(She opens the oven door; the heat has apparently diminished. Meanwhile Hänsel makes violent signs to Gretel.)

Hänsel (softly opening the stable door).

Sister dear,

O beware!

The Witch (looking greedily at Gretel).

She makes my mouth water,

this pretty little daughter!

Come, Gretel mine,

sugar-maiden mine!

(Gretel comes towards her.)