[1] The libretto, by Clifford Bax, is based on the book The Wandering Scholars by Helen Waddell.

The opera received its premiere at the David Lewis Theatre, Liverpool, on 31 January 1934, but Holst did not hear the live performance because he was too ill to attend.

[5] Louis is preparing to go to town to obtain provisions, and tries to kiss Alison before leaving, but she rebuffs him.

After Louis departs, Alison pulls out a concealed almond-cake, a bottle of Burgundy, and pork, to entertain Father Philippe, who has designs on her.

Just then, Pierre, a poor wandering scholar, arrives and begs for food.

Father Philippe then makes a second attempt to take Alison up to the attic, expressing concern about whether the ladder will bear his weight.

Pierre begins to tell a tale about a herd of pigs, and lets slip that there is a piece of pork in the pot on the stove.