DEAR CAESAR AUGUSTUS

A Christmas Play by Jewell Ellen Smith

© Copyright Jewell E. Smith 1980. First performed at Ft. Rucker, Alabama, in 1980. All Biblical quotations are from the King James Version. Nonprofit groups may perform this play without payment, but if you do plan to perform it, Jewell’s children ask that you e-mail her older son David at

"And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.... And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, in to Judaea, unto the city of David ... to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife.... And she brought forth her firstborn son ... and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn."

Luke 2:1, 4, 5, 7

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Time: The night when Christ was born.

Place: Bethlehem, the city of David, in Judea. Also, the land of Moab, when Balak was king of the Moabites.

Purpose and theme: To tell the old Christmas Story in a new way, and to discover with the Bethlehem innkeeper that it does not take the edict of an emperor to bring God to a man’s house, and heart.

Background Scripture: Luke 2:1-20; Matthew 2:1-11; Micah 5:2; Numbers 22-24.

Length of play: Approximately 60 minutes.

Number of players:

14 men
7 women
5 sub-teen girls and/or boys
3 teen-age girls
20 women singers, flute players
1 very young baby (total: 50)

Music: 2 hymns (song of the angels, grand finale hymn)

The Characters:

Eben, the prosperous Bethlehem innkeeper, whose delight in life is hearing the tales told by travelers who lodge at his place.

Asa, the venerable scribe of Bethlehem, uncle of Tamar.
Tamar, the innkeeper’s wife.
Lemuel, the innkeeper’s stable boy, cousin of the Judean Shepherds.
Kenaz, spokesman of the Judean Shepherds.
Sons of the Shepherds:

Jo-e-lab, Son of Kenaz
Te-ma, Son of O-zam.
Gil-e-ad, Son of Mi-sham
Or-nan, Son of Hez-ron
Lah-mi, Son of Rei

Judean Shepherds: Kenaz, Ozam, Misham, Rei, Hezron
Angel of The LORD
Choir of Angels w/Flute Players
1^st Magus
2^nd Magus
3^rd Magus
Residents of the Kingdom of Moab:

Mithcah, the queen’s hairdresser
Queen Melzarith, the wife of King Balak
Two Fanners
Servant Girl, the queen’s attendant
Madam Bilnah, the queen’s sister
Balak, the pagan King of Moab
King’s Guard

Balaam, a strange Midianite prophet who sometimes deals in enchantments
Mary and Joseph

The Christ Child

SUMMARY OF THE SCENES

ACT I, Scene 1:

Evening, in the living quarters of the Bethlehem Inn. As Tamar serves supper to her husband and her uncle, the two men talk of how crowded Bethlehem is; because the descendants of King David keep pouring in to register for the census ordered by Caesar Augustus.

Eben is delighted, for his inn is filled to capacity, and, some of the travelers have amusing tales to tell. The turn of events pleases the old scribe, too. A gentleman from Joppa has engaged him to write a letter.

After old Asa leaves for his home, Eben counts his money, calls in his stable boy, Lemuel, and directs him to hang an old and faded "No Vacancy" sign at the front gatepost. At the same time he warns Lemuel to quit looking at and talking about the stars, especially a new one Lemuel terms "the most beautiful star I ever saw."

Sub-Scene 1-A

When Lemuel goes out to fasten up the sign, he says a soliloquy to the bright new star shining down on Bethlehem.

(Scene 1 resumed)

As Eben is retiring for the night, he jokingly tells Tamar: "I ought to get your uncle to write me a letter to Caesar! I'd say 'Dear Caesar Augustus: Just any time you want to put out another census decree, I'm all for it! It means money in my bag!'"

Soon after Eben falls asleep, Lemuel comes to report that a weary traveler and his wife come all the way from Nazareth--are looking for lodging. Tamar is reluctant to wake her husband, and doesn't until she learns that the woman from Nazareth is "great with child."

Eben, much too sleepy to be bothered, grumbles at being disturbed, turns over and goes back to sleep. Lemuel and Tamar decide to let the Nazareth couple have Lemuel's place in one of the stables.

`A few minutes later the man from Nazareth sends for Tamar to come and attend his wife and to bring "something to use for swaddling clothes." The innkeeper sleeps on.

Scene 2

Later in the night when Tamar tries to tell her sleepy husband of the Nazareth woman's beautiful firstborn child--now asleep in the manger--Eben is not the least bit interested. He grumbles and goes right back to sleep.

The innkeeper's sleep is disturbed again about midnight when Lemuel's cousins, the Judean shepherds, come to the inn, saying they have been visited by a host of angels. Eben rouses up only long enough to vow that he should send a letter to Rome, a letter that read "Dear Caesar Augustus: If you ever take another census, I'll come to Rome and slit your throat!"

As soon as Tamar can get her irate husband back to sleep, she listens to Lemuel's Cousin Kenaz tell how it was out on the hillside when the shepherds and their young sons were visited by a host of singing angels.

Sub-Scene 2-A

As the shepherds sit around a campfire talking, their young sons play games, practice using their slings. Suddenly they are all frightened almost speechless when the Angel of the Lord appears! The Angel announces "tidings of great joy—the birth of Christ the Lord" Then a "multitude of the heavenly host" surround the shepherds and their sons and sing their hymn of "Glory to God in the Highest."

As soon as the angels depart, the shepherds hurry into Bethlehem "to see this thing which has come to pass, which the Lord has made known …"

ACT II, Scene 1

A short time before dawn Lemuel comes bursting into the room where his master sleeps to announce that three magi from the East are at the gate, that the new star guided them to Bethlehem, and, that they are looking for a newborn king.

Tamar wakes the innkeeper and after some difficulty gets him to understand that wise men from far away are at their gate. Eben grabs on his best robe and proudly receives the magi.

The magi explain how the new star and some ancient prophecies have brought them to the city of David to worship the newborn king of the Jews. Eben assures them that there is no young king born in Bethlehem.

Then, the innkeeper is much delighted when the Third Wise Man tells the details of a story told him in Jerusalem of how in the days of old a prophecy was made that there would "come a Star out of Jacob … a king in Israel." This prophecy, the Third Magus explains, was made in the land of Moab, by a strange prophet named Balaam.

Sub-Scene 1-A

As King Balak of Moab and his wife Melzarith sit on their thrones, waiting to receive the renowned prophet Balaam, Balak explains to the queen that their kingdom is in great danger from a mighty people called Israelites, who have come up out of Egypt. The Israelites, Balak tells Melzarith, are conquering one nation alter another, sweeping across the land like a herd of oxen "licking up the grass of the fields." Balak fears Moab will be next. It is for this reason that he has sent for Balaam. He plans to hire Balaam to put a curse on the Israelites.

Balaam comes. King Balak offers him high honors and "a houseful of silver and gold," But Balaam refuses to "curse those whom The Lord has blessed." At the same time Balaam makes a prophecy that there "shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter (a Great King) shall rise out of Israel."

(Scene 1, resumed)

At the conclusion of the story of Balaam's prophecy to King Balak, the Three Magi continue their conversation with the innkeeper and his wife.

When the Third Magus mentions that one ancient Jewish prophet said that the promised king would be called "The Prince of Peace," the innkeeper's wife volunteers the information that there is a newborn child in one of their stables and that "he is as beautiful as a prince."

Scene 2

The Magi go to the stable, behold the newborn Holy Child, wonder at his brightness, his beauty. Each makes a prophecy; each gives a gift and kneels in adoration. Eben, Tamar and the stable boy Lemuel also bow down to worship. (The Judean Shepherds and their sons are at the stable, kneeling before the manger when the others arrive.)

Scene 3

At daybreak Eben sends Lemuel to get the scribe. Old Asa is amazed to learn that Eben actually wants him to write a letter to Caesar Augustus! They start composing the letter, to the effect that Eben would like to have Caesar conduct a census every year so that gold would come to Eben, again and again.

Suddenly it occurs to Eben that "It does not take the edict of an emperor to bring God to a man's house, and his heart!" The letter gets no further than "Dear Caesar Augustus:"

GRAND FINALE

The entire Cast converges on stage and sings a Christmas hymn of praise, "Ask the Child to Come."

SCRIPT

ACT I Scene 1

In the living quarters of The Bethlehem Inn, the night when Christ was born. It is dusk. Innkeeper Eben and old Asa the scribe are seated at a dining table, just finishing the evening meal. Tamar is serving her husband and uncle from the cooking area of the combination bedroom, dining room, and kitchen. She is pleased to have her uncle as their guest. Eben, who is fond of the old man, is in a good humor.

