goes, Miracle comes in and tells her it is all nonsense, to sing as much
as she likes; but she will not break her promise to Hoffmann. Miracle
then causes the ghost of Antonia's mother to appear, and to her prayers
the girl yields. Miracle urges her on and on, until she is utterly
exhausted. She falls dying, and her father receives her last breath.
Hoffmann is heartbroken.


EPILOGUE.

A return to the scene of the first act. Hoffmann has told his stories.
His companions leave him. The Muse appears and tells him that she is the
only mistress to follow, the only one who will remain true to him. His
spirit flickers a moment with gratitude. Then his head sinks on the
table, and he sleeps.




The Tales of Hoffmann




ACT I.


(The Tavern of Martin Luther. The interior of a German inn. Tables and
benches.)