(She leads him out at rear R. There is a pause. The music changes to a mysterious plaintive air. The old German song, Holy Night, may be effectively introduced as an organ solo.)
Enter from rear right, Joseph, walking with a staff and supporting Mary.
Mary.
Here is a place, now I must rest awhile!
For many a league, for many a weary mile,
We've trudged along since break of day began.
Joseph.
'Tis true, and I'm an old and ancient man,
My joints are stiff, my bones are waxing old—
And the long night is bitter, bitter cold.
Here take my cloak and keep thee warm within,
And wait thee here while I search out an inn.
(He wraps his cloak around her and seats her on the bench or stool in front of the manger. He goes out at rear left. The music changes to the Magnificat, to be found in all Episcopal hymnals.)
Mary (sings).
My soul doth magnify the Lord: and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
For he hath regarded: the lowliness of his handmaiden.
For behold, from henceforth: all generations shall call me blessed.
For he that is mighty has magnified me: and holy is his Name.
And his mercy is on them that fear him: throughout all generations.
He hath showed strength with his arm: he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He hath put down the mighty from their seat: and hath exalted the humble and meek.
He hath filled the hungry with good things: and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel: as he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed, forever.
Enter Joseph from rear L.
Joseph.
For hours I've trudged the street in fruitless quest,
Here is an inn, mayhap at last we'll rest.
Enter Deborah from the inn.
Mary.
Husband, I'm faint; I can no farther go.
Methinks I'll rest me here upon this loe.