Part 21

MEPHISTOPHELES

We've but to spread this mantle wide, 'Twill serve whereon through air to ride, No heavy baggage need you take, When we our bold excursion make, A little gas, which I will soon prepare, Lifts us from earth; aloft through air, Light laden, we shall swiftly steer;-- I wish you joy of your new life-career.

AUERBACH'S CELLAR IN LEIPZIG A Drinking Party

FROSCH

No drinking? Naught a laugh to raise? None of your gloomy looks, I pray! You, who so bright were wont to blaze, Are dull as wetted straw to-day.

BRANDER

'Tis all your fault; your part you do not bear, No beastliness, no folly.

FROSCH (pours a glass of wine over his head)

There, You have them both!

BRANDER

You double beast!

FROSCH

'Tis what you ask'd me for, at least!

SIEBEL

Whoever quarrels, turn him out! With open throat drink, roar, and shout. Hollo! Hollo! Ho!

ALTMAYER

Zounds, fellow, cease your deaf'ning cheers! Bring cotton-wool! He splits my ears.

SIEBEL

'Tis when the roof rings back the tone, Then first the full power of the bass is known.

FROSCH

Right! out with him who takes offence! A! tara lara da!

ALTMAYER

A! tara lara da!

FROSCH

Our throats are tuned. Come let's commence!

(Sings) The holy Roman empire now, How holds it still together?

BRANDER

An ugly song! a song political! A song offensive! Thank God, every morn To rule the Roman empire, that you were not born! I bless my stars at least that mine is not Either a kaiser's or a chancellor's lot. Yet 'mong ourselves should one still lord it o'er the rest; That we elect a pope I now suggest. Ye know, what quality ensures A man's success, his rise secures.