[SECOND SCENE]
The waves have gradually changed into clouds which, becoming lighter and lighter by degrees, finally disperse in a fine mist. As the mist vanishes upwards in light little clouds an open space on a mountain height becomes visible in the dim light which precedes dawn. At one side Wotan with Fricka beside him both asleep, lie on a flowery bank. The dawning day illumines with increasing brightness a castle with glittering pinnacles which stands on the summit of a cliff in the background. Between this and the foreground a deep valley is visible through which the Rhine flows.
FRICKA
[Awakes; her gaze falls on the castle, which has become plainly visible; alarmed.
Wotan! My lord! Awaken!
WOTAN [Continuing to dream.
The happy hall of delight
Is guarded by gate and door:
Manhood's honour,
Power for aye,
Rise to my lasting renown!
FRICKA [Shakes him.
Up from deceitful
Bliss of a dream!
My husband, wake and consider!
WOTAN
[Awakes and raises himself slightly. His glance is immediately arrested by the view of the castle.