Gretel. Yes, mother, I was. But, mother, Hänsel comforted me, and we said our prayers and went to sleep.

Mother. The good angels watched over you and brought you back! Come, let us go to the village and take all these dear children to their mothers. Won't they be surprised and happy to see their dear children again?

Father. Come, children!


KING ALFRED

PERSONS IN THE PLAY—Queen Judith, Ethelbald, Ethelbert, Ethelred, Alfred, Peasants, King's Officers

Scene I.—In the Castle

Ethelbald. Tell us a story, lady mother.