EBEN: Ah, Uncle Asa, this has been a big day for me! A big day! Takes an enormous bite of bread, washes it dawn with gulp of wine.

ASA: Plenty of business--right?

EBEN: Plenty of business! Too much business, actually. My inn is filled, and families are still pouring into town from all directions. I had no idea Caesar's census would bring people to Bethlehem in droves!

ASA: There's been nothing like it in my lifetime! Leans back But, Eben, if you think about it, it's kind of nice to have something going on in Bethlehem, for a change.

EBEN. continuing to eat with enjoyment I didn't know our ancestor King David had so many descendants!

ASA: This week I've noticed that when a good many of these people get here, they seem confused over the whole thing. They don't understand why they had to travel for miles and miles to be counted here in Bethlehem.

EBEN: I don't see why they'd be confused. There's nothing complicated about the decree Caesar Augustus issued. It says as plain as day--you read it to me yourself, remember?--It says that every man is to go to his own city. And Bethlehem is the city of David! So, every man who is of the house and lineage of King David has to bring his family here, to the city of David, to be counted. It's that simple.

ASA: It's simple to you, Eben, but not to all these poor people. Well, some are poor; some are not so poor.

EBEN: raising his voice Tamar, we could use a little more mutton--if you have some there.

TAMAR: hurrying to the table with a platter of meat There's plenty, plenty. Help yourselves!

EBEN: helping the old man's plate to a portion of meat Here, have another serving. Meat was made to eat!

ASA: That's enough, now! Thank you.

EBEN: taking a thick slice for himself You know what they say about our Bethlehem mutton: "It's the best in all Judea!" You can't get any, any better, even up at the marketplace in Jerusalem. offers bread to Asa Bread?

ASA: No. No thank you, Eben. I've had plenty. Turning to his niece A delicious supper, Tamar!

TAMAR: Won't you take a little of this cheese? I made it from the milk of our own goats. Cuts slices of cheese and places additional buns of bread on the table.

ASA: Not another bite can I swallow tonight!

TAMAR: In that case, Uncle Asa, I'll just wrap some for you to have tomorrow.

ASA: Tamar, you grow more and more like your mother was every day. I can half close my old eyes and-see my dear sister as she was, years ago. But the Lord have mercy on me. I mustn't be day-dreaming of the past! I had best get on home, close my eyes, and do some real dreaming!

EBEN: No need to hurry.

ASA: I'll have to get on back. Brightens tone I have a letter to write tomorrow morning! For a gentleman here from Joppa. And if I don't get a good night's rest my old hand will be like this tomorrow! Holds up hand, deliberately exaggerating how his hand and arm will quiver and shake And a scribe with a palsied hand is worth about as much as a wooden shekel!

TAMAR: Uncle Asa, you're the best scribe anywhere! And we all know it!

ASA: I wouldn't say that, Tamar. I just happen to be the only scribe in Bethlehem --Else I'd probably not be able to make a living!

Asa pushes stool back from table, gets up to leave; Eben also gets up.

EBEN: Now, this gentleman from Joppa that you're to do the letter for? Is he the same man telling the tale about a mysterious monster sighted off the coast of Joppa?

ASA: hesitating Well, I-- I just can't-- I don't remember hear--

TAMAR: interrupting Eben, you know Uncle Asa doesn't sit around listening to all the tall tales told in this inn! Like you do! Uncle Asa, don't mind Eben, here! Stories from far away are an obsession with this man! Sometimes I think the only reason he keeps the inn open, year in year out, is to get to hear the fantastic stories the travelers tell!

All three laugh

EBEN: Tamar, that's not so! Though I admit I do like to hear my patrons talk. Keeps the days from being so dull!

ASA: There's nothing wrong with a good story, well told. I'd kind of like to hear about this mysterious monster off Joppa, myself. It was off the coast of Joppa that the whale swallowed Jonah! Is this another whale?

EBEN: Oh, it's bigger than a whale! You see, it was like this. Three sailors--

TAMAR: Eben!

EBEN: Talking fast for he knows his wife is going to stop him again Three Joppa sailors swear that twice they've seen a big black thing rise up out of the sea, and--

TAMAR: E-ben!!!

EBEN: in crestfallen, resigned tone Oh, very well. Tell you what, Uncle Asa, we'll get the gentleman from Joppa to tell the story again--in the morning, just before you start writing his letter!

ASA: Fine! Fine! That suits me. pulls his cloak closer

TAMAR: offering a bundle of food, tied up in a cloth Here's a taste of bread and cheese for your breakfast, Uncle Asa.

ASA: Thank you, my dear. You're too kind.

EBEN: opens door to look out I didn't realize it was dark already. Hadn't you better take a candle? Better yet, I'll send my stable boy with you to hold you a light. pokes head out the door to call the stable boy Lemuel!

ASA: No, no, don't bother the lad. I can see fine. The stars will be out turns around at the threshold It's a perfect night for walking. Good night!

EBEN: Good night.

TAMAR: Good night, Uncle Asa.

Eben closes the door, yawns, and stretches his arms.

EBEN: Ah, me! I've had it for today. I'm going to count my money and go to bed! Eben takes out money pouch, empties it on edge of table. Both sit down. Tamar watches as Eben stacks the coins into several piles. Wow! What a haul! Look at the money! I ought to get your uncle to write me a letter! A letter to Caesar! I'd say "Dear Caesar Augustus, just any time you want to issue another census decree, I'm all for it! It means money in my bag!"

TAMAR: I'm sure Uncle Asa would be glad to write it. Probably wouldn't charge you either.

EBEN: Tamar, common innkeepers like me don't send letters to the emperor in Rome! You know that! pauses Say, you remember years ago when I first bought the inn, and we thought we'd have so much business that we got your Uncle Asa to write out a sign that said "No Vacancy?"

TAMAR: laughing Oh yes, I remember that "No Vacancy" sign! We never used it. Not once.

EBEN: Do you have any idea where it is now?

TAMAR: It's probably back in the storeroom, somewhere. You know me, I never throw away anything!

EBEN: See if you can find it. I'll have Lemuel put it up tonight--out by the gate lamp. Where is that stable boy?

TAMAR: Maybe he didn't hear you call him.

Tamar goes into the back room. Eben opens the door to call Lemuel again.

EBEN: Lemuel! Where are you, boy?

Lemuel darts in, breathless.

LEMUEL: Here I am, Sir!

EBEN: Well, I can see that! But where have you been? And what have you been doing? I bet you've been gazing at the stars again!

LEMUEL: Yes, Sir, I was looking at the stars. You know that beautiful, beautiful new star I told you about?

EBEN: Seems like I remember you mentioned something about it. But then a star is a star so far as I'm concerned.

LEMUEL: But, Sir, this is not just a plain star. It's the most beautiful star I ever saw! Tonight when I was taking straw to the stables, I could see it high, high up in the sky, shining straight down on Bethlehem!

EBEN: My. advice to you, Lemuel, is to pay less attention to the stars and more to your work! Did you spread plenty of fresh straw in all the stables?

LEMUEL: Oh, yes, Sir! I put in lots of straw.

EBEN: What about the animals? Did you feed and water all of them?

LEMUEL: Yes, Sir. Every one. The mangers are full of hay.

EBEN: Did you think about the oil in the lamp at the front gate?

LEMUEL: I poured oil in the big lamp--just like always. It's burning bright.

Tamar returns, dusting off the crude "No Vacancy" sign.

TAMAR: I found our old sign. But it surely is dim and faded. wipes sign again

EBEN: It'll do. takes sign, attempts to dust it off some more, holds it out at arm's length and chuckles. The saying is that if you keep something seven years, you'll find a use for it, We've had this seven years and twice again! Lemuel, I want you to fasten this up out front, right beside the gate lamp.

LEMUEL: Yes, Sir. What does it mean?

EBEN: It means that if any more travelers come, they may as well not stop here. My inn is filled to the brim.

LEMUEL: Yes, Sir.

EBEN: handing sign to boy Now, fix it so the first puff of wind won't blow it down. Then you get to your bed. There'll be plenty of work for you tomorrow. And don't you forget what I've told you about listening out for any interesting stories the travelers tell. If you hear anything amusing, or unusual, you're to come get me right away! You remember?

LEMUEL: When anybody starts telling a story, I'm to come get you! Yes, Sir, I remember that, 'cause you've told me and told me!

