Part 37 (1/2)

And thou forgiv'st my freedom, and the blame To my impertinence befitting, As the Cathedral thou wert quitting?

MARGARET

I was confused, the like ne'er happened me; No one could ever speak to my discredit.

Ah, thought I, in my conduct has he read it- Something immodest or unseemly free?

He seemed to have the sudden feeling That with this wench 'twere very easy dealing.

I will confess, I knew not what appeal On your behalf, here, in my bosom grew; But I was angry with myself, to feel That I could not be angrier with you.

FAUST

Sweet darling!

MARGARET

Wait a while!

(She plucks a star-flower, and pulls off the leaves, one after the other.)

FAUST

Shall that a nosegay be?

MARGARET

No, it is just in play.

FAUST

How?

MARGARET

Go! you'll laugh at me.

(She pulls off the leaves and murmurs.)

FAUST

What murmurest thou?

MARGARET (half aloud)

He loves me-loves me not.

FAUST

Thou sweet, angelic soul!

MARGARET (continues)

Loves me-not-loves me-not- (plucking the last leaf, she cries with frank delight:)