Melchoir.
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Three kings came riding from far away, Melchoir, Gaspar and Baltasar; Three wise men out of the east were they, And they traveled by night and they slept by day, For their guide was a beautiful, wonderful star. |
Baltasar.
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The star was so beautiful, large and clear, That all other stars of the sky Became a white mist in the atmosphere; And by this they knew that the coming was near Of the Prince foretold in prophecy. |
Gaspar.
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Of the child that is born, O Baltasar, I begged a woman to tell us the news; I said in the east we had seen His star, And had ridden fast and had ridden far To find and worship the King of the Jews. —Adapted from Longfellow. |
Melchoir.
Brothers, our quest is ended; see the star
Is standing still over this lowly hut.
Baltasar.
Methinks it is a stable. Knock and see!
Gaspar (knocks on the door of the manger).
What ho, within!
Joseph enters from the L. rear.
Joseph.
Sirs, whom seek ye?
Melchoir.
We have journeyed from afar
Led by the shining of yon splendid star.
We are Gaspar, Melchoir and Baltasar.
Baltasar.
We seek a new-born King,
Gold, frankincense to him we bring.
And many a kingly offering.
Joseph draws back the curtain and reveals the interior of the manger. Mary is seen bending over the crib. The Shepherds are kneeling in the background. Very soft music heard in the distance, with faintly chiming bells at intervals.