Page:The Harvard Classics Vol. 19.djvu/119

Rh (While the WITCH steps back in rage and astonishment.) Dost know me! Skeleton! Vile scarecrow, thou! Thy lord and master dost thou know? What holds me, that I deal not now Thee and thine apes a stunning blow? No more respect to my red vest dost pay? Does my cock's feather no allegiance claim? Have I my visage masked to-day? Must I be forced myself to name?

The Witch

Master, forgive this rude salute! But I perceive no cloven foot. And your two ravens, where are they?

Mephistopheles

This once I must admit your plea; For truly I must own that we Each other have not seen for many a day. The culture, too, that shapes the world, at last Hath e’en the devil in its sphere embraced; The northern phantom from the scene hath pass'd, Tail, talons, horns, are nowhere to be traced! As for the foot, with which I can't dispense, 'Twould injure me in company, and hence, Like many a youthful cavalier, False calves I now have worn for many a year.

The Witch (dancing) I am beside myself with joy, To see once more the gallant Satan here!

Mephistopheles Woman, no more that name employ!

The Witch But why? what mischief hath it done?