Ez. Who were they? What her name?
Zach. (softly). Her name is Mary; for he told me so. And his is Joseph. [Discovers bundle by fire; he examines it in silence. What is this below The mantle?
Ben. Nay, ’tis but a lamb.
Zach. You say A lamb? And born to-night? Here far away Down in the snowy world? [He strokes its head tenderly.
Ben. Why, surely so, ’Twas born but hardly half-an-hour ago!
Zach. And is it without blemish—fit to die [He speaks impressively. At God’s own altar?
Ez. (impatiently). Yes, yes, yes, but why Ask you me that? Nay, tell us of the maid And man you saw to-day. The lamb is laid Content enough.
Zach. Content without its dam?
Ben. Why, surely so!... Now, uncle, leave the lamb And tell us what you saw.
Zach. I saw but those I spoke of. Maid and man.