{"collection":"scripture-revelation","full_text_available":true,"graph_url":"https://unchartedknowledge.5gfusion.net/v2/api/page/gutenberg_61606/graph","html_url":"https://unchartedknowledge.5gfusion.net/v2/page/gutenberg_61606","id":"gutenberg_61606","license":"Public Domain (US)","rights_basis":"gutenberg_metadata_copyright_false","source":"gutenberg","source_url":"https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/61606","summary":null,"tags":["Category: Plays/Films/Dramas","Category: Religion/Spirituality","Christmas plays"],"text":"Transcriber\u2019s Notes:\n\n Underscores \u201c_\u201d before and after a word or phrase indicate _italics_\n in the original text.\n Small capitals have been converted to SOLID capitals.\n Typographical errors have been silently corrected.\n Footnotes have all been moved to the end of the text.\n\n\n\n\nA MYSTERY PLAY\n\n\n[Illustration]\n\n Lo! Gentiles in Thy Light shall walk;\u2014\n and Kings, all in the splendour bright\n Of this Thy rising. Lift Thine eyes and see.\n\n\n\n\n A MYSTERY PLAY\n IN HONOUR OF THE\n NATIVITY OF OUR LORD\n\n BY\n ROBERT HUGH BENSON\n\n WITH ILLUSTRATIONS\n\n LONGMANS, GREEN, AND CO.\n 39 PATERNOSTER ROW, LONDON\n NEW YORK, BOMBAY, AND CALCUTTA\n 1908\n\n All rights reserved\n\n\n\n\n FILIABVS \u00b7 AMICIS\n\n CONVENTVS \u00b7 S \u00b7 MARIAE \u00b7 CANTABRIGIENSIS \u00b7 ALVMNIS\n\n QVARVM\n\n ARDOR \u00b7 PIETAS \u00b7 REVERENTIA\n\n INGENERAVIT \u00b7 FOVIT \u00b7 ILLVMINAVIT\n\n LIBELLVM\n\n VOTA \u00b7 IMPLORANS\n\n D \u00b7 D\n\n SCRIPTOR \u00b7 INDIGNVS\n\n\n\n\nPREFACE\n\n\nThe following play was produced at Cambridge in December 1907 and\nJanuary 1908. It was acted six times altogether, to full houses, upon a\ntemporary stage in the schoolroom of St. Mary\u2019s Convent, by the girls\nof the school, whose ages ran from six to eighteen. The scenery, the\nproperties, and the costumes were constructed\u2014with the exception of\ntwo simple Eastern dresses and a few weapons\u2014out of materials lent\nto the convent or possessed by it. The cost, therefore, was extremely\nsmall; the trouble only was great, and this lay almost entirely in the\nlearning of the parts and the rehearsals.\n\nIt is alleged sometimes, as one reason for fearing such performances,\nthat the spirit of the age is very different from that in which this\nmethod of bringing the Christian mysteries before the eye was almost\nuniversally practised. This fear, of course, was not absent from the\nminds of those responsible for this production, but it proved wholly\nillusory. The audience, consisting of Catholics and non-Catholics drawn\nfrom all classes, was begged, by a sentence on the printed programme,\nto refrain from all applause and conversation, and loyally responded to\nthe request. There was practically a dead silence from the first notes\nof the first carol to the departure of the audience at the end.\n\nIt has been thought worth while, therefore, in this age of Pageants,\nto print and publish the text of a play which has for its object the\nfurthering of devotion to the Nativity of our Blessed Lord, and which\nhas been put to the test of actual performance before a mixed assembly,\nin the hope that others perhaps may venture upon a task which to its\noriginal promoters has appeared at least to justify its inception.\nFull directions are given in appendices as to the methods by which the\nstaging was accomplished and the properties constructed, as well as,\nin the text itself, minute stage directions as to the movements of\nthe actors. Realism and passion have been studiously avoided in the\ntraining of these; and in their place a kind of slow and deliberate\nsimplicity has been arrived at throughout. There was practically no\nattempt made to disguise the faces of the actors, except in the matter\nof a brown stain applied to the faces and hands of a few, and of two or\nthree beards in the cases of old men.\n\nIn case, however, that the recommendations given in the book do not\nseem sufficient to others, the author will be happy to answer any\nquestions that he can.\n\nThe present edition contains illustrations, appendices, and stage\ndirections; a cheaper acting edition shortly to be issued will contain\nonly the words with a few necessary remarks.\n\nThe collection from which the carols are taken is one compiled by Dr.\nStainer and the Rev. H. R. Bramley, under the title \u201cChristmas Carols,\nNew and Old.\u201d It is published with music by Novello. Acknowledgments\nare made in the proper places.\n\nAn admirable orchestral effect may be produced by the use of a piano\nand an American organ played together.\n\nThe play as a whole does not aspire to be considered a literary\nproduction; it is only published as a practicable drama.\n\n\n\n\n_DRAMATIS PERSON\u00c6_\n\n\n MARY.\n JOSEPH.\n TOBIAS (_Landlord of Inn at Bethlehem_).\n DAVID (_his servant_).\n ZACHARY }\n EZRA } _Three Shepherds._\n BEN-EZRA }\n ELIPHAZ }\n NADAB } _Three Merchants._\n UZZIEL }\n MARTHA (_A Child_).\n ABEL (_her brother_).\n ANGELS (_four_).\n HERALD (_An Angel_).\n\n _SCENES_\n I. _Road outside Bethlehem._\n II. _The Kitchen of the Inn._\n III. _Hills outside Bethlehem._\n IV. _Interior of the Stable._\n V. _The same._\n\nNOTE.\u2014In the stage directions throughout, \u201cR.\u201d = right of actor\nwho faces the audience, and \u201cL.\u201d = his left.\n\n\n\n\n[Illustration]\n\n\n\n\n PROLOGUE\n\n\n _Before curtain rises there is sung_\u2014\n\n God rest you merry, gentlemen,[1]\n Let nothing you dismay;\n Remember Christ our Saviour\n Was born on Christmas Day,\n To save us all from Satan\u2019s power\n When we were gone astray.\n\n _Chorus._ O! tidings of comfort and joy.\n\n 2. In Bethlehem, in Jewry,\n This blessed Babe was born,\n And laid within a manger,\n Upon this blessed morn.\n The which His mother Mary\n Did nothing take in scorn.\n\n _Chorus._ O! tidings ...\n\n 3. From God our Heavenly Father\n A blessed Angel came,\n And unto certain Shepherds\n Brought tidings of the same:\n How that in Bethlehem was born\n The Son of God by name.\n\n _Chorus._ O! tidings ...\n\n 4. Now to the Lord sing praises\n All you within this place,\n And with true love and brotherhood\n Each other now embrace;\n This holy tide of Christmas\n All other doth deface.\n\n _Chorus._ O! tidings ...\n\n _Curtains part\u2014Enter_ HERALD, _closing\n curtains behind him. He bows low, slowly, with arms\n across his breast; he recovers himself perfectly\n upright, and begins in a clear, declaiming voice_\u2014\n\n Good Christians, now the time is near [here]\n When long ago our Saviour dear\n Came hither from His heavenly hall\n To teach and help and save us all.\n For born He was, a little Child,\n And Mary was His mother mild,\n And Joseph guarded both of them\n Within the cave of Bethlehem.\n Here simple shepherds ran to view\n\n [_He makes a gesture with his right hand._\n\n The Lord alike of them and you:\n Here, on their camels, came to see\n\n [_He repeats gesture with his left hand._\n\n Their Lord, wise kings of Araby.\n Here Angels sang their praises meet,\n And bowed before His little feet,\n Whose hands the heavens and earth have wrought\n\n [_He extends his hands slowly, palms uppermost._\n\n And, pierced by nails, our ransom bought.\n To this same God the whole world wide\n Bows and adores at Christmastide.\n\n [_He bows very slowly as he speaks the line._\n\n We therefore, too, with good intent,\n The simple story here present.\n Here sheep and shepherds shall you see,\n The Holy Child and sweet Mary,\n Great angels and good Joseph too,\n Merchants, and simple folks like you,\n The sturdy landlord of the inn,\n Cold snow without and fire within\u2014\n All shall be shown as best we can,\n In praise of Jesus, God and man.\n\n [_He bows._\n\n We therefore pray you of your grace\n To hear in silence and good face.\n Mock not, if here or there we fail\n To set out well this holy tale.\n Keep silence, too, except ye sing,\n As we shall do, before our King.\n And if we please you, well, why then,\n We pray you, hold your peace again.\n And so God \u2629 bless us all. Amen.\n\n [_He signs himself; bows; and exit backwards through curtains._\n\n[Illustration: _Exeunt the three Merchants._]\n\n\n\n\n SCENE I\n\n\n _Road outside Bethlehem. Sky, stars, snow. Up, centre,\n a little to left, a stump of a tree. As curtain\n begins to rise, there is sung by invisible\n Choir_....[2]\n\n When Christ was born of Mary free\n In Bethlehem, that faire citie,\n Angels sang there, with mirth and glee,\n In excelsis gloria!\n\n _Chorus (repeat)._ In excelsis ...\n\n 2. Herdsmen beheld those angels bright,\n To them appearing with great light,\n Who said, \u201cGod\u2019s Son is born to-night,\u201d\n In excelsis gloria. [_Chorus._]\n\n 3. The King is come to save mankind,\n As in Scripture truths we find,\n Therefore this song we have in mind,\n In excelsis gloria. [_Chorus._]\n\n 4. Then, dear Lord, for Thy great grace,\n Grant us in bliss to see Thy face,\n That we may sing to Thy solace\n In excelsis gloria. [_Chorus._]\n\n _Then, enter_ ZACHARY (L.); _walking with\n a stick, carrying a bundle and a lantern. His\n shoulders are covered with snow. He walks very\n slowly. In centre of stage he halts, looks about\n him slowly._\n\n ZACH.\n Now, God have mercy! I must rest awhile,\n For mile on weary mile, and mile on mile,\n I\u2019ve trudged on foot since break of day began,\n And, sure, I\u2019m but an old and ancient man.\n\n [_He goes across to stump, and sits on it slowly, disposing\n his stick and bundle and lantern. He settles himself\n deliberately, folding his arms._\n\n Time was, once, long ago, when I would run\n And leap and swim as good as any one.\n Aye, aye,\u2014to run a race or climb a wall\u2014\n Aye, aye,\u2014I\u2019d beat \u2019em all, I\u2019d beat \u2019em all.\n\n [_Shakes his head reminiscently. Then passes his hands\n slowly down his knees._\n\n But, sure, I\u2019m stiff, and my poor bones are old,\n And night is bitter cold\u2014\u2019tis bitter cold....\n Yes, yes [_begins to look about him_]. I\u2019ve come a mighty step\n to-day.\n Why, but\u2014\n\n [_Stands up suddenly, stares out_ (R.), _under hand_.\n\n Is that the town so far away?\n I thought \u2019twas nearer. But this pesky snow\u2014\u2014!\n At Rachel\u2019s tomb the neighbours bade me go\n A mile or two.... Yes, yes, they told me so....\n\n [_Sits again heavily._\n\n And now I\u2019m wearied out ... and not so near\n As I had thought.... (_turns to_ (L.), _stares out_.)