Handel’s “Largo” is played before curtain rises.
[If this Scene is acted, in previous Scene Joseph does not cense the manger; and Mary does not come to front with Child. She only lifts Child, says the words set down. After which Curtain descends.
Before Curtain rises the first verse of the following carol is sung.
I.
Chorus. O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to Thy perfect light.
[Curtain rises again on same scene as before. But the Manger is not there. In centre back of stage stands a dais, and upon it a tall chair, bare; two unlighted candles stand upon dais. Discovered, Martha and Abel, seated upon dais. Abel has book in his hands, reading. Martha is sewing a child’s dress. Lights are high. A silence follows close of carol.
II. Melch. Born a King, on Bethlehem’s plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again, King for ever, ceasing never, Over us all to reign.
Chorus. O star of wonder, &c.
III. Gasp. Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deity nigh. Prayer and praising, all men raising, Worship Him, God most High.