(Sits in front of the manger.)
Joseph (assisting her).
Have courage, Mary, here's the hostess here.
(Comes to Deborah at right.)
We'd lodge with thee tonight.
Deborah.
Alas, I fear
My inn is crowded to the very wall,
Soldiers and scribes, the rich, the great, the small!
Joseph.
Is there room for us? My wife is ill.
Deborah.
My heart is sad and it is not my will
To send you hence, but naught is left to do.
Perhaps some other inn will shelter you.
Joseph.
Alas, the other inns are all the same!
Deborah.
Never was seen the like in Bethlehem.
(Laughter and noise at R.)
My guests are merry, hear their jovial din!
(Goes to R.)
I pity you, there's no room at the inn.
(Exits into the inn.)