GERALD. [Enters left with attendants; hesitating, gazing about in
wonder. He sees MIMI, and stops; a pause.] The pack peddler!

MIMI. The pack peddler!

GER. And these are Nibelungs?

MIMI. You call us that.

GER. [Laughing nervously.] You . . . er . . . it's a little
disconcerting, you know. I had no idea you existed. May I ask your
name?

MIMI. I am Mimi.

GER. Mimi! Mimi, the smith? And may I ask . . . are you real, or is
this a dream?

MIMI. Is not life a dream?

GER. Yes . . . but . . .

MIMI. It is a story. You have to pretend that it is true.

GER. I see!

MIMI. You pretend that it is true . . . and then you see what happens!
It is very interesting!

GER. Yes . . . I have no doubt. [Peers at him.] And just to help me