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The cave of Bethlehem is left far behind.

No more is heard the hum of the crowds of Jerusalem or the singing in the Temple.

As far as the eye can see, the lone wilderness stretches round.

The noonday sun shines down with strong heat from the mid sky.

A small spring of cooling water has sprung up and made the grass to grow. It is like a green island in the midst of the great salt sea.

A few slight trees make a shelter here in this hot sandy plain.

Here rests the Holy Family, wearied by a long swift journey. All night have they travelled, and now it is the broad noonday.

Joseph is watchful still; for in those wild parts dwell beasts and still wilder