The Tales of Hoffmann Part 9

Alone, alone, the two of us (approaching Olympia); I have so many things to say, Oh my Olympia! Let me admire you!

With your charming looks let me intoxicate myself.

(He touches her shoulder).

OLYMPIA.

Yes.

HOFFMAN.

Is it not a dream born of fever?

I thought I heard a sigh escape your lips!

(He again touches her shoulder).

OLYMPIA.

Yes.

HOFFMAN.

Sweet avowal, pledge of our love, You are mine, our hearts are united forever!

Ah! understand you, tell me, this eternal joy Of silent hearts.

Living, with but one soul and with same stroke of wing, Rush up to heaven!

Let, let, my flame Show you the light of day!

Let your soul open To the rays of love.

(He presses Olympia's hand. She rises and walks up and down, then exits.)

You escape me?... What have I done.

You do not answer?...

Speak! Have I wounded you? Ah!

I'll follow your steps!

(As Hoffmann is about to rush out Nicklausse appears.)

NICKLAUSSE.

Here, by Jove, moderate your zeal!

Do you want us to drink without you?...

HOFFMAN (half crazy).

Nicklausse, I am beloved by her.

Loved! By all the G.o.ds.

NICKLAUSSE.

By my faith If you knew what they are saying of your beauty!

HOFFMAN.

What can they say? What?

NICKLAUSSE.

That she is dead.

HOFFMAN.

Great Heavens!

NICKLAUSSE.

Or is not of this life.

HOFFMAN (exalted).

Nicklausse! I am beloved by her!

Loved! By all the G.o.ds.

COPPeLIUS (entering, furious).

Thief! brigand! what a tumble!

Elias is bankrupt!

But I shall find the opportunity To revenge myself... Robbed!... Me!

I'll kill somebody.

(Coppelius slips into Olympia's room.)

(Everybody enters.)

SPALANZANI.

Here come the waltzers.