THE PROPERTY OF J. L WiLLlAM88N. PARSIFAL PARSIFAL A ROMANTIC " MYSTERY "-DRAMA BY T. HILHOUSE TAYLOR Os TO. aKoveiv SYDNEY - ANGUS & ROBERTSON 89 CASTLEREAGH STREET 1906 All rights reserved. PRINTED BY JOHN SANDS FOR ANGUS & ROBERTSON, SYDNEY Publishers to the University LONDON : THE AUSTRALIAN BOOK COY. 38 WEST SMITHFIELD, B.C. Stack Annex LOVINGLY AND GRATEFULLY DEDICATED TO C. P. N. "A friend loveth at all times" 18?4687 PREFACE The unprecedented furore created by the great production of Wagner's Opera "PARSIFAL," at the Metropolitan Opera House, New York, during the year 1903, attracted attention, not only throughout America, but also in England, Australia, and on the Continent of Europe. It led to the production of several dramas founded iipon the Opera, none of which, however, seem to have gone beyond mere adaptation. These, con- seqiiently, did not achieve the success which the subject seemed to promise. I thought that in capable hands a play could be written worthy of the grandeur of the subject and its magnificent scenic surroundings. It also struck me that there were great opportunities for Miss Brune in the character of Kundry, if it could be brought carefully forward and given prominence worthy of that clever artiste. I sought out my old friend, the Rev. T. H. Taylor, for whose literary ability I have great admiration, and endeavoured to interest him in this subject. He took the matter Vlll up with enthusiastic zeal and religious fervour, making a deep study of the subject and not confining himself in any way to Wagner 's Opera for the material; the result being a play which seems to me to be truly poetic and intensely dramatic. As the grand spectacular effects require long and careful preparation, and the business arrange- ments of my firm had been completed for a consider- able time ahead, I found that it would be impos- sible for me to give immediate stage production to Mr. Taylor's play ; but I deemed that it would be an injustice to him and also to the public to keep it entirely in the backgwind for too long a time. Arrangements zvere tJierefore made for its publication in book form prior to its presenta- tion on the Stage. J. C. WILLIAMSON. Her Majesty's Theatre, Sydney. The author is specially indebted to Richard Wagner's immortal Opera " Parsifal," and in less measure to Professor MacCallum's "Arthurian Legends." He also wishes to record his thankful appreciation of the assistance derived during the progress of the work from his friend, Mr. J. C. Williamson, whose long and practical experience of the Stage gave a unique and imperative value to his kind yet searching criticisms. DRAMATIS PERSONS PARSIFAL The Promised "Simple One and Pure." {Ancient King and Guardian of the Holy Grail, who has abdicated in favour of his son. A ( King of Grail Mount and Guardian of ' ( The Holy Grail and Sacred Spear. GURNEMANZ An Old Knight of the Holy Grail. A Young Knight of the Holy Grail. Esquire to Gurnemanz. ROLAND Esquire to Ulric. VAU.ON An Esquire. KUNGSOR Magician and Satan-Worshipper. Knights of Grail. Esquires. Standard-Bearer. Acolytes. Black Knights. Mutes. Slaves, &c. LILIAN > I Maidens of the Holy Grail. ENID i THE DUMB MAIDEN. ZANA Klingsor's Slave and Companion. Grail Maidens and Children. Singers. Siren- Vampires. Dancing Priestesses of Satanas and {" The Cursed One," direct descendant of the legendary woman who mocked our Saviour on the Cross. PART I ACT I TABLEAU I ON THE SUMMIT OF THE GRAIL MOUNT. THE GROTTO. Foreground : Bright foliage with numerous white flowers interspersed with Golden lilies. Centre : Rocky ridge with eminence, on which is a large Cross. Descending from this are a few rocky steps, leading down to the valley at back. Grotto in centre of ridge, facing front. At the back is seen a dense forest of weirdly-shaped trees. Behind these are grotesque rocks and gorges. On the summit of a distant mountain stands the castle of KLINGSOR, the Magician. The general effect is one of contrast between Darkness and Light. KUNDRY is discovered asleep in the Grotto, which is strewn with flowers. GURNEMANZ is standing left of Grotto, talking earnestly with LILIAN. ENID stands right of Grotto, pointing out 2 PARSIFAL KUNDRY to ULRIC. The CHILDREN OF THE HOLY GRAIL, with flowers in their hands, are leaning forward towards Grotto, finger to lip. ULRIC. Observe her, Gurnemanz, how sound she sleeps ! GURNEMANZ. So may she ever sleep. [Con- tinues talking to LILIAN.] And then the King ? ULRIC [pointing to KUNDRY.] Fair Enid, see that tiny rose-leaf there How snug it nestles up beneath her chin ! So like in shade and texture, hard it is To tell aright where leaf and maid begin. ENID. I wonder much, Sir Ulric, whence she came To this our mountain of the Holy Grail. GURNEMANZ. Her name is KUNDRY. ULRIC. How ! thou know'st her name ? GURNEMANZ [sadly]. Full many a knight has known it to his shame. [The CHILDREN throw flowers so/lly on KUNDRY. ULRIC. What ! she .... not pure ? GURNEMANZ. Pure ! as some weeds are pure And good to look on. Touch them all the hand Is pierced with numberless envenomed thorns. She tempted Titurel, our ancient king ; Tempted but failed : thank Him ! PARSIFAL 3 ULRIC. How can that be ? Since Titurel grows weak with age ; and gave His kingly guardianship of Holy Grail Unto his son Amfortas, whom I serve. GURNEMANZ. I too, with loyalty. 'Tis Titurel's will. SHE tempted him in youth. I knew that form Long years gone by. ULRIC. Impossible ! GURNEMANZ. Not so. Corn springs from corn, and noxious weed from weed ; In substance, differing ; in kind, the same. In HER dam's form SHE tempted Titurel. And ancient kings and knights so legends tell Looked deep in Kundry's eyes, and, looking, fell ! ULRIC. So fair, yet full of evil ! GURNEMANZ. Nay, not full. No thing God made is all devoid of good. Her mother took the veil. ULRIC. A nun ? GURNEMANZ. A nun, Who, though she broke her vows, from time to time Repented bitterly ; yet died in Sin, And lives, I fear, reincarnated there ! 4 PARSIFAL I pity whilst 1 fear. [The CHILDREN cease throwing flowers. LILIAN [to GURNEMANZ]. My lord, my lord, We cannot waken her. ULRIC. That soon will I. GURNEMANZ. Stay ! 'tis Amfortas' will, so Lilian tells, That only falling flowers dispel that sleep ; And these fair maids are bidden guard her well In chains of Love, until the King return From slaying Klingsor [pointing to castle] castled there on high In magic walls of Satan's masonry. [stepping into grotto. Amfortas looked. He stroked that golden hair. ULRIC. As fain would I. GURNEMANZ. She opened wide her eyes ; Fixed them on his; then, sweetly murmuring " Mine ! " Closed down her lashes, Love's portcullises, Behind whose bars she keeps his heart in thrall. ULRIC. Whose heart ? The king's ? . . . . A dream, Sir Gurnemanz ! Perchance of younger days. Amfortas' heart Has never hastened one short beat at sight Of any maid, but bounds towards mighty deeds. PARSIFAL 5 Besides, the Grail King never can be wed. [A Bell begins to toll. So Heaven ordained when Titurel resigned. Hence all who hope for kingship shun fair maids. Not so do I. Some men were made to wed. And I am one ! [turns away from grotto. GURNEMANZ. Restrain thy mirth. The bell Tells Titurel has left the Temple Hall, And comes to bid his son a last farewell. [CHILDREN recommence throwing flowers. ULRIC. Last ? And why ? Amfortas will return. GURNEMANZ. Perhaps when Titurel is dead. ULRIC. I haste To join Amfortas ; lest I lose my faith As thou, Sir Gurnemanz, I fear hast thine. [Exit.] GURNEMANZ. Hot youth ! So blazing up, be- cause I said, " Perhaps when Titurel is dead." My Faith ! I lose MY Faith ! not so. My good Lord knows. 6 PARSIFAL For though Age sees more clearly rocks ahead, Faith with increasing knowledge stronger grows. [Exit.] ENID. She wakens not. So sleeps the rose by night. LILIAN. Her name is Kundry. Children, call her name. [dropping flowers on her face. ENID. But gently let the sound creep through her ear, Pink portal of the brain, and knocking there Soft, as a lover taps his lady's door, Whisper her name. For gently must she wake ; So that, half dreaming, she may deem us dreams ; And, half-awakened, joy to find us real. [While ENID and LILIAN drop flowers on KUNDRY'S face, the CHILDREN call " KUNDRY ! KUNDRY ! " She moves an arm. LILIAN. She moves ! ENID. She speaks ! KUNDRY. Dear heart ! dost know my name ? Ah ! tell me thine ! I love [Sinks back silent. ENID. She dreams of love. PARSIFAL 7 LILIAN. Call her again. See now she half awakes ! [KuNDRY moves arms above her head. LILIAN, ENID AND CHILDREN. Kundry ! Kundry ! KUNDRY. [rising suddenly, helped by ENID and LILIAN.] Ah ! [looks at them as she comes out of grotto, flowers falling from her. Yes. I am Kundry. [with hands to eyes, as if only half awake. I dreamed I dreamed. But whence and what are you ? I dreamed one loved me whom I loved ! [gazing around her]. This must Be Paradise and you are Angels, [kissing CHILDREN. LILIAN. Nay ! No Angels they, but human flesh and blood ; Children of Knights who guard the Holy Grail. KUNDRY. The Holy Grail ? ENID. The Sacred Cup, from which Christ drank that night he was betrayed ; and gave His Flesh, through broken Bread His Blood, through Wine, As Food Celestial, to strengthen all ; As Love's own Pledge to reassure us all, That God for Christ's sake hath forgiven all. 8 PARSIFAL KUNDRY. [sitting on bank of moss and flowers.] Not all. LILIAN, [bending over KUNDRY.] Yes, all ! He shed His Blood for all ; And ever lives to intercede for all. KUNDRY. For all ? LILIAN. For all who eat His Flesh through Bread, And drink His Precious Blood through Holy Wine ; And offer up themselves, as did their Head (Whose limbs they are), for ALL; these live, though dead. They share, though sinners, all His Life Divine. Commemorating Christ in Holy Eucharist, They intercede with Him for ALL Mankind ! KUNDRY. [rising, with arm round a child.] And can I share with you this life Divine ? ENID, [placing arm round KUNDRY.] Thou canst and shalt. The King has ordered it. KUNDRY. The King ? LILIAN. Of Holy Grail. He found thee there [pointing to grotto] Asleep. KUNDRY. He found me. Ah ! now I remember. ENID. Thou shalt be one with us in all delights Of this dear mountain of the Holy Grail. PARSIFAL 9 LILIAN. Each day will teach thee more of Blessed truth, Till it sink deep into thine heart and mind. KUNDRY. I have it in my mind, but not my heart. [wonderingly.] Where have I heard those Holy Truths before ? I cannot think the Past is dark I saw A shining Cross I knew it for a Cross, And longed to reach it. Did I reach it ? ENID, [pointing to Cross.] There ! KUNDRY. The Cross ! ENID. At night that shines with rosy light From Holy Grail KUNDRY. [as if in a dream.] I knew that was a Cross, And longed to reach it. So I climbed and climbed, But when I tried to clasp it, some vile Thing Tore me away, and hurled me down, and down, To where I crawled 'mid horrid, loathsome beasts ! So hid me in a cave, and slept. LILIAN. And then ? KUNDRY. And then I saw the KING ! Ah ! I remember ! But how I knew that was a Cross, or where io PARSIFAL I heard Christ's Name and Holy Truth before, I know not. Strange ! If but I COULD remember I feel that I should wish NOT to remember ! LILIAN. Vex not thy mind. Come, see our home ; thy home [drawing her away. KUNDRY. [lurning to look at Cross.] How comes it, I can say : " That is a Cross " ? ENID. Dost not remember ? thou hast seen one pressed KUNDRY. Pressed 'gainst my mother's lips ? Yes ! [with look of terror.] I re- member ! [Laughs a terrible laugh. The CHILDREN, who during this have been quietly gathering up the flowers and weaving them into long wreaths, are now frightened. KUNDRY. Sweet children, do not go ! but come and wind Your wreaths around me. [Takes wreath and winds it round her the CHILDREN holding the ends, and laughing.] Listen. I remember I was a child and beautiful as you. No ! not like you. I had no playmates. PARSIFAL ii [quickly unwinds herself and starts aside, while the CHILDREN place flowers in Grotto. Yes! I had my playmates DEVILS ! I remember [Veils eyes and shudders. After a pause, she beckons LILIAN and ENID. How came Christ's truth to you ? LILIAN, [surprised.] Through holy men. KUNDRY. I too learned many things from holy men. ENID. Then it was they who taught thee Holy Faith. Their pure and peaceful lives would teach thee more. LILIAN. They told thee of the Cross. Now dost remember ? KUNDRY. Ah, yes. Full oft they spake of Holy Faith ; And preached Christ's Blessed Gospel and the Cross. Their pure and peaceful lives ? [Looks sadly at ENID and LILIAN.] Ah ! I .... forget. But I remember ONCE a HOLY man. He in his youth had known much sin and shame. But turned his heart to God and pious ways. 12 PARSIFAL. And, knowing shame, loved and was loved by sinners. His name was Ambrose. Once to him I went, Freed for a season from that evil Power Which masters me at times. I told him all ; And begged him to remove that cursed LAUGH Ye heard but now, part of my curse of blood, Come down from many mothers. All in vain The good man knelt and prayed. Tears burned these eyes, Bubbles of liquid fire from heart's volcano, Ah ! how I longed to weep ! but no tears fell. And then I laughed ! My mother's curse re- mained ! LILIAN. Thy mother's curse ? Ah, marry not those words To make them one. " Curse " hates the sight of " mother "; And " mother " loves to turn " curse " out of doors. ENID. If 'tis a curse, it cannot be thy mother's. Or, being thy mother's, cannot be a curse. KUNDRY. [Looks at them pityingly.] Pure, gentle hearts ! I'll call it Kundry's Curse ! For Curse and Kundry never lived apart. My mother's name was Kundry. Kundry, too, Her mother. Ay, and hers again right back PARSIFAL 13 To her, who jeered at Christ upon the Cross ! Kundry, the Cursed One ! cursed by a look Of such reproachful love, as pierced the soul Of her, there mocking loud with hideous laugh, That never ceased until she died, and laughed In Hell ! But here on earth she left a child. And that child laughed THAT laugh ! and grow- ing up To beauteous girlhood, mocked at all things holy ; Bound to obey the call and work the will Of Satan's Minister in human form, (Who age by age appears, and works for 111), Yet bound as well by His reproachful glance To long for HIM ! and work for HIM, whene'er That Evil Power gave her rest from Sin. She too died laughing, as her child was born ! And so did all the mothers, down to mine ! Call ye not that a mother's curse ? For all Their shameful sins and follies [laugh.] I re- member ! [Turns and looks at Cross.] Yet when I see the Cross ! [staggers a few steps towards Cross. Ah ! I remember ! [Falls down in agony of remorse. All stand in consternation. At back are seen flashes of vivid lightning. Distant thunder rumbles. A pause after which is heard, as if far away, the 14 PARSIFAL voice of KLINGSOR calling " KUNDRY ! KUNDRY ! " KUNDRY. [raising her head and listening fear- fully.] Klingsor calls me. [standing up.] No ! [Hurries to ENID and LILIAN and clasps them. Voice heard again : " KUNDRY ! " I will NOT go ! LILIAN, [soothingly.] Forget the unhappy Past. God blots it out. Much brooding over Sin breeds Sin afresh. ENID. If God forgets, then why should we re- member ? KUNDRY. If God forgets then why should we remember ? [triumphantly.] If God forgets, then why should I remember ? [As thunder increases and voice is heard again, she runs up to the CHILDREN by Grotto. Come, sweet Oblivion ! Pray, dear children, pray ! That Kundry I poor Kundry may forget ! [CHILDREN pray towards the Cross, which begins to shine with a rosy light. Faint snatches of the Anthem of The Sacred Spear are heard. ENID and LILIAN stand behind PARSIFAL 15 KUNDRY, as she points to path from Temple. KUNDRY. What white-robed forms are those ? That aged man ? ENID. The singing children. That is Titurel. KUNDRY. And there behind them moving like a god, And coming here ? It is it is MY KING ! [calmly and with restful confidence. Now am I safe indeed ! [Demoniacal laughter heard in distance, and voice from shadowy form of KLINGSOR rising over forest : " Come, KUNDRY, come ! " KUNDRY. [turning and running quickly up the ridge, stands defiantly facing the dark v alley. 