The poem tells the story of Mary of Magdala, a sinful woman who gives birth to a child. She is afraid and ashamed, feeling unworthy to bring a child into the world. Despite her fears, she finds joy in the birth of her child. Two angels appear, bringing gifts for the baby and baptizing it. The Lord God appears, promising to care for the child and comfort Mary. In the end, Mary's tears wash away her sins, and she is reunited with her son.
By Edith Nesbit · First published 1908 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Religious Fiction, Drama