Glacier at Chamounix

Glacier at Chamounix

Scene Three

GLACIER AT CHAMOUNIX MIDDAY

Laboratory fades out slowly. An alpine landscape gradually materializes.

VICTOR

That night I slept the sleep of the wicked, my dreams animated with scenes so terrible that I awoke in a teeth-chattering sweat. The next days were no better. Eventually, I sank into a nervous fever. Months later, when my convalescence was almost complete, I sought renewal on a walking trip through the nearby mountain valleys.

(crunching through the snow)

It was nearly noon when I reached the top of the Montanvert glacier. As I looked out over the sea of ice, I suddenly beheld the figure of a man advancing towards me at superhuman speed. A faintness seized me! It was the wretch whom I had created!

CREATURE
(approaching Victor)

Be calm! I am thy creature, and I will be mild and docile if you will also perform thy part. Everywhere I see bliss, from which I am excluded. I entreat you to hear my tale.