Act One opens. On stage, workers carrying wooden crates and barrels move back and forth. Combined with a backdrop of the sea and a sailing ship with its sails furled at anchor, and a score that evokes the crashing waves and the cries of seagulls, the audience learns that this is a story set in a fishing port.
Edmund, an adventurer and merchant returning from a long voyage, arrives in his hometown laden with wealth and curiosities. Full of pride, the actor puffs out his chest as wide as possible and sings:
"Oh, hometown, I have returned! Your waves are as gentle as ever, and the sun is so brilliant. See, I have brought back wealth and treasure from overseas. This is my love for you, my promise to you!"
He is welcomed by everyone at the docks. The longshoremen unload Edmund's cargo, singing in unison: "Honorable adventurer Edmund! Your courage brings wealth to this harbor!"
