Page:Joseph and His Brethren A Pageant Play.djvu/30

JOSEPH AND HIS BRETHREN

Reuben. Not so. Jacob rebuked him, and said, What is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth?

[Up to tent]

Asher. Ay, he rebuked him; but did he punish him?

Issachar. Not so:—he observes Joseph's saying.

Simeon. Ay—he feareth him. Wherefore we must humble the lad overselves.

Reuben [Sternly] Silence!—Our father!

[Enter Servants bringing a seat; others with skins which they spread in front of the seat; then, supported by the two young slaves, Jacob. He is eighty-six years old. A magnificent and venerable figure. He is followed by Rachel—Behind Rachel comes Bilhah, and lastly Zilpah. The Brothers all make deep obeisance to Jacob, who sits in the chair which has been placed for him. Dan and Naphthali go to Bilhah; similarly Gad and Asher join Zilpah]

Jacob [Standing] God set His face towards you, O my sons, this day and all days.

Brothers [Rise] And towards thee, O father.

Jacob. God hath been very merciful towards me, and hath given me length of days; I have prospered in the land; I am at peace with Esau, my brother; all my sons are with me, and today, Joseph [He takes Rachel's hand], Rachel's first-born, fruit of who knows what love and what prayer, hath come to man's estate——

Simeon. It had been more fitting had Joseph stood here with us.

Rachel. Simeon, Simeon, thy brother Joseph was with thy father long ere the sun rose.

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