[They swim, laughing, backwards and forwards in the light.
ALBERICH
[His eyes fixed on the gold, has listened attentively to the sisters rapid chatter.
Could I truly
The whole earth inherit through thee?
If love be beyond me
My cunning could compass delight?
[In a terribly loud voice.
Mock away! Mock!
The Niblung makes for your toy!
[Raging he springs on to the middle rock, and clambers to the top. The maidens scatter, screaming, and swim upwards on different sides.
THE THREE RHINE-MAIDENS
Heia! Heia!heia jahei!
Save yourselves!
The elf is distraught!
Swirling waters splash
At every leap:
The creature's crazy with love!
Ha! ha! ha! ha! ha! ha! ha!
ALBERICH
[Reaching the top with a last spring.
Still undismayed?
Go, wanton in darkness.
Water-born brood!