\n God bless me! who comes here?\n\n [_Enter_ (L.) ELIPHAZ, NADAB, and UZZIEL, _together,\n arm-in-arm; richly dressed; muffled up; carrying\n bundles, walking with sticks_. NAD. _carries a\n lantern. They come across briskly as they reach\n stump._ ZACH. _suddenly stands up, pulling his\n forelock. They start violently apart._\n\n ZACH.\n Good gentlemen\u2014\u2014\n\n ELIPH.\n Why, murrain take the man\n For frighting of us so! I never can\n Abide these rustics.\n\n [_He crosses over_ (R.). _Others remain_ (L.).\n\n NAD.\n They\u2019ve no sense, I say,\n To fright three gentlemen upon their way.\n See here, old man! (_Lifts stick threateningly._)\n\n UZZ.\n No, no. Let be! let be!\n\n [_He interposes his arm._\n\n See here, old man! I\u2019d have a word with thee.\n Are you a native here? (ZACH. _nods_.) Why, then, I\u2019ll lay\n You\u2019ll guide us, for, I think, we\u2019ve lost our way.\n A piece of gold or so\u2019ll help you tell\u2014\u2014\n\n ZACH.\n Why, no, good sir; I need no gold\u2014\u2014\n\n ELIPH. (_interrupting_).\n Well, well\u2014\u2014\n We\u2019re three good merchants, come, as you can see,\n For this enrolling, down from Galilee,\n And now we\u2019ve missed our way.\n\n ZACH.\n Yes, yes, good friend,\n I\u2019ll set you on your way, if you\u2019ll but lend\n An arm to my old arm to bear me up;\n For sure I\u2019ve never had a bite or sup\n Since break of day.\n\n UZZ.\n Yes, yes, old man; but tell\n Us first our way; and all will then be well.\n\n ZACH. (_pointing_ (R.) _very deliberately_).\n Why, down the hill straight on, another mile,\n Then to your right, and so beyond the stile\n\n [_He makes gestures of pointing._\n\n To where the vineyards stand\u2014(remember them),\n And that\u2019ll bring you straight to Bethlehem.\n\n [_He turns, and gathers stick and bundle._\n\n And now, sir\u2014[_comes forward_]\u2014your good arm.\n\n UZZ. (_avoiding_).\n Why, no, no, no,\n You\u2019ve given us all we asked. We could not go\n With such a bag of bones! That\u2019s not the way\n To make a contract. Come, be off, I say!\n\n [_Threatens him as_ ZACH. _approaches again_.\n\n ZACH.\n Sir, sir; I\u2019m wearied out! I\u2019m done to death!\n I\u2019m old and weak of limb, and short of breath.\n I pray you\u2014 [_Seizes_ ELIPHAZ\u2019S _arm, who shakes it off_.\n\n ELIPH.\n Why, here\u2019s impudence as well!\n Is\u2019t so you speak to men of Israel? [_Threatens._\n\n ZACH.\n Sir ...for the love of God ...\n\n UZZ.\n Why, that\u2019s too good!\n \u201cThe love of God!\u201d\u2014I\u2019ve always understood\n That God was Justice! Eh! good Nadab, eh?\n\n [_He turns to_ NAD.\n\n What do you think? That never was the way\n We learned at school! [_Threatens_ ZACHARY.\n Hands off! old man! I say!\n\n [ELIPH. _crosses_ (L.).\n ZACH.\n Sir, for Messias\u2019 sake!...\n\n UZZ.\n Why, who is He?\n\n ZACH. (_solemnly_).\n Sir, it is He told of in prophecy,\n Who surely comes one day to set all right,\n And judge in love and justice. Why, this night\n Maybe, He\u2019ll come.\n\n UZZ.\n Nay, nay! That\u2019s past a joke!\n Come, gentlemen; enough of crazy folk!\n We must be going on a mile or two\n To shelter; and, my friend, good-night to you!\n\n [_Exeunt_ (R.) _three Merchants, saluting_ ZACHARY\n _ironically_. ZACHARY _stands looking after them,\n hands raised. He totters a step or two, then he\n lets hands sink slowly._\n\n ZACH.\n Now, God have mercy! But I\u2019m wearied sore.\n\n [_Begins to limp back to stump._\n\n So wearied I have never been before.\n\n [_He sits heavily on ground, leaning against stump.\n Then, after a pause._\n\n My limbs that heavy! [_Lifts hands, and lets them drop._\n My old eyes, that dim!\n\n [_Stares about, bewildered._\n\n Why\u2014if He came\u2014I could not look at Him....\n\n [_His voice grows weaker._\n\n Dreams, did they say?... And old Isaias too?...\n\n [_He rolls his eyes._\n\n David.... And Balaam ... and the Fleece of Dew\n That Gideon saw.... Why, now, how soft the snow....\n [_Sleepy voice; closing eyes._\n I\u2019ll sleep ... a bit ... a bit ... before ... I ... go.\n\n [_Sinks down. Music begins very softly, and verse of\n carol is played through as he falls asleep. Then_\n MARTHA _and_ ABEL _begin to sing, off_.\n\n And ... God ... have ... pity on ... all ...\n poor folks ... here below.\n\n MAR. AND ABEL.[3]\n The Lord at first had Adam made\n Out of the dust and clay,\n And in his nostrils breathed life....\n\n [_Enter_ (L.) MARTHA _and_ ABEL,\n _carrying bundles, with sticks, over shoulders,\n hand in hand_. MARTHA _carries a lantern_.\n\n E\u2019en as the Scriptures say.\n And then in Eden\u2019s Paradise\n He placed him to dwell\n That he within\u2014 [_Stop abruptly._\n\n MAR.\n Why, Abel, what\u2019s that lying by the tree?\n\n [ABEL _clings to her, lets go, tries to run_.\n\n Nay, nay, be quiet! Here, take hold of me.\n\n [_She is staring at_ ZACHARY.\n\n ABEL.\n Oh! Martha, Martha, I\u2019m afraid\u2014\n\n [_Tries to pull her away._\n\n MAR.\n No, no.\n\n [_She goes closer with him; looks._\n\n \u2019Tis but an old man, sleeping in the snow.\n Why\u2014look how white he is! How white and old!\n He\u2019ll take his death! The night is bitter cold.\n\n [_Advances close to him with lantern._\n\n Sir, sir! Wake up.... Here, Abel, take the light!\n\n [_Hands him lantern. He shrinks away._\n\n You silly boy! With God nor day nor night\n Can harm His children.... Here, sir, wake, awake!\n\n [_Shakes him by arm._\n\n The night is cold. Sir! [_She kneels by him._\n For Messias\u2019 sake!\n\n [ZACHARY _moans gently, lifts his head, looks\n round, sinks back_.\n\n ZACH. (_sleepily_).\n Messias! eh? Messias? Why ... they ... said ...\n \u2019Twas dreams ... all dreams. [_She shakes him._\n Why ... what is this?... my head ...\n Is heavy ... let me sleep.... [_Rolls over a little._\n Ah! let me sleep....\n And dream Messias\u2019 coming ... lest ... He ... weep ...\n To find no welcome.\n\n MAR. (_rapidly_).\n Abel, here\u2014 [_He is sobbing._\n Don\u2019t cry....\n Quick, boy, I tell you ... lest the old man die.\n\n [_Together they lift him slowly, first up to tree,\n then on his feet. He clings to them. They move\n about; finally he sits down on stump, and begins\n to recover himself._\n\n ZACH. (_rubbing eyes_).\n\n Why, \u2019tis but children! And I thought that He\n Had sent His angels down to succour me,\n And bring me tidings that His Christ was here.\n\n [_Looks round, then drops his head._\n\n No, dreams! All dreams it is.\n\n [MARTHA _takes him by arm_.\n\n MAR.\n Sir! can you hear\n Me speak, good father? Can you see me plain?\n\n [_He looks at her; recovers further._\n\n ZACH.\n Why, yes.... I heard you singing. Sing again\n That which you sang. [_Releases his arm._\n Nay, nay, child, let me go!\n I\u2019m well awake enough. \u2019Twas but the snow\n Bewildered me. What was that song so sweet\n I heard so plain?\n\n [MARTHA _comes a little forward,\n smiling shyly_.\n\n MAR.\n Sir, to beguile our feet\n We sang a carol, made\u2014Oh! long ago,\n Of times when God walked once with men below\n In Eden\u2019s garden; whence all woe began\n From Satan\u2019s tempting and the sin of man.\n That was the little song you heard so plain\n As we were coming.\n\n ZACH.\n Sing the song again.\n\n [MARTHA _and_ ABEL\n _stand side by side_ (R.).\n\n MAR. AND ABEL.\n The Lord at first had Adam made\n Out of the dust and clay,\n And in his nostrils breathed life,\n E\u2019en as the Scriptures say.\n\n And then in Eden\u2019s Paradise\n He placed him to dwell,\n That he within it should remain\n To dress and keep it well.\n\n [_They turn to_ ZACH.\n\n ZACH.\n\n Why\u2014\n\n [_Chorus suddenly begins from behind scene. Children\n are terrified._ ZACH. _stands up, frightened. They\n cling to him. During the singing they recover\n themselves a little. They look about, standing all\n together_ (R.) _facing_ (L.). ABEL _leaves the\n others and begins to move across stage, looking in\n all directions_.\n\n INVISIBLE CHORUS.\n\n Now let good Christians all begin\n A holier life to live;\n And to rejoice and merry be\n For this is Christmas Eve.\n\n 4. Now mark the goodness of the Lord\n Which He to mankind bore,\n His mercy soon He did extend\n Lost man for to restore;\n\n And, therefore, to redeem our souls\n From death and hell and thrall,\n He said His own dear Son should be\n The Saviour of us all.\n\n _Chorus._ Now let ...\n\n ABEL (_letting go_).\n Why! What was that? Who\u2019s singing there below?...\n\n [_Runs to_ MARTHA, _who is looking_ (L.).\n\n I\u2019m frightened, Martha.... Martha! let us go.\n\n [ZACH., _also staring_ (L.).\n\n ZACH.\n Why! Who comes here? [_He goes a step._\n An old man and a maid!\n Is that their singing?... No ... she seems afraid\n And weary. Children! See how slow they wind!\n\n [_Looks intently, under hand._\n\n Children! look closer.... Who comes on behind?...\n No ... he is gone again.... I thought I saw\n Figures who came and went, behind, before,\n As if to keep them.... Children, do you see?\n\n [_A silence._\n\n[Illustration: _Why! Who comes here? An old man and a maid\u2014\u2014 See how\nslow they wind!_]\n\n MAR. (_looking_).\n I see a maiden, and a man like thee.\n Old, old and heavy.... Why, sir, look again!\n Why ... who is that? Nay ... nay, I saw him plain\u2014\n All, all in light\u2014Nay, but he\u2019s gone again.\n\n [_The three shrink together backwards across the stage\n to_ (R.) _as_ (L.) _enter_ JOSEPH _and_ MARY, _very\n slowly. She leans on him. They come up to tree. She\n sinks on to it, in his arms, and drops her head. He\n stands behind, holding her. So the tableau remains.\n Behind the scenes the Chorus sings, as below.\n During the singing_, ABEL _advances step by step,\n almost imperceptibly, with_ MARTHA _behind and_\n ZACHARY _last_.\n\n CHORUS.\n A Virgin unspotted, the Prophet foretold,[4]\n Should bring forth a Saviour, which now we behold,\n To be our Redeemer from death, hell, and sin,\n Which Adam\u2019s transgression had wrapp\u00e8d us in.\n\n _Chorus._ Aye and therefore be merry; set sorrow aside,\n Christ Jesus our Saviour was born on this tide.\n\n 2. At Bethlehem city in Jewry it was\n That Joseph and Mary together did pass,\n All for to be taxed with many one more;\n Great C\u00e6sar commanded the same should be so.\n\n _Chorus._ Aye and therefore ...\n\n 3. There were they constrained in a stable to lie,\n Where horses and asses they used for to tie,\n Their lodging so simple they took it no scorn,\n But against the next morning our Saviour was born.