SCENE I.

_The Kermesse._

(One of the city gates. To the left, an Inn, bearing the sign of the god Bacchus.)

WAGNER, Students, Burghers, Soldiers, Maidens, and Matrons.

_Studs._ Wine or beer, now, which you will! So the glass quick you fill! And replenish at our need: At our bouts we drink with speed!

_Wag._ Now, young tipplers at the cask, Don't refuse what I ask-- Drink to glory! drink to love! Drain the sparkling glass!

_Studs._ We young tipplers at the cask Won't refuse what you ask-- Here's to glory! here's to love! Drain the sparkling glass! (They drink.)

_Soldiers._ Castles, hearts, or fortresses, Are to us all one. Strong towers, maids with fair tresses, By the brave are won; He, who hath the art to take them, Shows no little skill; He, who knows the way to keep them, Hath more wisdom still.

_Citizens._ On holy-days and feast-days, I love to talk of war and battles. While the toiling crowds around Worry their brains with affairs, I stroll calmly to this retreat On the banks of the gliding river, And behold the boats which pass While I leisurely empty my glass.

(Citizens and soldiers go to back of stage.) (A group of young girls enters.)

_Girls._ Merry fellows come this way, Yes, they now advance; Let us, then, our steps delay, Just to take one glance.

(They go to right of stage. A second chorus of students enters after them.)

_Studs._ Sprightly maidens now advance, Watch their conquering airs; Friends be guarded, lest a glance Take you unawares.

_Matrons._ (watching the students and young girls). Behold the silly damsels, And the foolish young men; We were once as young as they are, And as pretty again. (All join in the following chorus, each singing as follows.)

_Mats._ (to the Maidens). Ye strive hard to please, Your object is plain.

_Studs._ Beer or wine, wine or beer, Nought care I, with heart of cheer.

_Soldiers._ On, then, let's on; Brave soldiers are we, To conquest we'll on.

_Citizens._ Come, neighbor! In this fine weather Let us empty a bottle together!

_Maidens._ They wish to please us, but 'tis in vain! If you are angry, little you'll gain.

_Young Students._ They are bright little maidens, 'tis plain; We'll contrive their favor to gain.

(The soldiers and students, laughing, separate the women. All the groups depart.)

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