Franz Hopfer had been a nasty fellow. But he surely shouldn't have been killed! The lovely month of May. The time of lilacs, church holidays, and peonies. The season of the May goat and the Maypole, symbols of all that is becoming and fruitful. In Neiselbach, such a red-and-white ribboned wreath must also be erected on the meadow in front of the parsonage on the thirtieth of April. A night watch is called for. Because only on Walpurgis Night and the night before Pentecost may the pole be stolen by outsiders. A warm wind mixes with the night air, softening the mountain breeze. Wine is generously consumed, and most stagger home, leaving Lukas and Hans to guard the pole. Unfortunately, they also fall asleep. For the next morning reveals something grim. The Maypole lies felled on the meadow. A mourning pole must now be erected for this May.