Page:Satanella (1932).pdf/74

 Firmly on the aged prelate

And the latter, wine excited

Asked him in a voice that quivered:

"By what right, my nightly comrade,

By what right you call me brother?"

Hideously sneered the Satan

And began his lengthy answer:

"Night is long, I say, my brother,

And perhaps I'll entertain you.

I know well an old, old story

And if you'll but hear me fully

You shall know why you're my brother.

Night is long, and next time, maybe,

I shall try in vain escaping

From St. Michael's yoke of lightning.

Well, then hear me! fill a goblet,

Night is long and I am thirsty! "

Once again clanged wine-filled goblets

And the Satan spun his story:

"Far beyond the seas and mountains,

Many years since then elapsing,

On their father's ancient castle

Peacefully, two heirs resided,

Lived in concord, two blood-brothers.

Older of the two was master,

Hunted in the hillside forests,