And will digest the draught with ease.
He has swilled many a goodly glass before.
[The Witch, with many ceremonies, pours the beverage into a cup. While Faust brings it to his mouth a light flame arises.
Mephistopheles.
Come, quaff it boldly, without thinking!
The draught will make thy heart to burn with love.
Art with the Devil hand and glove,
And from a fire-spurt would’st be shrinking?
[The Witch looses the circle. Faust steps out.
Mephistopheles.
Come quickly out; you must not rest.
The Witch.
I hope the swig will wonders work on thee!
Mephistopheles.
And you, if you have aught to beg of me,
Upon Walpurgis’ night make your request.
The Witch.
Here is a song! at times sung, you will find
It hath a wondrous working on your mind.
Mephistopheles. [to Faust]
Come, yield thee now to my desire;
Be meek for once, and own the bridle.
You must keep quiet, and let yourself perspire,
That through your inmost frame the potent juice may pierce.
When we have time to spare, I will rehearse
Some lessons on the art of being nobly idle;
And soon thy heart with ecstasy shall know,
How Cupid ’gins to stir, and boundeth to and fro.
Faust. [Turning again towards the mirror]
Indulge me with one glance!—one moment spare!
It was a virgin-form surpassing fair!
Mephistopheles.
No! No! with my good aid thou soon shalt see
The paragon of women bodily.
[Aside.] Anon, if this good potion does its duty,
He’ll see in every wench the Trojan beauty.
Scene IV.
A Street.
Faust. Margaret passes over.
Faust.