\n\n _Chorus._ Aye and therefore ...\n\n [_At this point_ ABEL _reaches_ MARY, _and kneels down\n before her on his knees, looking, on her right,\n and_ MARTHA _on her left_, ZACHARY _in centre.\n During the next verses_, MARY _opens her eyes,\n sees them, then slowly stretches out her hands on\n to their heads; each kisses her hand. Then both_\n MARY\u2019S _hands on_ ZACHARY\u2019S _head. He takes them\n both and kisses them. All this very slowly during\n following verse._\n\n INVISIBLE CHORUS.\n Then God sent an angel from heaven so high,\n To certain poor shepherds in fields where they lie,\n And bade them no longer in sorrow to stay,\n Because that our Saviour was born on this day.\n\n _Chorus._ Aye and therefore ...\n\n [_Then_ MARY _is slowly supported by_ JOSEPH _on her\n right, with her arm round his shoulders, and, on\n the left, in the same way, by_ MARTHA _and_ ABEL.\n ZACHARY _slowly gathers up bundles and sticks and\n lantern_.\n\n Then presently after the shepherds did spy,\n Vast numbers of angels to stand in the sky;\n They joyfully talked, and sweetly did sing,\n To God be all glory, our heavenly King.\n\n _Chorus._ Aye and therefore ...\n\n [_They begin to go out_ (R.) _in the above order.\n As they disappear_ (R.), _enter_ (L.) _two tall\n angels bearing swords in right hand and burning\n tapers in left, and two small angels bearing\n tapers only. These pairs slowly cross stage, and\n as curtain comes down they are still passing, and\n simultaneously the last chorus ends._\n\n To teach us humility all this was done,\n And learn we from thence haughty pride for to shun,\n A manger His cradle, who came from above,\n The great God of mercy, of peace, and of love.\n\n _Chorus._ Aye and therefore ...\n\nCURTAIN.\n\n[_A quiet piece of music begins and continues until Carol._\n\n[Illustration]\n\n[Illustration: _The three Merchants rise in alarm_\u2014]\n\n\n\n\nSCENE II\n\n\n_Before curtain rises, invisible Choir sings_\u2014\n\n Come let us all sweet carols sing,[5]\n Omni relicto t\u00e6dio\n Of Mary, Mother of our King,\n Christoque Jesu Filio.\n When she had borne that Holy Thing.\n Reponit in pr\u00e6sepio (_bis_).\n\n 2. Now Gabriel sweeping from the sky,\n Missus a Deo nuntius,\n These tidings beareth from on high,\n L\u00e6tissimis pastoribus,\n Behold your God on earth doth lie,\n Invenietis protinus.\n\n 4. Quickly away the shepherds flew,\n Clara Gabrielis voce,\n Rejoicing as if filled anew,\n Bono Bacchico liquore,\n Leaping and dancing nigh they drew,\n Simul in Bethlehem Jud\u00e6.\n\n 6. They entered then the hallowed cave,\n Jesum hic adoraverunt,\n The best of all they had they gave,\n Puerumque oraverunt,\n Pardon for that was lacking crave,\n Subitoque abierunt.\n\nCURTAIN RISES\n\n\n SCENE\u2014_Kitchen of inn. In centre a fire: pot over it.\n White walls. Two doors_ R. _and_ L., R. _into\n street_, L. _into inn. A table_ R. _with three\n stools. Discovered_ TOBIAS, _stirring pot, and_\n DAVID _busying himself with plates at the table.\n After curtain is up_, TOBIAS _leaves spoon in pot,\n and comes forward. During all this scene he is\n plainly uneasy and indecisive. He relapses into\n silence, then rouses himself to speak._\n\n TOB.\n And you have heard it, David? [_They speak softly._\n\n DAV.\n Yes, all day,\n Good master, have I heard them.\n\n TOB.\n \u201cThem,\u201d you say?\n Why, who are they?\n\n [_He looks steadily at_ DAV.,\n _with folded arms_.\n\n DAV.\n I know not, but the sound\n Was that of singing in the air, and round\n\n [_He makes gesture._\n\n About; and steps, and wings; and everywhere\n I heard them plainly.\n\n TOB.\n Was it from the air\n You heard it?\n\n DAV.\n Aye, sir.\n\n TOB.\n Nothing have you seen?\n\n DAV.\n No, sir. [_A silence._\n\n TOB.\n Now, David, what doth all this mean?...\n I, too, have heard.... Say not a word of this\n To any man.... For these are mysteries.\n\n [_Clamour of voices and stamping._\n\n [TOB. _leaps back to pot and begins stirring\n again_. DAV. _turns to plates, &c._\n\n TOB.\n Now, boy, make haste.... Hark to the guests below.\n\n [_Shouts._\n\n Coming, sirs, coming.... Yes, boy, take and go.\n\n [_Exit_ DAV. (L.) _with plates and bread_.\n\n I\u2019ll bring this presently. God bless us! Why\n\n [_Murmur without._\n\n I never heard such tumult. No, not I\n In all my days. [_Knocking heard on door_ (R.).\n Yes, yes, come in, come in.\n\n [_Enter_ (R.) THREE MERCHANTS.\n\n ELIPH.\n Well, my good host, and have you room within?\n\n TOB.\n What? More of them? Who are you, gentlemen?\n\n ELIPH.\n Why, we are merchants three, come back again\n To Bethlehem, as all the world doth know,\n For our enrolment. Through the frost and snow\n We\u2019ve trudged full many a mile. And have you space\n For three good gentlemen? [_He sits down heavily._\n\n TOB.\n Why, all the place\n Is full from roof to garret. [_Tumult breaks out again._\n Hark to them!\n Why, all mankind seems come to Bethlehem!\n\n NAD.\n Well, well! Have you no beds?\n\n TOB.\n Not one to spare,\n Nor bite nor sup, I think. [_He makes despairing gesture._\n\n UZZ. (_pointing to pot_).\n What have you there?\n\n [_Enter_ DAV. (L.).\n\n TOB.\n No, no, good sir! First come first served, I say.\n _To_ DAV.\n Here, lad, make haste. Come! bear the pot away.\n\n [DAV. _takes it and exit_ (L.).\n\n ELIPH.\n Why, but you cannot turn us out! \u2019Tis night\n And freezing cold. We must have food and light\n And roof above us.\n\n NAD.\n Let us have the floor\n Here in this kitchen, if you have no more.\n\n TOB.\n Well, gentlemen, I tell you, as I live,\n I have no better and no more to give.\n\n ELIPH.\n Well, we must make a shift to rest and dine.\n A loaf of bread you have, at least, and wine,\n And skins, I\u2019ll warrant you, to keep the cold\n From killing us. The sheep within the fold\n Seemed well-nigh frozen as we passed them by.\n\n TOB.\n Well, gentlemen, if you can shift, then I\n Will do my best to please you. Sit you down.\n\n [NAD. _and_ UZZ.\n _sit; unloose wrappings_.\n\n _Enter_ DAV. (L.).\n Well, are they served there?\n\n DAV.\n Yes, sir. [_He stands waiting._\n\n TOB.\n All the town\n Is full. I never saw the like before!\n\n _To_ DAV.\n Here, lad! make haste! Go, fetch a bottle more,\n And bread and meat. These gentlemen must dine.\n\n [_Exit_ DAV. (L.).\n\n (_To_ THREE.) I promise you, a cup of our good wine\n Will set you up, sirs. [_He sets out plates and cups._\n\n ELIPH.\n Ah! I warrant you\n We\u2019ll do good justice to a cup or two.\n\n [_They range themselves. Enter_ DAV. _with bottle,\n mugs, bread, and meat, and exit again_ (L.). _They\n begin to eat and drink. Landlord stands with arms\n akimbo by fire, watching. Now and again he comes to\n table, helps them to wine, &c., and goes back, as\n conversation continues._\n\n TOB.\n And was all quiet as you came?\n\n [_He looks at them curiously._\n\n NAD.\n Why, yes.\n All was as still as death\u2014a wilderness\n Of snow and frost.\n\n TOB.\n And did you see no man?\n\n [_Very earnestly, leaning on table._\n\n NAD.\n Why, yes, a few. Just as the road began\n To come to Rachel\u2019s tomb we passed a maid\n And old man, and her arm in his was laid;\n\n [_He pauses to eat during this speech. He is\n very cool and self-contained._\n\n And they were walking\u2014walking wondrous slow:\n\n [_He makes a little gesture._\n\n The maid seemed wearied.... And an hour ago\n Two children; and then afterwards again\n Some old fool of a shepherd-man; and then\n None further, till we reached the market-square.\n\n TOB.\n Ah! yes. A mighty company was there\n Of neighbours, come to see the folk arrive\n From all the country.\n\n [_He begins to walk about uneasily, pensively. There\n is a long silence. The three eat. Then he suddenly\n comes back._\n\n As I am alive,\n I could have sworn that more were there than men.\n\n ELIPH.\n What, women?\n\n TOB.\n Aye, and more. (_He looks darkly._)\n\n ELIPH.\n Well, children, then?\n\n TOB.\n Aye, more than human-kind.\n\n [_They stare at him, dropping food._\n\n Once and again,\n\n [_He looks at them earnestly, making gestures.\n Speaking softly_\u2014\n\n As I looked out upon the folks, it seemed\n Something was forward\u2014somewhat\u2014or I dreamed!\u2014\n Of more than earthly business. For the air\n Seemed full of singing, runnings to and fro,\n Then silences again\u2014rushes of sound\u2014\n Footsteps, it seemed, moved on the frozen ground,\n As if some company, to come and go\n Was set, all busy, in the market-square.\n\n ELIPH. (_after pause_).\n Bah! You were dreaming, man! The air was keen,\n And you were weary.... There was nothing seen?\n\n [_He seems a little disturbed._\n\n TOB.\n No; for I asked my lad if aught were there\n That he could see\u2014\u2014\n\n NAD.\n Bah! You and your market-square!\n A dreamer! Like the old man on the hill\n Who babbled of God\u2019s Love and Justice till\n I was all wearied\u2014and Messias\u2019 name,\n Who comes one day, he said. Why, but the same\n Old tale is past and gone for you and me\n Since old Isaias babbled prophecy.\n (_Scornfully._) \u201cA Virgin shall conceive,\u201d he said!...\n\n CHOIR _softly sings a line or two_\u2014\n \u201c_A Virgin unspotted, the Prophet foretold,\n Should bring forth a Saviour whom now we...._\u201d\n\n TOB. (_starting_).\n What is that sound?\n Do you hear nothing?\n\n [_They stare. Clamour breaks out in room_ (L.),\n _and music stops_.\n\n Gone again, and drowned!\n But you heard nothing?\n\n [_Enter_ DAVID (L.) _running, excited.\n He stops dead._\n\n ELIPH. (_after pause_).\n Why, the man is mad!\n Singing and footsteps! What next? Here, you lad,\n Did you hear aught now?\n\n DAV. (_frightened_).\n Sir, what did you say?\n\n ELIPH. (_banging table impatiently_).\n Did you hear aught just now? From far away\n A sound of singing?\n\n DAV.\n Why, sir, yes\u2014all day\u2014\n And now again!\n\n [_Silence. They eye one another uneasily._\n\n NAD. (_to_ TOB.).\n Bah! Here, a cup of wine\n Will clear your hearing. I dare wager mine\n \u2019S as good as yours. Some drunken fellow there\n Is noisy in his cups.\n\n [_Holds out cup of wine to_ TOB.,\n _who takes it hesitatingly_.\n\n TOB. (_after pause_).\n Well, sir, I swear\n I never heard nor drunk nor sober sing\n As fair as this I heard. (_Drinks._)\n\n ELIPH. (_easily_).\n Why, anything\n May maze a man on such a night, when snow\n And cold conspire to starve the senses. Go\n And see your other guests. Perhaps.... Maybe\n You\u2019ll find them singing.