But Tannhäuser paid no heed to these things. He stood only gazing at the mournful procession which was passing by. At a gesture from Wolfram it halted; and then Tannhäuser came with slow, reverent steps to the side of the bier. As he sank upon his knees his strength suddenly left him and he felt as though his hold upon life were slipping away. But with it went his burden of sin and sorrow, leaving behind a blessed peace such as he had never known before.
"Elizabeth—dear saint in heaven—pray for me!" he murmured.
His head sank down until his forehead touched her hand.
Suddenly the intense stillness was broken by a thrilling cry from the outer edge of the circle.
"A miracle! a miracle!" said a voice.
Wolfram pushed his way gently to his friend's side. In his hand was the Pope's staff—and it had budded and brought forth green leaves!
"See the sign which God hath sent!" he said in hushed tones. "It is a token that all your sins are forgiven."
Tannhäuser's face brightened into a glorious smile, but he uttered no sound. Instead, his head fell forward again until it was pillowed by Elizabeth's white arm. The way-worn pilgrim had ended his journey. The Knight of Song had heard the harmony of true love sung by a celestial choir. His wandering steps had been guided by the faith of one steadfast soul into the ways of peace.
The Master Singers
(Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg)