TERRACE ON THE MOUNTAIN

[A Terrace on the mountain on which the Monastery stands. On the
right a rocky cliff and a similar one on the left. In the far
background a bird's-eye view of a river landscape with towns,
villages, ploughed fields and woods; in the very far distance the
sea can be seen. Down stage an apple tree laden with fruit. Under
it a long table with a chair at the end and benches at the sides.
Down stage, right, a corner of the village town hall. A cloud seems
to be hanging immediately over the village.]

[The MAGISTRATE sits at the end of the table in the capacity of
judge; the assessors on the benches. The ACCUSED MAN is standing on
the right by the MAGISTRATE; the witnesses on the left, amongst
them the TEMPTER. Members of the public, with the PILGRIM and the
STRANGER, are standing here and there not far from the judge's
seat.]

MAGISTRATE. Is the accused present?

ACCUSED MAN. Yes. Present.

MAGISTRATE. This is a very sad story, that's brought trouble and
shame on our small community. Florian Reicher, twenty-three years
old, is accused of shooting at Fritz Schlipitska's affianced wife,
with the clear intention of killing her. It's a case of premeditated
murder, and the provisions of the law are perfectly clear. Has the
accused anything to say in his defence, or can he plead mitigating
circumstances?