EBEN: I don't want you to ever forget! I might miss a good story.

LEMUEL: I like stories, too. But I don't like stories as much as I like stars--especially my new one!

EBEN: Lemuel, boy! If you so much as mention that new star again, I'll send you back to the hills where you came from! And you can stay with your cousins and tend sheep again, instead of being my stable boy!

LEMUEL: distressed Yes, sir! No, Sir! Yes, Sir! I mean please don't do that! I like being your stable boy!

Lemuel darts out the door. Eben puts away his money pouch, eases off his sandals and outer garment, dons his nightcap, and lies down on the couch. Tamar is still busy with the leftover food.

TAMAR: Eben, you ought not speak so rough to the boy--especially about his looking at the stars every night. Gazing at the stars comes natural to Lemuel.

EBEN: yawns I don't see why.

Eben flops himself over, turning his face to the wall. Before Tamar can finish explaining Lemuel's fascination with the stars, he is snoring.

TAMAR: Because his people are shepherds, that's why! And you've got to remember that this time of year they stay out in the fields at night, keeping watch over their flocks. Before Lemuel came to us he was fight out there with all his cousins—watching the sheep, watching the stars.

Spotlight takes audience attention to Lemuel at the gatepost.

Sub-Scene 1-A

At the gatepost of the inn, Lemuel hangs up the "No Vacancy" sign, adjusts the lamp, and then gazes up into the sky. He says a soliloquy to the new star.

LEMUEL'S SOLILOQUY:

New Star! New Star! Why are you there?
Why do you shine this night?
Your beams come down on Bethlehem, softly, yet so bright!
Why did God give you light?

Did God make you for the owls of the night? The hawks? The beasts of prey?

Oh no! I think not so! Not for the beasts of prey!

You are not their star!

Did God make you to light the way of those who travel far, those who come to Bethlehem? Are you their star?

You could be a guiding star.

Or, did God make you for a great, great king who rules on a golden throne?

You could be a Great King's star.

Ah, new star, I think I know why you are there, Why God gave you light.

You shine for the shepherds, out in the fields, keeping their flock by night.

You shine for the sheep, safe in the fold, their young lambs need your light.

I can see you shining on a little lamb, newborn this very day.
And him asleep, on the hay, beneath your soft, soft light.

But would God make a star for one little lamb? Even if it were His own?

Oh, yes, I know He would!

You could be the star of the Lamb of God!

New Star! New Star! Why are you there?
Why do you shine this night?
Your beams come down on Bethlehem, softly, yet so bright!
Why did God give you light?

At the end of the soliloquy, spotlight shifts back to Tamar and her sleeping husband. There is no break between Sub-Scene 1A and the remainder of Scene 1.

Resume scene 1

TAMAR: spreading a light blanket over Eben. Ah, Eben, bless you! You miss so much in this life! You run the inn, you count your money, and you listen to all those tales the travelers tell. But there are important things you never see or think about. turns and picks up cup of wild flowers on the table Lilies of the field. They grow wild, under your feet. But you never see them; you never look down. And the stars! You never look up!

And Lemuel! You see him just as a stable boy--not as a lonely shepherd lad trying to please, trying to do his best!

Tamar sets the flowers aside and sits down to brush and braid her hair. Ebon snores, louder and louder. Just as Tamar leans over to blow out the flame of the candle, Lemuel knocks. She lets him in, motions for him to speak quietly.

TAMAR: Shh, Lemuel! What do you want?

LEMUEL: It's more people! They need a place for tonight.

TAMAR: We don't have any more places. How many people are there?

LEMUEL: Just two. A man and a lady. pauses They look very tired. Their little old donkey is about to fall in his tracks!

TAMAR: They've probably traveled far.

LEMUEL: The man said they came from a place called Nazareth.

TAMAR: That is a long way.

LEMUEL: Ma'am, the husband is very worried about the lady. She is great with child.

TAMAR: Great with child! Oh, goodness! I hate to wake your master, but I don't know what else to do.

Tamar shakes Eben's shoulder, gets him half-awake. He mumbles and grumbles.

Eben, I'm sorry to wake you, but there's a couple at the gate. Come all the way from Nazareth. And they're asking for lodging.

EBEN: mumbling Show 'em the sign! Can't they read? turns over to go back to sleep

TAMAR: But, Eben, these people have to have a place!

EBEN: still groggy What am I supposed to do? Give 'em my bed?

TAMAR: No, Eben, but--

EBEN: Tell 'em to go somewhere else. And don't bother me; I've got to get some sleep. voice trails off and he begins to snore again

LEMUEL: whispering Mistress, I know what we'll do! The man and the lady can have my place in the big stable! My bed's not so good--just a stack of straw--but the straw is fresh and soft.

TAMAR: I suppose that's about the only thing to do--let them sleep in the big stable. Tell them we're sorry we don't have a better place.

LEMUEL: Yes, Ma'am, I'll tell 'em. starts to leave

TAMAR: Wait a minute, Lemuel. Let me get those poor weary people some cover.

Tamar hurries in and back out of the storeroom, hands Lemuel a blanket. He leaves, and she sits back down to finish braiding her hair. Then, just as she removes one sandal, Lemuel knocks again. She hurries to the door, one shoe on, the other in her hand.

Lemuel! What is it, now?

LEMUEL: The lady from Nazareth-- She-- Her husband said please come! Right away! And-- and, he said maybe you might have something to use for swaddling clothes?

TAMAR: Swaddling clothes? Of course! Tell him I'll be right there!

Lemuel leaves. Tamar straps her sandal back on, gabs on her head shawl. Quickly she opens a chest, rummages through it, and takes out some white cloth. This she tears into several strips about three inches wide and into one square, about as big as a baby's receiving blanket. She drapes the cloth over her arm, picks up one of the candles, and hurries out. Eben sleeps on.

CURTAIN

If there is no curtain, use a few seconds of darkness to indicate the end of Scene 1. Then, bring light back up for Scene 2. If the director likes, the pianist could play a measure or so of music between these scenes.

Scene 2

Same as Scene 1. It is almost midnight. Eben is alone in the room, still asleep, still snoring. He becomes restless, turns over, rouses up slightly, and discovers that Tamar has not yet gone to bed, that she is not in the room.

EBEN: Tamar? Now where could she be? Tamar?

Tamar hurries in, goes over to Eben's couch; she is fairly beaming.

TAMAR: Yes, Eben?

EBEN: When are you ever going to bed? It must be nearly midnight!

TAMAR: Oh, Eben! You ought to see the baby! A beautiful, beautiful baby! He's the most beautiful baby I ever saw!

EBEN: with no real interest What baby?

TAMAR: The people from Nazareth. The ones who came just after you went to sleep. She has brought forth her first-born son!

EBEN: snuggling farther down into his covers There's nothing I can do about it. Go to sleep, Tamar, so I can get some rest!

TAMAR: You just can't imagine how beautiful the little child is!

EBEN: still grumbling That's what you say about all babies.

Tamar again prepares to go to bed. This time she gets as far as sitting down on her couch and removing both sandals.

TAMAR: This baby is different! Different from any other child ever born in Bethlehem. His little face fairly shines! The mother laid him in the manger; and when I left he was asleep on the hay, like a newborn lamb! And--

EBEN: Tamar, hush talking and go to sleep! That baby will be there in the morning when you wake up!

TAMAR: Yes, Eben. murmuring half to herself, half to Eben Ah, truly, he is the most beautiful child I ever saw. Looks like a little prince.

EBEN: completely out of patience You and Lemuel talk just alike! Tonight he rattled on and on about "the most beautiful star" he ever saw. And I can't get you to hush about "the most beautiful baby" you ever saw. What I say is this, "This Is the most dreadful night I ever saw!"

There is a rather loud rapping at the door. Disgusted, Eben raises himself up on one elbow, starts to fling the covers aside.

Oh, no! Not more census people looking for lodging! So help me, I ought to send a letter to Caesar! Say "Dear Caesar Augustus: If you ever take another census, I'll come to Rome and slit your throat! With my own hands!"

TAMAR: getting her husband to lie back down Go back to sleep, Eben. Don't get up! That's it. Lie back. Get your rest. I'll send these people on.

Tamar opens the door. Lemuel runs in, much excited. He is followed by Kenaz.

LEMUEL: Mistress?

TAMAR: Quiet! Quiet! Lemuel, you know your master's asleep. And you know there aren't any more rooms for rent.

