Faust Part 18
(FAUST enters.)
FAUST
Now, whither shall we go?
MEPHISTOPHELES
As best it pleases thee.
The little world, and then the great, well see.
With what delight, what profit winning, Shalt thou sponge through the term beginning!
FAUST
Yet with the flowing beard I wear, Both ease and grace will fail me there.
The attempt, indeed, were a futile strife; I never could learn the ways of life.
I feel so small before others, and thence Should always find embarra.s.sments.
MEPHISTOPHELES
My friend, thou soon shalt lose all such misgiving: Be thou but self-possessed, thou hast the art of living!
FAUST
How shall we leave the house, and start?
Where hast thou servant, coach and horses?
MEPHISTOPHELES
Well spread this cloak with proper art, Then through the air direct our courses.
But only, on so bold a flight, Be sure to have thy luggage light.
A little burning air, which I shall soon prepare us, Above the earth will nimbly bear us, And, if were light, well travel swift and clear: I gratulate thee on thy new career!
V
AUERBACHS CELLAR IN LEIPZIG
CAROUSAL OF JOLLY COMPANIONS
FROSCH
I no one laughing? no one drinking?
Ill teach you how to grin, Im thinking.
To-day youre like wet straw, so tame; And usually youre all aflame.
BRANDER
Now thats your fault; from you we nothing see, No beastliness and no stupidity.
FROSCH
(Pours a gla.s.s of wine over BRANDERS head.) Theres both together!
BRANDER
Twice a swine!
FROSCH
You wanted them: Ive given you mine.
SIEBEL
Turn out who quarrels-out the door!
With open throat sing chorus, drink and roar!
Up! holla! ho!
ALTMAYER
Woes me, the fearful bellow!
Bring cotton, quick! Hes split my ears, that fellow.
SIEBEL
When the vault echoes to the song, One first perceives the ba.s.s is deep and strong.
FROSCH
Well said! and out with him that takes the least offence!
Ah, tara, lara da!
ALTMAYER
Ah, tara, lara, da!
FROSCH
The throats are tuned, commence!
(Sings.)
The dear old holy Roman realm, How does it hold together?