Page:MU KPB 001 The Rhinegold & The Valkyrie - Illustrated by Artur Rackham.pdf/40

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SECOND SCENE

The waves have gradually changed into clouds which, becoming lighter and lighter by degrees, finally disperse in a fine miſt. As the miſt vaniſhes upwards in light little clouds an open space on a mountain height becomes viſible in the dim light which precedes dawn. At one ſide Wotan with Fricka beſide him, both asleep, lie on a flowery bank. The dawning day illumines with increaſing brightneſs a caſtle with glittering pinnacles which ſtands on the summit of a cliff in the background. Between this and the foreground a deep valley is viſible through which the Rhine flows.

Fricke	Wotan! My lord! Awaken!
Awakes; her gaze falls on the caſtle, which has become plainly viſible; alarmed.
Wotan Continuing to dream.	The happy hall of delight Is guarded by gate and door: Manhood’s honour, Power for aye, Rise to my lasting renown!
Fricka Shakes him.	Up from deceitful Bliss of a dream! My husband, wake and consider!
Wotan Awakes and raises himself slightly. His glance is immediately arreſted by the view of the caſtle.	The walls everlasting are built! On yonder summit The Gods’ abode Proudly rears Its radiant strength! As I nursed it in dream And desired it to be, Strong it stands, Fair to behold, Brave and beautiful pile!

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