Four MAIDS enter from the rear, carrying baskets of white and pink roses. Music is heard from above. The MAIDS go up to the bed and scatter roses over it.
Then come TWO KNIGHTS with closed visors. They take the PRINCE between them toward the rear, where they meet the FALSE MAGDALENE, escorted by two ladies. The bride is deeply veiled.
With a gesture of her hand the STEPMOTHER bids all depart except the bridal couple. She herself leaves last of all, after she has closed the curtains and locked the gates.
PRINCE. Is this my bride?
FALSE MAGDALENE. Who is your bride?
PRINCE. I have forgot her name. Who is your bridegroom?
FALSE MAGDALENE. He whose name may not be mentioned.
PRINCE. Tell, if you can.
FALSE MAGDALENE. I can, but will not.
PRINCE. Tell, if you can!
FALSE MAGDALENE. Tell my name first!
PRINCE. It's seven barrels full of gold, and crooked back, and grim, and hare-lipped! What's my name? Tell, if you can!