[Wotan is about to follow Erda in order to detain her. Froh and Fricka throw themselves in his way and prevent him.
Fricka
What meanest thou, madman?
Froh
Go not, Wotan!
Fear thou the warner,
Heed her words well!
[Wotan gazes thoughtfully before him.
Donner
Turning to the giants with a resolute air.
Hark, ye giants!
Come back and wait still!
The gold we give you also.
Fricka
Ah, dare I hope it?
Deem ye Holda
Worthy of such a price?
[All look at Wotan in suspense; he, rouſing himself from deep thought, grasps his spear and swings it in token of having come to a bold decision.
Wotan
To me, Freia,
For thou art free!
Bought back for aye,
Youth everlasting, return!
Here, giants, take ye the ring!
[He throws the ring on the hoard. The giants release Freia; ſhe haſtens joyfully to the Gods, who careſs her in turns for a space, with every manifestation of delight.
