Overview

Portia, a Roman matron, is traveling the New Testament world, searching for a philosophy which will answer her questions and help her find peace of mind. At a pagan temple, where she attempts to purchase answers, her death is prophesied. She comes to Bethlehem, not only to study the Hebrew religion, but also to visit her son Cassius, who is in charge of the census, and to await the birth of her grandson. She stays at the inn of Deborah, a midwife, who assists when Portia's grandson is born. Deborah permits Mary and Joseph to stay in her stable, where Portia, at the birth of the Christ Child, experiences an awareness of the peace for which she has been searching. She realizes the fulfilled life is one of love and service, and she no longer fears death. Published in Do Not Fear the Harvest and Other Plays.