\n\n [TOB. _begins to go out_ (L.) _slowly_.\n\n Aye, come back to me,\n\n [_Exit_ TOB. (L.) _with_ DAV.\n _whispering to him_.\n\n And we three\u2019ll join them.\n (_To other two._) Did you ever hear\n Such madness?\n\n UZZ.\n Bah! Why, all the world is mad\n Save such as you and I. As for that lad,\n I swear he spoke so just to please the man.\n\n NAD.\n But to come back to where we first began\u2014\n\n [_Air of \u201cA Virgin\u201d sung by_ CHOIR _with\n closed lips; it continues very faintly down to\n where_ ELIPH. _opens the door_.\n\n What think you of Messias and that tale\n The prophets tell?\n\n ELIPH.\n Well, may not prophets fail\n As much as any man? I hold such men\n No better than this dreamer back again.\n Once, as a child, I thought it otherwise,\n And deemed that all was holy, and the skies\n Crowded with angels, and the earth I trod\n All holy as the dwelling-place of God.\n And now! Why, I know better.... (_Drinks._)\n\n NAD.\n As for me,\n I\u2019m with you. (_Drinks._)\n\n UZZ.\n So am I. The Sadducee\n Seems wisest of the lot.\n\n [_They pledge one another. Knocking heard_ (R.).\n\n Why, who comes here?\n\n [_He pauses. Then he goes to door_ (R.) _impatiently,\n and opens it. A burst of music. Silence. He seems\n to listen._\n\n No, no! No room! Nor here, nor anywhere!...\n\n [_Listens._\n\n I tell you, No! There\u2019s not a bed to spare.\n\n [_Listens._\n\n NAD.\n Who\u2019s that? (UZZ. _begins to stare towards door, listening_.)\n\n ELIPH. (_after pause_).\n The landlord\u2019s out.... What\u2019s that?... Why, then\n You\u2019d best find shelter as you may.\n\n [_Closes door; comes back. As he comes to seat,\n knocking._\n\n Again!\n\n [_Rises angrily; goes to door, flings open. After pause_\u2014\n\n That\u2019s no affair of mine! I tell you, Go.\n And find room where you may. Above, below,\n The place is packed. Be off! Be off, I say!\n\n [_Half-closes door, listening._\n\n No; not for such as you. The host\u2019s away,\n Up in Jerusalem. I\u2019m master here;\n That\u2019s my last word.\n\n [_Bangs door; comes to seat. Knocking. He rises furiously._\n\n Here\u2019s impudence, I swear!\n\n [_Opens door once more._\n\n I\u2019ll set the dogs upon you.... I don\u2019t care....\n\n [_Pause._\n\n Yes, to the stable then, with ox and ass.\n\n [_Bangs door; returns growling; sits._\n\n NAD.\n Who were the knaves?\n\n ELIPH.\n That old man and the lass\n We saw up yonder.\n\n UZZ. (_who has been listening intently_).\n Was there no one more?\n I could have sworn I heard them at the door\u2014\n A multitude of footsteps.\n\n ELIPH. (_hands trembling, head jerking_).\n Bah! what stuff!\n The two were there. No more! And quite enough.\n\n [_He drinks. The two stare._\n\n NAD.\n What ails you, friend?\n\n ELIPH. (_furiously_).\n Ails me! Why\u2014\n\n [_Enter_ TOB. _and_ DAV. _hurriedly_ (L.).\n\n TOB.\n Who came then?\n I swear I heard the music once again.\n And knocking. Was there no one at the door?\n\n [_He hurries across to_ R., _but stops irresolute_.\n\n ELIPH.\n Music? What foolery is this?\n\n NAD. (_coolly_).\n Before\n You came just now, two folks were here, but now\n Gone otherwhere to seek for shelter.\n\n TOB.\n How?\n\n [_He hastens to door_ (R.), _followed by_ DAV.\n\n Gone otherwhere! Why, there\u2019s no room to find\n In all the place.\n\n [_Opens door; looks out. Very faint music,\n \u201cA Virgin unspotted ...;\u201d it continues\n down to end of scene._\n\n It surely were unkind\n To turn a dog away on such a night. (_Turns from door._)\n Where are they gone? Here, David, bring a light.\n\n [DAV. _does so. He looks._\n\n NAD.\n Nay, they are gone. Here, drink a cup with me.\n\n DAV. (_crying out, pointing_).\n Oh! master, look!\n\n TOB. (_looking eagerly_).\n Eh? eh? What is\u2019t you see?\n\n DAV.\n There master, there!\n\n [_The_ THREE MERCHANTS _rise in alarm and\n stand_ L., _staring_ R.\n\n ELIPH.\n What is it? Speak, I say.\n\n TOB. (_staring out_).\n No. I see nothing!\n\n DAV.\n There, across the way!\n All, all in light they move, a countless host.\n\n [_He falls on knee._\n\n ELIPH.\n Bah! bah! What foolery! He sees a ghost.\n\n [_Shrinks in fear and anger._\n\n TOB. (_quietly_).\n My lad, I can see nothing.... That\u2019s the byre\n Where lie the cattle.\n\n DAV. (_suddenly crying out and pointing_).\n See! all, all afire\n With glory!\n\n ELIPH. (_in terror, as are others_).\n Here, man! Shut the door!\n\n [_They continue there._\n\n Well, if you will not, I will.\n\n [_Sidles along wall; shuts door angrily._\n\n One fool more\n Or less in such a household matters not.\n\n NAD. (_recovering_).\n Why, landlord! your old wits are clean forgot\n And wildered.\n\n UZZ.\n Drink a cup of wine with me!\nThere\u2019s no cure for such madness but good company.\n\n [_Slowly_ TOB. _comes across to table, still\n listening_. DAV. _slips out_ R. ELIPH. _follows_\n TOB. _All fill cups_, TOB. _still listening. Music\n swells up; dies again._ TOB., _after pause, touches\n his cup with the others. They all drink._\n\nCURTAIN.\n\n_Pastoral symphony begins at once, and continues until the Carol._\n\n[Illustration]\n\n[Illustration: _Angel.\u2014Gloria in Excelsis Deo._\u2014]\n\n\n\n\nSCENE III\n\n\n_Before curtain rises, invisible choir sings._\n\n The first Nowell the angel did say,[6]\n Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;\n In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,\n On a cold winter\u2019s night that was so deep.\n\n _Chorus._ Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,\n Born is the King of Israel.\n\n 2. They looked up and saw a Star\n Shining in the East, beyond them far;\n And to the earth it gave great light,\n And so it continued both day and night.\n\n _Chorus._ Nowell ...\n\n 3. (4.) This Star drew nigh to the North-West,\n O\u2019er Bethlehem it took its rest;\n And there it did both stop and stay,\n Right over the place where Jesus lay.\n\n _Chorus._ Nowell ...\n\n 4. (6.) Then let us all with one accord\n Sing praises to our heavenly Lord,\n That hath made Heaven and earth of nought,\n And with His Blood mankind hath bought.\n\n _Chorus._ Nowell ...\n\n SCENE\u2014_Hills outside Bethlehem. Lights very low.\n Starlit sky; rocks on either side; snow on ground,\n except round fire and shelter._ R. _A shelter of\n hurdles, open side facing audience, with a stool\n within it. A fire burning; heaps of skins round\n it._ EZRA _discovered_ L., _looking out under his\n hand_ L.; _so he continues a while. Enter_ R.,_from\n behind shelter_, BEN-EZRA _with lamb_.\n\n BEN.\n Well, father, do you see him?\n\n EZ. (_slowly, with pauses_).\n No, not I! (_Still looking._)\n Nought to be seen but snow and starry sky,\n And that great star that hangs above the town.\n\n [_He makes a gesture_ L.\n\n BEN.\n Here is a lamb, new-born. (_He shows it._)\n\n EZ. (_without turning_).\n Well, lay it down.\n\n [BEN. _goes to shelter_.\n An ill night to be born in! Frost and snow,\n Cold heaven above, and colder earth below.\n I marvel any tender creature should be born\n On such a night.\n\n BEN.\n I found it all forlorn,\n Crying beside its mother.\n\n EZ.\n Lay it by\n\n [BEN-EZRA _lays it by fire, wrapped up_.\n\nAnd warm it.\n\n [_He suddenly takes step or two to_ L., _relieved_.\n\n Here comes Uncle Zachary!\n\n [_Enter_ ZACH. _slowly, on stick. All through this scene\n he speaks rather monotonously, as if bewildered._\n\n Why, uncle, we had given you up for dead!\n\n [_Leads him towards shelter._\n\n Now, God be praised who brought you safe.\n\n ZACH.\n I said\n The same an hour ago. (_He comes towards fire._)\n\n EZ.\n Well, what\u2019s the tale\n At Bethlehem?\n\n ZACH. (_slowly_).\n Nay, my old ears do fail;\n For, seems to me, the town was full of song\n And lights and music as I came along.\n\n BEN.\n Singing and music! Why, good uncle, sure\n They all rejoice to-night, both rich and poor,\n To see old friends again. No doubt they sing.\n We, too, have heard it. Is that anything\n So strange?\n\n ZACH.\n Nay, nay.... Well, give to me to eat\n And drink a bit. (_He goes on into shelter._)\n\n EZ.\n Here, uncle, take your seat\n Beside the fire, and tell us of the way\n You\u2019ve come along. We\u2019ve heard no news to-day.\n\n [ZACH. _sits down, begins to eat. He talks slowly, with\n long pauses._ EZRA _sits by_ (L.) _edge of shelter,\n cross-legged. He warms his hands at the fire. While\n he talks and listens_ BEN-EZRA _keeps walking\n gently up and down_ (L.), _now and then pausing to\n listen or speak_.\n\n ZACH.\n First, then, near Rachel\u2019s tomb, I saw three men;\n And then two children succoured me; and then\u2014\u2014\n\n BEN.\n Succoured you, uncle? Why, what need was there?\n\n ZACH.\n My son, sore need there was; for all the air\n Turned black and white about me, when those three\n Left me alone and would not succour me\n There as I swooned.\n\n EZ.\n Swooned, uncle!\n\n ZACH.\n Yes, my son,\n There in the snow, ere the descent began\n To fall to Bethlehem. And there I lay,\n All frozen, till the children came my way.\n\n EZ.\n And they did succour you? God bless them, then.\n\n ZACH.\n God bless all children, as I say. For men\n\n [_Music, \u201cNowell,\u201d soft. It continues for a line or two._\n\n Are cruel hard.... I think that if came He\u2014\n Whose coming is most sure by prophecy\u2014\n \u2019Tis as a child He\u2019ll come.\n\n BEN.\n Whom mean you?\n\n ZACH.\n Why,\n I mean Messias.... Hark, is that the sky\n That\u2019s singing? (_Silent pause; music ends._)\n\n EZ.\n Nay, I hear no sound at all.\n What mean you, uncle?... Sit you by the wall,\n\n [ZACH. _has finished eating_.\n\n And cover you from cold. For sure the snow\n\n [ZACH. _shifts position_.\n\n \u2019S enough to freeze a body.... Well, and so\n You came all safe to Bethlehem with those\n That succoured you so kindly.\n\n ZACH.\n Aye, God knows\n They succoured me!\n\n EZ.\n And, as you came below,\n Was there no more you met?\n\n [ZACH. _turns and looks at him fixedly_.\n\n Why look you so,\n Uncle? Why look so strangely?\n\n ZACH.\n Ezra.\n\n EZ.\n Well?\n What was it that you saw?\n\n ZACH. (_shaking head slowly_).\n No man could tell\n All that I saw.\n\n EZ. (_eagerly_).\n\n Nay, nay, what was it?\n\n ZACH.\n Nay,\n \u2019Twas but a man and maid upon the way.\n\n [_Music of \u201cNowell\u201d begins; it continues down to end\n of_ ZACHARY\u2019S _next speech_.