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12.
1
AND it came to pass, that there went forth a decree [*32:2] from the Emperor Augustus, that all the Jews should be taxed, who were of Bethlehem in Judaea:
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12.
2
And Joseph said, I will take care that my children be taxed: but what shall I do with this young woman?
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12.
3
To have her taxed as my wife I am ashamed; and if I tax her as my daughter, all Israel knows she is not my daughter.
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12.
4
When the time of the Lord's appointment shall come, let him do as seems good to him.
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12.
5
And he saddled the ass, and put her upon it, and Joseph and Simon followed after her, and arrived at Bethlehem within three miles.
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12.
6
Then Joseph turning about saw Mary sorrowful, and said within himself, Perhaps she is in pain through that which is within her.
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12.
7
But when he turned about again he saw her laughing, and said to her,
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12.
8
Mary, how happens it, that I sometimes see sorrow, and sometimes laughter and joy in thy countenance?
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12.
9
And Mary replied to him, I see two people with mine eyes, the one weeping and mourning, the other laughing and rejoicing.
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12.
10
And he went again across the way, and Mary said to Joseph, Take me down from the ass, for that which is in me presses to come forth.
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12.
11
But Joseph replied, Whither shall I take thee? for the place is desert.
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12.
12
Then said Mary again to Joseph, take me down, for that which is within me mightily presses me.
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12.
13
And Joseph took her down.
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12.
14
And he found there a cave, and let her into it.
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12.
Footnotes ^32:2 Luke ii. 1.
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