Page:Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (IA diemeistersinger68wagn).pdf/11

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.

THE MASTER SINGERS of NUREMBERG

ACT I.

(The scene represents the interior of St. Catherine's church, in oblique section; only the last few rows of pews in the nave are visible: the foreground is the open space before the choir; this is afterwards shut off by a black curtain from the nave.

As the curtain rises, the people are singing, to organ accompaniment, the last verse of a Chorale, which concludes afternoon service on the vigil of the Feast of St. John.)

Hymn of the People.

When to thee our Saviour went
To receive thy Sacrament,
Ere His sacrifice divine,
We were giv'n salvation's sign,
That through Baptism we might prove
Worthy of His death and love.

Interceder,
Christ's preceder!
Take us gently o'er
Unto Jordan's shore.

(During the Chorale and its interludes the following dumb-show takes place, accompanied by the orchestra:—

In the last pew are seated Eva and Magdalena; Walter v. Stolzing is leaning against the pillar at a little distance, his eyes fixed on Eva. Eva turns repeatedly towards the knight and answers his now importunate, now tender glances of entreaty and passion, shyly and modestly, but tenderly and encouragingly. Magdalena often breaks off her singing to give Eva a reproving nudge. When the hymn is ended and while, during a long postlude on the organ, the congregation is gradually leaving by the principal door, Walter advances hastily towards Eva and her companion, who have also risen from their seats and turned to go.)

Walter (softly but ardently to Eva).

Oh, stay!—One word, I do entreat!

Eva (quickly turning to Magdalena).

My kerchief! Look! 'Tis on the seat.

Magdalena.

Forgetful child! Now, here's a hunt!

(goes back to the pew).

Walter.

Maiden, forgive if I affront—
One thing to ask you, one to discover,
What rules would I not dare pass over!
Is life for me or death?—Is bliss for me or bane?
Thy answer let in one word be clothed:
Fair maiden, say—

Magdalena (returning).

Here 'tis again!

Eva.

Alack! my scarf pin! . . .

Magdalena.

Did it fall out?

(She goes back, searching on the ground.)

Walter.

Is't light and laughter, or gloom and doubt?
Can I attain the aim I approach to,
Or must I hear the syllable loathed—
Fair maiden, say—

Magdalena (returning again).

I have found the brooch too!
Come, child, here's pin and kerchief, look!
Good lack! if I've not forgot my book!

(goes back once more.)

Walter.

This single word, you speak it not—
This syllable that casts my lot?
Say Yes or No—'tis quickly mouthed:
Fair maiden, say, are you betrothed?

Magdalena
(who has returned again, curtsies to Walter).

Sir Knight, your servant!
This is a compliment!
Our Eva's escort
Do you then represent?
Pray, Master Pogner is it
Your worship seeks to visit?

Walter (sorrowfully).

Would I never his house had seen!

Magdalena.

Hey day sir! why, what do you mean?
When unto Nuremberg first you wended
Was not his friendly hand extended?
The bed and board, the dishes, drinks
He gave deserve some thanks, methinks?

x