violin, picks it up, and stares at it. Still the notes are heard, and
he puts down the violin, and runs down stage, listening.] Why, what
can it mean? [As the music grows louder his perplexity and alarm
increase. Suddenly he sees a figure stealing through the shadows, and
he springs back, aghast.] Why, it's a Nibelung! [Another figure
passes.] Oh! I must be dreaming! [Several more appear.] Nibelungs!
Why, it's absurd! Wake up, man! You're going crazy! [Music swells
louder; figures appear, carrying gold shields, chains, etc., with
clatter.] My God!

[He stands with hands clasped to his forehead, while the uproar swells
louder and louder, and the forms become more numerous. He rushes down
stage, and the Nibelungs surround him, dancing about him in wild
career, laughing, screaming, jeering. They begin to pinch his legs
behind his back, and he leaps here and there, crying out. Gradually
they drive him toward the grotto, which opens before them, revealing a
black chasm, emitting clouds of steam. They rush in and are enveloped
in the mist. Sounds of falling and crashing are heard. The steam
spreads, gradually veiling the front of the stage.]

[Nets rise with the steam, giving the effect of a descent. During this
change the orchestra plays the music between Scenes II and III in Das
Rheingold.]




SCENE II