\n\n\n No more than that. But ... Ezra, ... such a man\n And such a maid as, since my days began,\n I never yet have seen.\n\n BEN.\n What! fair to see\n Were they?\n\n ZACH. (_very slowly, low voice_).\n Ben-Ezra, in old prophecy\n I read of one, the Mother undefiled....\n \u201cA Virgin shall conceive and bear a child....\n\n [_He pauses now and then, as if to remember._\n\n For unto us,\u201d Isaias sang, \u201ca Son\n Is given.\u201d And then I read King Solomon\n Speaks of a maiden, fairest of her race,\n Among the vineyards, young, and full of grace....\n A fountain sealed and holy.... Well, my son,\n She whom I saw to-day was such an one. (_Music ends._)\n\n EZ.\n Uncle! you jest!\n\n ZACH.\n I jest not.\n\n BEN.\n And the man\n That went with her?\n\n ZACH.\n Son, when I first began\n To see the couple coming up the height,\n I had no eyes for him; for all the night\n\n [_He makes slow, sweeping gesture._\n\n Seemed full of glory from her face who came\n So wearily.\n\n EZ.\n Who were they? What her name?\n\n ZACH. (_softly_).\n Her name is Mary; for he told me so.\n And his is Joseph.\n\n [_Discovers bundle by fire; he examines it in silence._\n\n What is this below\n The mantle?\n\n BEN.\n Nay, \u2019tis but a lamb.\n\n ZACH.\n You say\n A lamb? And born to-night? Here far away\n Down in the snowy world? [_He strokes its head tenderly._\n\n BEN.\n Why, surely so,\n \u2019Twas born but hardly half-an-hour ago!\n\n ZACH.\n And is it without blemish\u2014fit to die\n\n [_He speaks impressively._\n\n At God\u2019s own altar?\n\n EZ. (_impatiently_).\n Yes, yes, yes, but why\n Ask you me that? Nay, tell us of the maid\n And man you saw to-day. The lamb is laid\n Content enough.\n\n ZACH.\n Content without its dam?\n\n BEN.\n Why, surely so!... Now, uncle, leave the lamb\n And tell us what you saw.\n\n ZACH.\n I saw but those\n I spoke of. Maid and man.\n\n BEN.\n But then, who knows\n The place they come from, or the place they lie\n To-night?\n\n ZACH. (_indignantly_).\n Nay, none doth know but God and I,\n And all the hosts of heaven, and beasts, maybe,\n That give them shelter!\n\n EZ.\n Why! what mystery\n You make of nothing, uncle!\n\n ZACH. (_still smouldering_).\n Aye. Or \u2019tis\n That you make nothing of great mysteries.\n\n BEN.\n Why, uncle\u2014\u2014\n\n ZACH. (_emphatically_).\n Nay, my son, I tell you this:\n That when I saw the wondrous maiden fair,\n I knelt me down; and lo! she blessed me there!\n\n [_He spreads out his hands._\n\n EZ.\n You, uncle! Blessed by her!\n\n ZACH.\n Aye, aye; \u2019twas so.\n I think one day that many here below\n Will envy me for that! Her hands she laid\n Upon my head, and spoke no words, that maid.\n\n EZ.\n Why, this is folly.\n\n ZACH. (_indignantly_).\n Aye, God\u2019s foolishness,\n Wiser than all men\u2019s wisdom.\n\n [_His tone changes to despondency._\n\n Yes, yes, yes!\n \u2019Tis nought but foolishness.... And so we came\n To Bethlehem.\n\n BEN. (_pensively_).\n And Mary was her name?\n\n ZACH. (_slowly_).\n Aye. Joseph and Mary; Joseph and Mary.\n\n BEN.\n Well,\n Uncle, and is that all you have to tell?\n\n ZACH.\n Aye, that is all\u2014save that all Bethlehem\n Seemed full of glory, all to welcome them.\n\n BEN.\n Why, were the folks without to meet them?\n\n ZACH. (_excitedly_).\n Nay;\n The folks were snug within. And yet I say\n \u2019Twas full of glory.\n\n EZ. (_makes soothing gesture_).\n Uncle, rest awhile;\n You\u2019re wearied. Well I see that. Mile on mile\n You\u2019ve trudged to-day.\n\n [BEN-EZRA _crosses front to_ (R.)\n _by edge of shelter_.\n\n ZACH.\n Aye, lad, and more than space\n I\u2019ve travelled since I looked on Mary\u2019s face.\n\n BEN.\n Nay, uncle; rest awhile. We\u2019ll talk, maybe,\n Of lighter things....\n\n ZACH. (_ironically_).\n Of wine and company,\n And wherewithal we shall be clothed\u2014aye, speak\n Of all such matters as the Gentiles seek.\n\n BEN.\n Nay, we will talk of sheep, and lambs, and snow;\n And such things as God sends us here below.\n\n ZACH.\n Aye, then, of Lambs.... Such as was born to-night.\n\n [_He strokes bundle._\n\n EZ.\n Why, very well, if\u2019t please you.\n\n ZACH.\n Such a sight\n Might teach the simplest!... Have you heard, my son,\n How that the ancient prophets speak of one\n Who as a lamb is silent, as a sheep\n Before his shearers all his peace doth keep?\n\n EZ. (_soothingly_).\n Why, uncle, you\u2019re all \u2019mazed to-night, it seems.\n\n ZACH.\n Aye, so they told me. Dreams, they told me, dreams!\n\n BEN. (_cheerfully_).\n Well, as for sleep, I\u2019m ready. What say you?\n\n [_He stretches and yawns._\n\n [_At this point Angels begin to come in softly\n one by one behind; take places. Music\n also\u2014\u201cNowell\u201d\u2014begins very softly and continues\n when Angel speaks._\n\n EZ.\n Uncle, you\u2019re weary. Shall we sleep?\n\n ZACH.\n Aye, do;\n Sleep you, and I\u2019ll keep watch. The wolf, maybe,\n Will visit us by dawn.\u2014[_Slowly to left._]\u2014Or if not he,\n Perchance another Lamb.\n\n BEN. (_sitting down_ (R.)).\n Nay, nay, not so;\n It is for us to watch.\n\n ZACH.\n I tell you no.\n Lest when He come, He find me sleeping. Sleep,\n Ben-Ezra; \u2019tis for me the watch to keep.\n\n [_The two settle themselves for sleep._ ZACHARY\n _remains bolt-upright facing audience, seated.\n Music continues\u2014a little louder. He starts, then\n rises softly. Comes out, and sees the angels, and\n stands aghast. Suddenly lights turned up to the\n full. Angels all stretch arms up and out._ ZACHARY\n _falls on his knees. The two others awaken; rush\n out. Then, to the ordinary plainsong melody of\n mass_\u2014\n\n ANGEL.\n Gloria in Excelsis Deo.\n\n CHORUS (_in simple harmony_).\n Et in terra pax, hominibus bon\u00e6 voluntatis.\n\n CURTAIN.\n\n [_Immediately after curtain, a piece of music\n begins and continues till carol._\n\n[Illustration]\n\n[Illustration: _Lullay, Thou little tiny Child._\u2014]\n\n\n\n\nSCENE IV\n\n\n_Before curtain rises, invisible Chorus sings._[7]\n\n Like silver lamps in a distant shrine\n The stars are sparkling bright,\n The bells of the City of God ring out,\n For the Son of Mary was born to-night.\n The gloom is past, and the morn at last\n Is coming with orient light.\n\n _Curtain rises._ SCENE\u2014_Interior of stable. Back,\n centre_ (L.), _a manger, with lamp burning in it\n above_. JOSEPH _and_ MARY _kneeling before it\n motionless. Rest of stage dark._ MARY _kneels\n rather in foreground. The_ CHILD _is just visible.\n Two angels stand throughout at the head and foot of\n the manger. If possible, one plays a violin, the\n other a zither._\n\n 3. Now a new Power has come on the earth,\n A match for the armies of hell,\n A Child is born who shall conquer the foe,\n And all the spirits of wickedness quell.\n For Mary\u2019s Son is the Mighty One\n Whom the prophets of God foretell.\n\n 4.(5.) Faith sees no longer the stable floor,\n The pavement of sapphire is there;\n The clear light of Heaven streams out to the world,\n And angels of God are crowding the air.\n Heaven and Earth through the spotless Birth\n Are at peace on this night so fair.\n\n [MARY _slightly changes her position_. JOSEPH\n _lays censer down. Music modulates into Coventry Carol._\n\n Lullay, Thou little tiny Child,[8]\n By-by, lull-y, lull-lay,\n Lullay, Thou little tiny Child,\n By-by, lully, lullay.\n\n 2. O sisters too, how may we do\n For to preserve this day,\n This poor youngling for whom we sing\n By-by, lully, lullay....\n\n [_Enter softly_ MARTHA _and_ ABEL, _hand in hand_. ABEL\n _is holding a toy-horse. They stand motionless,\n staring. Standing front_ (L.). _They look the whole\n time at the crib._\n\n 3. (4.) Then woe is me, poor Child for Thee\n And ever mourn and say\n For thy parting, nor say nor sing\n By-by, lully, lullay.\n\n MARTHA.\n Tread softly\u2014 [_They advance a step or two._\n\n ABEL.\n Oh! but, Martha, is that He,\n The King you told me of?\n\n MAR.\n Hush, wait and see.\n I think so.... Speak to her.\n\n ABEL.\n What shall I say?\n\n MAR.\n Why, hail her by her name. I think you may.\n\n ABEL.\n What is her name?\n\n MAR.\n Oh, Mary is her name.\n And that old man is Joseph.\n\n ABEL.\n And the same\n We saw just now?\n\n MAR.\n Hush.... Yes.... Look on her face....\n\n [_They come a step nearer crib._\n\n Now speak aloud....\n\n ABEL.\n Hail! Mary, full of grace!\n The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou above\n All women.\u2014Martha, Martha, may I move\n A little nearer?\n\n MAR.\n Yes. [_They move a step nearer._\n\n ABEL.\n And blest thy Son\n Whose name is\u2014Sister, now I have begun\n I know not how to end.\n\n MAR.\n Call Him the best\n Of all the names you know.\n\n ABEL.\n Why all the rest\n Are not so good as Jesus; for that is\n The word for Saviour. Will that do for His?\n\n MAR.\n Yes, call him Jesus.\n\n ABEL.\n Blest is this thy Child\n Whose name is Jesus. Hail, O Mary mild!\n\n [MARY _turns very slowly, smiling; makes the\n sign of the Cross, and turns again to adore_.\n\n ABEL.\n Oh! Martha, did you see the sign she made?\n\n [_Angels begin to come in and group themselves. They\n carry the Instruments of the Passion in humeral\n veils. They form group down stage_ (L.).\n\n What did that mean?\n\n MAR.\n I know not.\n\n ABEL.\n See Him laid\n So little, in the manger for His bed.\n Oh! Is He truly King of kings? You said\n You thought he was!\n\n MAR.\n Why, yes, I think so. See\n The Angels all about His Majesty.\n\n [_Angels remain motionless, turned towards manger.\n During the following carol the children go across,\n step by step, nearer and nearer: they kneel down\n by_ MARY. ABEL _offers his horse_. MARY _takes it,\n and makes him put it by_ CHILD _in Manger_. MARY\n _leans over manger and puts arms round_ CHILD.\n\n ANGELS.\n\n When I view the Mother holding[9]\n In her arms the heavenly boy,\n Thousand blissful thoughts unfolding\n Melt my heart with sweetest joy.\n With her babe the hours beguiling,\n Mary\u2019s soul in transport lives.\n God her Son upon her smiling,\n Thousand kisses fondly gives.\n As the sun his radiance flinging\n Shines upon the bright expanse,\n So the Child to Mary clinging\n Doth her gentle heart entrance.\n See the Virgin Mother bearing\n\n [_Enter_ SHEPHERDS, _followed by_ DAV. _These fall\n on their knees_, ZACH. _and_ DAV. _together; and\n remain till end of singing_. ZACH. _is nearest\n audience, then_ DAV., _then_ EZRA, _then_ BEN-EZRA.\n\n Jesus by her arms embraced,\n Dew on softest roses gleaming,\n Violet with lily chaste.