LEMUEL: Ma'am, this is my Cousin Kenaz! He doesn't need a room.

TAMAR: Well? Is something wrong?

LEMUEL: No, Ma'am! No, Ma'am! Everything's fine! Cousin Kenaz and my other cousins just came from the fields, and they've got a good story to tell!

TAMAR: A story to tell?

LEMUEL: Master Eben has given me strict orders that every time I hear a story I'm to come get him right away! And this is a real good one! I know he wants to hear it!

TAMAR: Lemuel, child, we don't dare wake up Master Eben again tonight! He would be furious!

LEMUEL: disappointed, almost to the point of tears But, it's a story about angels! And I've already made Cousin Kenaz promise he'd tell it to Master Eben. Let's wake him up! He would listen!

TAMAR trying to comfort Lemuel, and, keep him quiet No, no, Lemuel. We mustn't. But, both of you, come over here in the comer, and tell me the story. I'll listen. Lemuel, bring the stools.

The three gather in the corner, as far away as possible from Eben. Tamer and Kenaz sit on the stools. Lemuel sits on the floor, close to his cousin.

LEMUEL: Cousin Kenaz, tell my mistress. Just like you told me.

KENAZ: Ma'am, it was a strange thing! A wonderful thing! It happened about--maybe two hours ago--out on the hillside where we were watching over our sheep.

A bunch of us shepherds were sitting around the fire--a little fire, 'cause it's not cold tonight--and we were talking among ourselves, like we always do. We had the sheep in the fold, and they were quiet.

My brother Mi-sham, who likes to tell jokes, had us men laughing...

Our young sons were there, playing at being shepherds; two or three of them were bleating like sheep... voice trails off

Medium bright light is turned on hillside Scene. There is no break between Scene 2 and Sub-Scene 2-A

Sub-Scene 2-A

Five shepherds are sitting in a semi-circle around a small fire, on right stage, near the gate of their sheepfold. Mi-sham is entertaining the other shepherds with an anecdote about Hezekiah, an old ram be once had. The other men laugh now and then. At the same time the five shepherd boys play and romp on left stage. Audience hears what the boys are saying but only snatches of the ram tale.

The boys have slings and individual bags of smooth stones. And they have borrowed three staffs and a shepherd's rod (a club) from their fathers.

Lahmi and Ornan are sitting on the ground laughing at the antics of Tema, Jo-e-lah, and Gilead. At the same time Lahmi and Ornan compare their slings and trade a few rocks.

Tema, Jo-e-lah and Gilead are a short space from the other two boys, playing sheep and shepherd. Tema and Jo-e-lah are the sheep and are down on all fours. Gilead tries to lead them, with his staff around Tema's neck.

TEMA and JO-E-LAH: Baa-- Baa-- Baa-- continuously

TEMA: refusing to budge Baaa-- Baaaaa-- Baaaaaa--

GILEAD: trying to coax Tema to run toward the sheepfold Come on here, you silly sheep! The sun's down! Time to go to the fold!

TEMA and JO-E-LAH: plaintively and long and drawn out Baaaaaaaaaaaaa-- Baaaaaaaaaaaaaa--

Oman and Lahmi laugh loudly at their friends.

GILEAD: trying a different tactic Come on, pretty little sheep! You're not silly! Come on to the fold!

Tema and Jo-e-lah keep bleating

ORNAN: to Lahmi, as he points to Gilead Ha! Ha! Look at Gil! I don't believe Gil knows how to herd sheep! raising voice Hey, Gil! Gil! You're gonna choke that sheep 'fore you ever get him to the fold!

TEMA: Baaa-- Baaa-- lifts up head Gil, not so fast! Baaa-- Baaa--

Gilead, Tema and Jo-e-lah begin circling other two boys

GILEAD: That's a good sheep! Come on, we'll soon be at the fold!

TEMA and JO-E-LAH: louder than ever Baaaa-- Baaaaa-- Baaaa-- continuously, until Shepherd Kenaz calls out

SHEPHERD KENAZ: calling out to the boys Hey, boys! Not so loud over there! You'll wake up the whole flock! Besides, we can't hear ourselves think--much less talk!

Boys get quiet for a second or two.

OZAM: to Mi-sham Go on with your tale, Misham. You were saying your old ram Hezekiah got his head hurt.

MISHAM: Yeah, old Hezekiah got a bad gash on his head--how I never could figure out--it was right between his horns. So, I rubbed oil on it, and it soon healed up. But old Hezekiah loved that oil! Ever' evenin' he'd come to me and rub his head up against me--wanting me to put more oil on him!

So I would! I'd dab on a little bit of oil and rub Hezekiah's head! And that went on for weeks! Why I bet I wasted a gallon of oil on that old ram! All shepherds laugh

Did I ever tell you all about the old ram I had named Nebo? Now old Nebo... voice trails off

Boys and "sheep" begin laughing and bleating again

GILEAD: still leading Tema This way to the fold! This way! If you don't go in the fold, the old wolves will get you!

Tema stops abruptly, sits upright, removes the crook from around his neck. Jo-e-lah also sits up.

TEMA: It's your turn now, Gil! You be the sheep! I'll be the shepherd!

JO-E-LAH: Yeah, Gil, you be a sheep and let Tema be the shepherd! Or, me! I'll be the shepherd!

GILEAD. suddenly losing interest in the game. No! Let's don't play that any more. Let's sit down and rest! I'm tired!

JO-E-LAH: Suits me!

Gilead, Tema, and Jo-e-lah plop themselves down near Lahmi and Oman. Lahmi is counting his stones to himself as he drops them one by one into his pouch. Oman is twirling his sling round and round his head.

LAMHI: One, two, three, four, five, six, seven-- stops counting to watch Ornan

ORNAN: making his sling go faster and faster When I get to be a shepherd, I'm gonna be the best slinger in ail of Judah! If wolves come prowling round my sheep, I'll let 'em have it! Kill 'em dead!

GILEAD: Oman, I bet you couldn't kill a grasshopper, much less a wolf! You're not even holding your sling right! Watch me, and I'll show you how to hold a sling!

ORNAN: stops twirling sling Ah, Gil, there's not but one way to hold a sling!

GILEAD: insisting, as he reaches for Ornan's sling Lem'me show you! Just lem'me show you! It won't take a minute!

Now, you take your loop and slip it over your little finger, and you don't let it go too far down, just to the crook in your finger--like this. demonstrates, holding hand so audience can see fingers.

And, you hold the other end like this. folds up other end of sling, making the two ends even

Then, you place your stone in the center and start whirling. starts whirling, without a stone 'Course the farther you want your stone to go, the faster you whirl! Then, you simply let go of the loose end! It's simple! But you gotta know how!

ORNAN: Well, I know how!

TEMA: getting up to demonstrate how be will use a rod. Lifts rod, handling it much like a baseball bat. When I get to be a real shepherd, I'm not gonna depend on a sling! When I see a wolf coming, I'll draw back my rod and--

Draws back arm as if to strike with rod, but stops abruptly when an extremely bright light floods the hillside and the ANGEL OF THE LORD suddenly appears.

Father! Father! runs toward shepherds

There is much confusion as all the boys run to their fathers, crying out as they go. The actual shepherds jump to their feet, scramble backward. Each man grabs his son to protect him. They all huddle together as the ANGEL OF THE LORD comes nearer and nearer.

ALL SHEPHERD BOYS: crying out, but not in unison Father! Father! What's happening? Father! I can't see!

ALL SHEPHERDS: call to their sons, at the same time

Misham: Gil, come here!
Re-i: Lahmi! Lahmi! Are you all right?
O-zam: Tema!
Hezron: Ornan, where are you!
Kenaz: Jo-e-lah! Stay with me, son!

ANGEL OF THE LORD: coming close to group Shepherds, don't be frightened! I bring you good tidings!

MI-SHAM: stuttering T-t-t-tidings? G-g-g-good tidings?

ANGEL: Good tidings! Of great joy! Which shall be to all people!

MI-SHAM: Joy to all people? We-- We don't understand!

ANGEL: "Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord! And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." steps aside to join choir

Choir of angels appears, singing even before they come on stage. (see below, "Glory to God in the Highest.") They almost surround the shepherds. Awe-stricken, the shepherds kneel down. The angels sing to the shepherds, not to the audience. As soon as the angels disappear, the men and boys leap to their feet. They are elated, joyous!

MISHAM: Let's go to Bethlehem! Let's find this Christ Child!

RE-I: Come on! The angels said: "Find Him! Find Him!"

