“That wretch, my brother!” grumbled the Dwarf. “He treats us all cruelly. Leave me in peace!”
“How came Alberich by his power?” asked the Fire God.
“From the ruddy Rhinegold he made a Ring. With it he rules us. But,” asked the Nibelung, staring at them, “who are you both?”
“Friends that perhaps may free the Nibelung people,” laughed Logi, and at the same time Alberich appeared, scolding, screaming, and ill-treating all who came in his way. Driving Mime away with the rest of the dwarfs, he, scowling, asked the two gods what they wished.
“We heard of the wonders worked by Alberich,” answered Wotan. “We come to behold them.”
“Pooh! I know you well,” said the Dwarf King. “Such notable guests”—and he sneered—“could only have been led by envy to Nibelheim.”
“Surely you know me,” said Logi. “I have lit your forges, gnome. Cannot you trust me?”
“To be sure I know you,” grinned Alberich. “And I will always trust you to be untrustworthy. I don’t fear you.”
“How brave you are,” said Logi, in pretended admiration.
“Do you see that treasure?” said the Nibelung, proudly pointing to a great heap of gold and gems.