I. "Once there was a king in Thulé, Who was until death always faithful, And in memory of his loved one Caused a cup of gold to be made." (Breaking off.)
His manner was so gentle! 'Twas true politeness.
(Resuming the song.) "Never treasure prized he so dearly, Naught else would use on festive days, And always when he drank from it, His eyes with tears would be o'erflowing."
II. (She rises, and takes a few paces.) "When he knew that death was near, As he lay on his cold couch smiling, Once more he raised with greatest effort To his lips the golden vase." (Breaking off.)
I knew not what to say, my face red with blushes!
(Resuming the song.) "And when he, to honor his lady, Drank from the cup the last, last time, Soon falling from his trembling grasp, Then gently passed his soul away." Nobles alone can bear them with so bold a mien, So tender, too, withal!
(She goes toward the pavilion.)
I'll think of him no more! Good Valentine! If heav'n heeds my prayer, we shall meet again. Meanwhile I am alone! (Suddenly perceiving the bouquet attached to the door of the pavilion.) Flowers! (Unfastens the bouquet.) They are Siebel's, surely! Poor faithful boy! (Perceiving the casket.) But what is this? From whom did this splendid casket come? I dare not touch it— Yet see, here is the key!—I'll take one look! How I tremble—yet why?—can it be Much harm just to look in a casket! (Opens the casket and lets the bouquet fall.) Oh, heaven! what jewels! Can I be dreaming? Or am I really awake? Ne'er have I seen such costly things before!
(Puts down the casket on a rustic seat, and kneels down in order to adorn herself with the jewels.)
I should just like to see How they'd look upon me Those brightly sparkling ear-drops! (Takes out the ear-rings.) Ah! at the bottom of the casket is a glass: I there can see myself!— But am I not becoming vain?