Part 32 (1/2)

Good Heaven! My mother can that have been?

MARTHA (peeping through the blind)

'Tis some strange gentleman.-Come in!

(MEPHISTOPHELES enters.)

MEPHISTOPHELES

That I so boldly introduce me, I beg you, ladies, to excuse me.

(Steps back reverently, on seeing MARGARET.)

For Martha Schwerdtlein I'd inquire!

MARTHA

I'm she: what does the gentleman desire?

MEPHISTOPHELES (aside to her)

It is enough that you are she: You've a visitor of high degree.

Pardon the freedom I have ta'en,- Will after noon return again.

MARTHA (aloud)

Of all things in the world! Just hear- He takes thee for a lady, dear!

MARGARET

I am a creature young and poor: The gentleman's too kind, I'm sure.

The jewels don't belong to me.

MEPHISTOPHELES

Ah, not alone the jewelry!

The look, the manner, both betray- Rejoiced am I that I may stay!

MARTHA

What is your business? I would fain-

MEPHISTOPHELES

I would I had a more cheerful strain!

Take not unkindly its repeating: Your husband's dead, and sends a greeting.

MARTHA

Is dead? Alas, that heart so true!