And there came an order from the Emperor Augustus that a census be made of all the inhabitants of Bethlehem of Judea. And Joseph said: 'I can register my children, but what shall I do with this maiden?'
2And, saddling his donkey, he had Mary seat herself upon it, while one of his sons went ahead pulling the animal by the halter.
3And, upon reaching the middle of the journey, Mary said to Joseph: 'Take me down, because the fruit of my womb is struggling to come forth.' And he helped her dismount from the donkey, saying to her: 'Where could I take you to shelter your modesty, since we are in open country?'