Martha. Another false prophet, no doubt, claiming to be Israel's deliverer, and proving a thousand times her foe.
Salome. Let us not cheat ourselves with any more fanatical dreams.
Miriam. No dream this; no fanatic's voice; no prophet's word, but a message direct from Heaven.
Martha. A message from Heaven!
Leah. 'Tis even so. Listen while I tell you. At Bethlehem, last night, the shepherds were watching their flocks as usual; at midnight they were startled by the sudden appearance of an angel of the Lord, and the shining round about them of an exceeding bright light; and the angel spoke to them. "Fear not," said he, "for, behold! I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all the people; for unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Saviour, even the Messiah."
Martha. Can this be true?
Salome. But how shall he be known?
Anna. In Bethlehem, did you say? But there is no palace in Bethlehem, where a prince should be born.
Leah. Wait a little: I have not told you all. "This," said the angel to the shepherds, "shall be a sign to you. Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And, when he had thus said, there suddenly joined him a multitude of the heavenly host; and presently they burst forth into this song,—"Glory to God in the highest; on earth peace and good will towards men!" And with this song they departed.
Anna. This is indeed wonderful!