O-ZAM: The Lord our God has made this thing known to us! He wants us to see our Saviour!

MISHAM: Of course he wants us to see Him! God even gave us a sign! A babe in a stable! Wrapped in swaddling clothes!

HEZRON: There are lots of stables in Bethlehem. But I know what we can do! We can go straight to the Bethlehem Inn and talk to our Cousin Lemuel! Lemuel ought to know which stable the Holy Child is in! helps O-zam smother the fire

RE-I: You're right! Lemuel will know exactly where to find Him! Let's hurry!

O-ZAM: But what about our sheep? We can't just leave them!

RE-I: Oh, the boys can look after the sheep! looks at boys Can't you, boys?

LAHMI: coming closer to his father, Rei But, father, I want to go see the Holy Child!

TEMA: Me too!

ORNAN: I want to see Him, too!

JO-E-LAH: So do I!

GILEAD: going to Misham Father, please let us go to Bethlehem! The Angel said "good tidings of great joy...to all people!" And boys like us are people too!

MI-SHAM: loudly and in a tone settling the whole matter Come! All of you! The Angel of the Lord did say the Holy Child is born for all people!

Shepherds and boys leave hurriedly. The boys are especially joyous. Tema and Gilead go off arm in arm, with Lahmi, Oman and Jo-e-lah close behind them.

Spotlight shifts audience attention back to Innkeeper's room.

There is no break at the end of Sub-Scene 2-A. Kenaz resumes his narrative.

KENAZ: addressing Tamar So, Ma'am, we hurried into the city as fast as we could walk. And came straight here to Lemuel. hesitates Ma'am, Lemuel says there is a newborn babe, right in the stable where he always sleeps!

TAMAR: There is! There is! Born here in a plain stable. But he is as beautiful as any little prince ever born in a king's palace!

KENAZ: Would it be all right if we go to the stable and see the babe?

TAMAR: Of course!

LEMUEL: jumping up Come on! I'll show you which stable!

Kenaz and Lemuel leave hurriedly. Tamar walks over to the couch and looks down at her sleeping husband.

TAMAR: Oh, Eben, you slept through the best story ever told in Bethlehem!

blows out light of candle
CURTAIN, end of ACT I

If a curtain is not being used, dim lights very low. Pianist may play several measures of the Song of the Angels between ACT I and ACT II.

ACT II, Scene 1

That same night, about 2:00 a.m., in the living quarters of the Bethlehem Inn. Eben is still asleep. Tamar is on her couch, propped up by pillows. She is very restless. She opens her eyes, closes them, and opens them again. Finally, she eases out of bed, finds a wrap, and begins talking to herself.

TAMAR: I just can't sleep. There's no use trying. I keep thinking about that baby! And the young mother. Maybe I ought to take her some food. Now, before daybreak. Yes, that's what I'll do! I'll fix her something to eat, and take it to her.

Tamar busies herself in the kitchen area. Just as she gets a bowl of fruit and other food covered and is ready to go out the door with it, Lemuel knocks and rushes on in more wide-eyed and excited than ever.

LEMUEL: Mistress, there are three of 'em! With a whole caravan--lots of servants! And their camels are fat! And they have long beards! And--

TAMAR: Camels with long beards? Lemuel?

LEMUEL: The magi have long beards! The new star brought 'em here! They told me so! And they said--

TAMAR: Child, what are you talking about?

LEMUEL: Three magi have come! They're at the gate, right now!

TAMAR: Magi?

LEMUEL: Three of 'em, mistress! We've got to wake up Master Eben!

TAMAR: You must be mistaken, Lemuel. Bethlehem is just a little out-of-the-way place. Learned, holy men like magi don't come here.

LEMUEL: They are magi! They are! They told me so! They came from far, far away. From the East. And I can see they are wise men. Wise! And holy! And rich!

TAMAR: .If you are sure, sure they are magi, why I will wake up your master. But I hate to do it.

LEMUEL: I am sure. They didn't ask for lodging. They just asked to speak to Master Eben. follows Tamar to Eben's couch

TAMAR shaking Eben's shoulder Eben, you'll have to wake up! Wake up, now!

EBEN: very groggy What do you want?

TAMAR: Three magi from the East have come to our inn!

EBEN: mumbling Magi come from the East? I can't help it if it's the Queen of Sheba come from the grave! tries to turn over and go back to sleep; Tamar shakes him again.

TAMAR: Don't go back to sleep, Eben!

LEMUEL: Master, they're looking for a new king! And they think you'll know where to find him!

TAMAR: Eben, get yourself awake! There are three magi at our gate! They've come from the East. Magi! Do you understand, Eben? Magi at our gate!

EBEN sitting upright, suddenly alert Magi at our gate? Why didn't you tell me? Where's my robe? Tamar, get me my good robe! Lemuel, don't stand there like a donkey! Show these strangers in! That is, as soon as I can slip on something presentable. Tamar, where is my good robe?

TAMAR: Right here, Eben. assists Eben in putting on a rather fancy robe

EBEN: Go on, boy! Go bring the magi! to himself  This is an honor I never expected. Holy men, who study the stars--three of them--come to my inn!

LEMUEL hesitating at the door Sir, I wanted to tell you why they came in the night, but I'm afraid to say it because it's about the new star.

EBEN: This is no time for your star foolishness, Lemuel! Besides, I warned you not to mention your so-called new star again!

LEMUEL: That's what I know! That's the reason I can't tell you why the magi got here in the dark nighttime. They followed the new star, but I can't tell you that!

EBEN: Boy, get out of here! If these wise men want me to know anything about the stars, they'll tell me.

LEMUEL: Yes, Sir. leaves

EBEN: smoothing down his hair and beard That stable boy and his stars! Do I look all right, Tamar?

TAMAR: You look fine, Eben. brushes speck of lint from Eben's robe

EBEN: I've never had one magus came to my inn before--much less three! begins striding back and forth. I wonder why such men have traveled so far and stopped here? Caesar's census doesn't affect them. ties belt tighter I just wonder.

Tamar quickly spreads up the couches, moves the stools back in place around the table, and then retires to the back of the room as the magi enter and Eben steps toward the door to greet them. Lemuel closes the door after all are inside.

EBEN: Won't you please come in, Sirs! bows You honor my humble inn with your presence! I am Eben, the innkeeper.

all magi bow, cordially

3^RD MAGUS: serving as spokesman for all The peace of your God be with you!

1^ST MAGUS: We are magi, come to your land of Judea from the East.

2^ND MAGUS: Some people refer to us as star-watchers. That we are, and more.

3^RD MAGUS: For years we have been privileged to study the stars, to chart their courses. In recent months we have turned all our attention to a magnificent new star appearing in the heavens. And it is this new star which led us to Bethlehem!

EBEN: A new star? Why-- I-- I-- I regret that I am an ignorant man and know very little of the stars. However, now that you mention it, just this evening I was talking to my stable boy here motions toward Lemuel about what appears to be a bright new star in the sky. Right, Lemuel? We were talking about a new star, weren't we?

LEMUEL: half-heartedly Yes, Sir. We were talking. Brightens tone And I talked to the star!

EBEN: indicating stools Sit down, Sirs, sit down. shows three to places

Magi move slowly, with much dignity, all sit down.

EBEN: You were speaking of the new star?

3^RD MAGUS: The brilliant new star guiding us is the star of a new king! It is for this newborn king that we search. And from all the signs--and the ancient holy writings we heard read in Jerusalem--we are finally at the end of our journey. He that is born King of the Jews is here in Bethlehem!

EBEN: incredulously In Bethlehem?

2^ND MAGUS: Perhaps you will be so good as to tell us exactly which street we should take to find the home of the king. We assume, of course, that you have seen him.

EBEN: Why-- Why-- No, no. I haven't seen an infant king. There's no king in Bethlehem! Right now the whole city is crowded with the descendants of the great King David of old. They've come here to register in the census of Caesar Augustus. But there is no young king among these people. The ruler over us is King Herod in Jerusalem--as you surely know.

3^RD MAGUS: Yes, we've just come from King Herod's palace. We arrived in Jerusalem several days ago. Much to our surprise when we went to the palace and asked Herod about where to find the one born King of the Jews, Herod became very excited, very troubled. And all Jerusalem with him. There was quite a commotion!

1^ST MAGUS: Herod called in his priests and scribes and ordered them to search the old Scriptures to find out if there was a prophecy of any kind that would reveal where such a king would be born.

