.Old, old and heavy.... Why, sir, look again!Why ... who is that? Nay ... nay, I saw him plain—All, all in light—Nay, but he’s gone again.
Mar.(looking).I see a maiden, and a man like thee.Old, old and heavy.... Why, sir, look again!Why ... who is that? Nay ... nay, I saw him plain—All, all in light—Nay, but he’s gone again.
Mar.(looking).I see a maiden, and a man like thee.Old, old and heavy.... Why, sir, look again!Why ... who is that? Nay ... nay, I saw him plain—All, all in light—Nay, but he’s gone again.
[The three shrink together backwards across the stage to(R.)as(L.)enterJosephandMary,very slowly. She leans on him. They come up to tree. She sinks on to it, in his arms, and drops her head. He stands behind, holding her. So the tableau remains. Behind the scenes the Chorus sings, as below. During the singing,Abeladvances step by step, almost imperceptibly, withMarthabehind andZacharylast.
Chorus.A Virgin unspotted, the Prophet foretold,[4]Should bring forth a Saviour, which now we behold,To be our Redeemer from death, hell, and sin,Which Adam’s transgression had wrappèd us in.Chorus.Aye and therefore be merry; set sorrow aside,Christ Jesus our Saviour was born on this tide.2. At Bethlehem city in Jewry it wasThat Joseph and Mary together did pass,All for to be taxed with many one more;Great Cæsar commanded the same should be so.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...3. There were they constrained in a stable to lie,Where horses and asses they used for to tie,Their lodging so simple they took it no scorn,But against the next morning our Saviour was born.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
Chorus.A Virgin unspotted, the Prophet foretold,[4]Should bring forth a Saviour, which now we behold,To be our Redeemer from death, hell, and sin,Which Adam’s transgression had wrappèd us in.Chorus.Aye and therefore be merry; set sorrow aside,Christ Jesus our Saviour was born on this tide.2. At Bethlehem city in Jewry it wasThat Joseph and Mary together did pass,All for to be taxed with many one more;Great Cæsar commanded the same should be so.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...3. There were they constrained in a stable to lie,Where horses and asses they used for to tie,Their lodging so simple they took it no scorn,But against the next morning our Saviour was born.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
Chorus.A Virgin unspotted, the Prophet foretold,[4]Should bring forth a Saviour, which now we behold,To be our Redeemer from death, hell, and sin,Which Adam’s transgression had wrappèd us in.
Chorus.Aye and therefore be merry; set sorrow aside,Christ Jesus our Saviour was born on this tide.
2. At Bethlehem city in Jewry it wasThat Joseph and Mary together did pass,All for to be taxed with many one more;Great Cæsar commanded the same should be so.
Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
3. There were they constrained in a stable to lie,Where horses and asses they used for to tie,Their lodging so simple they took it no scorn,But against the next morning our Saviour was born.
Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
[At this pointAbelreachesMary,and kneels down before her on his knees, looking, on her right, andMarthaon her left,Zacharyin centre. During the next verses,Maryopens her eyes, sees them, then slowly stretches out her hands on to their heads; each kisses her hand. Then bothMary’shands onZachary’shead. He takes them both and kisses them. All this very slowly during following verse.
Invisible Chorus.Then God sent an angel from heaven so high,To certain poor shepherds in fields where they lie,And bade them no longer in sorrow to stay,Because that our Saviour was born on this day.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
Invisible Chorus.Then God sent an angel from heaven so high,To certain poor shepherds in fields where they lie,And bade them no longer in sorrow to stay,Because that our Saviour was born on this day.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
Invisible Chorus.Then God sent an angel from heaven so high,To certain poor shepherds in fields where they lie,And bade them no longer in sorrow to stay,Because that our Saviour was born on this day.
Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
[ThenMaryis slowly supported byJosephon her right, with her arm round his shoulders, and, on the left, in the same way, byMarthaandAbel.Zacharyslowly gathers up bundles and sticks and lantern.
Then presently after the shepherds did spy,Vast numbers of angels to stand in the sky;They joyfully talked, and sweetly did sing,To God be all glory, our heavenly King.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
Then presently after the shepherds did spy,Vast numbers of angels to stand in the sky;They joyfully talked, and sweetly did sing,To God be all glory, our heavenly King.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
Then presently after the shepherds did spy,Vast numbers of angels to stand in the sky;They joyfully talked, and sweetly did sing,To God be all glory, our heavenly King.
Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
[They begin to go out(R.)in the above order. As they disappear(R.),enter(L.)two tall angels bearing swords in right hand and burning tapers in left, and two small angels bearing tapers only. These pairs slowly cross stage, and as curtain comes down they are still passing, and simultaneously the last chorus ends.
To teach us humility all this was done,And learn we from thence haughty pride for to shun,A manger His cradle, who came from above,The great God of mercy, of peace, and of love.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
To teach us humility all this was done,And learn we from thence haughty pride for to shun,A manger His cradle, who came from above,The great God of mercy, of peace, and of love.Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
To teach us humility all this was done,And learn we from thence haughty pride for to shun,A manger His cradle, who came from above,The great God of mercy, of peace, and of love.
Chorus.Aye and therefore ...
Curtain.
[A quiet piece of music begins and continues until Carol.
Martha and Abel, walking.
The three Merchants rise in alarm—
The three Merchants rise in alarm—