1 Laugh, till ye split the sky ! Call, Klingsor, call ! Kundry will NOT obey ! Thy power is conquered [turning and stretching out hands] by the might of LOVE ! LILIAN, [to Enid.] Klingsor ? Tis he, Am- fortas goes to slay, Armed with the Sacred Spear. KUNDRY. [standing in front of Cross, as she looks eagerly past it along the path.] Amfortas ! Ah ! CHOIR, [louder and more distinct. ] B 16 PARSIFAL " Hail, Sacred Spear ! which pierced Our Saviour's side, When for man's sins on Calvary He died." KUNDRY. [pressing hand to heart.] Amfortas ! King! CHOIR, [still louder.] See, wondrous Sign ! for us it ever bleeds ! KUNDRY. [struggling gradually backwards to centre of ridge, as if dragged against her will from Cross.] Amfortas ! Save ! Dear Love ! CHOIR. Each Holy drop for sinners intercedes. [Enter CHOIR of singing CHILDREN, who form a line in front of Grotto. Dark- ness falls, and a terrific clap of thun- der is heard. The GRAIL CHILDREN run to sides, and stand with hands out- stretched towards the Cross, which shines more brightly. KUNDRY. [stretching out hands and Hearing Cross.] Amfortas, save me ! Ah ! the Cross ! Christ, ' save ! [She half falls at foot of Cross with hair all loose, as a great cry of " KUNDRY ! " is heard, and lightning flashes around her. She starts suddenly to her feet, PARSIFAL 17 and laughs THE LAUGH, pointing mockingly at the Cross. Himself He cannot save ! Ah [as she laughingly runs to end of ridge'] I REMEMBER ! [Turns and runs down steps, laughing. Triumphant laughter heard at back. The form of KLINGSOR seems to envelop her as she disappears. CURTAIN END OF TABLEAU I TABLEAU II (THE SAME SCENE) TITUREL is seated on Throne-chair with carrying- poles. The four BEARERS are just setting him down. GURNEMANZ is at his right hand ; and, behind him are some OLD KNIGHTS OF THE GRAIL. The CHILDREN, ENID, and LILIAN stand right and left. The CHOIR is in front of Grotto. TITUREL. Gurnemanz, old friend, tell me the truth. Am I, Age-weak in body, growing weak in mind ? Methought I saw for but a moment's space, Kundry ! hard by the Cross, fair as of yore. How could that be ? i8 PARSIFAL GURNEMANZ. [to LILIAN.] Maid Lilian, approach. And tell great Titurel without restraint How evil came to Grail Mount, hid in Kundry. TITUREL. What magic work is this ? "In Kundry," say'st ? GURNEMANZ. No magic, sire ; save of Nature's law, Perpetuating Good and Evil, [to LILIAN.] Speak ! LILIAN. I fear, my lord. TITUREL. Fear not. Though King no more, I still can claim obedience. Draw near. Tell all, my child. [LILIAN stands in front of TITUREL. GURNEMANZ. Beginning where the King Found her asleep. [TITUREL, GURNEMANZ and LILIAN converse. CHOIR. " Hail, Sacred Spear ! which pierced Our Saviour's side, When for our sins on Calvary He died !" [Enter ULRIC and YOUNG KNIGHTS. CHOIR and CHILDREN. See, Wondrous Sign ! for us it ever bleeds. Each Holy Drop for sinners intercedes. [Enter AMFORTAS, carrying the Sacred Spear. The sun sets behind the dis- tant mountains. The storm has PARSIFAL 19 Passed away. Evening shadows lengthen. The Cross shines. AMFORTAS. [impetuously.] Who cried : " Am- fortas, save me ! " Save from what ? No direful harm can hap to man or beast Within our precincts of this Holy Mount. Doth not the peace of Sanctuary fall On all things breathing in the plain below, To where the waters of the healing lake Laugh at yon frowning rocks and blasted woods, Symbols and sentinels of Klingsor's realm ? Yet, clear o'er thunder-crash, I heard a voice, Thrilling me through and through : ' ' Amfortas, save me ! " [to ENID.] Fair Enid, thou wert here. Come, tell thy King. ENID, [advancing to AMFORTAS, who stands at some distance from TITUREL.] My lord and King, she who was found asleep Within the Grotto she it was, who called. AMFORTAS. [Goes quickly up to Grotto, looks and turns.] Gone ! [Comes down again. ULRIC. [following the King.] Her name is Kundry. AMFORTAS. [lingering over the name.} "Kundry," Ah! [pushing ULRIC aside, and addressing ENID 20 PARSIFAL Let Enid tell the tale. Where is she ? Speak Quickly and plain what evil threatens Kundry ! [AMFORTAS listens eagerly to ENID, ULRIC standing near them. LILIAN, [to TITUREL.] And so, great Titurel, she left us sad At losing one so lovable. GURNEMANZ. Her kind Are often lovable. TITUREL. Let us be kind, Friend Gurnemanz ; remembering that she Can kindred claim with us, poor sinners all. GURNEMANZ. Rightly am I rebuked, [bowing low.] May love for thee, And fear for him [indicating AMFORTAS] plead my excuse. TITUREL. [anxiously.] Dost fear For him my son the King of Holy Grail ; To whom I gave my kingship and the trust Of SACRED CUP and SPEAR ? Dost fear for him ? GURNEMANZ. Dost THOU not fear, who once felt all the charm Of KUNDRY steal through eye, and ear, and mouth, Numbing all consciousness of good and Christ In thee ? By Grace of God THOU didst resist, PARSIFAL 21 And fling her off, like Holy Paul, unhurt. Canst thou remember, and not fear for HIM ? TITUREL. Yea, I should fear, if KUNDRY tempted him. GURNEMANZ. As Kundry has, and will. Canst thou not stay .vjl . t L His meeting Kundry, lying in wait for himj In Klingsor's woods, a Klingsor snare, to trap Him, hasting heedless on, self-confident, Sure of succeeding, where so many failed ? TITUREL. He bears the SACRED SPEAR. GURNEMANZ. Which Klingsor seeks, And soon will hold, unless thou stay thy son. Dost think the King will clasp the SACRED SPEAR, When KUNDRY'S arms clasp him the MAN ? TITUREL. Enough. Thy words are knives. Yet have they cut the film, Hiding true vision from a father's eye That saw his son as son and KING, not MAN. AMFORTAS. [Now kneeling in front of TITUREL.] Father, thy blessing ere I go as King Of Holy Grail, to slay the Grail's great foe, Klingsor, who lures from Honour's path our Knights 22 PARSIFAL With wiles of Hell. GURNEMANZ. And WILL lure thee. AMFORTAS. [standing up.] Be silent ! I am the King ! [GURNEMANZ kneels to him. Nay, nay. Kneel not to me, Who learned from thee to handle sword and spear, And honour Truth above all earthly Gain. Kneel not to me as King, though King I am ; [holding out his hand, and clasping that of GURNEMANZ. Rather as brother Knight, wish me " God speed ! " GURNEMANZ. I cannot wish " God speed " ; but " God delay ! " AMFORTAS. [dropping hand and starting back. What ! Thou, a knight, bid me, a knight, to stay ? Breaking my Knighthood's oath to fight and slay All Evil, wheresoever found ? THOU bidst Me stay ? [smiling.] What if as King, I bid thee come And follow ? [GURNEMANZ draws himself up joyfully. AMFORTAS points at him and laughs. PARSIFAL *3 GURNEMANZ. [bowing his head.] Sire ! I dare not, being afraid. [General astonishment. AMFORTAS. How ! THOU afraid ? GURNEMANZ. Afraid. AMFORTAS. Afraid of what ? GURNEMANZ. [looking up.] I am afraid, since thou art not afraid. Who knows no fear is never on his guard. AMFORTAS. [grasping his hand.] Old friend ! thou lovest well. Love casts out Fear. Therefore fear not. Shall I, the KING, draw back, Affrighted, like a child, to face the dark ? [Turns impatiently and kneels again in front of TITUREL. Father, thy blessing. Night comes on apace, And I must go. TITUREL. [rising with help of GURNEMANZ. Thou MUST not go, my son [AMFORTAS starts in astonishment. Thou WILLEST to go, in spite of all that I Or Gurnemanz may urge. Son of my age, Thou yet possessest all that obstinate will, 24 PARSIFAL With rash though high resolve, which made my youth And middle years of life one long, fierce fight Twixt WISH and WISDOM ; 'twixt my will and God's. My hard-won wisdom bids me bid thee stay. Yet, if thou goest then, 'tis God's will, and I [raising his hands over AMFORTAS.] Commit thee unto Him, Who dared entrust Unworthy me with Holy Grail and Spear. That Spear thou hast. Let it not leave thy hand. So shall no harm befall thee. Slay thy foe And mine, and His [Points to Cross] whose Cross shines on thy path. Rely on God alone. Keep down self-pride ; For self-reliance oft is God- defiance. The Holy Grail I'll guard till thou return, VICTOR of Satan, King of Self my son ! [Bends and kisses him. [AMFORTAS stands up, takes his father's hands and kisses them. He then quickly shakes hands with the OLD KNIGHTS, and lastly with GURNE- MANZ. GURNEMANZ. If go thou wilt. God prosper thee I One word ; PARSIFAL 25 Beware of Kundry, Klingsor's slave AMFORTAS. [breaking away from him, and going up towards the ascent to Cross.] I go To set her free ! GURNEMANZ. Could heart but colour face, And mind shape form, would Kundry 's face and form, No longer beautiful, still draw thee on ? AMFORTAS. [mounting ridge.] Her beauty draws me not ; 'tis her distress. [On ridge by Cross, and looking towards the valley. Yes 'tis she ! KUNDRY. [distantly.] Amfortas, save me ! AMFORTAS. Ah ! She stops and turns ! Once more she strives to break The magic chain that drags her body back [KUNDRY heard laughing. But not her SOUL ! Father and friends, farewell ! Forward, my brave Young Knights ! [Turns as if to go. TITUREL. [rising with momentary vigour.] Halt ! I command ! [The YOUNG KNIGHTS, who are closing ranks, stand still. GURNEMANZ holds up TITUREL. lyooking at Kundry thou hast passed the CROSS ! 36 PARSIFAL [Storm breaks at back. All show dismay. Laughter heard from valley. GURNEMANZ. May Heaven avert this omen of our loss ! [AMFORTAS has turned in dismay. He salutes the Cross by hastily kneeling on one knee ; then rises and makes the Sign of the Cross with the Sacred SPEAR. KUNDRY. [from far.] Amfortas save me ! AMFORTAS. [turning quickly.] Kundry, I come ! [holds up SPEAR.] Knights, see, The SPEAR will guide you. Follow it and ME ! [The YOUNG KNIGHTS hastily follow him on to ridge, saluting the Cross as they pass. TITUREL falls back into the arms of GURNEMANZ, holding up his hands in blessing. ENID, LILIAN, and GRAIL CHILDREN kneel in prayer. The OLD KNIGHTS sadly shake their heads. The SPEAR and Cross glow brightly. AMFORTAS waves the SPEAR and as the curtain begins to fall runs down the rocky steps, followed by the YOUNG KNIGHTS. PARSIFAL 27 CHOIR AND CHILDREN. By Holy Grail, and SPEAR that pierced Thy side ; Be Thou, O Lord, his safety and his Guide ! CURTAIN FALLS, AS SCENE DARKENS. END OF TABLEAU II. TABLEAU III. IN KLINGSOR'S CASTLE THE CRYPT OF THE SKULL. Fantastic mural decorations. Arched doorways right and left. In the centre of the back wall is a large transparency of oval shape, surmounted by face of SATAN AS, whose wings form the frame. The transparency is dead black in colour. In front of it is Altar in the shape of a huge skull, the eyes of which glow with horrid light. On each side of the Altar is a brazier on a high tripod. 28 PARSIFAL KLINGSOR is discovered standing on the step of the Altar, holding out hands to transparency, which at times shows lightning flashes, and glaring eyes of demons. Standing at the braziers are two tall black mutes, stirring with large bones a vaporous fluid. At right of Altar are three YOUNG DANCERS, who, as curtains are drawn aside, dance Le Danse du Diable, marking floor with wands in geometrical figures which emit light and vapour. BLACK KNIGHTS line the sides of crypt. KLINGSOR. Satanas ! Dread One ! First of the Fallen ! Mighty Apollyon ! Hear, when I call to thee, I, who am sworn to thee ! Klingsor appeals to thee ! I, who am thine, Body and soul ! Ruler of Darkness, Lightning and thunder ! Lord of the Tempest ! Prince of the Air ! Klingsor, thy faithful one, Klingsor beseeches thee ! Aid now thy slave ! [Prostrates himself before Altar. The transparency flashes with lightning. PARSIFAL 29 Kundry, the Golden-haired, Kundry, the Cursed One, Kundry, the Beautiful, Comes at my call. What shall I do with her ? How to make use of her ? Show me, Dread Satanas, Lord of us all ! Amfortas would slay me, Amfortas the strong ! King of the Holy Grail, Lord of the SPEAR ! Satanas, aid me ! Satanas, teach me ! Satanas, save me ! Danger is near. [The DANCERS conclude dance and with- draw. KLINGSOR AND BLACK KNIGHTS. Satanas ! Satanas ! [Clap of thunder. All rise and look expect- antly at Transparency, on which KUN- DRY and AMFORTAS appear as if in the woods. She is clasping his feet. He is pointing backwards with the SPEAR 30 PARSIFAL in one hand, and stroking her hair with the other. She rises with a look of joy on her face to go with him back to Grail Mount. He supports her with his arm. KLINGSOR. [suddenly stretching out his hand with mesmeric gesture.] Kundry ! Kundry ! Kundry ! [KUNDRY trembles, disengages herself from AMFORTAS, who tries to hold her. After the last " KUNDRY! " she points mockingly at him, laughs THE LAUGH, and runs off. AMFORTAS stands for a moment uncertain, then hastens after her. The Transparency becomes dark as before. KLINGSOR. Praise to thee, Satanas ! Kundry has conquered him ! [All laugh. Kundry, the Penitent ! [All laugh. Vanished is Fear ! Who can withstand thee ? Soon shall we hail thee, Satanas ! Dread One ! Lord of the SPEAR ! KLINGSOR AND BLACK KNIGHTS. Praise to thee, Satanas ! [Enter DANCERS. They dance wildly and bow to Altar. PARSIFAL 31 KLINGSOR. [making passes towards door.] Kundry ! Kundry ! Come ! [Enter hurriedly KUNDRY. She holds her hands in front of her face, as if pushing KLINGSOR away, crosses over to him and half falls at his feet. The DANCERS surround them, dancing madly. BLACK KNIGHTS. Now welcome, Kundry ! KUNDRY. Dread master, I am here. What is thy will ? KLINGSOR. That which thou hast done and art doing, [to DANCERS.] Cease, Ye dancing witches ! [DANCERS stand still.} Here [touching KUNDRY] are charms, that far Excel in potency your mystic dance. Away ! Be ready for the Dance of Death ! [Exeunt DANCERS. Amfortas comes, armed with the SACRED SPEAR. [KUNDRY starts at the name of AMFORTAS. Whilst THAT he holds, resistance would be vain, Let him see no one till he enters here, Where Kundry shall disarm him. KUNDRY. [half -resolutely.] No ! KLINGSOR. [with mesmeric gesture.] But I Say " Yes ! " Obey ! [KUNDRY bows head. [to KNIGHTS on the left. Hid from his sight await 32 PARSIFAL His stripling knights, who follow close behind Their headstrong leader. Slay them every one ! And bring their bodies here as offerings sweet To Satanas. BLACK KNIGHTS, [waving their swords.] To Satanas ! [Exeunt. KLINGSOR. [to KNIGHTS on the right.] And you Wait there with door half-oped, like hounds on leash, Which I will slip with one great cry of " Slay ! " When Kundry here [Strokes KUNDRY'S hair. She shudders] has charmed the SPEAR away, And I have wounded him ; leaving his life For you to tear out with your swords whilst I Offer the Sacred SPEAR to Satanas ! BLACK KNIGHTS. To Satanas ! [Exeunt KLINGSOR. [to MUTES.] You slaves, with eye and hand Trained to evade and catch the poisoned dart Hurled by your hidden forest foes ; -watch well ! If he who comes should throw the Bleeding SPEAR At me your Master, ere sweet Kundry here Has time to cast her loving arms around Her dear Amfortas ! [laughs and moves KUN- DRY'S arms out in embracing attitude] Catch, and hand it me ! [The mutes bow, and stand near him. PARSIFAL 33 [to KUNDRY.] And thou, my Kundry thou shalt hold him fast In these soft arms, kissing his life away ! KUNDRY. His life away ? [Suddenly frees herself and him.] No ! I will not ! KLINGSOR. [with gesture.] Thou shalt ! I say thou shalt ! [advancing with gestures.] Call call thy King Amfortas ! KUNDRY. [turning slowly to former posture.] My King ! Amfortas ! Come ! My love ! Amfortas ! [KLINGSOR drops hands and smiles in satisfaction. Enter AMFORTAS with SACRED SPEAR. KLINGSOR starts back. The MUTES bend forward. KUNDRY. Save me, Amfortas ! AMFORTAS. Kundry, fear thou not ! [poising SPEAR. Straight to his foul black heart the SPEAR shall fly ! [KLINGSOR stands, smiling. MUTES bend forward with hands ready. KUNDRY. [clasping his arm.] Throw not the spear ! Let it not leave thy hand ! [KLINGSOR in anger makes urgent passes. AMFORTAS. I will not, since thou wishest it, dear Kundry. 34 PARSIFAL Stand thou aside ; [KUNDRY releases his arm. Whilst I, the King Amfortas, [advancing towards KLINGSOR. Stop all thy magic arts with one strong stroke ! [advancing. [KLINGSOR tremblingly retires before him, guarded by the MUTES. KUNDRY. 'Ware yonder door ! His Knights [AMFORTAS rushes to door and closes it. KLINGSOR. [in front of Altar.] Help ! Satanas ! [The transparency flashes with lightning. Noise of fighting and cries. " Satanas ! The Grail ! " [Transparency shows for one instant the figure of a semi-nude woman resem- bling KUNDRY. KLINGSOR. I thank thee, Satanas ! {Comes to KUNDRY.] [violent passes.] Thy will is mine ! [KUNDRY cowers before him. Disrobe ! I bid thee ! [KUNDRY tremblingly and hastily unties sash.] By thy mother's curse, I will thee ! [Tears off sombre dress.] Go to him ! Let all thy charms, [KUNDRY in light glistening gauze ad- vances towards AMFORTAS. Veiled but to tempt more surely, fall in his arms ! PARSIFAL 35 [KUNDRY falls into the arms of AMFORTAS, who drops the SACRED SPEAR as he embraces her. [Transparency shows very vivid ligitning. KLINGSOR seizes the SPEAR and pierces the side of AMFORTAS, who staggers back against the wall. KUNDRY [in accents of intense pain.] Ah ! Amfortas ! KLINGSOR. [standin? in centre with SPEAR.] Laugh at him ! Laugh and mock His pain and coming death ! Thou knowest how, Kundry, the Cursed One ! [KUNDRY stands pointing at AMFORTAS, and laughs. AMFORTAS. Kundry ? The SPEAR ! KLINGSOR. He calls, dear Kundry J Thou hast served me well ; So now be free ! [pass.] Till next I need thy charms, Be free to weep and sigh, do good, and pray ! I'd love to hear thee pray ! [KUNDRY stands for a moment dazed ; then looks down at herself, covers her face with her hands, hastily puts on robe, and kneels at the feet of AMFORTAS. 