[THE SECOND ACT]
An open space on the shore in front of the Gibichungs' hall; to the right the open entrance to the hall, to the left the bank of the Rhine. From the latter, crossing the stage and mounting towards the back, rises a rocky height, cut by several mountain-paths. There an altar-stone to Fricka is visible, as well as one, higher up, to Wotan, and one at the side to Donner. It is night. Hagen, his arm round his spear and his shield by his side, fits against one of the pillars of the hall asleep. The moon shines out suddenly and throws a vivid light on Hagen and his immediate surroundings. Alberich is seen crouching in front of him, leaning his arms on Hagen's knees.
ALBERICH [Softly.
Hagen, son, art asleep?
Betrayed by drowsiness
And rest thou dost not hear?
HAGEN
[Softly, without moving, so that he seems to sleep on although his eyes are open.
I hear thee, O baleful Niblung;
What wouldst thou tell me while I slumber?
ALBERICH
Remember the might
Thou art endowed with,
If thou art valiant
As thy mother bore thee to me.
HAGEN [Still as before: