And then one MS. has the stage direction:-- “_Then the Kinges go doune to the beasts and ride about._”[43] [43] Chester was accustomed to produce beasts of this sort. In 1564 an agreement between the mayor and two citizens shows that the latter undertook to provide yearly for 40s. “4 gyants, 1 unikorne, 1 dromodarye, 1 Luce, 1 Camel, 1 Dragon,” &c. These were for the midsummer play. Each beast required two men to work it. After circling round the pageant-carriage they ascend it again, and then, the star having disappeared, they are in doubt as to the right way, but fortunately meet with a messenger or “explorator.” FIRST KING. Can thou say ought what place and where A child is born that crown shall bear And of the Jews be king? SECOND KING. We saw a star shine verily In the East in noble array, Therefore we come now this way To worship him with win. MESSENGER. Hold your peace, sir, I you pray For if King Herod heard you so say He would go mad, by my fay And fly out of his skin. THIRD KING. And sith a king is so near Go we to him in all manner. MESSENGER. You may well see he wounes here (lives here) A palace in to dwell. But moy he wot, withouten were, That any is born of more power, You bring yourselves in great danger Such tydinges for to tell. “_Here the messenger goeth to the King and the mynstrilles must play_,” and the Kings are then introduced to Herod, and Court language again is spoken. FIRST KING. Sir Roy, royale et reverent, Dieu vous gardes Omnipotent. HEROD. Bien soies venues, rois gente; Me dites toute votre intent. (Welcome, stranger kings; Tell me what is your intent.) THIRD KING. Infant, queruns de grand parent Et roi de ciel et terre. (Seeking a child of great parentage And king of Heaven and Earth.) Then Herod bursts forth in the following fine ranting speech:[44]-- [44] It compares very favourably with the “Coventry” play, where the ranting oversteps the mark and becomes balderdash. HEROD. Sirs, advise ye what you sayen; Such tidings make my heart unfayne; I rede you take these words again, For fear of villany. There is none so great that me dare gain To take my realm, and to attain My power, but he shall have pain And be punished apertly. I, king of kings, none so keen; I, soveraign sire, as well is seen; I, tyrant, that may both take and teen Castle, tower, and towne, I wield this world withouten wene, I beat all those unbuxsome beene, I drive the devils all by deene Deep in hell adowne. For I am king of all mankind; I bid--I beat--I loose--I bind, I master the moon: Take this in mind That I am most of might.