The poor old scribes sat up all night, searching through scroll after scroll of Holy Writ. Next morning they reported to the king--and then he told us--that the birth would occur in Bethlehem!

3^RD MAGUS: This is why we are convinced that there is, somewhere here in the city of Bethlehem, the new king of the Jews. There couldn't be any mistake. begins unrolling scroll Just listen to this--copied word for word from the sacred scroll the Jerusalem scribes showed us, reads

"And thou, Bethlehem, in the land of Judea, art not the least among the princes of Judea; for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel."

EBEN: sincerely I wish I could help you find him, but Bethlehem has no such ruler. No governor. No king.

3^RD MAGUS: We know by the star that the time of the infant king is at hand!

First and Second Magi nod their heads in agreement.

1^ST MAGUS: gravely Yes. Indeed, his time is at hand!

2^ND MAGUS: The old prophecy of the rising of the Star is fulfilled! turns to Third Magus Tell our kind host about the star prophecy. looking again at innkeeper It's a fascinating prophecy! Centuries old!

3^RD MAGUS: Ah, yes! To us, it is a remarkable prophecy! Handed down by word of mouth from our fathers--and our fathers' fathers before them--as they had heard it in the land of Babylon when your Jewish people, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were held captive by the Babylonians.

The captive Jews said that there would come a Star, there would be a King-- interrupts himself  But now the whole story of how a strange prophet out of the land of Mesopotamia first foretold the rising of the Star and the coming of the King we didn't learn until just last week--in Jerusalem!

A scribe read--

EBEN; interrupting and speaking excitedly The whole story? You heard a story in Jerusalem? comes over closer to the Third Magus Tell it to me! Please, Sir, tell me the story! rubs hands together in anticipation.

I delight in stories! Pulls his stool over and sits down before Third Magus and waits expectantly. Tums unexpectedly to Tamar.

Tamar--and you too, Lemuel--listen. So you can tell me this again tomorrow.

Tamar and Lemuel move in closer. The other magi and Eben give Third Magus all their attention.

3^RD MAGUS: Ah, I shall he pleased to recount the star prophecy to you as the eldest of the scribes at King Herod's court so graciously read it to us.

And, I might add that the old scribe made sure that Herod didn't know what he was doing!

other wise men chuckle under their breath

He had found this story of how the prophecy was made in what he called "the books of Moses" in the section titled "Numbers." But of course where the scribe found the details of the prophecy doesn't concern us. What concerns us is the king involved, the Israelites, and the prophet.

It all happened in the land of Moab when a man named Balak was king of the Moabites and when the Israelites had first come up out of Egypt to claim a land promised to them by The Lord.

Balak and his people were very fearful of the Israelites. Balak feared that the Israelites would overrun Moab, take his kingdom, and put him to death.

The prophet in the story was Ba-laam, a Midianite, and a strange sort of man from a city called Peth-or in Mes-o-po-tam-ia. By strange, I mean Balaam had the gift of prophecy so that he could foretell coming events; but he sometimes dealt m enchantments and divinations and visions. Also, in blessings and curses!

Now, fortunately for King Balak, he had as his wife a queen who was a sensible woman, anxious to please him... voice trails off

Spotlight directs audience attention to throne room scene of Sub-Scene 1-A

Sub-Scene 1-A

It is early morning in the throne room of King Balak's palace in Moab. The king's throne and the queen's elaborate high chair are empty, but Queen Melzarith is seated on a stool near her chair. And her hairdresser is putting the finishing touches on her bejeweled, plaited hairdo. The queen holds her crown in her hand. The farmers stand behind the queen, gently waving their enormous fans back and forth.

HAIRDRESSER: patting the queen's hair and then backing off to admire her work. Ah, Queen Melzarith, your hairdo looks perfect! And I never saw you look lovelier yourself!

QUEEN: feeling her hair carefully Well, let's hope I look all right. King Balak gets very upset if I don't look my best when we have important foreign visitors. Gets up and starts toward high chair

FANNERS: bowing in unison, and smiling, and speaking as if they've said the same thing every morning of their lives Ma'am, you look very beautiful.

QUEEN: Thank you!

Queen's Servant Girl enters, in something of a hurry.

SERVANT GIRL: after bowing Queen Melzarith, your sister, Madam Bilnah is in the next room and wants to know if there's time to come in and speak to you for a minute.

QUEEN: Sure. Tell her to hurry, though, for King Balak will be here any minute and he's expecting foreign visitors this morning. Some dignitaries from Midian--I think.

SERVANT GIRL: Yes, Ma'am. Bows and hurries out to get queen's sister

Queen Melzarith seats herself in her high chair and puts her crown on her head. The hairdresser makes one final adjustment on the hairdo and begins to arrange the queen's skirts. Both fanners move closer to throne chairs.

Madam Bilnah comes in hurriedly and goes straight to the side of the queen's chair. The sisters clasp both hands in warm greeting.

MADAM BILNAH: Good morning, Sister! My, but you look every inch the stately queen of Moab!

Servant Girl fluffs up the pillow on the queen's footstool and then backs away. Hairdresser stands aside, waiting to be dismissed.

QUEEN: Bilnah! How good to see you! But what brings you to the palace so early in the morning? I hope no calamity has befallen your house!

BILNAH: No, no! Quite the contrary! We're getting ready to celebrate our daughter's wedding! And I came to beg a favor! Let your hairdresser come and help to adorn the bride! It would be a great favor! And Mirah would be so pleased!

QUEEN: Why of course! turning to hairdresser Mithcah, did you hear that? My sister wants you to dress her daughter's hair for her wedding! So you must do it!

HAIRDRESSER: much pleased Yes, Ma'am!

QUEEN: Braid many braids! Weave in many jewels! Make my niece the most beautiful bride who ever married in Moab! Oh, I just love weddings.

HAIRDRESSER: Yes, Ma'am! I will do at least twenty-five braids! Maybe more!

BILNAH: Thank you, Melzarith. pats queen's arm I must go now. Thanks very much!

Starts to leave, then comes back

Sister, what's the matter with king Balak? I saw him out in the courtyard just now, pacing back and forth, back and forth. waves hand to indicate king's walking By the look on his face, you'd think his last friend had jumped in to the great Salt Sea!

QUEEN: in confidential tone and with her hand shielding her lips so that the servants won't hear Ah, Sister, Balak is worried! We don't talk of it in front of the servants, but the king is quite distressed about a horde of people called Israelites who are gradually moving northward out of Egypt.

Balak says they're sure to invade the land of the Amorites, for they're encamped near the city of Heshbon now. Don't breathe a word about it, but Balak sent spies to Heshbon last week to find out what's happening! He just knows if Heshbon falls, the kingdom of Moab will be next!

We've made an alliance with the Midianites, and if war should come the Midianites will fight with us. Still, Balak is almost frantic! I keep trying to cheer him up, but it doesn't do any good.

Queen sees Balak entering.

Uh-oh! Here's Balak now. Don't say anything about all this, Sister. Changes tone so that Balak will think all her talk to her sister has been light Oh, I just know the wedding will be lovely! Give my kindest regards to the bride!

Queen quickly removes a strand of beads wrapped around one arm, a bracelet and a ring from the other arm and hand.

Here, Bilnah, take these. Tell dear little Mirah that she must wear some of the queen's jewelry on her wedding day! turns to Hairdresser and Servant Girl You may go now.

Bilnah, Servant Girl, Hairdresser slip out. Fanners shift positions so that one can fan the queen, the other the king. King Balak strides in, looking glum, despondent. He climbs to his throne, slumps down, sighs heavily. Melzarith reaches over and pats her husband's hand.

KING: Ah, woe is me! On days like today, I wish I'd never been born!

QUEEN: cheerfully Don't be so despondent, Balak! Things will work out all right!

KING: in plaintive tone Melzarith, why do these dreaded things have to happen to me? Me, the son of Zippor, the king of the Moabites! Why should I and all my kingdom be trampled in blood and swept from the face of the earth!

QUEEN: much-concerned Balak, what are you talking about? What's happened?

KING: I hadn't meant to tell you, but I may as well. You remember seven days ago I sent spies to the city of Heshbon?

QUEEN: Yes! So?

KING: They got back at daylight this morning, and-- stops abruptly and turns to fanners You two fanners go away a few minutes. waves them toward door What I have to tell the queen is not for your innocent little pink ears to hear!

Fanners gasp and giggle in surprise. They bow and scurry out.

QUEEN: Oh, goodness, Balak! what's gone wrong?

