Part 269 (1/2)

SCENE I.

A common near Altdorf. In the background to the right the keep of Uri, with the scaffold still standing, as in the third scene of the first act. To the left the view opens upon numerous mountains, on all of which signal fires are burning. Day is breaking, and bells are heard ringing from various distances.

RUODI, KUONI, WERNI, MASTER MASON, and many other country people, also women and children.

RUODI.

Look at the fiery signals on the mountains!

MASTER MASON.

Hark to the bells above the forest there!

RUODI.

The enemy's expelled.

MASTER MASON.

The forts are taken.

RUODI.

And we of Uri, do we still endure Upon our native soil the tyrant's keep?

Are we the last to strike for liberty?

MASTER MASON.

Shall the yoke stand that was to bow our necks?

Up! Tear it to the ground!

ALL.

Down, down with it!

RUODI.

Where is the Stier of Uri?

URI.

Here. What would ye?

RUODI.

Up to your tower, and wind us such a blast, As shall resound afar, from hill to hill; Rousing the echoes of each peak and glen, And call the mountain men in haste together!

[Exit STIER OF URI--enter WALTER FURST.

FURST.

Stay, stay, my friends! As yet we have not learned What has been done in Unterwald and Schwytz.

Let's wait till we receive intelligence!

RUODI.

Wait, wait for what? The accursed tyrant's dead, And the bright day of liberty has dawned!

MASTER MASON.

How! Do these flaming signals not suffice, That blaze on every mountain top around?

RUODI.