SEVENTH ACTION (The Three Wise Men)
Reading edition
AISLE II: ANOTHER PATHWAY INTO THE WILDERNESS
Entering from its farther end appear, in procession, the THREE WISE MEN, and their Followers. Lighted by torches of their Attendants, this Pageant of the Kings moves onward in oriental splendor.
Each KING wears a crown of gold.
The crown of the youngest, BELSHASAR, is set on a turban. He is clean shaven, pale and recluse. The garb of him and his Group has a tone of asceticism.
The crown of the middle-aged, MELCHIOR, is placed on a helmet. He is thick-set, black-bearded and sharp-eyed. A martial glitter touches him and his Group.
The crown of the oldest, CASPAR, is set on a high-peaked hat with wide flapping brims. His beard is silver white, his face ruddy and wrinkled with laughter. His ample gown is gorgeous with red dyes and jewels. Like him in jocular splendor are his Followers.
As they approach the place of the Tree, KINGS and Followers come singing a carol, led by the KINGS.
Carol 4. Trio and Chorus: “We Three Kings of Orient Are” BELSHASAR, MELCHIOR AND CASPAR TRIO We three kings of Orient are: Wending home, we traverse afar Field and fountain Moor and mountain Seeking for our lost star. CHORUS (Of the Three Kings and their Followers) O Star of Wonder, Star of Night, Star with royal beauty bright! Eastward leading, Home proceeding, Show once more Thy perfect light! TRIO Where the guiding glory once shone Dark we wander onward and on, Watching, hoping, Dimly groping, Seeking the light that’s gone. CHORUS O Star of Wonder, Star of Night, Star with royal beauty bright! Eastward leading, Home proceeding, Show once more Thy perfect light!
The Three Wise Men