She runs to the cradle, and holds up the child.
Forsake him not—your son! Let all your anger fall on me alone—love my child! my child! Henry!
She kneels before him with the infant in her arms.
The Man (raising her gently from the ground). Think not of what I have said. Gloomy moments sometimes come upon me, confusion—faintness—
Wife. But one word more, I implore! one promise, Henry! that you will never cease to love him!
The Man. Neither him, nor you—both shall be dear to me—believe me, Mary!
He kisses her brow, she embraces him. At that moment a loud clap of thunder is heard, followed by strains of music—the chords grow ever wilder and more wild.
Wife. Hark! What is that?
She presses the child closely to her bosom. The music ceases.
The Maiden (entering). O my beloved, I bring thee joy and peace: come, follow me! Throw off the earthly fetters which enchain, thee, O my love, and follow me! I have sought thee from a new world of endless bliss, in which night never comes—ah! I am only thine!