Three Kings have come to Bethlehem With a trailing star in front of them.
MARY
What would you in this little place, You three bright kings?
KINGS
Mother, we tracked the trailing star Which brought us here from lands afar, And we would look on his dear face Round whom the Seraphs fold their wings.
MARY
But who are you, bright kings?
CASPAR
Caspar am I: the rocky North From storm and silence drave me forth Down to the blue and tideless sea.
I do not fear the tinkling sword, For I am a great battle-lord, And love the horns of chivalry.
And I have brought thee splendid gold, The strong man's joy, refined and cold.
All hail, thou Prince of Galilee!
BALTHAZAR
I am Balthazar, Lord of Ind, Where blows a soft and scented wind From Taprobane towards Cathay.
My children, who are tall and wise, Stand by a tree with shutten eyes And seem to meditate or pray.
And these red drops of frankincense Betoken man's intelligence.
Hail, Lord of Wisdom, Prince of Day!
MELCHIOR
I am the dark man, Melchior, And I shall live but little more Since I am old and feebly move.
My kingdom is a burnt-up land Half buried by the drifting sand, So hot Apollo shines above.
What could I bring but simple myrrh White blossom of the cordial fire?
Hail, Prince of Souls, and Lord of Love!
CHORUS OF ANGELS
O Prince of souls and Lord of Love, O'er thee the purple-breasted dove Shall watch with open silver wings, Thou King of Kings.
Suaviole o flos Virginum, Apparuit Rex Gentium.
. . .
"Who art thou, little King of Kings?"
His wondering mother sings.
