(Timothy goes out at rear R.)
Deborah.
Some strange, unearthly voice seems calling me,
Methinks this night portends great things to be.
Enter Rachel and Priscilla from rear right, then come down center and address the hostess.
Rachel.
Hail, hostess of the inn, my cousin here
Hath lodgings at your inn. We'd seek its cheer.
Deborah (rises).
Enter within. My guests tonight are gay
And fain would turn this winter's night to day.
Rachel and Priscilla enter the inn, followed by Deborah. The organ music continues softly. After a slight pause enter Anna from rear left. She leads Ruth and Thomas by the hand.
Thomas (at rear center).
Oh, mother, hark! There's music in the inn!
Anna.
'Tis not for us—their noise and merry din.
Ruth.
Our little town is crowded, joyous, gay.
Thomas.
So many travelers came this way today.
Ruth.
The night is chill and cold, I much do fear
The little sheep will shiver by the mere.
Anna.
Too cold it is for thee, I fear, in truth,
Return and get thy cloak, my little Ruth.
We'll wait for thee upon the little hill.
(Points off R.)
But speed thy steps, the cold will work thee ill.
Ruth.
I'll fly, dear mother, like an arrow home.
(Runs out at L.)
Anna.
We must not tarry. Come, my Thomas, come!