Voice [behind the curtains]. Here—
Rod. Why do I fear? She is there concealed [lifts the curtain; spirit of Theresa rises]. The fiends! what is that? The spirit haunts me still!
Voice. Forever, forever—
Rod. [rushes to the door but finds it locked]. What ho! without there! Beat down the door! Pedro! Carlos! let me come forth! They do not come! Nay, 'tis my fancy; I will forget it all. Still, the door is fast; Leonore is gone. Who groans so bitterly? Wild voices are sounding in the air, ghastly faces are looking on me as I turn, unseen hands bar the door, and dead men are groaning in mine ears. I'll not look, not listen; 'tis some spell set on me. Let it pass!
[Throws himself down and covers his face.
Voice. The spell will not cease,
The curse will not fly,
And spirits shall haunt
Till the murderer shall die.
Rod. Again, spirit or demon, wherefore dost thou haunt me, and what art thou? [Theresa's spirit rises.] Ha! am I gone mad? Unbar the door! Help! help! [Falls fainting to the floor.]
[Enter Norna.
Norna. Lie there, thou sinful wretch! Old Norna's curse ends but with thy life.
[Tableau.