Ben. But then, who knows The place they come from, or the place they lie To-night?
Zach. (indignantly). Nay, none doth know but God and I, And all the hosts of heaven, and beasts, maybe, That give them shelter!
Ez. Why! what mystery You make of nothing, uncle!
Zach. (still smouldering). Aye. Or ’tis That you make nothing of great mysteries.
Ben. Why, uncle——
Zach. (emphatically). Nay, my son, I tell you this: That when I saw the wondrous maiden fair, I knelt me down; and lo! she blessed me there! [He spreads out his hands.
Ez. You, uncle! Blessed by her!
Zach. Aye, aye; ’twas so. I think one day that many here below Will envy me for that! Her hands she laid Upon my head, and spoke no words, that maid.
Ez. Why, this is folly.
Zach. (indignantly). Aye, God’s foolishness, Wiser than all men’s wisdom. [His tone changes to despondency. Yes, yes, yes! ’Tis nought but foolishness.... And so we came To Bethlehem.