PART I

Outside the Egyptian temple. An Egyptian woman is seen crouching by the wall. She is a previous incarnation of Johannes Thomasius.

EGYPTIAN WOMAN:

This is the hour in which he dedicates Himself to serve the ancient holy laws Of sacred wisdom,--and in doing this He must forever tear himself from me. From out those heights of light to which his soul Progresses there must flash into mine own The ray of death. When I am torn from him-- Naught doth remain for me in life on earth But mourning--resignation--sorrow--death.

(Clinging to the wall.)

Yet though in this hour he abandons me I, none the less, will stay close to the spot Where he unto the spirit gives himself. And if mine eyes are not allowed to see How he doth tear himself away from earth, Perchance 'twill be now granted in a dream To linger disembodied by his side.