SCENE IV.

MEPHISTOPHELES, then FAUST.

_Mep._ (replacing his sword). We'll meet anon, good sirs,--adieu!

_Faust_ (enters). Why, what has happened?

_Mep._ Oh, nothing! let us change the subject! Say, Doctor, what would you of me? With what shall we begin?

_Faust._ Where bides the beauteous maid Thine art did show to me? Or was't mere witchcraft?

_Mep._ No, but her virtue doth protect her from thee, And heaven itself would keep her pure.

_Faust._ It matters not! Come, lead me to her, Or I straightway abandon thee.

_Mep._ Then I'll comply! 'twere pity you should think So meanly of the magic power which I possess. Have patience! and to this joyous tune. Right sure am I, the maiden will appear.

* * * * *