KING: The Israelites have taken Heshbon! Killed King Sihon! They slew all the Amorites! As if they were flies! They've overrun the land of Bashan! There was a terrible battle at Ed-re-i! King Og and his sons, and all his people, just wiped out! We'll be next!

QUEEN: astounded and dismayed The Amorites! The Bashanites! King Sihon! And King Og! All killed! How dreadful! I can't believe it! Quickly regaining some measure of composure

Oh, But we have an alliance with Midian! And the Midianites are great fighters! And there's the Arnon River, on the north!

The Arnon is not easy to cross! It's a real protection! Deep! Swift! Full of torrents! The Israelites won't cross the Arnon!

KING: Melzarith, my dear, the Israelites won't bat an eye when they get to the Arnon River! Do you know what happened when those people were fleeing from Egypt and got to the Great Red Sea?

QUEEN: No. What?

KING: Their God opened up the waters of the Red Sea spreads hands to show parting of the water and the Israelites walked through on dry land! That's what happened! There's no stopping them! They have a powerful army! A powerful God!

QUEEN: now fully alarmed. Balak, what can we do?

KING: Only one thing can save us! I've sent runners to the mountains to find the famous Midianite prophet Ba-laam! And I'm going to hire Ba-laam to PUT A CURSE on those Children of Israel!

QUEEN: delighted A curse! That's wonderful! Why didn't we think of that sooner! leans back, much relieved A curse will fix 'em, for sure! There's no prophet like the great Balaam! Those he blesses are blessed! Those he curses are cursed! pauses But will Balaam put you a curse on the Israelites?

KING: smiling for the first time If I offer him enough silver and gold, he will!

QUEEN: When will you see Balaam?

KING: Now in a few minutes, I hope.

QUEEN: surprised This morning? I thought we were waiting for the princess of Midian.

KING: The delegation from Midian is coming this morning. And I'm sure the Midianites will help me pay off Balaam. The curse is going to cost an arm and a leg! But it will be worth it! sees Guard entering Ah, somebody has arrived!

King's Guard marches in, javelin in hand.

KING'S GUARD: after bowing King Balak, the prophet Balaam has arrived!

KING: Good!

GUARD: Sir, he has his scribe and two servants with him. Shall I show them all in, or do you wish his servants to stay out in the courtyard?

BALAK: Show only Balaam in. This is a secret and delicate matter I have to discuss with him. pauses But now you ask his attendants to be seated in the shade and show them every courtesy!

GUARD: bows and goes for Balaam

QUEEN: more or less thinking out loud How do you suppose a prophet like Balaam goes about casting a curse?

KING: Don't ask me! I imagine he goes off up in the mountains and seeks enchantments and stuff like that. But I'm not sure. I know how to be a king, but I don't know a thing about curses!

King's Guard enters, followed by Balaam.

GUARD: Your Majesty, the Prophet Balaam the Midianite, son of B-or, of Peth-or in Mes-o-po-ta-mi-a!

Balaam bows before Balak and Melzarith. Guard backs away and stands beside door.

BALAAM: O, live forever, King Balak! And may the Queen of Moab live forever! King lifts his hand in recognition, queen smiles, nods her head.

KING: warmly Ah, Balaam, I'm glad you're here. You know why I sent for you, don't you? My messengers told you?

BALAAM: Yes, King Balak, your messengers' words were quite plain. I had my scribe write them down, and I repeat them now to you, word for word:

"Behold, there is a people called Israelites come up out from Egypt; behold, they cover the face of the earth and they are encamped close by the borders of Moab.

"Come now therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people; for they are too mighty for me!

"Curse them that I may smite them and drive them out of the land; for I know that he whom you bless is blessed and he whom you curse is cursed!"

KING: enthusiastically Yes, yes! Those were my exact words! And did my messengers tell you there will be rewards for you? Great honors! And silver and gold?

BALAAM: They did. Now, King Balak, let me ask a question of you. Did your messengers tell you my reply?

KING: hesitating Well, uh-- uh-- Well, they-- did mumble something about your saying that you could not go beyond the work of your God, to do less or more. But, I didn't pay any attention to that.

Balaam, you've got to put me a curse on these Israelites! They've conquered the Amorites! The Bashanites! They're sweeping across the land like a herd of oxen "licking up the grass of the field!"

BALAAM: Yes, your majesty, I know.

KING: Who will be next? I'll tell you who will be next! Moab! And then your native Midian! Put me a curse on them! Curse me Jacob! And defy Israel!

BALAAM: O, King, how shall I curse whom God has not cursed? Or how shall I defy, whom the Lord has not defied?

In a vision, The Lord God of the Israelites has told me to utter only the words He shall put in my mouth. He will put a blessing, not a curse, in my mouth! (See Numbers 23:6-26)

KING: with cunning Balaam, use your head! Utter the words that will put BAGS OF SILVER AND GOLD IN YOUR HANDS!

BALAAM: The Lord God has brought these descendants of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob up out of the land of Egypt. He has blessed them and will make them a mighty nation, and I cannot reverse it!

KING: intensely Balaam, don't you realize I have the power to promote you to great honors! That my coffers are bulging with silver and gold! Name your price and curse the descendants of Jacob!

BALAAM: shaking his head No, King Balak. Though you take the crown off your head and put it on mine, and though you give me your house full of silver and gold, I cannot put a curse on the Israelites!

KING. seething with fury and pounding his fist on the arm of his throne Balaam, I thought you were a clever man! I was wrong! Leave! Go back to your hills in the East! Go seek enchantments! Or see visions! Or fall into trances! Or whatever it is prophets do day and night! But DON'T LET ME SEE YOUR FACE AGAIN!

BALAAM: after bowing I am sorry I have displeased you, King Balak. If you knew The Lord God, you would understand. turns to go, then comes back

King Balak, one thing more The Lord has revealed to me, and it would be well for you to know this prophecy. If I may, let me tell it to you. Then, I will go.

KING: looking at the queen for approval, or disapproval What do you think, Melzarith?

QUEEN: nods her head I'd like to hear it!

KING: impatiently Then let's hear it. leans back to listen

BALAAM: This is the prophecy of him who has heard the words of God, and knows the knowledge of the Most High, who sees the vision of the Almighty: heightens intensity of voice to a chanting sound

"There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter--a Great King--shall rise out of Israel....

"I shall see Him, but not now. I shall behold Him, but not near." see Numbers 24:15-17

Balaam bows low, backs his way to the door and leaves. King's Guard follows him out.

KING: in reflective tone as he idly drums one finger on the arm of his throne If I knew The Lord God, I would understand ... pauses Hmm-mm, somehow, I wish I did know The Lord God. pauses There shall come a Star ... A Great King ... I shall see Him, but not now. I shall behold Him, but not near.... A Star ... A King, I wonder ... voice trails

Lights go down, and out, to end scene. Spotlight directs audience attention back to Three Magi, Eben, Tamar and Lemuel. Scene 1 of ACT II is resumed.

EBEN: much elated Wonderful! A very wonderful story! Something that actually happened: And the Star! It has appeared! Now, I see why you know that the King will appear!

3^RD MAGUS: enthusiastically Yes! That's why we're here! And there's this to consider:

More than one of the ancient Hebrew prophets told of the coming of this King. One of those prophets--Isaiah, I believe, was his name--said that this King would be known as "the Prince of Peace!"

Tamar rushes forward, hesitates, then approaches the Third Magus.

TAMAR: to 3^rd Magus You said a prince? Sir, there is a newborn child here, born in one of our stables this very night. And he is as beautiful as a prince!

EBEN: outdone and embarrassed Tamar! Gentlemen, you'll have to pardon my wife: She means well, but she knows nothing of government, and kings, and such matters!

Tamar meekly moves back

3^RD MAGUS: Ah, my good innkeeper, what your wife has to say is of much interest to us! Let us go see this newborn babe of which she speaks. See what manner of child this infant be!

EBEN somewhat set back on his heels Why-- Yes, yes, of course! If you like. I'll be glad for you to see the child. But you are in for disappointment. He is only the firstborn of some travelers from Nazareth--come to Bethlehem for the census. aside to Tamar Which stable is the baby in?

TAMAR: whispering In the cave stable. The one where Lemuel usually sleeps.

EBEN: Sirs, come with me. I'll show you the stable where the newborn child sleeps. motions for Lemuel to come to his side Lemuel, run quick and get the lamp at the gatepost! all leave room

CURTAIN

If curtain is not being used, simply have the group walk slowly from the living quarters area to the stable set.

