From the foundation of the world we have Been forced to suffer thee within our midst. But now at length the time hath run its course That was allotted to such work as thine. The world-will in me feels that they approach-- (Felix Balde appears in his earthly shape: the Other Maria as a soul-form from out of the rock.) --Who, uninitiated, can release The spirit from the outward show of sense. No more 'tis granted thee to check our steps. They near our temple of their own free will And bring to thee this message, that they wish To help our spirit labours, joined with us. They found themselves till now not yet prepared For union, since they clung to that belief That seership's power with reason needs must part. Now have they learned whither mankind is led By reason, which, when severed from true sight, Doth err and wander in the depths of worlds. They now will speak to thee of fruits which needs Must ripen through thy power in human souls. RETARDUS: Ye, who unconsciously have forwarded My work till now, ye shall still further help-- If ye will distant keep from all that doth Belong unto my realm and that alone. Then shall ye surely find a place reserved For you to work as hitherto ye worked. FELIX BALDE: A power, which speaks from very depths of earth Unto my spirit, hath commanded me To come unto this consecrated place; Since it desires to speak to you through me Of all its bitter sorrow and its need. BENEDICTUS: My friend, then tell us now how thou hast learned The woe of world-depths in thine own soul's core. FELIX BALDE: