[Angels begin to come in and group themselves. They carry the Instruments of the Passion in humeral veils. They form group down stage (L.).
What did that mean?
Mar. I know not.
Abel. See Him laid So little, in the manger for His bed. Oh! Is He truly King of kings? You said You thought he was!
Mar. Why, yes, I think so. See The Angels all about His Majesty.
[Angels remain motionless, turned towards manger. During the following carol the children go across, step by step, nearer and nearer: they kneel down by Mary. Abel offers his horse. Mary takes it, and makes him put it by Child in Manger. Mary leans over manger and puts arms round Child.
Angels. When I view the Mother holding[9] In her arms the heavenly boy, Thousand blissful thoughts unfolding Melt my heart with sweetest joy. With her babe the hours beguiling, Mary’s soul in transport lives. God her Son upon her smiling, Thousand kisses fondly gives. As the sun his radiance flinging Shines upon the bright expanse, So the Child to Mary clinging Doth her gentle heart entrance. See the Virgin Mother bearing
[Enter Shepherds, followed by Dav. These fall on their knees, Zach. and Dav. together; and remain till end of singing. Zach. is nearest audience, then Dav., then Ezra, then Ben-Ezra.
Jesus by her arms embraced, Dew on softest roses gleaming, Violet with lily chaste. Each round other fondly twining, Pours the shafts of mutual love, Thick as flowers in meadow shining, Countless as the stars above. Oh! may one such arrow glowing, Sweetest Child which Thou dost dart Through Thy mother’s bosom going, Blessed Jesus, pierce my heart....
[Music continues softly until Mary rises. If possible, the music should be played on the violin only, which the Angel holds. The air is that of the preceding Carol.