\n Each round other fondly twining,\n Pours the shafts of mutual love,\n Thick as flowers in meadow shining,\n Countless as the stars above.\n Oh! may one such arrow glowing,\n Sweetest Child which Thou dost dart\n Through Thy mother\u2019s bosom going,\n Blessed Jesus, pierce my heart....\n\n [_Music continues softly until_ MARY _rises.\n If possible, the music should be played on the\n violin only, which the_ ANGEL _holds. The\n air is that of the preceding Carol._\n\n ZACH. (_stretching out his arms_).\n Did I not tell you so? Oh! see Him lie!\n Dimittis nunc in pace, Domine\n Me servum tuum.\n\n UZZ. (_pointing_).\n See the angels great\n About the manger where He lies in state.\n Secundum verbum tuum, oculi\n Mei viderunt, quod pr\u00e6parasti\n Hoc tuum salutare.\n\n BEN. (_pointing_).\n See the maid\n And mother undefiled, where He is laid,\n\n To worship Him. Ostende hunc fructum\n Ventris tui post hoc exsilium!\n\n [JOSEPH _rises. Then_ MARY _lifts the_ CHILD, _all\n others fall on their knees; and all the_ ANGELS.\n _All remain absolutely still. Then, if this Scene\n is the last, she brings the_ CHILD _to the front of\n the stage. Music stops. She lifts the_ CHILD _as\n high as she can_.\n\n MARY.\n Magnificat anima mea Dominum.\n\n [_With the_ CHILD _she makes the sign of the\n Cross over the audience_.\n\n CURTAIN.\n\n[Illustration]\n\n[Illustration: _Mary\u2014Magnificat anima mea Dominum_\u2014]\n\n[Illustration: _Adeste Fideles:_\u2014]\n\n\n\n\nSCENE V\n\n\n _The Epiphany._\n\n _Handel\u2019s \u201cLargo\u201d is played before curtain rises._\n\n [_If this Scene is acted, in previous Scene_ JOSEPH\n _does not cense the manger; and_ MARY _does not\n come to front with_ CHILD. _She only lifts_ CHILD,\n _says the words set down. After which Curtain\n descends._\n\n _Before Curtain rises the first verse of the following\n carol is sung._\n\n I.\n We three Kings of Orient are;[10]\n Bearing gifts we traverse afar\n Field and fountain, moor and mountain,\n Following yonder star.\n\n _Chorus._ O star of wonder, star of night,\n Star with royal beauty bright,\n Westward leading, still proceeding,\n Guide us to Thy perfect light.\n\n [_Curtain rises again on same scene as before. But\n the Manger is not there. In centre back of stage\n stands a dais, and upon it a tall chair, bare; two\n unlighted candles stand upon dais. Discovered_,\n MARTHA _and_ ABEL, _seated upon dais_. ABEL _has\n book in his hands, reading_. MARTHA _is sewing a\n child\u2019s dress. Lights are high. A silence follows\n close of carol._\n\n II. MELCH.\n Born a King, on Bethlehem\u2019s plain,\n Gold I bring to crown Him again,\n King for ever, ceasing never,\n Over us all to reign.\n\n _Chorus._ O star of wonder, &c.\n\n III. GASP.\n\n Frankincense to offer have I,\n Incense owns a Deity nigh.\n Prayer and praising, all men raising,\n Worship Him, God most High.\n\n _Chorus._ O star of wonder, &c.\n\n IV. BALTH.\n\n Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume\n Breathes a life of gathering gloom;\n Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,\n Sealed in the stone-cold tomb.\n\n _Chorus._ O star of wonder, &c.\n\n V.\n Glorious now behold Him arise,\n King and God and sacrifice,\n Alleluia, Alleluia;\n Earth to the heavens replies.\n\n _Chorus._ O star of wonder, &c.\n\n MAR. (_looking up_).\n Read it again. (_She listens._)\n\n ABEL (_reading_).\n \u201cLo! Gentiles in Thy Light\n Shall walk; and kings, all in the splendour bright\n Of this Thy rising. Lift Thine eyes and see!\n Lo! they are gathered; lo! they come to Thee!\n Behold, Thy sons and daughters come from far\u201d (_pause_).\n And then again ... \u201cFrom Madian and Epha,\n From Saba too they come ... a company\n Of kings on camels\u2014all shall come to Thee.\n And myrrh and gold and incense bring with them\n To show God\u2019s glory in Jerusalem.\u201d [_He looks up._\n\n MAR. (_meditatively, sewing_).\n Why, \u2019tis most strange\u2014this ancient prophecy!\n Surely it stands as plain as plain can be!\n And yet no kings or camels!\n\n ABEL (_clasping his knees_).\n Martha, dear,\n How I should love to see them!\n\n MAR.\n Have no fear.\n \u2019Twill come to pass, if God hath spoken so....\n Where is our Lady? [_She stands up and comes to front_ (R.).\n\n ABEL (_putting book down_).\n Oh! an hour ago\n She went with Jesus in her arms, to see\n The sheepfolds. Joseph and old Zachary\n Went with her.\n\n MAR. (_walking meditatively_).\n Twelve full days have gone and past,\n And yet no kings or camels.\n\n ABEL (_clasping his knees_).\n Why, how fast\n \u2019Tis gone.... Why, heaven itself is not more sweet\u2014\n To look on Jesus!\u2014kiss His hands and feet\n And kneel before our Lady!\n\n MAR.\n Silly boy!\n Why, this _is_ heaven!... for all is peace and joy\n Where Jesus is. Why now\u2014 [_Enter_ DAV., _running_ (R.).\n\n DAV.\n They\u2019s coming in.\n\n [_Violin begins, off, \u201cAdeste Fideles.\u201d_\n\n Quick, Martha, quick\u2014the lights! [_Signs to music._\n Now then, begin.\n\n [_Organ takes up Adeste ... with violin._ ABEL _springs\n up at_ DAVID\u2019S _entrance; runs to side, gets tapers\n and lights two candles that stand beside chair.\n He takes one_, DAV. _takes other_. MAR. _picks up\n basket of flowers. All three go to entrance_ (R.)\n _and wait, facing audience, looking out. Enter_\n (R.) _two_ ANGELS, _playing violin and zither;\n then_ ANGELS _bearing instruments of the Passion;\n then_ ZACH. _with spear; then two_ SHEPHERDS _with\n spears; then, after slight pause_, MARY, _cloaked,\n carrying_ CHILD; _then_ JOSEPH, _and two more_\n ANGELS _with swords_. MAR. _slips in behind two_\n SHEPHERDS, _and walks backwards, strewing flowers_,\n ABEL _and_ DAV. _place themselves on either side\n of_ MARY _with candles and walk with her. The\n procession takes curve to front and comes up to\n chair._ MARY _stands at chair, slips off cloak\n into_ JOSEPH\u2019S _hands, and sits. Candles placed\n by her._ JOSEPH _stands behind_ (R.), ANGELS _group\n themselves at back_. SHEPHERDS _pass to_ (L.)\n _front_. MAR., ABEL, _and_ DAV. _seat themselves on\n dais_; ZACH. _stands by dais_ (L.); JOSEPH _behind\n chair_ (R.).\n\n ZACH.\n Well, children, here we are\u2014come back, you see\u2014\n Jesus and Joseph both, and Queen Mary,\n To home in Bethlehem.... How have you sped\n Meantime while we were gone?\n\n MAR.\n Why, Abel read\n A little; and I sewed a little.\n\n ZACH. (_lifting book_).\n What is this?\n\n MAR.\n Why, we were reading that\u2014the prophecies\n Of kings and camels, Uncle, who, they say\n Shall come to worship Jesus.... Where are they?\n\n ZACH.\n Nay, child, but ask our Lady: she knows best.\n\n [_He signs to her._\n\n MAR.\n Show it her, Abel.\n\n [ABEL _jumps up, opens book, steps on dais, and\n points out passage, first genuflecting_.\n\n ABEL.\n Here! and all the rest\n That follows ... here ... and here ... here, do you see?...\n\n [ZACH. _comes and looks over book_.\n\n Now will you tell us, please, your Majesty?\n\n ZACH.\n Nay, let me read it. [_He takes book and comes_ (L.) _front_.\n \u201cGentiles in thy light\n Shall walk; and kings, all in the splendour bright\n Of this thy rising. Lift Thine eyes and see\n Lo! they are gathered ... lo! they come to Thee.\n Behold Thy sons and daughters come from far.\u201d\n\n [_Looks at_ MARY _and back_.\n\n ... Why, that would mean that following the star\n They come from Orient and from Araby....\n And yet they come not ... will your Majesty.\n\n [_Breaks off as_ MARY _turns and looks out_ (R.).\n _Distant jangled murmur._\n\n ... Why now, what sound is that? How loud it swells\n High on the wind!\u2014Why, sure! \u2019tis camel-bells.\n\n [MARY _remains passive, smiling. All others\n look out eagerly_ (R.). _Sound comes nearer,\n footsteps, bells, murmur of voices. Children\n spring up._ ANGELS _continually look at_\n CHILD.\n\n DAV. (_excitedly, pointing_).\n Oh! look! the camels\u2014see how slow they wind.\n Look! look! Here are the kings! and there behind\n The servants follow ... See, they\u2019re coming ... See!...\n Now they are stopping! Oh! I\u2019m glad that we\n Were here to see it!... Now they\u2019re kneeling down\u2014\n The camels, at the door\u2014and all the town\n Is out to see them.\n\n ABEL (_pointing_).\n Look! they\u2019re taking out\n The bundles and the gold; and all about\n The people crowding.... Why! how grand they are!\n\n DAV. (_pointing_).\n Oh look! look at that sceptre!... Grander far\n Than Herod\u2019s.\n\n ABEL (_pointing_).\n And the crowns! Why, that\u2019s the gold\n Isaias told us of.\n\n DAV.\n Why, look how old\n That first one is.\n\n ABEL.\n (_A little frightened, taking holding of_ MARTHA.)\n Oh, Martha, stand by me.\n (_To_ MARY.) They\u2019re coming up the steps, your Majesty.\n\n [MARY _makes gesture to_ ZACH. _to go_ R.\n ZACH. _steps_ R. _Knocking._\n\n ZACH.\n Yes, sir; and who are you?\n\n GASPAR (_without_).\n [_He speaks slowly and gravely._\n We come from far,\n Led by the shining of a splendid star.\n Our names are Gaspar, Melchior, Balthasar.\n\n ZACH.\n Whom do ye seek?\n\n GASP.\n We seek a new-born King,\n To bring Him gold, and every precious thing\n That kings should have.\n\n ZACH.\n And is that all?\n\n GASP.\n Nay, nay;\n We bring Him myrrh; for He shall die one day.\n\n ZACH.\n What? He shall die?... [He glances at Mary.\n And is that all?\n\n GASP.\n Why, no,\n It is not all; for all men here below\n Shall die. But God our Lord shall rise from thence,\n And therefore do we bring Him frankincense. [_Pause._\n\n ZACH. (_very slowly and impressively_).\n And is that all?\n\n GASP.\n Nay. As is meet and right,\n We bring our darkness to His Heavenly Light.\n Our ignorance to The Wise; our sicknesses\n To Him for health; our sins to His Righteousness.\n Aye; all our nature, ringed about with Hell\n And Heathendom to Him, the King of Israel.\n\n ZACH. (_making gesture of welcome_).\n Come in, then, since ye know these mysteries;\n For here He dwells, and this His Palace is.\n\n [_He goes across again_ (L.) _genuflecting. Children\n stand back, staring. Enter, slowly_, GASPAR,\n MELCHIOR, _and_ BALTHASAR, _followed by two\n servants with bundles, &c. The three come down_\n (R.) _and stand facing towards_ MARY; _they bow\n profoundly_. MARY _bows back_.\n\n GASP. (_courteously_).\n That is our Lady?\n\n ZACH.\n Yes.\n\n MELCH.\n And that her Son,\n The King of Kings?\n\n ZACH.\n Yes, sir.