36 PARSIFAL KLINGSOR. [watching her, amused.] Ha, ha ! [laughing. [Shouts.] Knights ! Slay ! [He unbolts door, turns and goes up to Altar, holding up SPEAR as if offering it. [Enter Knights from right with drawn swords. KNIGHTS. Slay ! Slay ! For Satanas we slay ! [Noise of fighting grows louder. AMFORTAS. [freeing himself from KUNDRY and staggering forward.] Too late Too late ! How fallen all my pride ! [Draws sword.] Come, slay Not King Amfortas. He is dead ! Come, slay Calling on Christ and Holy Grail a Man ! [He fights desperately, wounds two KNIGHTS, but is forced back. His sword falls from his hand. Forgive me, Christ Guard Thou Thy Holy Grail ! [Falls back into the arms of ULRIC, who has rushed in, driving before him a BLACK KNIGHT. The latter crosses to centre, and falls, wounded. KLINGSOR. [turning from Altar.] Where are the rest ? BLACK KNIGHT. All dead, [dying agony.] I go to join them. PARSIFAL 37 Satanas ! Hell ! [Dies. [A GRAIL KNIGHT joins ULRIC. ULRIC. [to AMFORTAS.] We two alone are left. KLINGSOR. [with SPEAR uplifted.] Vengeance for Satanas ! [calling.] Now, witches, dance The Dance of Death ! [Dancers run in and dance wild dance in front of Altar. [to KNIGHTS.] Slay them for Satanas ! BLACK KNIGHTS, [flourishing swords.] Vengeance for Satanas ! [They advance and threaten AMFORTAS. AMFORTAS. [to KUNDRY.] Kundry my sword [KUNDRY hands him his sword with large cross-handle. One blow for Christ, and Holy Grail and thee ! [Strikes down one KNIGHT ; again drops sword and falls back into KNIGHT'S arms. KUNDRY picks up sword. ULRIC strikes down a KNIGHT. The rest draw back a little. ULRIC. [panting.] A man hits hardest when he has no hope. [facing them. AMFORTAS. [half raising himself.] In Christ is always Hope ! [lifting hands to Heaven. 38 PARSIFAL By Holy Grail- Lighten our darkness ! [Falls back again.] Save ! KUNDRY. [holding up sword, the handle of which shines with the rosy light of the Grail. Thy prayer is heard. See, see the Rosy Cross ! [Advances towards BLACK KNIGHTS, who draw slowly back in dread.] Stand back ! Stand back ! KLINGSOR. [with commanding gesture.] Give me that sword ! Thou art no longer free ! [holding out his hand. [KUNDRY after quivering for a moment in fear waveringly approaches KLINGSOR with sword held out. As KNIGHTS again rush forward, she faces them with Cross.] KUNDRY. Back, back ! Christ's Cross has set all sinners free ! [KNIGHTS fall back. DANCERS retire from front of Altar. KLINGSOR. [Threatens her with SPEAR.] Slay her ! [KNIGHTS rush at her, then retire in fear before the Cross. Then I [lifting SPEAR. KUNDRY. [facing him with Cross.] Christ uses even Me ! Holding His Cross, I fear not them [forcing KNIGHTS back.] nor thee ! PARSIFAL 39 [KLINGSOR stands cowering by Altar, DANCERS bending low in fear. MUTES cower down by the braziers, which give forth rosy fiimes. ULRIC and KNIGHT back slowly with AMFORTAS to door. The Cross on the sword shines very brightly, held by KUNDRY, covering the retreat of AMFORTAS. CURTAIN END OP ACT I ACT II SCENE I THE LAKE OF HEALING Flowering creepers and rich foliage frame a leafy glade leading to the Lake of Healing at back. A road ascends to The Mount of Holy Grail on the right. A large Cross stands out on a little promontory. The three ESQUIRES, GILDHELM, ROLAND, and VALLON, with other ESQUIRES and SERVANTS of the Grail are discovered lying down in the bracken or standing against the trees. A distant bell is heard at intervals. GILDHELM. A year ago to-day great Titurel died. ROLAND. Like Eli killed by fatal news. VALLON. " The Spear ! The sacred Spear ! " he cried ; then forthwith fell Into a trance, and never woke again. ROLAND. Not so. Not so, friend Vallon. Hast thou never heard ? When to his couch they bore the wounded king, Titurel rose, nor needed any help, 40 PARSIFAL 41 And cursed Amfortas with a mighty curse. GILDHELM. Let thy brain work, my Roland, ere thy tongue Utters such words. Vallon, thou too art wrong. That very night I served Sir Gurnemanz, Keeping sad watch beside his king and friend. I heard it all. 'Twas not his son he cursed, But Kundry. VALLON. Ah ! that witch, who lured the king To leave his Knights, and enter all alone Dread Klingsor's castle. May she ne'er return ! ROLAND. My master, Ulric, tells another tale. And he was one of those who saved the king. GILDHELM. I've heard him say, she seized Amfortas' sword And dared the foe to pass. VALLON. What ! Did she fight ? ROLAND [standing up.] Ay ! with the handle, not the blade. For thus [Holds dagger out. She held aloft the Blessed Cross, that blazed With rosy light of Holy Grail. GILDHELM. Well done ! No wicked witch could e'er do that. Besides Has she not helped us all since that dark day, Bearing swift messages from absent Knights, Hard pressed and wanting aid ? VALLON. [gloomily.] Mere witch's guile. What was great Titurel's curse ? 42 PARSIFAL GILDHELM. She cannot pass Yon Cross, that guards the way to Holy Grail, Till led by one who holds The Sacred Spear. ROLAND. Did I not say that Titurel cursed his son ? And I was right. Amfortas needs must come, Because of that same curse, with jolt and jar, Racking his wounded form, down yonder steps To meet his love. GILDHELM. [sternly.] The Grail King may not wed. Here in the waters of the Healing Lake Amfortas comes to bathe as now, to-day ; Though Kundry be not here. VALLON. What matters that ? Being a witch, she knows the King is here ; And can she borrow, beg, or steal a broom, Will fly to meet him. {jumping up and pointing. Can you now deny Kundry's a witch ? See whera she comes, all haste. [All rise and look off right. GILDHELM. 'Tis Kundry's self ! riding like one possessed. VALLON. Some devil's mare, I warrant. ROLAND. Ah ! they fall ! Surely she's killed ! Come, Gildhelm, comrades help! PARSIFAL 43 [All except VALLON move as if to go to her aid. VALLON. No need brave budding Knights ! Your lady fair Stands up unharmed and comes to meet you. See ! She runs and leaps like some mad cat ! [Lies down. GILDHELM. I fear That evil power, which held her once in thrall, Has seized her yet again. ROLAND. She holds on high A casket. Sure, she's mad ! [Lies down.] I like her not. GILDHELM. Saints pity her ! [stepping back. What ails thee, Kundry ? [Enter KUNDRY. She is in gypsy dress, with hair loose, and has a wild ap- pearance. In front of her she holds out a small casket, which she thrusts into ROLAND'S hands. KUNDRY. Take ! Take that to Gurnemanz thy master quick ! VOICES [pstllfng.] Kundry ! Come ! ! [Exit GILDHELM. KUNDRY. [Turns and calls out boldly.] Call " Kundry " as yoa will ! I will not go till I have seen my King ! [Runs across to VALLON and others. 44 PARSIFAL Where is he ? speak ! [is dragged back towards right by invisible power.] Good Squires, hold me back ! [All turn away from her, shaking heads and laughing. For love of Christ ! [Rumbling thunder heard.] Hark ! [listening.] Klingsor calls You hear ? [Runs with arms outstretched round group of ESQUIRES. They walk away from her. What ! none dare touch me ? Ha, ha, ha ! You fear, Christian Esquires, to lose your selfish souls ! Yet would you bravely risk your mortal lives To save from mortal death some hapless maid. But when a tortured soul implores you: "Hold ! And keep me back by Love from Sin, I hate ! " You fear to move one step ! So did not Christ, Who risked His all, to save us all [Walks slowly away from them with head bowed down. I come ! [Enter ULRIC, followed by procession of KNIGHTS and ESQUIRES. ULRIC. Attend ! The King ! [Stands motion- less at salute. PARSIFAI, 45 VOICES, [nearer.] Kundry ! [KUNDRY turns with look of expectancy. Enter AMFORTAS in litter, carried by BEARERS, followed by GURNEMANZ and OLD KNIGHTS. KUNDRY. No No ! At last ! [Advances with arms outstretched to KING. Amfortas save me ! Hold me AMFORTAS. [in astonishment.] Kundry ? KUNDRY. [falling on litter and sinking to ground beside AMFORTAS.] Fast ! [The bell is silent. The KNIGHTS whisper together. Some smile or shrug their shoulders. The OLD KNIGHTS hold up their hands in horror. GURNE- MANZ, holding casket, steps up to ULRIC and beckons him to proceed. ULRIC shakes head. GURNEMANZ. [stepping determinedly forward.] Bearers advance ! [The BEARERS stoop to raise litter, but stop on sign from AMFORTAS. AMFORTAS. [angrily, as he raises himself.] Art THOU the King, or I ? GURNEMANZ. [bowing low.] I did but think the King should not be late. The bidding bell has ceased. We celebrate 46 PARSIFAL To-day the Holy Mysteries, [impatiently.] We are late. AMFORTAS. Thou mayst be late. The King is never late. Else were he not a king, but subject ; bound To note each change upon a dial's face, And humbly cry : " Your Majesty ! " [Spasm of Pain.] Again ! [General consternation. KUNDRY wrings her hands and prays. Lord help me conquer thee, thou Tyrant Pain ! GURNEMANZ. [Opens casket and bends over litter. My lord this casket KUNDRY. [taking it.] Dear Amfortas see ! Here is a balsam rare of wondrous power, [Tries to apply it.] Far famed in Moorish tents, [as AMFORTAS with great cry pushes her back.] My king ! [Puts hand to side in sympathy. AMFORTAS. [sinking back exhausted.] 'Tis gone! Ever it claws me thus like cat with mouse. Kind Kundry ! thus to feel my wound as thine. KUNDRY. Am not I mother of thy wound ? 'Tis MINE ! AMFORTAS. And mine ! by father's right, though sired in sin. [KUNDRY falls on the litter. PARSIFAL 47 GURNEMANZ. [to ULRic.] WiseTiturel was right. She caused that wound. ULRIC. [Hastily tries to pull KUNDRY away. KUNDRY turns on him. He steps quickly back. All laugh. Thou must not touch the King ! The girl is mad ! [AMFORTAS half raises himself, looks at ULRIC angrily, and then sinks back with closed eyes. KUNDRY. MOST Christian Knights ! You laugh and say, " She's mad " ! And though you SAY it not, you THINK, that he, [Points to KING.] The King of Holy Grail, is mad, or worse, Thus to accept without rebuke or blame The gift [Holds up casket.'] and kisses of a woman, known To be a sinner [sadly.] Yes, a sinner ! Ah ! So thought some OTHER Pharisees ! [Falls again on litter and kisses AMFORTAS. [KNIGHTS and ESQUIRES bow their heads in thoughtful shame. AMFORTAS. [Pushes her away and raises himself. No more ! I am no Christ ! Thy kisses burn like fire ! D 48 PARSIFAL What pain can equal that of vain Desire ! I am no Christ ! though Christian King and Priest, Feeding on Holy Food ; and now about To uncover glorious sight ! His Holy Grail. Kundry, I love thee ! Pity me, my Knights ! I am but Man ! [warding her off with hand. GURNEMANZ. The Grail King may not wed. Therefore thy love is Sin. [OLD KNIGHTS nod in approval. ULRIC AND YOUNG KNIGHTS. No! No! KUNDRY. What ! Sin To love ? Was Christ not flesh and blood ? Did not He love .... I feel He did .... the Magdalene ? GURNEMANZ. Blasphemer ! AMFORTAS. Is it blasphemy, to say, He loved as Man, Who represented MAN ? " In all things He was tempted like to Man." And as a MAN He conquered not as God, For God cannot be tempted. Did He love, As Man loves Woman ? None may know or tell. But this I know ! To save from Death and Hell : To raise Humanity to Heaven above, He gave up all ! [looking upward.] I follow ! [Bell heard again. General movement. BEARERS approach litter. ESQUIRES PARSIFAL 49 and SERVANTS enter and stand point- ing and gazing over lake. GURNEMANZ. Sire the Bell ! AMFORTAS. Go ! Stop the bell ! {All show surprise and horror, [sinking back.] Ah ! Christ, forgive ! [Looks long and lovingly at KUNDRY. Farewell ! [Bows in assent to GURNEMANZ, who signs to BEARERS. They lift litter, and begin to carry him towards road to the Mount. KUNDRY. [dragging herself after him.] My King ! Amfortas ! How can I fare well, When thou art gone ? [AMFORTAS gives cry of pain and the BEARERS stop. ULRIC. Stand back, poor Kundry ! KUNDRY. Poor ? Say rather, " rich," as one, who, finding gold In some bare desert, dies for want of bread. [to AMFORTAS.] I have thy love ; yet starve ! AMFORTAS. Christ, strengthen me ! KUNDRY. Oh, let me follow thee to Holy Cross ! GURNEMANZ. Thou may'st not pass without the Sacred Spear. So willed great Titurel. AMFORTAS. The Sacred Spear ! So PARSIFAL This weakened form can never hope to win it. This hand that loved to clasp it once in pride, Missing the dear embrace, falls hopeless down. [Lets hand fall down by side of litter. KUNDRY. [seizing hand and kissing it,] Dear hand, for thee and me no hope remains ! AMFORTAS. Yet is there hope ! [KUNDRY looks up at him.] For, praying all alone Before the Shrine of Holy Grail I heard A Voice, sweet and Divinely clear that said " Wait for my Simple One and Pure ! Wait for him who, pitying Pain, Will bring The Sacred Spear again. Here shall it rest, for ever sure. Wait for my Simple One and Pure !" GURNEMANZ. Simple and Pure Can such a One be found. AMFORTAS. Frail hope ! Yet Hope there is. KUNDRY. Ah, yes for thee. But not for Kundry cursed from birth ! and bound To mock at Good that Good, which I would do ; Yet do that Evil, which I would not do. How can I hope ? There is no Hope no Hope ! [Falls down in despair, resting head on litter. PARSIFAL 51 AMFORTAS [laying hand on her head.] In Christ is always hope. We know not how, Or when He will accomplish it, or where. But at His Altar, which awaits me there, {pointing to path. Love can defend dear absent ones with Prayer. KUNDRY. And wilt thou pray for me ? AMFORTAS. By every vow Man ever made to God in love or fear ; By every vow breathed in a woman's ear ; By all I have been, am, or hope to be ; By Christ and Holy Grail, I'll pray for thee. KUNDRY. I cannot pray. E'en now, that evil spell Bids me laugh laugh ! I will not laugh ! at thee. But this I ask of God, the Merciful : Oh, let me find that Simple One and Pure ; Lead him to thee ! and then, I can endure All loss of Heaven all pains of Earth or Hell ! AMFORTAS. God give thee peace, and freedom from that Curse, Which, like a mother's mark, only skin-deep, Blotches thy outward life, yet leaves thy soul Untouched. How like a knell sounds Holy Bell ! Christ, pity me ! God give thee peace ! Fare- well ! 52 PARSIFAL [Exit AMFORTAS in litter, preceded by ULRIC and the YOUNG KNIGHTS. The OLD KNIGHTS follow. GURNE- MANZ stands looking sadly down at KUNDRY, who has fallen with a cry of anguish behind a thicket. The bell sounds more quickly, and distant singing is heard as from the Mount. GURNEMANZ. Poor Kundry ! [bending over her.] What ! asleep ? Oft have I seen Thee thus in fearful trance. Mysterious Maid ! I love thee not. Much evil hast thou brought To Grail Mount : Titurel dead ; the Sacred Spear Torn from the Grail King's grasp ; the King him- self, Wounded in soul and body, being pierced By those he loves, the Sacred Spear and thee. God grant that ere I die, the Promised One May come ! " Wait for the Simple One," he said; " Simple and Pure ! " [Looks over to lake.] as yonder snow-white swan, Sacred and ancient sign of Peace Eternal ! [A white Swan is seen flying over the lake. GILDHELM. Horror ! ROLAND. 'Tis shot ! ESQUIRES. See, how it flutters down ! VALLON. I saw an arrow dart from yonder bush. PARSIFAL 53 [The Swan flutters slowly across and falls on ground in front of lake. GILDHELM. [bending over and examining Swan. The Grail's White Swan is dead ! [All crowd round it. GURNEMANZ. [coming down from path.] Who dared to harm Aught living in the shadow of The Mount ? Quick ! Bring the culprit here ! [Several ESQUIRES hurry away, [looking after them.] Can that be he ? A simple boy ? yet no mere child ; a lad, And well nigh man ! GILDHELM. He runs to meet them ! ROLAND. No ! He comes to find his swan. VALLON. The simple fool ! To run so blithe into the lion's jaw. [nodding aside at GURNEMANZ. As pure a fool, as ever yet I saw. [Laughs and points. Laughter heard. GURNEMANZ stands sternly waiting. Enter PARSIFAL, followed by ESQUIRES and SERVANTS OF GRAIL all laugh- ing at him. He is dressed in short white tunic. Round his waist is a white belt, on which is seen embroidered 54 PARSIFAL in gold, " PARSIFAL." At his back is a sheaf of arrows, and he carries a bow in his left hand. He is bare- headed and on his feet are golden sandals. He is of noble appearance, medium height, fresh and ruddy in colour. GURNEMANZ. Be silent, fools ! PARSIFAL. Fools ! What are " fools ? " VALLON. Men made Like thee are fools. [All laugh, excepting GURNEMANZ and GILDHELM. PARSIFAL, [examining Esquires.] Then you and you are " fools." GURNEMANZ. Thou sayest truth in that. Now tell me true In this Who art thou ? Speak ! PARSIFAL. I do not know- GURNEMANZ. What is thy name ? PARSIFAL. I have so many. This [pointing to belt] Is one. My mother gave it me. She bade Me point to that, when asked to tell my name. ROLAND, [reading name on belt.] His mother knew right well the fool she bore ; For this, Sir Gurnemanz, reads " Parsi Fal." Which means : " Pure Fool." PARSIFAL 55 [KuNDRY moans and stirs. PARSIFAL starts, and looks around him like a hunter. VALLON. [tapping PARSIFAL on shoulder.] Thou must be wise, to know thyself a fool ! [laughter.] GURNEMANZ. Thou art a fool to think thyself so wise. [All laugh at VALLON. [aside.] " Pure Fool ! " Is this indeed the Promised One ? The " Simple One and Pure " ? [turning to PARSIFAL.] Didst slay that Swan ? PARSIFAL, [proudly and gladly.] Yes with this arrow. [Takes out arrow from Swan. Through the woods I roam, And aim at everything that runs or flies. GURNEMANZ. Simple, indeed ! Dost never pity pain ? PARSIFAL. Pain ? What is Pain ? [KUNDRY moves and groans. GURNEMANZ. [leading PARSIFAL across.] Come, I will show thee Pain. PARSIFAL, [looking down on KUNDRY, who moves.] Ha ! [Starts back and fits the arrow to bow.] See ! it moves ! I like them not to move. If they but move, I always shoot again. Then they lie still. I like them not to move. 56 PARSIFAL GURNEMANZ. [restraining his hand.] What ! would' st thou kill a woman ? PARSIFAL, [wonderingly.] "Woman?" That Is that a woman ? Thou didst call it "Pain." GURNEMANZ. Fools hit on truth, that wise men seek in vain. Pain makes men, women. Woman makes Man's Pain. And he, who sees a woman, looks on Pain. [to PARSIFAL.] Hast never seen a woman ? PARSIFAL. What is " Woman ! " [Laughter. GURNEMANZ. Thy mother is a woman. Hast thou ne'er Met any like thy mother ? PARSIFAL. Nay ! for that Can never be. God only made one " Mother." GURNEMANZ. [joyfully.] The Pure and Simple One ! [doubtfully.] yet knows not Pain. Thy mother doth she never weep ? shed tears ? PARSIFAL. Tears ? Ah ! I know. Those drops of thunder rain, So quiet, hot, and large. [Puts hand to breast.] They sink in here ; Then rise and rise until they fall again From out these eyes. I like not tears, and fain Would dry them all. PARSIFAL 57 GURNEMANZ. Thank Christ ! He pities pain. Thou saidst, God made thy mother ? PARSIFAL, [pointing upward.] God made all. GURNEMANZ. That knowledge covers much thou knowest not. Thy mother taught thee truth. What is her name ? PARSIFAL. Heart's Sorrow. KUNDRY. [slowly rising.] Ah ! Who speaks of her Heart's Sorrow ? PARSIFAL, [fearfully and curiously regarding her.] What art thou ? so like yet not my mother ! What is thy name ? He called thee " Woman- Pain." I took thee for a beast. [ESQUIRES laugh. KUNDRY. And each was right. For sometimes I am Woman ; sometimes Beast ! And always " PAIN ! " PARSIFAL. Know'st thou my mother, woman- named " Heart's Sorrow? " KUNDRY. Nay. Thou art wrong. Thy mother's name is not Heart's Sorrow ; but Heart's Ease. For she is dead. PARSIFAL. [half stupidly.] My mother ? dead ? What dost thou say ? 58 PARSIFAL KUNDRY. She died Here, in these arms ; unworthy arms, to hold Such goodness ! Lost in lonely woods I found Heart's Sorrow. All her tale she told; then cried : " Lord Christ ! protect my Parsifal ! " and died. PARSIFAL- [After increasing excitement, now places hand to his heart. Why how is this ? thou hast no bow nor dart, Yet am I wounded ! Oh, my heart ! my heart ! [Advances to ESQUIRES.] Who shot at Parsifal ? [ESQUIRES draw back laughingly. Poor Swan ! didst feel My arrow in thy heart ? like this and this ! [to KUNDRY, who has followed. 'Twas thou, didst wound me ! Woman, Beast, or Pain! Take then this dart, [Holds out arrow.] this bow, [Offers bow.] and shoot again ! Quick ! lest I spring on thee ! Ah, shoot until I, like my mother ! like this Swan ! lie still! [Falls with head on Swan, face downwards. KUNDRY runs up to lake, taking horn from girdle. GURNEMANZ, who has been listening intently, now^quietly crosses and stands by PARSIFAL. PARSIFAL 59 VALLON. [bending over PARSIFAL, as the others crowd behind him. Kundry has worked some witch's charm on him. The Fool is dead. GURNEMANZ. [anxiously.] Not dead ? ROLAND. No ! See he breathes ! The swandown sways, kissing his parted lips ! GURNEMANZ. Great Heaven be praised ! [With help of ESQUIRES turns PARSIFAL over on his back, leaving Swan free. GILDHELM. [as KUNDRY comes with water.] Ah, Kundry ! always first, To see and do what others wish to do, When thou hast done it ! Good ! KUNDRY. [supporting PARSIFAL'S head, as she sprinkles water on his face.] I do no Good. GURNEMANZ. [aside.] Strange blend of Good and Evil ! [to Esquires.] Bear it above ! The King shall see, how Death and Pain through Christ, Have gendered Pity, [as they roughly lift the Swan. Stay, ye callous hearts ! Make a soft bier of bracken leaves for this [placing hand on Swan.] Is a dear friend whose body I revere. Bear it then gently. I will follow soon. 6o PARSIFAL [ESQUIRES and SERVANTS set about making litter. KUNDRY. [as PARSIFAL moves a little.] Already he revives. 'Twas but a swoon, Caused by my cruel news. Alas ! that I Am fated e'en by truth to cause men harm ! So did I tend the Lady Gamoret. GURNEMANZ. The Lady Gamoret ? KUNDRY. His mother ; called Heart's Sorrow, since her lord in battle died. She then all full of fears, lest such a fate Should steal her son, born by his father's death, Withheld from him all knowledge save of love For her and God. In Gamoret's lonely wood She reared him year by year, strong, simple, pure ; Calling him " PARSIFAL." PARSIFAL, [dreamily.] Mother tell me why Could I not find those Shining Ones ? I asked, If they were angels ; but they laughed and said : " We are brave Knights," and laughing passed away. I followed far, but never saw them more. GURNEMANZ. He dreams thou art his mother. [On KUNDRY'S face there comes a look of longing. ESQUIRES, [laughing, as they place Swan on litter.] Kundry a mother ! PARSIFAL 61 GURNEMANZ. [sternly.] Advance ! [They carry litter slowly towards path. KUNDRY. [beginning to laugh softly then getting louder and louder.] Ha, ha ! His mother I ! Ha, ha ! [Those bearing the Swan cower down and look back at her. PARSIFAL raises head and looks fearfully at KUNDRY ; then starts up with hands to ears and clings to GURNEMANZ, who leads him away from KUNDRY, who sits swaying herself and laughing softly. Suddenly she holds hand to ear in listening attitude. A distant cry of " KUNDRY " is heard. GURNEMANZ. [to KUNDRY.] Begone ! thou evil one ! [crosses himself.] nor linger near This Holy Mount. [to PARSIFAL, who now draws himself up to his full height, and gazes at KUNDRY.] Brave lad ! [to ESQUIRES.] HE does not fear ! [again to Kundry.] Begone ! Bid Klingsor guard the Sacred Spear ! For he The Promised One has come ! The Pure And Simple ! PARSIFAL ! [placing hand on PAR- SIFAL'S shoulder.] Shalt learn to fight With Sword ! [Draws sword.] instead of bow. 62 PARSIFAL [Holds sword high ove* PARSIFAL'S head.] CHRIST'S CHOSEN KNIGHT ! [PARSIFAL stands with rapt, yet wonder- ing look upon his face. Kundry advances towards him with her hands clasped and her eyes full of a great hope and joy. Suddenly she points at PARSIFAL mockingly and goes backwards, laughing. The ESQUIRES and SERVANTS with Swan on litter move slowly up path. END OF SCENE I SCENE II THE GRAIL CLOISTER Bells chime. CHILDREN and MAIDS of GRAIL heard singing. Enter MAIDEN CROSSBEARER (The Cross is of red roses, with white rose in centre.) She is followed by CHILDREN carrying large letters made of flowers and form- ing the name : TITUREL. Enter behind them LILIAN and ENID, bearing the CHILDREN'S BANNER of THE HOLY GRAIL. PARSIFAL 63 Enter DUMB MAIDEN. She makes signs to LILIAN and ENID that she wants to go with them. LILIAN. What ails our poor dumb sister ? [DUMB MAIDEN touches flowers question- ingly. ENID. Yes, we bear Sweet flowers of memory for Titurel's tomb. LILIAN. A year to-day he died. [DUMB MAIDEN weeps. [to ENID.] See, how she loved The mighty King, who never passed her by Without some pitying sign. ENID. None understood As well as he these signs of face and hand. LILIAN. Yet has she never once approached his tomb, Nor entered Holy Hall, since (wondrous sound !) She spake those fatal words, which told of loss Of Sacred Spear and King Amfortas' wound. ENID. How did she know? How could she speak ? LILIAN. Through Him Who knoweth all ; and still doth all things well ; Making the deaf to hear and dumb to speak ; As when He taught and healed in Galilee. [DUMB MAIDEN signs that she has heard. ENID, [excitedly.] She heard thee, Lilian, and understood ! E 64 PARSIFAL See how she smiles ! I cannot read her signs. What is't she wants ? We may not linger here. LILIAN, [after watching signs O/DUMB MAIDEN. Methinks she craves to once again behold The high solemnities of Holy Grail. [DUMB MAIDEN signs affirmatively. ENID. Oh, can it be that she will speak again By one brief moment's miracle bring Hope, Where once she brought Despair? LILIAN. Wilt speak again ? [DUMB MAIDEN nods. ENID. Then tell Amfortas if by grace thou canst How he may rid him of his grievous wound. [in ecstasy of hope.] Oh, Joy ! to see him stand in manly strength, Our noblest Knight and glorious King Amfortas ! LILIAN. Enid ! She signs, she can and will. ENID, [with rapt look.] Most High ! To Thee be all the praise ! LILIAN. Come, sister mine ! Come to the Holy Hall of Holy Grail ! [DUMB MAIDEN walks alone in front of Banner, joyfully holding up her hands as in praise and prayer. PROCESSION moves slowly forward. END OF SCENE II PARSIFAL 65 SCENE III. THE HALL OF THE HOLY GRAIL. A Large Hall of Byzantine Architecture. At the back is an APSE, raised high above floor. It is hung with dark purple curtains and con- tains the TOMB of TITUREL, on which is seen the recumbent carved stone figure of the late King. " TITUREL " is on the tomb in large letters of gold. A small door leads from the APSE. Lower than the APSE is a DAIS, in centre of which stands a richly-carved table on which rests the Golden Shrine containing the HOLY GRAIL. To the right is a THRONE, under a rich canopy. Over this DAIS ts a high DOME, from which hangs a large CROSS somewhat behind the ALTAR-TABLE. THURIFERS and ACOLYTES stand on the broad steps descending from DAIS to floor of Hall. In the HALL are twelve CHAIRS, richly carved- At right and left of DAIS steps are curtained entrances. There are also Arched Doorways right and left at sides. The scene opens with a procession of KNIGHTS OF THE GRAIL with their attendant ESQUIRES and Banners. The CHILDREN enter APSE, and with 66 PARSIFAL LILIAN, ENID, and the DUMB MAIDEN decorate the tomb of TITUREL with flowers. Then follows a procession of the YOUNG KNIGHTS in immediate attendance on the King. These having taken their -places, there enters the KING'S ARMOURBEARER, with the KING'S golden Helmet, Sword, and Shield. He is fol- lowed by SIR ULRIC, carrying the Royal Stan- dard of The Holy Grail and Sacred Spear. A short pause of expectation. Enter in litter AMFORTAS. As all greet him he signs to the bearers to halt. AMFORTAS. At last the dread yet joyful hour has come ! Now must I stand, as once I stood in pride Of strength and conscious dignity of worth, An upright Man ! [Raises himself painfully to sitting posture.] What sharpest agony Of mind and body must I now endure ! ULRIC. My lord, Sir Gurnemanz will soon be here. AMFORTAS. Sir Gurnemanz is not here. Must I wait, And all these noble Knights, for Gurnemanz ? I will not wait ; lest Fear catching me up Thus lingering, should take me prisoner. Come, PARSIFAL 67 Ulric, my first Young Knight. Thou too, hast right Of ascent to the Dais. Help me down. [ULRIC assists him to stand. Or help me up. [Agony.] Pain knows nor " up " nor " down," But only " here " ! Ah ! blest indeed is he, Who has a friend's strong arm whereon to lean In dire extremity ! Canst bear alone My helpless weight ? [They proceed slowly to steps. ULRIC. Right well, my King my friend ! Love multiplies ten times this arm's good strength. Did not it help to bear thee, when [Stops in dismay. AMFORTAS. [as they begin to ascend.] Why pause ? I know what thou would'st say : " When I the King Amfortas [Turns and points wildly to standard] lost The Sacred Spear !" Oh shame ! To bear it still upon my helmet's crest ; To lift it on my standard high in air, That Earth and Air may see Amfortas' shame : The shame of bearing blazoned on his arms That which he could not hold within his hand ! Pray, my Knights, pray that He may quickly come, Who shall win back The Sacred Spear, and heal Therewith my wounded heart and side. 68 PARSIFAL [Turns and ascends another step. KNIGHTS bow in prayer. Enter GURNEMANZ and PARSIFAL. GURNEMANZ. [to PARSIFAL, who is gazing about him.] See ! there ! [pointing to the KING. Behold our wounded King [watching PARSIFAL closely.] who suffers Pain. [They advance slowly into the Hall. PAR- SIFAL shows great astonishment. AMFORTAS. [pointing to tomb.] My father's tomb ! Unworthy son am I ! [Agony. [PARSIFAL steps forward to the first step. ULRIC. [helping AMFORTAS.] Unworthy are we all ; and yet in Christ Are all made perfect. Come. AMFORTAS. [pointing to MAIDENS.] I dare not ! Ah ! Enid and Lilian ! the Grotto KUNDRY ! [nearly falls. PARSIFAL runs lightly up steps and assists ULRIC. As he does so, the KNIGHTS give shout of dismay and anger. KNIGHTS. Sacrilege ! [Some move towards steps. GURNEMANZ holds up hands to stay them. GURNEMANZ. I command you all be still ! [The tumult gradually subsides, and the KNIGHTS whisper together. PARSIFAL 69 AMFORTAS has now been placed on the Throne, on which he sinks back ex- hausted. ULRIC gazes in amazement at PARSIFAL. PARSIFAL. Poor King thou too art wounded ! {Places hand to side.] Pain ! more Pain ! [GURNEMANZ ascends steps to Throne. AMFORTAS. [leaning back with closed eyes.] Who is it pities Pain and bore me up, Giving such timely help ? Thou, Gurnemanz ? Tis not thy voice ; unless that pitying Love Has mellowed all its tones. [Opens eyes.] Ah ! Who art thou ? Ulric, what youth is this, who dares to stand Here on the Altar-Dais ? KNIGHTS. Sacrilege ! [The DUMB MAIDEN stirs excitedly. ENID tries to quiet her. ULRIC. Pardon him, Sire. 'Twas Pity brought him here ; [GURNEMANZ gravely nods head. A simple fool, who met us in the woods, And asked if we were angels. [KNIGHTS in body of Hall laugh. AMFORTAS. Silence, all ! Who laughs at ignorance, commits a sin yo PARSIFAL Deeper than his, who errs through lack of know- ledge. Sir Gurnemanz, thou lovest to uphold In every detail all our ancient rites ; What knowest thou of this ? Speak ; I grow faint, [sinks back.] [PARSIFAL presses hand again to side in sympathy with the KING. GURNEMANZ. My lord and King, I brought this stranger here. How chanced our meeting, I will tell anon. Let this be my excuse AMFORTAS. Thou needest none. Whate'er thou dost springs ever from good cause. Proceed. GURNEMANZ. [bowing.] Thy trust is not in this betrayed. A few brief words, and thou wilt understand On instant, why I brought [laying hand on PAR- SIFAL] this simple youth To view our Mysteries of the Holy Grail. Here stands [AMFORTAS leans forward to listen. A Simple One and Pure, who pities Pain. AMFORTAS. [in great excitement.] Ulric, upraise me. [ULRic helps him to stand. Say those words again ! [Looks doubtfully at PARSIFAL. PARSIFAL 71 GURNEMANZ is about to repeat the words, when the DUMB MAIDEN steps down from Apse to behind Altar, and points to PARSIFAL. DUMB MAIDEN, [amidst great wonder.] 'Tis He ! 'tis He ! The Promised One has come ! " Wait for the Simple One and Pure ! Wait for him, who pitying Pain Shall bring The Sacred Spear again. [laying hands on Altar.] Here shall it rest, for ever sure Wait for my Simple One and Pure ! " KNIGHTS, [holding up hands on high. A Miracle ! All Glory be to God ! [The DUMB MAIDEN sinks back in state of exhaustion into the arms of LILIAN and ENID. AMFORTAS. A miracle indeed ! The dumb one speaks The very words I heard at Holy Shrine. Hope half-fulfilled, already makes me strong ! [to PARSIFAL.] Thou art the Promised One ! that I believe. Yet fondly had I dreamed of some great Knight, A mighty Paladin from Arthur's court, And thou art but a youth a child in guile. How wilt thou circumvent that wicked one, 72 PARSIFAL The mighty Klingsor ? What is thy name and birth ? GURNEMANZ. [as PARSIFAL does not answer. His name, my lord, is PARSIFAL. [Points to the belt.] His sire, That Gamoret, whose deeds the poets sing. AMFORTAS. How know'st thou this ? GURNEMANZ. His mother breathed her last In Kundry's arms. AMFORTAS. Then Kundry brought him here, A living balm that surely cannot fail. I thank thee, Kundry ! [Agony.] Ah ! my pain returns ! PARSIFAL. Kundry ? What is " Kundry " ? AMFORTAS. One I love ! Yet one whom thou must hate and dread and shun, If e'er thou meetest her, when Klingsor calls, And makes her do what she would leave undone. Away with Fear ! thou art The Promised One ; And Christ Himself will teach thee what to do. Stay here and watch. ULRIC. Should not he stand below, Being no Knight, nor even an Esquire ? GURNEMANZ. Here on the Altar-Dais none may stand, But Knights and they who serve the Holy Grail, PARSIFAL 73 Assisting at our rites. Such is our rule. AMFORTAS. Such rites and rules are made by Man for Man, To help him upwards, not to bind him down. Yet lest we give offence to weaker minds By disobeying that we wish obeyed Ulric thy sword ! [Holds out hand for sword, which is given him. The KNIGHTS stand with drawn swords. AMFORTAS taps PARSIFAL lightly on right and left shoulders. PARSIFAL starts away and rises. Arise ! SIR PARSIFAL ! [returns sword. GURNEMANZ. [with sword at salute.] Salute Sir Parsifal ! ULRIC AND KNIGHTS. Sir Parsifal ! AMFORTAS. [standing up with assistance from ULRIC.] This is our Brother who has wan- dered far, And seeks to know his way. GURNEMANZ. Pray, Brethren, pray. That he who seeks may find his Quest and see That Vision Glorious, whose Blessed sight Alone can make him Knight of Holy Grail ; And lacking which, all kingly accolade Is empty show, [placing PARSIFAL in front of throne. 74 PARSIFAL Stand here, my Brother ! Watch ! And tell us what thou seest. Then obey ! lylssis/s AMFORTAS to stand at Altar in front of Shrine. TRUMPETS sound. PARSIFAL stands watching, lost in amazement. AMFORTAS opens SHRINE, and takes there- from THE HOLY GRAIL, covered with Pall of white Samite. He holds up two broken pieces of a loaf and places them in front of GRAIL, which he un- covers. All kneel. PARSIFAL still stands. PARSIFAL. My mother taught me always to obey. But all I see is strange except thy Pain ! [Steps towards the Altar, as AMFORTAS moans and presses hand to side. He is advancing, but stops and gazes upwards, as the light begins to wane, and from the height of Dome comes singing. BOYS' VOICES. " Simple One and Pure ! Thou, who pitiest Pain ; Go, bring The Sacred Spear again ! " [The darkness increases. PARSIFAL now stands at Altar. PARSIFAL 75 VOICES. He came down to obey. He was taught by Pain. Fear not ! Thou shalt not seek in vain. [A ROSY RAY of light shoots down into the GRAIL. AMFORTAS. [in solemn, low tones.] What dost thou see ? GURNEMANZ, ULRIC, AND KNIGHTS. What dost thou see ? PARSIFAL. I see I see a Rosy Ray from Heaven descend And enter that, ye call The Holy Grail. Adown the beam walks One with Glorious Face, And eyes all filled with loving light and tears. Around his brow are plaited long keen thorns. From these fall drops of Blood, that trickle down To mingle with His tears. And both His hands, And both his feet are bleeding from the marks Of cruel nails. And see ! there in His side, A gaping wound made by a soldier's spear. Water and Blood ! Water and Blood ! that fill The Holy Grail ! [leaning forward.] Yet gleam- ing there, I see In every drop of Wine, That Loving Face ! [Looking at Bread.] In every broken loaf His Glorious Form ! 76 PARSIFAI, VOICES [from the height.} He, who eateth My Flesh ; He, who drinketh My Blood ; Partakes of Life Eternal ! KNIGHTS. The Vision Glorious ! thy Quest thy Quest ? AMFORTAS. [as PARSIFAL remains silent. What hast thou heard ? PARSIFAL. I heard I hear the sound Of voices, singing like my morning birds High up in air " Bring back The Sacred Spear ! " What is The Sacred Spear ? [A rosy coloured Spear shines in the air over steps. Ah ! now I know. " That Spear, which pierced His side " and thine. I hear. [Bows head as if in obedience. Steps to side of AMFORTAS, and lays his hand on him, still kneeling. Wait, till I bring The Sacred Spear again. Only His Blood can heal thy wound and pain. [stepping down to Dais.] I hear and I obey. I see and follow ! [He comes slowly down steps to centre of Hall, holding out his hand to the Spear, which leads him towards doorway. VOICES, [while PARSIFAL is coming down from Altar.} PARSIFAL 77 Go forth and bring the Sacred Spear again ! Simple and Pure One, taught by pitying Pain, Though thou wand' rest in lands afar, Christ shall be thy Guiding Star ! Bring The Sacred Spear again ! " [AMFORTAS rises joyfully, takes Grail, and turning round, holds it up. The Sacring Bell rings. The Thurifers cense Altar. The Hall is filled with rosy radiance. ULRIC. Attend ! GURNEMANZ. For Holy Persons Holy Things ! AMFORTAS. Lift up your hearts ! OMNES. We lift them up to God ! [AMFORTAS turns to Altar, as if to com- mence service. VOICES FROM HEIGHT. " Blessed is He ! Hosanna ! " [CURTAIN falls slowly. The notes swell out, and from the height is heard the last " Hosanna," as PARSIFAL reaches doorway. END OF ACT II AND PART I ENTRACTE PARSIFAL wanders through many lands ; and even- tually reaches KING ARTHUR'S Court, where he learns all Knightly exercises. Grown to man's estate, he becomes a Knight of the Round Table ; lout a vision of the Holy Grail recalls to his mind the quest for the Sacred Spear, and he recommences his search. Though not now ignorant, he still is Simple and Pure. PART II ACT III SCENE I KLINGSOR'S CASTLE. Terrace. Through arches are seen the battlements of the Castle. In the centre is an Alcove, in which KUNDRY is lying on couch asleep, clothed in an iridescent robe. The walls of the Alcove are hung with tapestry, and the curtains in front of it are half closed. Arched entrance right and left. KLINGSOR is discovered seated on fantastically de- corated Throne. At his feet on a cushion re- clines ZANA, a woman of majestic appearance and voluptuous beauty. On each side of the Alcove stands a BLACK MUTE with drawn scimitar. KLINGSOR holds the SACRED SPEAR as a sceptre. By his side is a tripod bearing a large revolving crystal globe. Two BLACK MUTES stand on guard at doorway. ZANA. Why dost thou fear this Knight ? KLINGSOR. [fiercely, gazing into Crystal.] I fear him not. 79 8o PARSIFAL ZANA. Then why so troubled ? Is he not a man, With limbs to be lopped off him one by one ? Twelve of thy strongest Knights hast thou sent forth To bind and bring him here. KLINGSOR. [gloomily.] And all, save one Lie slain. ZANA. [raising herself to look at Crystal.'] What vigour ! Let me see this man ! KLINGSOR. [angrily.] Lie down, thou mass of Lust ! [gazes eagerly into Crystal. ZANA. [reclining again.] Thou art so chaste. KLINGSOR. Be silent ! ZANA. [leaning against him.] I am dumb. I love thee thus, Cruel, but strong. KLINGSOR. Attend, and bring thy will To bear with mine on him whose dying words His victor bends to hear, [pointing to the Cry- stal.] Look at thy son. ZANA. [bending over and looking into Crystal.] I knew not he was one of those sent forth. KLINGSOR. And now thou know'st, art going to weep ? [jeeringly.] ZANA. Not I. He made me look too old. PARSIFAL 81 KLINGSOR. Sweet type of Woman Hating her motherhood in days to come ! ZANA. Yet will I slay this knight. What is his name ? KLINGSOR. Once Parsifal a youth ; but now a Knight Of Arthur's Table Round, Sir Percival, And bound by vow to win this Sacred Spear. His prowess in attack thou seest there. [pointing to Crystal. What can thy woman's wit devise to pierce The armour of his purity, and bring Him here with sin upon his soul, so this [poising Spear. Can pierce his heart, and send him down to Hell ? ZANA. [half-kneeling at Crystal behind Klingsor. See, where my son lies dying in his arms ! [with mesmeric gesture.] Speak, what I bid thee speak, my son ! [a pause.] I fail. KLINGSOR. [with similar gesture to Crystal. Speak what she bids thee speak Satanas, help ! He hears, and will obey. Bait now thy hook. ZANA. [with concentration, yet as if dying. " Brave Knight .... within these castle's walls .... a fair Young Princess . . . languishes in bitter pain . . . Bound by an evil spell . ... to dance and laugh With all her maidens, when a stranger knight 82 PARSIFAL Arrives ; but when he leaves, once more the pain Racks her and them with agonies untold. But should a pure man place his lips on hers For one short instant broken is the spell. I was not pure, yet kissed ; and thus was bound By magic power with those my fellow-knights To fight against all purity. If thou Art pure, go on ; if not, turn back. Farewell ! " {after a slight pause.] He hesitates .... he kneels in prayer. The fool ! And now he comes he comes ! [rising and laughing.] Ha, ha ! I go. For those sweet maidens. How their knights will laugh To hear them called " sweet maidens " ! [bit- terly.] Spawn of Hell ! Children of Satanas and Mother Earth ! KLINGSOR. [He has risen.] Stand where thou art ! [ZANA stands cowering.] Art mad ? Thy play is good, And well conceived. The stage is ready. All The minor parts can easily be filled. My magic art can furbish great effects. But who will play the Fair Young Princess ? Thou ? ZANA. [pointing to alcove.] She, the mysterious maid thou lov'st to keep PARSIFAL 83 Year after year, wrapped in a magic sleep : Kundry the Cursed One the Queen of all Who laugh, dance, kiss, and charm mens' souls away ! There is thy Princess ready to thy hand. KLINGSOR. [laughing.] Art jealous, ZANA ? Wishest thou to sleep, And thus preserve thy youthful beauty ? Know, I fear to waken her, lest constant love For King Amfortas conquer e'en my power, And she refuse to play the part. ZANA. Then use That very love to whip her on to hate Him, who would win what once Amfortas lost. Work on her love for that once glorious King. KLINGSOR. The thought is well conceived. Thy woman's brain, As oft before, has helped me once again. Go. Make all ready. I will waken her ; By magic art control her will, and bring Her mind to such a pitch of jealous hate, As shall constrain her 'gainst this knight to ply Those damned arts you women know so well : The smile, the glance, the modest sighs which swell 84 PARSIFAL The half-hid bosom [enraged] 'twas by these I fell, [look of utter despair. Tript up by thee. ZANA. [half -fearfully, half -mockingly.] Wilt thou a Lord of Hell, Turn penitent Klingsor the penitent ! KLINGSOR. Cease ! ere I rack thee with a thousand pains. Go, whilst I waken her, and bid her drag This Parsifal, this pure one down to us. [as ZANA holds out her arms enticingly he embraces her fiercely.] Enter KUNDRY from Alcove between cur- tains. She advances slowly to front, as one half -awakened. KLINGSOR makes sign to ZANA. Exit ZANA. KUNDRY. I heard one say : " I will awaken her," And dreamed it was Amfortas come at last. [smiles. Amfortas ! KLINGSOR. [advancing towards her with a ter- rible look and gesture.] KUNDRY ! KUNDRY. [gazing at him with horror.] Klingsor ? [sinking suddenly in a heap at his feet.] Ah ! KLINGSOR. [pointing down at her.] Obey ! PARSIFAL 85 A stranger knight awaits thy fond embrace. [KUNDRY looks fearfully away from him. He thinks thou art a Princess, held in bond By magic power, with all thy maidens, here Within THY castle Dost thou hear ? KUNDRY. I hear. KLINGSOR. Thou and thy maidens, when a stranger comes, Appear right merry ; greeting him with smiles, Bright songs and joyous dance, to hide the grief Which weighs down them and thee, when left alone. This to the knight was told. Dost understand ? KUNDRY. I understand. What wouldst thou have me do ? KLINGSOR. That which thou oft hast done. [KUNDRY shudders.'} This knight is pure, Or thinks that he is pure. [Laughs.'] And one pure kiss Can break this wondrous spell and set thee free, Thus has the knight been told, and thus believes. My Vampire Sirens, known to thee of old, Act as thy faithful maidens. They will charm With flash of eyes and glimpse of rounded limb The outposts of his mind ; then THOU shalt creep With dance voluptuous and sweet soft tongue Telling thy woeful tale into his heart. 86 PARSIFAL KUNDRY. And then ? KLINGSOR. He'll give thee one pure kiss [laughing.] To set thee free ! KUNDRY. And then ? KLINGSOR. Art dulled by sleep, Thus to reiterate : " What then ? " Thy lips, These luscious lips on his : these gleaming arms Pressing his breast to thine ? Does Kundry ask " What then ? " The purest knight in Christen- dom Will be no longer pure, and I shall win Another soul for Satanas, and gain Fresh respite from my doom, [angrily grasping her.] That is " What then ? " KUNDRY. [throwing off his grasp and starting up.] ( And if I will not do this wrong what then? [KLINGSOR staggers back in astonishment.] If love pure Love has set me free what then ? [Suddenly rushes up to KLINGSOR and snatches away the Sacred Spear. If with this Sacred Spear I pierce thy heart [Poises it to throw. WHAT THEN ? [KLINGSOR recoils with a cry of terror. The two MUTES at doorway grasp her PARSIFAL 87 arms front behind. She struggles vainly. KLINGSOR springs towards her. KLINGSOR. Stand still ! [KUNDRY shivers, then stands like a statue. One of the MUTES by the Alcove takes the Spear and hands it to KLINGSOR. Slaves, leave her ! [They retire.'] Wilt obey ? KUNDRY. [swaying her body.] I will not obey ! KLINGSOR. Thou must obey ! Thou lov'st Amfortas. Speak ! KUNDRY. [no longer swaying.] I love Amfortas. KLINGSOR. Amfortas is the King. KUNDRY. [rapturously.] He is my King. KLINGSOR. [smiling confidently.] A knight has come to steal thy lover's crown. [KUNDRY leans forward, eyes fixed on KLINGSOR. He hopes to make himself the King of Grail. [KUNDRY shows greater interest, and takes a step forward. His sluggish blood has kept him pure till now ; This gives him power to keep the vow he made To slay Amfortas. [KUNDRY steps close up to him, placing one hand on his arm, and looking pleadingly into his face. 88 PARSIFAL KLINGSOR. Thou canst save Amfortas. KUNDRY. [eagerly.] I can save Amfortas ? KLINGSOR. All my knights, This Spear, my magic arts, are powerless Against his purity ; but one sweet kiss, One Kundry's kiss one Kundry's fond embrace KUNDRY. [veiling her eyes.] No, no ! KLINGSOR. Thou wilt not let Amfortas die For want of one sweet kiss ? [looking cunningly at her. KUNDRY. [slowly and impressively.] I will not let Amfortas die [shudders.] for want of one sweet kiss. KLINGSOR. Win me this knight and thou shalt see Amfortas. KUNDRY. [joyfully.] I shall see Amfortas ! [Shouts and cries heard. KLINGSOR. Quick ! He comes. I hear the clash of arms. My knights poor fools ! Can never conquer him. Thou canst [with sud- den gesture.] and shalt ! KUNDRY. [half fearfully, half laughingly. I will I will. What ! would'st thou slay my King, Oh, boastful Knight of Purity ? [laughing. Ha, ha ! [turning and looking through arch. PARSIFAL 89 Kundry shall slay thy soul with all the wiles Of all my mothers, I will mingle smiles, Sad tears inviting glances pouting lip Into one poisoned potion ! Then I'll trip, [dancing.] Trip, trip with dancing feet and swaying hip, And offer thee one honeyed sip of Kundry ! KLINGSOR. Kundry almost thou temptest ME! KUNDRY. [turning to him.] Be near ; And when thou hear'st me laugh then hurl the Spear Straight to the heart of him, who hopes to slay Amfortas. Come ! for I must dress to play The part of the Princess Ha, ha, ha, ha ! [Exit. KLINGSOR follows, laughing triumphantly. END OF SCENE I 90 PARSIFAL SCENE II THE GARDENS OF TEMPTATION. A Garden with luxuriant foliage. At the sides are Colonnades of Arabesque architecture. These are half-hidden by flowering shrubs at the foot of which are banks of fallen blossoms. On these recline in languorous attitudes, clad in diaphanous raiment, THE SIRENS. Half-way up centre is a bank of gorgeous beautiful flowers tapering down at the sides to creepers of the same, which climb the buttresses of the Castle Terrace at the back. Above this are the Castle ramparts. Steps with stone balus- trades lead down right and left from Terrace. Curtained entrance to Terrace from Castle. On the right of Terrace is Archway with port- cullis. This is up at opening of Scene, and beyond it is seen the outer wall of Castle, with tower and main gate, ZANA is discovered standing on Terrace addressing BLACK KNIGHTS in the passage leading to the Gateway. PARSIFAL 91 ZANA. Let not a shimmer of one spear be seen ! Sapped is your strength and blunted are your swords By contact with his purity. Ye saw With how great ease he overcame your fellows ; And slew my son ! Disperse and hide in wait, Till these sweet maidens [pointing to SIRENS.] innocent of guile [BLACK KNIGHTS laugh. Till I, a kindly old duenna [All laugh.] fool This self-complacent FOOL, who says : " I'm pure." Play with his Pity till it turns to Passion ! Till both his ears hear nothing save soft kissing ; Till both his eyes see naught but rosy flesh ; Till all his soul's pure vision is obscured By ever-gathering clouds of Foul Desire Till KUNDRY comes our beautiful and sad Young Princess, [All laugh.] who is waiting for a kiss A pure, cold kiss, [laughter.] hide, till she kisses him ! [in a furious frenzy.] And then and then pierced by that Sacred Spear The Fool had hoped to win, then can ye rush Ravening from your lair, pounce on your prey [in great passion.] And tear him limb from limb ! Away ! He comes ! 92 PARSIFAL [The KNIGHTS hastily disappear. ZANA quickly dons a black costume with hood and mantilla, giving her the appearance of an old duenna, and coming down steps sits on bank under Terrace.] [Rocks herself.] LAMENTATION OF THE SIRENS. [Enter PARSIFAL in Silver Armour with visor up. He looks around in won- derment, showing signs of pity for the SIRENS who stretch out their arms to him, as if imploring help. ZANA remains rocking herself at back. P \RSIFAL. What doleful maids of Misery are these ? [touching ZANA.] Speak ! look up ! [ZANA raises head.] And say, is all that tale Of Princess and her maidens bound by spell And waiting for a kiss from knightly lips, Pure and unsullied to remove that spell Real and substantial ? Is it true ? ZANA. Tis true Who told it thee ? [rising.] What purpose brings thee here ? PARSIFAL 93 [seizing his arm.] Art thou The Pure One who hast come to free These, my dear charges and our poor Princess From years of wretchedness and woe untold ? Thou art too handsome to be pure. No, no ! Thou art not pure, [leading him forward.] At sight of those sweet forms, [points to SIRENS who sway in voluptuous movement. Up surges all thy passionate blood ! Thou longst To clasp one to thy breast and hold her close. Is't this or maybe she with bare white arms Stretched out towards thee ? Choose, if thou wilt, one maid. [PARSIFAL turns away. Such is the privilege of every knight, Who wanders here and dares not risk the doom That falls on him pretending to be pure, Whose burning lips press hers, who waits above, [pointing to Castle. In sighing solitude for one pure kiss. [The SIRENS bend forward in listening attitudes. PARSIFAL. That one pure kiss I'll give, and free you all. I come from Arthur's Court ; and though fair maids G 94 PARSIFAL Have tempted me to love as ye do now, [sternly. Testing my purity of act and will None ever moved my mind to thought of ill. Virgin these lips, save from a mother's kiss. Taught by the Spotless King to honour, guard And help weak womanhood wherever found, I fear not magic spell nor threatened doom. Fearless in Him Whose Love casts out all fear, [/ANA and SIRENS shiver and draw back Pure in His purity Who dwells in me, Moulding me day by day more like to Him, Leading me onward in my holy Quest Of Sacred Spear and Holy Grail, I'll dare This Fatal Kiss, assured that He will keep His servant, striving but to do His will Who, to save others, dared Himself to die [Draws sword with cross-handle. On Holy Cross. Go, find this Princess ; while [kneels, holding Cross in front of him. I pray for her deliverance and yours. [with rapt look upwards. During the foregoing speech, ZANA has twice attempted to approach PARSIFAL, but has each time shrunk away in rage and fear. She now beckons the SIRENS. They follow her, looking back in hatred at PARSIFAL, PARSIFAL 95 ZANA. The fool ! the Simple fool and Pure ! like ice. [to SIRENS.] Your charms have failed. Go ! dance display them more ! Fill all the air with bodily vibrations, So shall the substance of his mind be moved, And pious thoughts begin to wander, till They lose themselves and him in mists of Lust ; And then shall Kundry like a bright False Fire Lure him to doom. Go, Sirens dance ! [As SIRENS dance.] Pure Knight ! Thou art indeed The Promised One. Rejoice, Dear Maidens, dance to show your joy ! I haste To tell my mistress sweet, the Knight has come, Whose kiss shall set her free poor little bird ! [Runs up the steps laughing, and exit.} PARSIFAL. " The Promised One and Pure" so was I called When first I learned my Quest. How long ? How long, Before I find and win The Sacred Spear Before I look once more on Holy Grail ? Oh, grant I may not find and look alone, But lead these erring souls, this strange Princess, To see what once I saw to join with me In holy worship on Thy Holy Hill ! [Closes eyes in prayer. > PARSIFAL TEMPTATION DANCE OF SIRENS. They swirl around PARSIFAL ; then with kissing action advance on him like waves and retire quivering like foam. During the last "movement" of Dance, PARSIFAL shivers the sword shakes in his hand he opens his eyes and looks at the SIRENS. As the dance grows more and more furious, he sud- denly stands up and, sheathing his sword, veils his eyes with his hands ; then, turning, goes up to Terrace, fol- lowed by the dancing SIRENS. As he reaches the bank of flowers, he turns again and looks at them, and then wards them off with his hands. As the last note sounds with a loud finale, and the SIRENS stand with arms outstretched, he raises his hands to Heaven. PARSIFAL. Christ ! Help me ! I am tempted ! [Turns, and falling on one knee buries his face in his hands. KLINGSOR appears on terrace. He steps forward, and motions the SIRENS to retire. The SIRENS bow to the ground and retire till they are half-hidden by PARSIFAL 97 the shrubs. KLINGSOR leans over Terrace and looks with triumph down on PARSIFAL. He then turns and beckons. Enter KUNDRY. She is magnificently dressed in shimmering golden robes glittering with jewels. She leans over by KLINGSOR and looks down on PAR- SIFAL. ZANA enters, and goes to right of Terrace, looks over at PARSIFAL, and beckons to KNIGHTS, who appear in the gateway with drawn swords, as if waiting for her signal. KUNDRY. [in low voice.] Thou would'st slay Amfortas steal his crown and blast his fame ? KLINGSOR. Back ! lest he see thy rage [gesture.] To work ! Begin ! Laugh, when thou'rt sure his soul is stained with sin. Let but one passive thought of b ase Desire Be turned to active wish then laugh and this [poising Spear. Shall win for Satanas another soul, And give me ten more years of power and LIFE KUNDRY. I care not for thy power nor yet thy life- Only Amfortas' life, [sudden look of awakened 98 PARSIFAL doubt.] Thou said'st that he [bending over terrace. [KLINGSOR shows signs of alarm then makes great gesture of command to- wards her. Would slay Amfortas ! Fool ! [She leans over balcony and assumes a beautiful look of sorrowful longing. KLINGSOR. [stepping back, and in a tone of great relief.] Tis well, 'tis well. [KUNDRY plucks a rose from the creeper, and absently tearing off the petals, drops them over balcony, as she sings. Ay-di-me ! Ay-di-me ! Little red rose leaves falling ; Tell him my heart is calling. Light of the night, all lovers love well ! Why dost thou shine on me ? I have no tale of Love to tell : Only my misery ! Lonely, I long for the kiss of a love Pure as a moonlit beam, Cold as the glint of a star above Caught in a mountain stream. Ay-di-me ! Yet I dream : As the moonbeams tell of the day to be, And the cold stars burn with fire ; PARSIFAL 99 So the kiss of my Knight May bring me the light, And the warmth of Love's Day of Desire, Ah ! Love's day ! When wakened by Love, My Soul shall scorn, As bird at morn, The clinging misty shroud of Night ; And soaring above On joyous wing, The song I sing Shall greet my glorious King of Light, Beneath whose glance My blood shall dance, And Body following Soul shall spring A flying rose of blushing charms, Into the Heaven of his arms ! There there to cling Through heat of noon In a swoon Of bliss And kiss and kiss ! [At the conclusion of the Song PARSIFAL raises his head and looks up at KUNDRY. PARSIFAL, [rising.] Art thou the Princess? Nay, be not alarmed. I come with good intent. too PARSIFAL KUNDRY. But thou art armed. Art thou a knight ? PARSIFAL. A knight of Holy Grail. KUNDRY. [surprised.] And to The Holy Grail dost know the way ? PARSIFAL. I seek the way. KUNDRY. [sighing.] Which none can ever find. PARSIFAL. Princess, within my heart I heard a Voice Whisper, "I am the Way. Come, follow Me." So following I shall find, as Arthur said, Whom I and all men call the Spotless King. KUNDRY. There is no Spotless King save one [dreamily] MY King ! Art thou a king ? PARSIFAL. Not yet. [with rapt look.] But 'tis foretold, That one shall crown me with a crown of gold Upon The Holy Mount. KUNDRY. [whispering to KLINGSOR] Thou said'st the truth. My inner voice had whispered : " 'Tis a lie ! " Now will I drag this fool [pointing to PARSIFAL] down, down to THEE ! [KLINGSOR shows anger. KUNDRY runs along the Terrace to steps, carrying a rose. PARSIFAL 101 [joyfully.] A King ! A King ! Let me but touch a king ; [standing at top of steps and holding out arms. And that King's touch shall heal my grief and pain ! [PARSIFAL takes a step towards her, as she descends. She runs up to PARSIFAL, laying hand on his arm. Oh, kingly Knight, forgive my doubting words ! Now that I see thine eyes, I know indeed That thou art good and pure not like those knights, Unworthy of the name, whose armour served Only to hide their foulness, [with disgust.] Ah ! their kiss Was such pollution, that I always bear A fresh red rose to kiss [kissing it] and kiss again, Hoping its sweetness may remove the stain From these pale lips, pining for one pure kiss. PARSIFAL. That kiss I now will give, and set thee free. KUNDRY. Ah, no ! not yet. I fear for thee so brave Not e'en a dozen knights could keep thee back. Dost always slay thy foes ? PARSIFAL. Save when they yield. 102 PARSIFAL Then show I mercy, as I hope for mercy. KUNDRY. How kind thou art ! True strength is ever kind. [passing hands lightly over his arms. And thou'rt so strong ! [Puts his arms round her.] These arms could crush [crushing rose, and leaning right back.] like this My bending body to the very bone. [as PARSIFAL draws her closer to him and bends as if to kiss her. Nay, do not kiss me yet ! Beware the doom, Awaiting him whose kiss is not all pure ! PARSIFAL. What doom is that ? KUNDRY. I tremble at the thought, That thou [taking PARSIFAL'S head between her hands, as he unclasps his arms] should'st ever be like those base knights, Turned leprous white in one brief moment. Ah ! [Tears herself away from him. [aside.] His eyes like two clear pools, show me MYSELF ! [hides face in her hands. PARSIFAL steps a little forward, then stands in astonishment. KLINGSOR who has had SPEAR poised, now lowers it and shows great anxiety, as he leans over and makes gesture to KUNDRY. PARSIFAL 103 ZANA. [running to him on terrace.] What is't she mutters standing there alone ? This is no softling to be won by tears. PARSIFAL, [pityingly approaching KUNDRY. Princess KUNDRY. [moving away and crouching down. Ah ! come not near my touch denies ! [PARSIFAL still approaches in pleading, pitying attitude. KUNDRY retreats, crouching down in abasement. ZANA. [to KLINGSOR.] Touch tempts these strong men most. Quick ! use thy power. KLINGSOR. [despairingly.] Some greater power resists and guards her Will. ZANA. [clutching his arm.] Thou must ! thou SHALT ! By Satanas thou shall ! Cause her to dance till all his senses whirl Then LEAP into his arms, and kiss THE KISS ! [KLINGSOR proceeds to make great hypno- tic gestures, using SPEAR as a wand. ZANA signs to those SIRENS who are visible. These commence to sway slowly to the music, which now begins very softly, increasing in power and intensity.] PARSIFAL. Princess, Christ keeps me pure. Come, let me kiss. 104 PARSIFAL KUNDRY. Think'st thou thy lips can kiss away my curse ? That tale was false ; and I am false as Hell ! Knowest thou what I am ? PARSIFAL. A soul in pain, That makes me think of King Amfortas' pain. KUNDRY. [starting up and becoming evil again ; clinging to him.] Amfortas ah ! and wouldst thou heal his pain ? PARSIFAL. Once and for all with one bright, Bleeding Spear. KUNDRY. [angrily.] Then thou SHALT [very sweetly.] heal me too with one sweet kiss ! [as PARSIFAL is about to kiss her.] Ah, wait ! Bliss grows by contemplating bliss. [beginning to dance quietly around him and throwing off outer robe. And like a butterfly before it sips Some honeyed flower, I will flutter round Until I dart on thee with thirsting lips [clasping PARSIFAL. And all my body clings to thine like this ! And all my soul melts into ONE LONG KISS ! [Kisses PARSIFAL. ZANA. [to KLINGSOR.] Now hurl the Spear ! KLINGSOR. Not till she lets him go, And laughs the laugh of Kundry. [poising SPEAR and watching eagerly. PARSIFAL 105 PARSIFAL, [throwing KUNDRY off with a long- drawn cry of pain.] Ah ! thy wound, Amfortas, burns ! [KUNDRY, who has fallen back and pointed at him as if to laugh, now drops her hand and gazes at him in wonder and horror. Christ, save Thy servant now, Who putteth all his trust in Thee alone ! [To KUNDRY, who stands as if turned to stone. I know thy name, Kundry the Cursed One ! 'Gainst whom Amfortas warned me, when I left The Hall of Grail to find The Sacred Spear, Whose touch alone can heal the wound it made. KUNDRY. Amfortas warned thee ? Say, thou liest ! PARSIFAL. Nay. He warned me, even while he owned his love KUNDRY. [joyfully.] For me ? PARSIFAL. For thee, poor Kundry WOMAN- PAIN ! [kissing her softly on forehead. Delight of KLINGSOR and ZANA.] KUNDRY. [with look of great wonder and joy, bringing PARSIFAL still further from the ter- race.] Thou call'st me " WOMAN-PAIN " ? Who art thou ? Ah ! 106 PARSIFAL Sir Percivale ? Nay PARSIFAL The Pure And Simple One, the youth grown up to Man, The Promised One, for whom Amfortas waits ! And I have tried to lure thee on to Sin And Shame and Death with cunning plot and lie! And yet 'twas not a lie ! For I was bound, Though no Princess, by Klingsor's cruel spell . But all his evil plot has worked for good ! His lies are all transmuted into Truth ! And I shall see Amfortas as he said ; For all my arts have failed to blacken thee My Pure White Knight, whose kiss has set me free ! [Laughing.'] PARSIFAL, [seeing the SPEAR.] The SACRED SPEAR ! KLINGSOR. [with triumphant shout.] FOOL ! take it in thy heart ! [He hurls the SPEAR. ZANA beckons KNIGHTS, who rush to attack PARSIFAL. ZANA points and laughs at him. The SIRENS and VAMPIRES dance around him. KUNDRY. [with look of horror.] No ah, No ! [throwing herself on PARSIFAL, so as to shield him. The VAMPIRE-SIRENS dance more wildly. The SPEAR, PARSIFAL 107 glowing brightly, quivers over PAR- SIFAL. Suddenly all observe The SPEAR and stand motionless and silent. A distant bell is heard. VOICES, [from afar.] " Hail, Sacred Spear! which pierced Our Saviour's side, When for our sins on Calvary He died." [During this PARSIFAL has been gazing at the SPEAR in wonder. He now slowly raises his hand and grasps it. PARSIFAL. Now Christ be thanked ! I grasp The Sacred Spear. My Quest is nearly o'er. KLINGSOR. SATANAS ! hear i SIRENS AND VAMPIRES. Come, Kundry, come ! ZANA. [dragging KUNDRY away.] Hark ! Sa- tanas is near ! [Thunder.] And thou art his and mine ! VAMPIRES, [surrounding KUNDRY.] And ours ! KLINGSOR. [who has hurried down steps and now stands over KUNDRY.] And mine ! KUNDRY. Parsifal save me ! PARSIFAL. By this Sacred Sign [Makes Sign of the Cross with SACRED SPEAR. All fall back in terror. KUNDRY runs to PARSIFAL and clasps his knees. I conquer ! io8 PARSIFAL KUNDRY. [looking upward in a state of ecstasy. Pardoned saved by LOVE DIVINE ! [A great Earthquake scene follows, in which all are engulphed beneath the falling walls of the Castle, save PARSIFAL and KUNDRY, who, as the Curtain falls, are seen standing in the centre of the ruins, while behind them is visible the Holy Mount of Grail with the distant Cross shining through the darkness and de- solation of a vast marshy plain. PAR- SIFAL points towards it with the SACRED SPEAR, and beckons KUNDRY to follow him. END OF ACT III ACT IV TABLEAU I THE LAKE OF TRIBULATION AND THE NARROW PATH. The same foreground as in the scene of the Healing Lake, with shining CROSS on spit of land, but instead of bright foliage, weirdly-shaped trees are seen bordering a blackened marsh, whitened with the bones of men, a heaving mass of black ooze, which every now and then rises into waves, throwing up bones and skulls. Across this is a narrow causeway, broken at intervals. Mist hides at first the marsh. Clouds pass across lit by lightning, displaying KLINGSOR'S mountains and the ruined CASTLE. As the Curtain rises, shadowy forms of Men and Women half rise out of the Marsh, lift up their hands with beckoning gestures and call " KUN- DRY ! KUNDRY ! " 109 no PARSIFAL [PARSIFAL and, KUNDRY are dimly seen on the PATH. The SACRED SPEAR glows brightly. PARSIFAL. Courage ! Tis but a little way. KUNDRY. I fear. [stumbles. PARSIFAL. Fear not ; but follow me ! [helping her up.] See, where the Cross Shines on the narrow way ; and close behind The Path leads upward to The Holy Mount. KUNDRY. This was the Healing Lake where first we met ; Where last I saw Amfortas ! Ah ! [Gives shriek, as hands rise up and try to clutch her. There there ! Those horrid hands stretched out to drag me down ! [clings to PARSIFAL. PARSIFAL. Look not behind, but forward ! KUNDRY. All my Past My sins and follies, shaped in hideous forms, Rise from the filthy ooze ! I cannot see The Cross ; but only hear them calling " KUN- DRY ! " [Places hands over ears and gazes in horror at marsh. Cries of " KUNDRY ! KUNDRY ! " PARSIFAL, [raising her, and leading her on. Stay not to listen ! Come a few more steps PARSIFAL ill Though rough and narrow, still the Way is firm. I will uphold thee. Take my hand. Fear not. [KUNDRY stands up, and holding PARSI- FAL'S right hand, advances along the way more confidently. The cries of " KUNDRY ! " increase in intensity, as they progress to centre of marsh. The wind howls. The lightning be- comes more vivid, accompanied by terrifying thunder. Suddenly, all is still. The surface of the marsh still moves but the shadowy forms have disappeared. KUNDRY. [as PARSIFAL helps her over a broken part of the causeway, and she stands within a few feet of the Cross, which shines more bril- liantly.'] Now am I safe. See, I can stand alone. [letting go his hand. Titurel's curse no longer bars my way. Am I not led by one who holds the Spear ? Go on. [as PARSIFAL hesitates.] I'll follow, [turns and looks triumphantly over the marsh.] Sin is left behind ! [Tremendous clap of thunder. Vivid Lightning. The whole marsh heaves. Hideous laughter, as the shadowy arms reappear and beckon. From 112 PARSIFAL behind the broken Causeway rises the form of KLINGSOR. THE SHADE OF KLINGSOR. KUNDRY ! Come ! KUNDRY ! SATANAS claims thee. [KUNDRY crouches down in terror unable to move. There is a great shout of " KUNDRY ! " From below her rises the form of ZANA, who clutches her and tries to drag her down. PARSIFAL has stepped back, and now holds her with his left hand, while he points the SPEAR at KLINGSOR, who cowers away in fear but again rises as he turns to KUNDRY.] ZANA. Thy lovers and thy mothers wait for thee, [dragging her down a little. ,] Down down in Hell. KUNDRY. [who is now half submerged, as the waters dash over her.] Ah, yes ! My mother's Curse ! The Curse of Kundry ! [laughs the LAUGH. KLINGSOR and the rest join in laugh. PARSIFAL, [dipping his hand into a wave and pouring the water over KUNDRY' s head, as she struggles with ZANA.] IN THE NAME OF [The Sacred Name is not heard above the wail arising from KLINGSOR, ZANA, and the rest. ZANA lets PARSIFAL 113 KUNDRY go and falls back with a shriek of dismay.] KUNDRY. [looking up with joy.] Ah ! PARSIFAL, [making the Sign of the Cross on her forehead.] And with His Sign I sign thee His alone. [Dawn over the mountains. KUNDRY. [standing up.] Yes His ! [to KLINGSOR.] not thine ! [turning.] for KUN- DRY' s CURSE is gone ! [Takes PARSIFAL'S hand, and quickly reaches the Cross, which PARSIFAL passes, as KUNDRY throws herself on it and clasps its arms. KLINGSOR. [as KUNDRY is going to CROSS.] Satanas, thou hast failed me ! [struggles to reach her, but sinks back. Wailing from all, as they stretch out their hands after KUNDRY. KUNDRY. [clasping Cross.] CHRIST ! At last ! [PARSIFAL on the shore by pathway, points upwards with the SPEAR, and beckons KUNDRY to follow. TABLEAU CURTAIN. 114 PARSIFAL TABLEAU II ON THE WAY TO THE TEMPLE. THE HERMITAGE OF GURNEMANZ. A Rocky Defile. Through the natural arches is seen a view of KLINGSOR'S mountains with the ruined Castle. In a rock to the left is the door Of GURNEMANZ'S HERMITAGE. GILDHELM is discovered lying in front of door of Hermitage. Enter ULRIC, wearing cloak over his armour. GILDHELM springs up, sword in hand. GILDHELM. Who goes ? ULRIC. What ! Gildhelm sleepest THOU on watch ? GILDHELM. [saluting.] Ay, like a dog, Sir Ulric, tired out ; Yet ne'er so tired as to make him deaf And faithless to his charge. ULRIC. That I believe. Would that all hearts on Grailmount were as staunch As thine ; for discipline decays with hope ; And all are hopeless, [sadly.] ay, the King him- self. GILDHELM. Not all, Sir Ulric ; for my master still Looks for The Promised One. This very night PARSIFAL 115 He left me standing here, forgotten, while Within his hermitage he watched and prayed. ULRIC. With us all holy vows are well-nigh lost In knightly sport and ease, or blank despair. Amfortas, waiting-weary, longs for death ; And e'en Sir Gurnemanz, turned to a monk, Forgets his knighthood. GILDHELM. Nay, Sir Ulric, nay ! My master ever says, " To watch and pray Is worthier a knight and harder far Than mighty deeds which win the world's ap- plause." ULRIC. Oh, faithful one ! thou puttest me to shame. [Bells begin to chime. Listen ! the bells proclaim 'tis Easter morn. Give you good Easter, Gildhelm ! GILDHELM. Since He is risen. [The door of Hermitage slowly opens. They stand aside. Enter from Her- mitage SIR GURNEMANZ, aged, and clad in a long robe. GURNEMANZ. Oh, what a night to herald Easter Day! ULRIC. Sir Gurnemanz GURNEMANZ. Sir Ulric, Gildhelm friends, n6 PARSIFAL Give you good Easter, both ! ULRIC AND GILDHELM. Since He is risen. GURNEMANZ. My Gildhelm thou hast been on guard all night. Pardon thy thoughtless master. Go take rest. Stay ! Hast seen aught ? GILDHELM. A great storm swept the Lake. GURNEMANZ. Then have I seen far more than thee this night. Out of its slimy depths, once clear and cool, Rose shadowy forms of Fear aglow with fires, That hissed and twined around their corpse-like arms, As 'twere a thousand serpents 'scaped from Hell ! Women and men of varied age and time Leaped to the surface gazed with horrid eyes Of expectation, like foul beasts of prey. They beckoned with their crooked fingers thus ; Then, pointing downwards, laughed and sank. I turned From the dread sight, and knelt again in prayer For his return, who brings The Sacred Spear To heal the King. Surely the day is near ? GILDHELM. The day has come, my lord, for which we pray, [eagerly.] See yonder moving point all rosy red, [points down the path. PARSIFAL II 7 And rising with each step. The Sacred Spear ! ULRIC. Tis but some marsh-light, rising with the mist. GURNEMANZ. [shading his eyes.] And yet and yet Lord, strengthen mine old eyes That I may see ! Ah ! now I have it clear Once more above the clash of arms I hear The joyous shout, " Great Titurel is near !" See ! through the clouds of battle-dust the Spear ! It rises like the morn and see, below The mailed hand the crested silver helm ! It is The Sacred Spear The night has past ! [shouting.] Welcome, thou Promised One ! At last ! At last ! [Exit, followed by GILHDELM. Enter ENID and LILIAN with GRAIL MAIDENS carrying white flowers. They pause, as they see ULRIC. ULRIC. Can that be Parsifal grown man that Knight Of glorious presence ? [with astonishment.] KUN- DRY ! Ah ! what news Of double joy to bring my suffering King ! [turns and sees the MAIDENS.] What ! Bear ye flowers of welcome ? Did ye know ? n8 PARSIFAL LILIAN, [advancing.] We know 'tis Easter Morn. And good Sir Gurnemanz . . . . ? ULRIC. [interrupting her and pointing down path.} Is there, with him who brings the Sacred Spear ! And Kundry follows him, as Titurel willed. ENID and LILIAN. Weeping for joy, a happy penitent. ENID, [pityingly.] In penitential garb, all rent and torn ! ULRIC. [hastily taking off his cloak and giving it to ENID.] Quick 1 take to her my cloak. [Exit ENID. [to LILIAN.] Let her be clothed In purest white. LILIAN. The righteousness of saints. ULRIC. Thou sweetest saint ! come down awhile from Heaven, And smile on earthly things. Brides dress in white. LILIAN. Will Kundry be a bride ? ULRIC. Ah, that who knows ? But this I know, thou shalt ! I have thy word, That when the Promised One regained the Spear, Then I should gain my bride all white pure white, [kisses her.] Sing, maidens, sing ! I haste to tell the King ! [Exit up path. PARSIFAL 119 CHORUS OF MAIDENS. " Welcome, Happy Easter Morn ! " [The bells ring joyously. Enter PARSIFAL and GURNEMANZ. GILD- HELM follows. GURNEMANZ. Yes ! thou art Parsifal the simple lad The Simple One and Pure. I feel as though, When thou hast doffed thy helm, these eyes would see The King in all his beauty [looks at him won- deringly.} Who art THOU ? PARSIFAL. Nay, not the Christ ; but one grown like to Him ; As all may grow and SHALL if, dead to Sin, They live in Him. For mirroring His face, From shining glory unto glory changed, They, at the last great Easter Morn, shall rise And waken in His likeness, satisfied ! [GURNEMANZ raises hands to Heaven. GILDHELM folds his as if in prayer. PARSIFAL turns, and point- ing with The SPEAR beckons them to follow. Exeunt PARSIFAL, GURNEMANZ, and GILDHELM. 120 PARSIFAL As soon as they are gone, the MAIDENS run to where LILIAN has stood as if transfixed, at the sight of PARSIFAL. They repeat the former CHORUS, and wave their flowers, as KUNDRY enters with ENID. She wears ULRIC'S cloak, but not so as to entirely hide the torn and bedraggled state of her dress. She greets LILIAN with a kiss, and goes quickly past the Hermitage, as LILIAN whispers in her ear. KUNDRY. Shall I be clothed in white all white ? Oh Joy Of Sin forgiven shining through happy tears And forming rainbows of God's Love to Man ! Lilian Enid see, your dear sweet names And faces I remember, [half -fear fully.} I re- member ? [with look of intense joy.] I cannot remember ! All the Past is dead In Christ my KING ! MY king ? Oh, God of Love, May I not love my king my earthly king ? Ah, yes ! for Thou art Love, and lovest Love, [smiling.] And lovers too, so they are constant, true, And pure in Thee, dear Christ, in Whom all Love Earthly and Heavenly meets, becoming ONE. PARSIFAL 121 LILIAN. Come, Kundry, come ! The Promised One has gone To heal Amfortas. KUNDRY. Oh, my suffering King ! How thou wilt welcome him ! Wilt welcome me ? Yes all in white, pure white. Dear maidens, sing Your hymn of welcome to this Easter Day ! And welcome me ; for I, once dead in Sin, Now live in Him. Would that my words could reach All Kundry's sisters through this weary world ! Are you so sinful ? Kundry was the worst ! Are you unhappy ? Kundry was accurst ! And you may come, as Kundry comes to-day, Ransomed and welcomed Home with joyous lay To where all sighs and sorrows flee away ! My King I come ! only to say " Farewell ! " For Love of Him, who gave up all for me (And Whom I mocked !) I too will give up thee! For I too have my Quest : to send my voice Ringing through hearts already half in Hell, Bringing them peace as of an evening bell ; As I was led to lead them up above ! And cry : REJOICE ! THERE'S HOPE ! FOR GOD is LOVE ! END OF TABLEAU II t 122 PARSIFAL TABLEAU III THE HALL OF THE HOLY GRAIL (AS IN ACT II) All are in their places for the celebration of the Mys- teries. The RECESS at back is empty save for the Tomb. The ROOD CROSS hanging from Arch shines with only a dim lustre. The Shrine is on a CREDENCE-TABLE to the left of Altar. The HOLY GRAIL is on the Altar, covered with the WHITE PALL. ROLAND and VALLON are among the YOUNG KNIGHTS. Three or four of the CHAIRS of The OLD KNIGHTS are vacant, and draped in purple. All show consternation. KNIGHTS. Come back ! come back ! unveil The Holy Grail ! [Enter hastily ULRIC ULRIC. The King ! where is the King ? I seek the King ! They told me he was here and had resolved To celebrate at last The Holy Mysteries. VALLON. His brave resolve has soon been put to flight. Here were we waiting all was ready ; then, The King Amfortas found he could not stand, So had himself borne out as oft before, [laughs.} PARSIFAL 123 ROLAND. He twice cried out : " Unworthy King ! How long ? " VALLON. We too might cry : " Unworthy King, how long ? " KNIGHTS, [in sorrowful tones.] How long ? How long ? ULRIC. And will you also add : " Unworthy King " ? KNIGHTS. No, No ! Long live the King ! ULRIC. But thou, Sir Vallon, sayst " Unworthy King." Thou most unworthy Knight ! Those self-same words, Sighed by a king in meekness, shout his worth ; But hissed from venomed tongue warn all true men A snake is near. My brothers, ye have heard. Here, in full Hall, I do impeach this knight. Shall he remain to poison our pure air With breath of spite and foul disloyalty ? KNIGHTS. Let him be banished ! VALLON. [taking off his girdle and sword and bowing humbly.'] I have sinned. Till when ? ULRIC. [looking at him keenly, and then smiling. Until The Promised One has healed the King. [KNIGHTS nod in approval sadly. VALLON moves despairingly away. KNIGHTS. How long how long ? 124 PARSIFAL ULRIC. Sir Vallon. [VALLON turns.] Take thy sword . I think thy tongue is traitor to thy heart ; As tongues oft are, for good as well as ill. Hast learned thy lesson ? [VALLON bows humbly and in surprise. The others look astonished at ULRIC. ULRIC. Good. No blot nor stain Shall sully the fair brightness of this day. Thy banishment is o'er. The King is healed ! [All show incredulity. The Promised One has come. I saw the Spear. The King, I say, is healed. See, where he comes (Oh, wondrous Miracle), with stately tread, Our glorious King Amfortas. [All have risen, and the trumpets sound, as AMFORTAS enters magnificently clad and wearing a star crown. ULRIC. [falling on his knee, and kissing AM- FORTAS' hand. A cry of joy.] Oh, my King ! ALL. Long live the King ! our glorious King of Grail ! Amfortas ! King Amfortas, Hail ! All hail ! [The KING stands for a moment in royal pride ; then bows in humility, lifts his hands and turns, going slowly up the steps to the Altar, before which he throws himself in deep prostration. PARSIFAL 125 [As the KING goes up to Altar, the KNIGHTS cry : " All Glory be to God ! Glory to God ! " [Enter, running, the DUMB MAIDEN. DUMB MAIDEN. The Promised One has come ! My tongue is loosed ! He touched me with the Spear ; and I am healed ! [turns and kneels in prayer at bottom of steps. Enter SIR GURNEMANZ and GILDHELM. GURNEMANZ. Sir Parsifal, a Knight of Holy Grail ; Knight of King Arthur's Table Round ; The Pure, The Promised One, who brings The Sacred Spear, Approaches. Raise your banners ! Trumpets, sound ! He comes who healed the King and this poor maid. [Fanfare of Trumpets. Banners are lifted and waved. Entry of PARSIFAL, carrying The SACRED SPEAR. CHORUS OF WELCOME. " Hail, Sacred Spear," etc. [PARSIFAL bows to Knights ; then turns and ascends steps leading to ALTAR. VOICES, [from the Height.] Hail, to the Simple One and Pure ! Welcome thou, who, pitying Pain, 126 PARSIFAL Hast brought The Sacred Spear again. Here shall it rest, for ever sure. Well done, thou Simple One and Pure ! PARSIFAL, [at side of Altar as in Act II.] Here, where I heard my Quest, that Quest fulfilled, I stand, Christ's Knight. But as thy Knight, O King, [comes down and stands behind the kneel- ing AMFORTAS. I serve [holds out Spear.] and wait to place within thy hands The Sacred Spear ; that thou, as Priestly King, Mayst offer it with that Great One Oblation, The all-sufficing, made but once on earth, Yet pleaded ever at the Throne of Heaven. [AMFORTAS rises, turns, and takes Spear , turns again and offers it, placing it in front of Grail. He then quickly lifts the Crown of Stars from his head, raises it for a moment and places it on Altar, as he kneels in humiliation. PARSIFAL kneels. A pause of silence. AMFORTAS. [rising and turning quickly.] Knights and Esquires of Holy Grail attend ! Let all the priestly Knights of Dais ascend ! [GURNEMANZ, ULRic, and nine OLD and YOUNG KNIGHTS ascend. Trumpets sound as they ascend. PARSIFAL 127 Draw nearer yet. [KNIGHTS go right up to Altar. Tis yours to crown the King, As I was crowned in all my armour clad. [turns and takes Crown from Altar and holds it up to them. Take ye this Crown of Grail no longer mine On his helm place it, lowly kneeling here ! [KNIGHTS turn away, refusing to take Crown.] For all my kingly power I now resign. THE KNIGHTS AND ESQUIRES. No, No ! Am- fortas ! Thou art King ! AMFORTAS. [in his old imperious manner.] Forbear ! If I am King, ye' re bound to do my will ! (Oh, ever-rising Pride that caused my woe ! When shall I press thee down ?) I know your love, Your patient loyalty. And yet, and yet If [pointing to tomb.] Titurel could speak, whom would he name As worthier to be King of Holy Grail ? Not not Amfortas ; but [laying hand on PARSIFAL. Lights flicker. Short Darkness, as the voice of TITUREL is heard from tomb. TITUREL'S SHADE. Sir Parsifal ! [Surprise and awe. 128 PARSIFAL AMFORTAS. Ye heard ? Obey ! [GURNEMANZ and ULRIC take Crown and place it on the helmet of PARSIFAL, the other KNIGHTS stretching out their hands over him. As they do so, the Stars shine with great brilliancy, Mark, how the Grail Stars shine ! 'Tis well, [as KNIGHTS stand away again.} Now clasp on him the Royal Robe. [taking off his robe, which is then placed on PARSIFAL, still kneeling. [raising PARSIFAL up.] Rise ! King of Holy Grail ! [turns and takes Spear from Altar. KNIGHTS AND ESQUIRES. Long live the King ! [Fanfare of TRUMPETS, as AMFORTAS leads PARSIFAL to the Throne, and sets him on it. Thus seated on thy throne, take from my hand As Royal Sceptre that same Sacred Spear, Which thou didst win and which I lost ! And now, As simple Knight, let me be first to pay Homage and fealty, [kneeling and kissing the hand of Parsifal.] I am thy MAN. [A moment's pause. PARSIFAL looks up as if in trance. AMFORTAS rises suddenly. A Quest ! Give ME a Knightly Quest, my King. PARSIFAL 129 Not just to burnish up my tarnished fame ; But that I may do something in His name. fyoints to Cross, PARSIFAL. Dost know a sinner, bound by Cir- cumstance Of birth and breeding (there are many such), Caged up in Sin, yet longing to be free ? AMFORTAS. I know of such an one. PARSIFAL. Go, free that one. Dost know of one, whose heartbeats sing with thine, Whene'er you meet, in happy unison ? AMFORTAS. I know of such an one. PARSIFAL. Go, find that one. Sing to that one a song of earthly love. Let all thy notes be kindly words and deeds. So shall the heartstrings of that one respond In true vibrations, till they sound with thine The joyous Melody of Love Divine. AMFORTAS. And then, O Wondrous King ? PARSIFAL. Then hand in hand, Go singing through the night ; and weary souls, Asleep in Sin, shall waken, rise and sing, Till all the Night is filled with joyful sound Of voices singing sweet of Sin Forgiven ; Till thou, thy Quest fulfilled, art once more crowned, Shining for ever as the Stars in Heaven ! 130 PARSIFAL AMFORTAS. A noble Quest, indeed ! [turns and kneels to Altar.] Be Thou my Guide ! No longer self-reliant in my Pride, I trust in Thee alone. [Rises.] Knights, hear my vow. Ne'er will I look upon my father's tomb ; Nor share your banquet of Celestial Food, Bathed in the radiance of that Holy Grail, Whose most unworthy guardian I proved. Ne'er will I see thy face, O Wondrous King, Till I have found that ONE I seek, and bring Here to these Altar-steps Kundry my Bride ! [descends to floor. PARSIFAL. Kundry the Cursed, Slave of Sin thy bride ? AMFORTAS. So shall she be, when thou hast made us one. Am not I slave of Satan's Sin, False Pride ? Why should a Woman's sin for ever stain And mark her " Curst " ? Men sin and sin again, And all the world is blind ! I go. [looks sadly round Hall.] Farewell ! To bring my fellow-sinner out of Hell. [Is going, but stops at sound of PARSIFAL'S voice. ULRIC has started forward as if to go to AMFORTAS. PARSIFAL signs to him to be silent. PARSIFAL 131 PARSIFAL. Oft those we think in Hell are found in Heaven. I did but try thee. Well hast thou stood the test. Stay where thou arH So shalt thou find thy Quest. AMFORTAS. I cannot stay ; farewell. PARSIFAL. Be not like those Who, fondly seeking happiness afar, Leave it so far behind. [Laughter of MAIDENS heard at entrance. Kundry is here ! [AMFORTAS starts forward. PARSIFAL motions him to stand still. The GRAIL MAIDENS enter carrying flowers. They cross and stand in front of OLD KNIGHTS' chairs. Enter after them KUNDRY, clothed in purest white, followed by LILIAN and ENID. KUNDRY. [looks at Rood Cross and Altar, then in a tone of deep awe and reverence. This is none other than the House of God. [kneels on step. A welcome to the Penitent. THURIFERS wave censers. The Rood Cross shines more brilliantly. PARSIFAL. Whom seekest thou ? 132 PARSIFAL KUNDRY. The King, O Promised One, I came to see him, healed and free from pain, [rising.} Standing erect, holding the Sacred Spear, King of the Holy Grail, my King ! I came To hear his word of wondering joy. I came, Dressed thus in whiteness not mine own, to show How Christ has saved and claimed me His alone Through thee, Parsifal. Will no one tell My King, that Kundry comes to say : Farewell ? PARSIFAL. Behold the Royal Robe, the Crown, the Spear ! I am the King. KUNDRY. How canst THOU be the King ? Hast thou not healed Amfortas ? Ah, he's dead ! AMFORTAS. [stepping behind her.] Kundry ! KUNDRY. [turning and falling at his feet.] My King! PARSIFAL. So Mary found the Christ ; Teaching poor women, Love can never die. KUNDRY. [turning to him.] Pardon my doubts, O Promised One. [turns again to gaze on AMFORTAS.] My King ! Amfortas ! healed, and glorious in strength, As first I saw thee in a happy dream. AMFORTAS. [points to PARSIFAL.] I am no longer King. PARSIFAL 133 KUNDRY. Thou art MY King ! [kissing his hand.'] And I, thy loving subject. AMFORTAS. [raising her.~\ Nay My Bride ! KUNDRY. Ah, that can never be. Thy place is here: Thy work, to praise and guard by turn the Grail And Sacred Spear. Though Parsifal be King I know not ' how ' nor question ' why ' still thou, Doffing thy old self-confidence, shalt reign, Clad in humility and crowned by love, 'Valour and Loyalty, the King of Men. AMFORTAS. And thou ? KUNDRY. I have my Sacred Quest : to go Down from this Mount of holy Peace and Prayer, Back to the haunts of Sin and Shame ; and there Tell of God's love and saving means of grace : Bearing Christ's message in a happy face, To grasp the hands of wand'rers through the night And lead men out of Darkness into Light. Such is my Quest. And so my King farewell ! AMFORTAS. Thy Quest is mine. But now The Promised One, Bade me first find thee. Thou art found my Bride ! KUNDRY. Ah, let me go ! " First find " ? and then what then ? 134 PARSIFAL AMFORTAS. These were his words of Hope : " Then, hand in hand Go singing through the night ; and weary souls, Asleep in Sin, shall waken, rise and sing, Till all the night is filled with joyous sound Of voices singing sweet of Sin Forgiven ; Till thou, thy Quest fulfilled art once more crowned, Shining for ever as the Stars in Heaven ! " Such is my Quest and thine. Our Quest is one. Kundry sweet love thy hand. Let us be one. See, Parsifal awaits to make us one. KUNDRY. I am not worthy, [moving away from him.] Ah, thou dost not know ! AMFORTAS. [following and restraining her.] Nor do I wish to know more than I know Thou lovest me, and I love thee ! [takes her in his arms.] KUNDRY. [yielding to him.] My King ! PARSIFAL. [He has come down steps, handing Spear to ULRIC. He now stands on the lowest step.] Amfortas [AMFORTAS and KUNDRY turn and kneel.] healed through me ; and Kundry, led From Darkness into Light through me by Him; {joining their hands.] Henceforth be ONE in Love, and ONE in HIM, Who [blessing them] blesses Love, [turns and ascends to Altar.] PARSIFAL 135 TRUMPETS sound a joyous fanfare. THE GRAIL MAIDENS throw flowers over AMFORTAS and KUNDRY, as they rise from their knees and embrace. The Procession forms and ascends steps. ACOLYTES AND KNIGHTS sing : By Holy Grail and Spear that pierced Thy side, Be Thou their happiness and Thou their Guide ! ULRIC. [by Altar.] Come, feed on Heavenly Food. So shall ye both be strong to find your Quest. GURNEMANZ. [by Altar.] Come, drink from Holy Grail His precious Blood, Poured out for love of us poor sinners all ! All are now kneeling. PARSIFAL alone is standing behind the Altar. He is bareheaded save for the Grail Crown of Stars, which shine with glorious light. He bears a distinct resemblance to the CHRISTUS ; and slowly elevates THE HOLY GRAIL, from which streams a great rosy radiance that gradually spreads over all. PARSIFAL. Yet growing daily more and more LIKE HIM ! 136 PARSIFAL All raise their heads and gaze in wonder at PAR- SIFAL, as a White Dove descends from the height of the Dome and rests above his head. CURTAIN. FINIS. John Sands, Printer, 374 George Street, Sydney. November, 1905. SELECTED LIST OF BOOKS PUBLISHED BY ANGUS & ROBERTSON PUBLISHERS TO THE UNIVERSITY f 89 CASTLEREAGH STREET, SYDNEY A BUSH GIRL'S SONGS. By 'RENA WALLACE. With portrait. Crown 8vo., cloth gilt, gilt top, 5s. (post free 5s. 4d.). Sydney Daily Telegraph : " There is passion as well as melody in ' A Bush Girl's Songs ' ; and there is thought also real thought, that underlies the music of the verse and gives the writer something definite to communicate to her readers on the great universal subjects that are the province of true poetry, as distinct from mere verse. One cannot help remark- ing with pleasure the prevailing note of hopefulness, a sunshiny charm, that is felt throughout all this fresh young writer's work. Miss 'Rena Wallace knows how to be pathetic without being gloomy, and the morbid pessimism, which marks so much of modern verse, is delightfully absent." Wellington (N.Z.) Mail: "Endowed with a musical ear, and gifted with a facility of expression, our authoress has woven together much that at once strikes the ear as pleasing and musical verse." Adelaide Advertiser : " There is melody and sweet- ness and rhythm in them, and they are fresh from nature's school.'* THE COMMONWEALTH SERIES Crown 8vo., Is. each (post free Is. 3d. each). JOE WILSON : New Stories. By HENRY LA WSON JOE WILSON'S MATES : New Stories. By HENRY LA WSON ON THE TRACK : Stories. By HENRY LA WSON OVER THE SLIPRAILS : Stories. By HENRY LA WSON POPULAR VERSES. By HENRY LA WSON HUMOROUS VERSES. By HENRY LAWSON WHILE THE BILLY BOILS : Australian Stories. First Series. By HENRY LAWSON WHILE THE BILLY BOILS : Australian Stories. Second Series. By HENRY LAWSON MY CHINEE COOK AND OTHER HUMOROUS VERSES. By BRUNTON STEPHENS HISTORY OF AUSTRALASIA : From the Earliest Times to the Inauguration of the Commonwealth. By A. W. JOSE HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN BUSHRANGING. By CHARLES WHITE PART I. THE EARLY DAYS. PART II. 1850 TO 1862. PART III. 1863 TO 1869. PART IV. 1869 TO 1878. %* For press notices of these books see the cloth-bound editions on pages 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 14, and 17 of this catalogue. JOE WILSON AND HIS MATES. BY HENRY LAWSON, Author of " While the Billy Boils"; "When the World was Wide and Other Verses " ; " Verses, Popular and Humorous " ; " On the Track and Over the Sliprails." Crown 8 vo, cloth gilt, 3s. 6d. (post Jree 4s.) ', in paper covers, 2s. 6d. (post free 3s.) For Cheaper Edition see Commonwealth Series, page 2. The Athenaeum (London) : " This is a long way the best work Mr. Lawson has yet given us. These stories are so good that (from the literary point of view, of course) one hopes they are not autobio- graphical. As autobiography they would be good ; as pure fiction they are more of an attainment." The Argus : " More tales of the Joe Wilson series are promised, and this will be gratifying to Mr. Lawson' s admirers, for on the whole the sketches are the best work the writer has so far accomplished." The Academy : " I have never read anything in modern English literature that is so absolutely demo- cratic in tone, so much the real thing, as Joe Wilson's Courtship ; and so with all Lawson's tales and sketches. Tolstoy and Howells, and Whitman and Kipling, and Zola and Hauptmann and Gorky have all written descriptions of ' democratic ' life, but none of these celebrated authors, not even Maupassant himself, has so absolutely taken us inside the life as do the tales Joe Wilson's Courtship and A Double Buggy at Lahey's Creek, and it is this rare convincing tone of this Australian writer that gives him a great value. The most casual ' newspapery ' and apparently artless art of this Australian writer carries with it a truer, finer, more delicate commentary on life than all the idealistic works of any of our genteel school of writers." ON THE TRACK AND OVER THE SLIPRAILS. STORIES BY HENRY LAWSON, Author of " While the Billy Boils," "Joe Wilson and his Mates," "When the World Was Wide and Other Verses," and " Verses, Popular and Humorous." Crown 8vo, cloth gilt, 3s. 6d. (postjree 4s.). For Cheaper Edition see Commonwealth Series, page 3. Daily Chronicle : " Will well sustain the reputation its author has already won as the best writer of Australian short stories and sketches the literary world knows. Henry Lawson has the art, possessed in such an eminent degree by Mr. J. M. Barrie, of sketching in a character and suggesting a whole life- story in a single sentence." Pall Mall Gazette : " The volume now received will do much to enhance the author's reputation. There is all the quiet irresistible humour of Dickens in the description of ' The Darling River/ and the creator of ' Truthful James' never did anything better in the way of character sketches than Steelman and Mitchell. Mr. Lawson has a master's sense of what is dramatic, and he can bring out strong effects in a few touches. Humour and pathos, comedy and tragedy, are equally at his command/' Glasgow Herald : " Mr. Lawson must now be regarded as facile princeps in the production of the short tale. Some of these brief and even slight sketches are veritable gems that would be spoiled by an added word, and without a word that can be looked upon as superfluous/' Melbourne Punch : " Often the little stories are wedges cut clean out of life, and presented with artistic truth and vivid colour." WHILE THE BILLY BOILS. STORIES BY HENRY LAWSON, Author of "When the World Was Wide and Other Verses," "Joe Wilson and his Mates," " On the Track and Over the Sliprails," and "Verses, Popular and Humorous." Twenty -third Thousand. With eight plates and vignette title, by F. P. Mahony. Crown 8vo, cloth gilt, 3s. 6d. (post free 4s.). For Cheaper Edition see Commonwealth Series, page t. The Academy : " A book of honest, direct, sympa- thetic, humorous writing about Australia from within is worth a library of travellers' tales. . . . The result is a real book a book in a hundred. His language is terse, supple, and richly idiomatic. He can tell a yarn with the best." Literature : " A book which Mrs. Campbell Praed assured me made her feel that all she had written of bush life was pale and ineffective/' The Spectator : " It is strange that one we would venture to call the greatest Australian writer should be practically unknown in England. Mr. Lawson is a less experienced writer than Mr. Kipling, and more unequal, but there are two or three sketches in this volume which for vigour and truth can hold their own with even so great a rival." The Times : " A collection of short and vigorous studies and stories of Australian life and character. A little in Bret Harte's manner, crossed, perhaps, with that of Guy de Maupassant." The Scotsman : " There is no lack of dramatic imagination in the construction of the tales ; and the best of them contrive to construct a strong sensational situation in a couple of pages." 5 WHEN THE WORLD WAS WIDE AND OTHER VERSES. BY HENRY LA WSON, Author of " While the Billy Boils," "Joe Wilson and his Mates," "On the Track and Over the Sliprails," and "Verses, Popular and Humorous." Twelfth Thousand. With photogravure portrait and vignette title. Crown 8vo, cloth gilt, gilt top, 5s. (post free 5s. 5d.). The Speaker (LONDON) : " There are poems in * In the Days when the World was Wide ' which are of a higher mood than any yet heard in distinctively Aus- tralian poetry/' The Academy : "These ballads (for such they mostly are) abound in spirit and manhood, in the colour and smell of Australian soil. They deserve the popularity which they have won in Australia, and which, we trust, this edition will now give them in England." Newcastle Weekly Chronicle : " Swinging, rhyth- mic verse." Sydney Morning 1 Herald: "The verses have natural vigour, the writer has a rough, true faculty of characterisation, and the book is racy of the soil from cover to cover." Bulletin : " How graphic he is, how natural, how true, how strong." OtagX) Witness : " It were well to have such books upon our shelves. . . . They are true history." VERSES: POPULAR AND HUMOROUS. By HENRY LAWSON, Author of "When the World was Wide, and Other Verses," "Joe Wilson and His Mates," " On the Track and Over the Slip- rails," and " While the Billy Boils." Crown 8vo, cloth gilt, 3s. 6d. (post free 4s.). For Cheaper Edition see Commonwealth Series, page 2. FBANCIS THOMPSON, in The Daily Chronicle : " He is a writer of strong and ringing ballad verse, who gets his blows straight in, and at his best makes them all tell. He can vignette the life he knows in a few touches, and in this book shows an increased power of selection." Academy : " Mr. Lawson's work should be well known to our readers ; for we have urged them often enough to make acquaintance with it. He has the gift of movement, and he rarely offers a loose rhyme. Technically, short of anxious lapidary work, these verses are excellent. He varies sentiment and humour very agreeably." New York Evening 1 Journal : " Such pride as a man feels when he has true greatness as his guest, this newspaper feels in introducing to a million readers a man of ability hitherto unknown to them. Henry Lawson is his name." The Book Lover : " Any book of Lawson's should be bought and treasured by all who care for the real beginnings of Australian literature. As a matter of fact, he is the one Australian literary product, in any distinctive sense." THE MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER AND OTHER VERSES, BY A. B. PATERSON. Thirty-first Thousand. With photogravure portrait and vignette title. Crown 8vo, cloth gilt, gilt top, 5s. (post free 5s. 5d.). The Literary Year Book : " The immediate success of this book of bush ballads is without parallel in Colonial literary annals, nor can any living English or American poet boast so wide a public, always excepting Mr. Rudyard Kipling." The Times : "At his best he compares not unfavour- ably with the author of ' Barrack Room Ballads.' ' Spectator : " These lines have the true lyrical cry in them. Eloquent and ardent verses." Athenaeum : " Swinging, rattling ballads of ready humour, ready pathos, and crowding adventure. . . . Stirring and entertaining ballads about great rides, in which the lines gallop like the very hoofs of the horses." Mr. A. PATCHETT MARTIN, in Literature (London) : "In my opinion, it is the absolutely un-English, thoroughly Australian style and character of these new bush bards which has given them such immediate popularity, such wide vogue, among all classes of the rising native generation." London: Macmillan & Co., Limited. 8 RIO GRANGE'S LAST RACE AND OTHER VERSES. BY A. B. PATERSON. Fifth Thousand. Crown 8vo, cloth gilt, gilt top, 5s. (post free 5s. 5d.). Spectator : " There is no mistaking the vigour of Mr. Paterson's verse ; there is no difficulty in feeling the strong human interest which moves in it." Daily Mail : " Every way worthy of the man who ranks with the first of Australian poets." Scotsman : " At once naturalistic and imaginative, and racy without being slangy, the poems have always a strong human interest of every-day life to keep them going. They make a book which should give an equal pleasure to simple and to fastidious readers." Bookman : " Now and again a deeper theme, like an echo from the older, more experienced land, leads him to more serious singing, and proves that real poetry is, after all, universal. It is a - hearty book." Daily Chronicle : " Mr. Paterson has powerful and varied sympathies, coupled with a genuine lyrical impulse, and some skill, which make his attempts always attractive and usually successful." Glasgow Herald : " These are all entertaining, their rough and ready wit and virility of expression making them highly acceptable, while the dash of satire gives point to the humour." London: MacmiUan tfc Co., Limited 9 THE POETICAL WORKS OF BRUNTON STEPHENS. New edition, with photogravure portrait. Crown 8vo, cloth gilt, gilt top, 5s. (post free 5s. 5d,). See also Commonwealth Series, page 2. The Times (London) : " This collection of the works of the Queensland poet, who has for a generation deservedly held a high place in Australian literature, well deserves study." The Athenasum: "Brunton Stephens, .... well known to all those who are curious in Australian literature, as being, on the whole, the best of Australian poets." Daily News: "In turning over the pages of this volume one is struck by his breadth, his versatility, his compass, as evidenced in theme, sentiment, and style." St. James' Gazette: "This substantial volume of verse contains a great deal that is very fresh and pleasing, whether grave or gay." Manchester Guardian : " He shows a capacity for forceful and rhetorical verse, which makes a fit vehicle for Imperial themes." Speaker : " We gladly recognise the merit of much that appears in The Poetical Works of Mr. Brunton Stephens In the more ambitious pieces (and in these the author is most successful) he models himself on good masters, and his strains have power and dignity." 10 WINSLOW PLAIN. By SARAH P. McL. GREENE, Author of " Flood- Tide," " Vesty of the Basins,"