Part 28 (1/2)

Thou'lt find, this drink thy blood compelling, Each woman beautiful as Helen!

VII

STREET

FAUST MARGARET (pa.s.sing by)

FAUST

Fair lady, let it not offend you, That arm and escort I would lend you!

MARGARET

I'm neither lady, neither fair, And home I can go without your care.

[She releases herself, and exit.

FAUST

By Heaven, the girl is wondrous fair!

Of all I've seen, beyond compare; So sweetly virtuous and pure, And yet a little pert, be sure!

The lip so red, the cheek's clear dawn,

I'll not forget while the world rolls on!

How she cast down her timid eyes, Deep in my heart imprinted lies: How short and sharp of speech was she, Why, 'twas a real ecstasy!

(MEPHISTOPHELES enters)

FAUST

Hear, of that girl I'd have possession!

MEPHISTOPHELES

Which, then?

FAUST

The one who just went by.

MEPHISTOPHELES

She, there? She's coming from confession, Of every sin absolved; for I, Behind her chair, was listening nigh.

So innocent is she, indeed, That to confess she had no need.

I have no power o'er souls so green.

FAUST

And yet, she's older than fourteen.