\n\n MELCH. (_clasping his hands_).\n Oh! well begun\n Was this our journey.\n\n BALT.\n And well ended too.\n (_To_ MARY.) Hail, Mary, full of grace!\n\n [_He bows to her again._\n\n MELCH.\n The Lord in truth\n Is with her! In her arms, in very sooth!\n\n [MARY _holds out_ CHILD. ZACH. _makes a sign to them.\n They bow again profoundly as \u201cAdeste\u201d begins to be\n played, then, one by one, they go up in order. Each\n genuflects before dais, then, kneeling on dais,\n kiss the_ CHILD\u2019S _foot and_ MARY\u2019S _hand; then\n each retires back to_ R. _front and kneels once\n more. Music ends._ GASPAR _lifts two crowns from_\n SERVANT\u2019S _tray, and holds them out; then sceptre_.\n\n\n GASP.\n Here be two crowns of gold for Him and Thee;\n And here a sceptre all of gems.\n\n MELCH. (_leaning forward with censer boat_).\n For me\n I bring sweet frankincense.\n\n BALT. (_leaning forward with casket_).\n And I but myrrh\n To offer here.... Lord Joseph, give them her.\n\n [JOSEPH _advances, takes crowns, genuflects, places them\n on dais, then the casket, finally the censer, into\n which he puts incense; he kneels; all kneel. He\n censes throne with three double swings. He stands,\n genuflects, and goes back._ GASPAR _turns to tray,\n lifts a cope, still kneeling_. MELCHIOR _takes a\n little silk robe_.\n\n GASP.\n Will not my Lady take a gift or two\n Of silk and satin, broidered through and through\n With jewels?\n\n MELCH.\n And a many-coloured dress\n Fit for the Little King of Righteousness.\n\n [JOSEPH _steps forward, takes the gifts,\n and lays them at_ MARY\u2019S _feet. Then_\n ABEL _steps forward with_ MARTHA.\n\n ABEL (_to_ GASP.).\n Will you not speak for us?\n\n MAR.\n Some word to tell\n To Jesus, for to show we love Him well?\n We\u2014and the people here [_Signs to audience._\n Who have no gold\n Nor myrrh nor frankincense; yet, young and old\n Alike, desire to show that for their parts\n They love their Infant King with all their hearts.\n\n ZACH.\n Aye, speak, King Gaspar, at this holy tide\n For us who have no gold\u2014and all poor folks beside.\n\n [GASPAR _rises, looks at audience, then back\n to_ MARY. _Then suddenly and fervently\n speaks. His voice rises in tone and force as he\n speaks, till he ends passionately._\n\n GASP.\n Why, yes; the greatest gift is yet ungiven,\n For He, who for our sake came down from Heaven,\n Has all already. For His glory fills\n The earth: the cattle on a thousand hills,\n The birds, the beasts, the fishes; gold and gem,\n Ivory of Ophir\u2014all are His; for them\n He made, and they are His. [_Stretches arms._\n So we entreat\n To offer here before His holy feet\n That which alone He asks of us\u2014the love\n For whose poor sake He came here from above,\n Since we, as best we can, have played our parts,\n\n [_He kneels, stretches hands. All kneel with him._\n\n Oh! JESUS, MARY, JOSEPH, take our hearts.\n To JESUS, MARY, JOSEPH, wondrous three,\n\n All glory, praise, and honour endless be\n From men and angels now and through eternity.\n\n [_Music of \u201cAdeste Fideles\u201d instantly begins, ff.; the\n curtain comes down; then rises again to show_ MARY\n _coped and crowned; then after one chord all begin\n to sing\u2014all on their knees. At end of first verse_\n GASPAR _rises, then_ MELCHIOR, BALTHASAR, ZACHARY,\n TWO SHEPHERDS, ABEL, MARTHA, DAVID, SERVANTS,\n ANGELS\u2014_each one by one comes up, genuflects at\n dais, and kisses the_ CHILD\u2019S _foot and_ MARY\u2019S\n _hand. Meantime_ JOSEPH, _kneeling at side, censes\n them. At end of last chorus, as last line begins_,\n MARY _stands, and as she makes Sign of Cross with_\n CHILD, _all cross themselves_.\n\n CURTAIN.\n\n[Illustration]\n\n\n\n\nAPPENDICES\n\n\nI. THE SCENERY\n\nThe stage on which the play was acted was about four feet in height,\ntwenty-four in width, and twenty-four in depth. It was furnished\ntemporarily with footlights consisting of gas-tubing pierced by seven\nburners shaded with tin head-lights permanently fixed, two side-lights\nalso permanent, and two incandescent burners behind the back-scene.\n\nAs substitutes for all these except the last, oil lamps are suggested,\nhung or standing and guarded with wire; for the last, a strong\nacetylene light.\n\nThe scenery throughout consisted of these things only\u2014a permanent back\nscene, hung from a roller, constructed of opaque, dark, grey-blue paper\npierced irregularly with very small holes; six wings, three on a side;\ntwo dark curtains hung on a wire to slide backwards or forwards across\nthe back-scene, about a dozen dust-sheets and a quantity of brown paper\nand cotton-wool. (It must be remembered that the object was not to\nproduce startling stage effects, but rather a soothing and suggestive\nbackground.)\n\nThese extremely simple accessories were employed as follows:\n\n_First Scene._\u2014The curtains were drawn back out of sight altogether\nbehind the backmost wings. The floor was entirely and irregularly\ncovered with dust-sheets, and, to aid the appearance of irregularity,\nvarious objects, such as footstools and blocks of wood were placed\nbeneath them. The wings were managed in this manner. Each of them was\na light framework of about three feet in width and ten in height.\nOne side of them (that presented to the audience in this scene) was\ncovered with large sheets of brown paper of all shades, deliberately\ncrumpled and bulging, and, here and there stained with paint. Upon the\nupper side of each irregularity was gummed a flat thick piece of wide\nwadding, following the curve of the paper, to represent fallen snow.\nThese six wings, placed of course not parallel with the back-scene but\nslightly towards it, provided three exits on each side, two of which\nonly were used.\n\nFinally, the back-scene, painted with whitewash at its bottom to\nrepresent a distant line of snow-covered hills, hung full in view. All\nlights except the incandescent burners behind were turned extremely\nlow; and the result of this elementary composition was a really\nastonishing effect of a snowy defile between rocks, seen at night time,\nwith a sky blazing with stars. The light necessary for the seeing of\nthe actors\u2019 faces was supplied by the lanterns they carried.\n\n_Second Scene._\u2014The curtains were drawn forward so as nearly to meet\nin the centre, giving a glimpse only of the back-scene which throughout\nthe entire play remained in its place. The wings were reversed, showing\ntheir other sides to the audience. These reverse sides were covered\nwith smooth yellowish paper, painted to represent large blocks of pale\nstone. The wings, it must be said, had no attachment at the foot, but\nthe heads of them turned in iron forks, like the rowlocks of a boat,\nreversed and fixed to beams above at the proper intervals. One of the\nwings, that nearest the back-scene (R.), was painted to represent a\ntall door with iron scrollwork across it. Lights up.\n\n_Third Scene._\u2014This was the same as the first, but the large\nproperties used in this prevented a sense of monotony. Lights down.\n\n_Fourth Scene._\u2014This was the same again, with other large properties.\nLights half down.\n\n_Fifth Scene._\u2014This was the same again with further properties. Lights\nup.\n\nFinally, overhead throughout were hung ordinary \u201cflies,\u201d or long strips\nof cotton, as broad as the stage and about two feet deep.\n\n\nII. THE PROPERTIES\n\nUnder this head it is proposed to describe chiefly those properties\nthat needed actual construction. For all the articles used throughout,\nsuch as the table and stools in the kitchen-scene, it is enough to say\nthat they should be as simple and rough as possible. They should be\neven rather dirty.\n\nIn the _first scene_ there is no property used beyond those connected\nwith costumes (to be described later) except the tree-stump on which\nthe shepherd sits. This is simply a three-legged stool with a dust-sheet\ndraped over it.\n\nIn the _second scene_, there is the fire over which the inn-keeper is\ncooking. A strong black bandbox was taken, and from it were cut out\nsections, supported by uprights, making it to resemble a road-mender\u2019s\nbrazier. On the floor of this stood a cylindrical candle-lantern with a\nburning candle within; and round this lantern was wrapped red flannel.\nBetween the flannel and the bars of the \u201cbrazier\u201d were inserted sticks\nat irregular intervals. The whole thing was placed on a three-legged\nstool, and a brown cooking-dish rested on the top.\n\nIn the _third scene_ this fire figured again, standing on the ground.\nMost of the stage R. was occupied by the shepherds\u2019 shelter, with\nroom, however, left to pass both behind and before it. The shelter\nwas constructed of a three-sided clothes-horse, about six feet high;\nand this was hung all over and roofed by pieces of old sacking and\ndeer-skins. The opening was towards the audience. A hurdle, standing on\nend, projected above the roof.\n\nThe \u201clamb\u201d was life-size, ingeniously made out of cotton-wool, with\na cotton skin on which were painted eyes and mouth. It is wrapped\nthroughout in a piece of sacking, so that no more of it need be\nfinished than the head and front legs.\n\nIn the _fourth scene_ the chief property is the crib. A box was taken\nabout four feet long, by three by two, and set on one of its long\nsides upon a table. The whole of the box and table was then covered\nwith crumpled and painted brown paper, resembling that fastened to the\nwings; straw was laid inside, and a silver lamp hung from the edge to\nthe upper side. The starry sky at the back was variegated by a large\nhurdle projecting from behind the crib. The bambino was supplied by a\nwell-known firm in London.[11]\n\nIn the _fifth scene_, from which the crib is absent, the principal\nproperty is the throne and dais. This needs little comment. The dais\ncame from a schoolroom; and the chair was a very tall armless one of\nyellowish wood. Two tall mahogany candlesticks stood on either side\nupon the dais. The book used by the boy was a large leather volume\nbound by strings.\n\n\nIII. THE COSTUMES\n\nBefore treating these in detail, it is necessary to treat first the\ngeneral principles that were followed.\n\nThese were:\n\n 1. That the drapery should be voluminous.\n 2. That the colours should be dark and soft.\n 3. That the dresses should be shaped after Eastern models.\n 4. That all such things as tinsel and spangles should be\n utterly eschewed.