And they of Ind and Chaldee who came often into Jerusalem because of
merchandise and also for disport--the which, for the most part, be
learned in astronomy--said that in Ind were many stars in the firmament
that might not be seen by night in Jerusalem; but, specially on this
hill of Vaws in clear weather, were seen many and divers strange stars
that at the foot of the hill were not seen. Yet this hill of Vaws hath
no more breadth than a little chapel is made upon, the which the three
worshipful kings did build of stone and timber. And there be about this
hill many steps upon which men go up to the chapel on high, and also
there grew many good trees and herbs and divers spices all about the
hill--for else men might not well go upon this hill because it is so
high and so narrow. There is also a pillar of stone made above this
chapel, of wondrous height, and in the head of the pillar standeth a
great star, well made of gilt, and which turneth with the wind as a
vane: and through the light of the sun by day, and of the moon by night,
this star gives light a great way about the country. And many other
marvels are spoken of this hill of Vaws, the which were long to tell.

Now when the time of grace was come, that God would have mercy on all
mankind, in which time the Father of Heaven sent down his Son to take
flesh and blood and to be born a man for salvation of all the world: in
that time Octavianus, that was Emperor of Rome, sent out a commandment
that all the people within his empire should be counted and taxed; and
every man went forth from his dwelling-place into his native country.
Then came Joseph up from Nazareth unto Bethlehem the city of David,
because he was of the household and race of King David, and with him
came Mary that was his wife, and also great with child.

And you shall understand that Bethlehem was never of much reputation,