(He arouses the others. They listen wonderingly, standing or reclining.)
Voice (an unseen soprano chants softly).
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Glory to God in the highest! Fear not! For behold I bring you glad tidings Of great joy. For unto you is born this day In the city of David, a Saviour Which is Christ, the Lord. And this shall be the sign unto you: Ye shall find the heavenly Babe Wrapped in swaddling clothes, Lying in a manger. Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, Good will toward men! |
Timothy.
'Twas a fine voice, even as ever I heard.
Anna.
The hills, as with lightning, shone at his word.
Simeon.
He spoke of a Babe here in Bethlehem.
That betokens yon star!
Full glad would I be,
Might I kneel on my knee,
Some word to say to that Child.
Timothy.
See! In the east there breaks the day.
Anna.
Let us tarry no longer; away, then, away!
(Anna goes out at rear, behind the stable, with Timothy, Ruth and Thomas.)
Isaac.
Come, gran'ther, let us go and see this thing!
Simeon.
But first get gifts to take the new-born King!
Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace,
Good will toward men.
(They follow the others out at rear.)
The curtains fall.
Scene III: Hymn by the congregation: