A splendid saloon in the castle of Count Arnheim. On the ground floors, a large window at the back opening on the park. On the O.P. side, the door of a small cabinet, doors at the back, leading into spacious galleries.
I am once more left to my thoughts
(The window at the back suddenly opens, and Devilshoof springs into the apartment.)
Ah! what seek you here with me?
In the midst of so much luxury
[N. 18 - When other lips and other hearts]
Whatever may be our future lot
[N. 19 - Through the world wilt thou fly]
[N. 20 - Welcome the present, oh ponder not]
Leave the place thy polluting step hath cross'd
See at your feet a suppliant one
(During the trio, the wan figure of the Queen has been seen at the window in the back; she points him out to A gipsy, who is in the act of firing at him, when Devilshoof averts the gipsy's aim, and turns the musket toward the Queen - it goes off, and she falls)
Guard every portal - summon each guest
[N. 21 - Oh! what full delight]