JOSEPH AND HIS BRETHREN
forms a sort of throne. Boughs of palms decorate the tent. Oil lamps hang from the roof, and torches are fixed to the poles of the tent. Jars stand about, from which presently the Slaves will pour wine into shallow cups for the guests. Great heaps of fruit—melons, grapes, pomegranates—are piled here and there for the guests to help themselves to. Rachel, Bilhah and Zilpah are busy putting the final touches to the decorations with the help of the other Handmaidens.
Rachel. Now the feast is ready.
Bilhah. My lord Jacob will be here anon.
Zilpah. Also his sons will come back from their sheepfolds.
Rachel. I have summoned the minstrels and dancers.
Bilhah. The sun set angrily.
Zilpah. Ho! Bilhah always foreseeth evil!
Rachel. There shall be no evil to-night, but mirth and music.
Jacob. God's peace rest upon us.
The Women. And upon my lord.
Jacob. Is there news of the brothers?
Rachel. Not yet, my lord.
Jacob. Hath not Joseph come back?
Rachel. I have not seen him.
Naphthali. Thy blessing, Father.
Jacob. How fare thy brothers?
Naphthali. All is well with them.
Jacob. And Joseph?
Naphthali. Here is a gift I bring for him.
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