[The mother appears with the baby in her arms. Miriam follows.]
Miriam: O mother! We can hide him in these tall grasses!
Mother: But I must have something to put him in. Gather these rushes and I will weave a little cradle for him.
[They both pick bulrushes and the mother weaves the basket.]
Mother: How can I leave him here alone? My little daughter, will you stay and watch and bring me word quickly if anything happens? We will hide the baby in this basket among the flags, here at the edge of the water.
Miriam: Good! Mother, I will hide nearby and see that no harm comes to our baby.
[The mother kisses the baby and puts him in the basket, then rises and turns away.]
Mother: Keep watch until I return.
[Exit mother; Miriam hides.]