An open glade in a forest... to the right, a grotto, the entrance covered with rose trees and flowering shrubs.
Whither, oh, whither would'st thou lead?
(The Sylph appears and disappears.)
Heavens! Christie here! I am then discovered.
You'd squeeze her hand ~ and crack ~ she gone!
Yes, I will end this state of torturing suspence
Alas! how can I still think of him
That's well, my children, that's well.
So far all works according to my wishes.
But, hold! Here comes my detested enemy.
What it may be, 'tis no concern of yours.
Thyself shall be pris'ner, and slave to despair.
(Hela throws scarf round her; wings drop off)
(The clouds that darkened the stage now all disperse, and a light and luminous cloud is seen. Etheria, the queen of the sylphs appears, standing in the midst of the dazzling vapour, holding a golden rose in her hand.)
Is this the boasted fortitude of man? Arise!
Salamandrine caverns.
Does your heart fail you, or will you still go on?
Beloved mortal! for whom I have resigned immortality
How now? idling! To work, to work, dull thing!
Short respite! There is no remedy but one
(Donald touches the vial with the Rose ~ she drops it and it breaks)
Ha! some guardian power comforts and assures me
What devils are these in the form of
Hail! Hail! / I'll give that Tibbie Fowler a rap
Some curs'd aetherial influence spoils the charm
(Hela attempts to stab the Sylph)
(Donald touches the dagger with the rose - it breaks - general burst)
Mountains and lake of the sylphid queen.
Mortals rise! learn faithful love