When I went for a swim before the break of day, and as I climbed the muddy bank, pushing my way through the reeds,
I saw the Dawn brighten above the woods,
And like one who puts on his shirt, all naked as I was, I raised both arms towards the burning poppies of gold!
O when will the sun come again! Could I but see you once more, sun that makes bright the earth!
Yet I know that never again shall I watch you rise in the East.
The Princess (to the king): Do not ask this thing of me! I could not do it.
The King: It is my will!
The Princess: Then your will shall be obeyed!
(She goes out. Pause.
(The princess re-enters. She wears a red robe and a golden mantle that covers her from head to foot. On her head is a sort of mitre and a thick black braid is thrown across her shoulders. She comes forward, her eyes closed, moving rhythmically and very slowly, and stops at the edge of the lamplight. All look at her in silence and with great attention.