\n\nNow the foundations of Eastern dress are the following:\n\n1. The _Tunic_.\u2014This is a long-sleeved garment resembling an alb. It\nmay be of any colour, or white. In the case of young men and boys it is\ndrawn through the girdle up to the knees.\n\n2. The _Burnous_ or Mantle.\u2014This is more difficult to describe; but\nit may be constructed by taking a large rectangular piece of stuff,\nabout four feet deep by six feet wide. Imagine this spread out on the\nground. Then take the top corners and fold them in about eighteen\ninches along the top edge, folding in at the same time the whole length\nof the stuff below. Sew along the top edge only to right and left, thus\nmaking supports for the shoulders. Then cut at either side, near the\ntop, in the crease of the stuff, two wide arm-holes. Finally, fix about\neighteen inches down the front, on the folded stuff, a strong hook and\neye on either side.\n\nThe _Burnous_, then, is generally worn simply as a wide and voluminous\ncloak, fastened by the hook and eye; but in the case of one or two the\narms may be put through the holes. It should be made of heavy stuff,\nand should hang loosely and even clumsily. It may be variegated with\neffect by long strips of stuff or some other colour attached down the\nfront of the folded wings and straight over the shoulders down the back.\n\n3. The _Girdle_.\u2014This may be of rope in the case of the poor, and of\nrich stuffs in the case of the rich. When the girdle is wide weapons\nmay be thrust into it.\n\n4. The _Head-dress_.\u2014This is of two kinds:\n\n (1) The turban proper, made of voluminous thin material\n wound round the head and tucked into the top.\n\n (2) A large thin piece of stuff, made to fit the head\n by a ring of elastic on the inner side and flowing\n down behind over the shoulders and back.\n\n5. The _Foot-gear_.\u2014This must consist of sandals, with the addition,\nin the case of those whose skirts are worn to the knee, of voluminous\nstuff wrapped round the leg and tied there by cris-cross bindings of\nstring or leather, or the material used by gardeners for tying up\nplants.\n\nNow, if these principles are followed, the rest is easy. (The \u201cKings\u201d\nand the \u201cAngels\u201d need separate treatment.)\n\n1. _Mary._\u2014She wears a night-dress to her feet. Over this she wears a\ntunic of dark-blue muslin, also coming to her feet; a white burnous;\na long white veil; and sandals. In the fifth scene she is, after the\nfirst fall of the curtain, robed in a white cope, and crowned. A\nsceptre is also put into her hands.\n\nThe _crown_ was an imperial one, constructed of cardboard covered\nwith crumpled gold paper, with strings of jewels and brooches, over a\ncrumpled cap of dark-blue velvet. The sceptre can be made in the same\nkind of way.\n\n2. _Joseph._\u2014He wears a white tunic to his feet, with heavy white or\nyellowish girdle; a dark-red burnous striped with white; and a white\nhandkerchief over his head and shoulders. He is bearded and browed with\ngrey over a stained face. [See below.]\n\n3. _Tobias._\u2014He wears a dark-blue tunic with broad brown girdle,\nbrown burnous and turban of \u201cRhodian\u201d silk. He is girt to just below\nthe knee, and wears hose and sandals. His face is stained and eyebrows\ndarkened.\n\n4. _David._\u2014He wears simply a short-sleeved dark-green tunic and cord\ngirdle; hose and sandals.\n\n5. _Zachary._\u2014He wears a long yellowish tunic to his feet, a brown\nburnous striped with white, a brown handkerchief on his head; and\nsandals. He is bearded and browed with grey over a stained face. [See\nbelow.]\n\n6. _Ezra and Ben-Ezra._\u2014These are in short dark-brown tunics and are\nwrapped in deer-skins. If skins are not available, burnouses must\nbe substituted. _Ezra_ wears a red handkerchief on his head, and\n_Ben-Ezra_ a white turban. They carry spears.\n\n7. _The Three Merchants._\u2014These are all in long tunic and burnous of\nvarious darkish colours. All wear turbans and sandals, and Eliphaz a\nfur wrap. The stuffs used should be of better quality than the others,\neach of them wearing at least one piece of silk. Each has a broad\ngirdle, in which is a knife or two. They may carry or wear beads.\n\n_Martha._\u2014She wears a white tunic, falling half-way between knee and\nfoot, and dark-blue burnous; hose and sandals.\n\n_Abel._\u2014He wears a white tunic and deer-skin, with hose and sandals.\n\n_Herald._\u2014He is dressed simply in a long girded white tunic and\nsandals.\n\n_The Angels._\u2014These, as a foundation, wear night-dresses, girded.\nOver this each wears the dress of one of the three Greater Orders. The\n\u201cpriest-angels\u201d wear crossed stoles; the \u201cdeacon-angels\u201d dalmatics, and\nthe \u201csubdeacon-angels\u201d tunicles. These garments are all made of\nvoluminous white butter-muslin. They should wear no wings or spangles\nor colours of any kind whatsoever. Their hair is combed out at length\nover their shoulders. Two \u201cpriest-angels\u201d carry drawn swords upright.\n\n_The Three Kings._\u2014These must be dressed as gorgeously as possible,\nwith any materials available; but the following points may be remembered\nwith advantage. The colours used should be splendid, but not light or\ngaudy. (If, for example, light-blue is used, it is seen at once to be\nentirely out of scale with the other figures\u2014heliotrope and purple and\ndark-red or green are far more effective.) Each should present one\npredominant colour. Each should wear, in addition to tunic and mantle,\na long train pinned to the shoulders, edged with ermine. (Ermine is\nproduced effectively by long strips of cotton wadding dotted with\nblack stuff \u201ctails.\u201d) The crowns should be set inside or outside of\nvoluminous turbans of silk. The jewellery worn by them should be heavy\nand effective and barbaric; for example, a twisted serpent of gold\npaper turned up the arm, or a heavy collar across the shoulders.\n\nThe _Servant_ of the Kings should be dressed on the same lines, but\nwithout mantle or train.\n\n_Gaspar_ should be bearded and browed with grey; all four persons\nshould be heavily stained on face and hands.\n\nA suitable stain may be obtained from Mr. Peck, chemist, Trumpington\nStreet, Cambridge, such as is used in the \u201cGreek Play\u201d at the\nUniversity.\n\nThe beards used should not be the ordinary beards made in a piece. Hair\nshould be obtained from a theatrical property shop, and affixed piece\nby piece with strong spiritgum. For those who wear beards a few lines\nupon the face are generally necessary to blend the complexion with the\nhair.\n\n\nIV. THE METHOD OF ACTING\n\nIt must be remembered that the play does not attempt realism. It is\nfull of deliberate anachronisms. To act, then, in a realistic manner\nwould be to appeal to the eye in one key and to the dramatic perception\nin another. It was found therefore necessary during the rehearsals\nto insist again and again upon a certain conventionality in gestures\nand tones of voices. The actors were encouraged to be slow, to speak\nextremely clearly, and to make large deliberate gestures rather than\nspontaneous movements\u2014to beckon, for instance, with the arm rather\nthan the hand. (This method was, of course, that followed in the recent\nperformances of \u201cEveryman.\u201d) On these lines it was found that the play\noccupied slightly over two hours.\n\nEspecially necessary was this system in the case of such characters\nas those of the \u201cHerald,\u201d \u201cMary,\u201d \u201cJoseph,\u201d and the \u201cThree Kings.\u201d\nThe \u201cHerald,\u201d standing outside the curtains, holds himself perfectly\nupright for the most part. When he bows, he bows low with both hands\nacross the breast; when he signs himself with the cross, he slowly\n\u201cenvelops\u201d himself [as M. Huysmans says] in his movement. The appeal of\n\u201cMary\u201d also depends entirely (since she does not speak) upon extremely\nslow, dignified movements. When she swoons she remains motionless, sunk\nupon herself; when she moves, she does so with extreme deliberation;\nshe looks for a long time at the character to whom she directs herself,\nbefore moving in his regard.\n\nIn the same manner, \u201cJoseph\u201d is lost always in a contemplation of\n\u201cMary\u201d; his eyes are fixed on her; he keeps the same attitude for long\ntogether.\n\nSo, too, with the \u201cThree Kings.\u201d They carry themselves extremely\nupright, they make sweeping gestures, they chant rather than speak,\nthey bow and genuflect slowly and profoundly. The \u201cChildren\u201d only are\nallowed to be spontaneous, without being abrupt.\n\nThe character of \u201cZachary\u201d is the most difficult of performance.\nHe has to avoid prosiness on one side and passion on the other;\n\u201cdeliberateness\u201d must be his watch-word. I am afraid he is rather a\ntiresome person; but he is as necessary as the Greek chorus, to whom he\ncorresponds. He appears less tiresome if he is represented by a very\ntall actor who carries himself bent.\n\nThose responsible, then, for rehearsals, must not be afraid of long\nsilences in which little happens. The play is intended as a series of\nmeditations rather than of dramatic situations and developments. Again\nand again, if the grouping is arranged upon a wide and semi-heroic\nscale, the actors will be found to fall into tableaux, which may\nwell be looked at in silence. During the longer of these involuntary\ntableaux, however, music is sung or played.\n\n Printed by BALLANTYNE, HANSON & CO.\n Edinburgh & London\n\n\n\n\nFOOTNOTES:\n\n\n[1] Bramley and Stainer\u2019s \u201cChristmas Carols, New and Old,\u201d 1st Series,\nNo. 1.\n\n[2] B. & S., 1st Series, No. 19.\n\n[3] B. & S., 2nd Series, No. 21.\n\n[4] B. & S., 1st Series, No. 3.\n\n[5] This carol is printed here by the kind permission of Messrs.\nNovello and Co. (B. & S., 3rd Series, No. 49).\n\n[6] B. & S., 1st Series, No. 6.\n\n[7] B. & S., 1st Series, No. 2.\n\n[8] B. & S., 3rd Series, No. 61\n\n[9] B. & S., 1st Series, No. 11.\n\n[10] B. & S., 3rd Series, No. 45.\n\n[11] The \u201cInstruments of the Passion\u201d are as follows: A spear, a sponge\non a reed, a crown of thorns, three nails, a board painted with INRI.\nThese can easily be bought or made, and are carried visibly in white\nhumeral veils.","title":"A Mystery Play in Honour of the Nativity of our Lord","tradition":"scripture-revelation","translated_text":null,"word_count":13377}