(Belshasar shrugs, but motions Melchior to listen. Elf returns.)

CASPAR

So, Pedlar Claus,

Lay-by thy pack, and rest you here till morrow;

Tend him, good Elf and Gnome. Now, mother, bravely!

These beasties shall make hospitality

And share their holy frost-cakes with your children,

Wiping their eyes with love: And these war-weary,

Glad of our Evergreen, shall take new hope

From yon clear star.