Svanhild [in gentle reproof, withdrawing her hand].

O, why have you betrayed yourself? How sweet

It was when we as friends could freely meet!

You should have kept your counsel. Can we stake

Our bliss upon a word that we may break?

Now you have spoken, all is over.

Falk.

No!

I’ve pointed to the goal,—now leap with me,

My high-souled Svanhild—if you dare, and show