Scene 2

Immediately after Scene 1. At the stable, where there is a traditional Christmas card-type setting, with dim lighting. A star shines above the stable. Straw is stacked high in the background. The Christ Child is in a rough, hay-filled manger placed just to the left of center. A light radiates from the manger. Mary and Joseph are seated on either side. Kenaz and the other shepherds and their sons are on right stage, kneeling.

As Lemuel, the magi, Eben and Tamar enter, Lemuel carries the lamp and leads the way. All halt as they come fairly close to the manger, and the magi begin talking among themselves. Eben and Tamar linger in the background. Lemuel stays near Third Magus.

3^RD MAGUS: walking a little closer to the manger, gazing dawn, and speaking with great awe Behold Him! This is the Child! The prince of Peace. The King. Born in Bethlehem, in the land of Judea--just as the prophets foretold!

1^ST MAGUS: Exactly as the prophets foretold!

2^ND MAGUS: At last we have found Him! Let us rejoice and be glad!

3^RD MAGUS: Exceedingly glad! going close again to look upon the Child. The "Star out of Jacob!" The King! turning back to his companions See how He shines! I feel as if I had walked in darkness; and now I have seen a Great Light!

Pause

If I were a prophet--instead of a magus--I would say to his people: "He shall be The Light of the World."

2^ND MAGUS: My friends, if I were a prophet--instead of a magus--I would say to his people: "He shall be the king of kings! Of His kingdom there shall be no end!" Come, let us open our treasures and give him gifts!

Three begin carefully unwrapping containers in which they have brought gold, frankincense and myrrh.

1^ST MAGUS: Both of you speak of making prophecies! If I were a prophet--instead of a magus--I would say to his people: "This Child is the fulfillment of all prophecy. Heaven shall be his throne, the earth his footstool!" as he speaks, First Magus takes gold coins from money pouch, lets them slip through his fingers and fall back To him will I offer my greatest treasure, gold!

2^ND MAGUS showing jar of frankincense to his companions Would that I could have brought all the frankincense of Arabia to lay at his feet. For, truly, all the frankincense of the world should be his!

3^RD MAGUS: holding up jar of myrrh The Holy Newborn King shall have from me this gift of myrrh. It is a symbol. A sacred symbol. The Israelites of old took the sweet and fragrant myrrh to make "an oil of holy ointment" when they worshipped their God. Here, this night, is their God--and our God--revealed! Come, let us bow down before Him!

Magi move close to manger, present their gifts, kneel almost in center stage, but in such position that the Christ Child's cradle is still visible to audience.

EBEN: to Tamar and Lemuel We, too, will bow down and worship!

Eben, Tamar and Lemuel kneel beside the magi, with the result that they, the shepherds and the magi form a semi-circle before the manger.

CURTAIN

Or, all lights fade out while players leave stage, and stagehands place screen in front of set. Pianist may play a brief interlude, using the music of "Song of the Angels."

Scene 3

Just at daybreak the next morning, in the living quarters of the inn. Tamar is pouring Lemuel a cup of milk, which is part of his breakfast.

TAMAR: Finish your breakfast, Lemuel! Master Eben has an errand for you. Here, drink every drop of this. Fresh goat milk is good for you. Lemuel gulps down milk.

Eben comes striding in.

EBEN: in a tone far more kindly than usual Lemuel. I want you to run get our Uncle Asa, the scribe. Tell him to come as soon as he can.

LEMUEL: Wake him? Now, before the sun comes up?

EBEN: He will be awake. Old men rise early. Tell him to bring his ink and parchment--his best ink and parchment! This is important!

LEMUEL: Yes, Sir.

Tamar hands Lemuel a large bun of bread. He holds it in his hand as he starts for the door.

EBEN: Lemuel! Come back a minute.

LEMUEL: rather uneasy, for fear Eben is going to scold Yes, Sir?

EBEN: placing both hands on the stable boy's shoulders and speaking gently Lemuel, son. You can look at the stars all you want to. Every night.

LEMUEL: relieved, delighted Yes, Sir!

Lemuel darts out--pleased with the world, and eating his bread!

TAMAR: Sit down, Eben, and I'll get your breakfast.

EBEN: No, not yet. I couldn't eat a bite. I'm not hungry. Besides, I've got to think. begins pacing back and forth I can't eat when I'm thinking. And I can't do much thinking when I'm eating. The two don't go together, for me. pauses If only I could think of what to say!

Asa knocks at the door. Tamar lets him in.

TAMAR: surprised Why, Uncle Asa, it's you! You got here mighty quick! Just this minute we sent Lemuel to ask you to come!

ASA: out of breath Is something wrong?

EBEN: No, no, Uncle Asa! Quite the opposite! All is well!

ASA: I was already on my way over when Lemuel came running down the path. He said you sent him to get me, but I couldn't get any sense whatsoever out of that boy!

Apparently, he was overjoyed about something. What, he couldn't explain. He kept saying there's a babe in the stable and that his cousins heard angels sing. That was all mixed up with talk about a new star and three magi! Finally, I gave up trying to figure out what on earth the child was trying to tell me!

TAMAR: interrupting her uncle Lemuel was trying to tell you what--

ASA: ignoring Tamar and looking at Eben Then he said you wanted me to do some writing. Why I knew some traveler had told another new tale and that you wanted me to take it down on paper. So, here I am, ready to write! How does the new story begin?

EBEN: It's not a story. This is a thing greater than any story ever told! God has come to my house! And I want you to write a letter to Caesar Augustus!

ASA: Write a letter to Caesar Augustus? The emperor of the Roman Empire? Eben? Are you-- turning to Tamar Tamar, is your husband serious? It's too early in the morning for light jokes, or pranks!

TAMAR: Eben is serious, Uncle Asa. He does want you to write out a fine letter. And he-- Eben is going to spend it straight to Rome!

Old Asa sits down, as if he is suddenly feeling weak.

ASA: Unbelievable! I-- I-- What--

EBEN: I want it to be a perfect letter. Use your finest parchment and your best ink!

ASA: That I will, though I don't know why. shakes his head What do you want me to say to Caesar?

Asa begins unrolling parchment and making preparations to write. Tamar sits down at the table with her uncle. Eben strides back and forth.

EBEN: Say "Dear Caesar Augustus: Please conduct a census every year. Because, this night in Bethlehem, in the land of Judea-- pauses, clears throat This night, here in Judea, God visited my house, and--" No, don't say it that way! Caesar wouldn't understand that.

Say "The Lord came as a Child, and--" No, don't write that either! Begin with-- in desperation Uncle Asa, you're going to have to help me with the words! You're a scribe! I'm not! You decide how to say it!

ASA: patiently Eben, decide how to say what? First, tell me why you want to write to the Emperor of the Roman Empire. Then, what you want to tell him. After that, it won't be difficult to word the letter. If I can just understand what you have in mind, I can phrase it so Caesar Augustus will understand it.

EBEN: I'm sorry, Uncle Asa! I guess I'm not making much sense. I keep forgetting you weren't here last night. Right after you went home, a wondrous thing happened at one of my stables! Last night God came down to earth! As a Holy Child!

Because of the census, he was born right here in the city of David. If we could have a census each year, the Child would return again and again. He is a descendant of David! He is the Messiah! He is God come to my house!

And I want God to come to my house again and again. That is the reason I must ask Caesar Augustus to issue a census decree year after year!

ASA astonished and awed Eben, I had not dreamed it was to be a letter of this nature! Let us begin. starts writing, then, leans back to read the salutation "Dear Caesar Augustus: I--" lifts pen in mid air, speculates on a few more words Hm-m? Let me see. Ah, yes, this will sound appropriate:

"Dear Caesar Augustus: I, Eben the Innkeeper of Bethlehem, desire that you, the Emperor, issue a census decree each year so that God will come to my house, and--"

EBEN: interrupting Wait! Wait! Stop writing, Uncle Asa! long pause I have been a fool in my head! And in my heart!

Our God is not subject to the decrees of emperors! And, it does not take an edict to bring the Lord to a man's house, to his heart.

A man has only to ask God, and He will come. And come again.

Every year! Every day!

Asa and Tamar nod their heads in agreement. Asa lays down his pen, folds up the parchment.

Entire cast comes on stage, gathering in semi-circle around Eben, Lemuel, Tamar, and Asa and sings Grand Finale hymn, "Ask the Child to Come." (see below)

FINAL CURTAIN

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