This page needs to be proofread.
WILHELM TELL.
ACT I.
Scene I.
A high, rocky shore of the lake of Lucerne opposite Schwytz. The lake makes a bend into the land; a hut stands at a short distance from the shore; the fisher boy is rowing about in his boat. Beyond the lake are seen the green meadows, the hamlets, and farms of Schwytz, lying in the clear sunshine. On the left are observed the peaks of the Hacken, surrounded with clouds; to the right, and in the remote distance, appear the Glaciers. The Ranz des Vaches, and the tinkling of cattle bells, continue for some time after the rising of the curtain.
Fisher Boy (sings in his boat).
Melody of the Ranz des Vaches.
The clear, smiling lake wooed to bath in its deep,A boy on its green shore had laid him to sleep; Then heard he a melody Flowing and soft, And sweet, as when angels Are singing aloft.And as thrilling with pleasure he wakes from his rest,The waters are murmuring over his breast; And a voice from the deep cries, "With me thou must go, I charm the young shepherd, I lure him below."
Herdsman (on the mountains).
Air.—Variation of the Ranz des Vaches.
Farewell, ye green meadows, Farewell, sunny shore, The herdsman must leave you, The summer is o'er.
7
