PRINCE. But if you love me, then you are my bride.
SWANWHITE. I am!
PRINCE. Then may the heavens bestow their blessing on our union!
SWANWHITE. In dreamland!
PRINCE. With your head upon my arm!
The PRINCE leads SWANWHITE to the bed, in which he places his sword. Then she lies down on one side of the sword, and he on the other. The colour of the clouds changes to a rosy red. The rose-trees murmur. The harp plays softly and sweetly.
PRINCE. Good night, my queen!
SWANWHITE. Good morning, O my soul's beloved!—I hear the beating of your heart—I hear it sigh like billowing waters, like swift-flying steeds, like wings of eagles—Give me your hand!
PRINCE. And yours!—Now we take wing——
STEPMOTHER. [Enters with the MAIDS, who carry torches; all four have become grey-haired] I have to see that my task is finished ere the duke returns. My daughter. Magdalene, is plighted to the prince—while Swanwhite lingers in the tower—[Goes to the bed] They sleep already in each other's arms—you bear me witness, maids!