Joseph cannot accept Mary's explanation for her pregnancy. Her neighbours turn against her, and she is in danger of being stoned. Her father, Joachim, begs Joseph to take her to Bethlehem, since he must travel there for the census. The arrival of the Magi on his borders makes Herod deeply suspicious, so he sends Nicolaus to discover the reason for their mission. The Magi, however, are wary of revealing the truth to the emissary of a king with Herod's reputation. Thomas the shepherd seeks answers for his plight. He hears of the coming of the Messiah but takes no comfort in the words.
