o^ *."XT* A .^'\ ^ V c'V' ♦' < O ^ .-4 »' "- .^^-"^ ft^^ { FAUST'S DEATH. % iragei^g IN FIVE ACTS. BY CHAS. E. MOELLING. The author reserves to himself the right of having this play enacted at the theaters. PHILADELPHIA: J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO. 1865. Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1865, by CHARLES E. MOELLING, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. This drama is based on the old legendary tale of man seduced to sin by the evil spirit, here Mephis- topheles. The author has taken the two leading characters from the "Faust^^ of the illustrious Goethe, and in a manner commences where the latter has broken off. Faust has entered into the companionship of Mephistopheles, who has promised to satisfy his desire for happiness by showing him the treasures of life, and for this purpose travels with him as his servant. At this stage the drama commences. DEAMATIS PEESONai. Faust. Mephistopheles. PlETRO. Valerio. Carlo. The King. Count Kobert. A Prince. Guttenberg. Julia. Princess Agnes, Daughter of the King. Marie1?ta. Clara. A Teacher. Noblemen, Gravediggers, Soldiers, Councilmen, Book- printers, Ladies of the Court, etc. FAUST'S DEATH -A.OT I. SCENE I. A Street in the City of Florence at the time of the Plague. Enter Gravediggers. First GravedigCtER. Which is the house ? Second Gravedigger. This one ! Third Gravedigger. How many more Have we to visit ? Second Gravedigger. One is near the gate ; One, two, three face the river ; then there is St. Ursula's nunnery, in whose sacred cells A merry company the goblets filled Till stricken by the plague. Then farther up Are fourteen houses empty. Holy Virgin ! They all will go below ere many a day, And we are masters here ! 2 (5) FAUST'S DEATH. Thikd Gravedigger. Long live the plague I And may it fill its ever-gaping throat, Till every house in this forsaken town Invites us to its rooms ! In former times I was by trade a cut-throat poorly paid, But now the plague destroys the rich and poor, And we inherit all. First Gravedigger. Move onward, boys ! If we would yet make merry in the night, We have to speed ; for surely, 'tis no child's play To bury twenty, thirty of an evening. It would have ta'en a month in olden times ; Now all are thrown into a common grave. And not a mother dares to trace within The features of her son ; no bride seeks weeping The form of the beloved one. Let us go ! \_Ezeunt Gravediggers. SCENE IL Enter Faust and Mephistopheles. Faust. I follow you no farther I In this desert, Walled in by marble palaces and domes. The heart within me fails. O give me rather The fresh bedewed forest's balmy air ! Let me inhale the morning's glorious draught, When perfumed breezes break the rosy mist. FAUST'S DEATH. 7 Ay ! better let me drain oblivion's cup, Where in the starlike twinkle of the lights The merry crowd assembles, rather than to lead Me forward, backward through deserted streets, Whose gloom forebodes me evil. Mephistopheles. Only patience. And you shall taste a morsel that would please A demon's appetite. Faust. Hark 1 What is this ? They carry there a coffin ! God Almighty ! There is a certain stillness in this air That makes me shudder to my very bones. Oppresses me with gloom. What is your purpose ? Why led you me hither ? Have you forgot The treaty that with blood I once did seal ? Life's hidden treasures was I to behold, The never-failing stream of earthly joys. Till, overwhelmed with pleasure, I would wish To clip the moment's wings. Where then is now The happiness you promised ? Does it stare From yonder windows silent as the grave ? Or dwells it in the marble of these streets That not a dog enlivens ? Mephistopheles. Now again You judge by the appearance. Does not always Light with darkness mingle ? Laughs not the w^idow, Freed from chains, beside her husband's grave ? Enjoys the heir not the relation's death? 8 faust's death. And glories not the victor in the suffering Of him he conquered ? Dark and lonely call you These wide and lofty streets ? Who knows how soon We may see forms arise as fair, voluptuous As ever demon gathered to his purpose, — Perhaps they are but demons. Faust. Like yourself ! And never more infernal, than when slily You evade the answer. Tell me now whither Have I been led by you, and through what cause Appear these noble streets by man deserted ? Mephistopheles, This is the City of Florence, Italy's crown, Whose luster is a little dimmed at present, As here the plague has raged. Faust. The plague ? Mephistopheles. Just SO ! And as I love to visit scenes like these, I brought you here. Faust. To kill me ? Mephistopheles. No, indeed ! But you must think your weary, toilsome life Of precious value I Ask the avalanche, That daily over ruins and corpses thunders, FAUST'S DEATH. 9 Whether the voice of God retards its course. You are a prey to fire and water both ; An earthquake or a storm may finish you. Besides, you slay yourselves in wanton strife. Why should I drag you then a hundred leagues To lead you unto death ? No ! I made use Of my superior powers, and brought you here Because the blood-stained soil produces oft The fairest flower. The mind beset by dangers, By death and torture threatened, often wears Its brightest hue ; besides, the southern air Fires eye and bosom with a warmer glow. Till even vice is beautified by grace. Here, stohd German, shall you taste such pleasure As will the memory of the gloomy past Replace with brighter fancies ! Faust. We will see I What until now you promised was not kept ; Or rather it was kept, but by the guile Of your infernal cunning it was so Wrought into evil that I saw the features Of what I deemed an angel changed into A grinning demon. Mephistopheles. See ! there goes a woman. 2* 10 FAUST'S DEATH SCENE III. Enter Julia, and crosses the stage. She wears a half mask, and holds a bunch of flowers in her hand. Faust. How sweet she looks ! I feel her sight My long decayed love revive ; Her beauty beams a dazzling light Upon my weary, toilsome hfe. My gloomy fancies fade away ; The golden sun dispels the cloud, And as he sheds bis glorious ray, My heart beats free, my heart beats loud. Mephistopheles. Scarce has the fool looked at the woman. And he feels more Kke God than human. Faust. Two roses in her hand she holds ; An envious mask obscures her eyes, And from her dress's silken folds I see her snowy neck arise. Thus walks she gracefully away, The charmer, in her radiant splendor, And every movement, light and gay, Betrays her beauty sweet and tender. Mephistopheles, So does the worm the fish allure ; He bites, and dandes fiist and sure. FAUST'S DEATH. 11 Faust. What wakes my slumbering melodies, My youthful, half-forgotten dream ? It is the glance of woman's eyes, That, like the sun's enlivening beam, The darkness of our soul dispels, And touches its melodious strings. Till harmony the heaven fills — Its very dome with gladness rings. Mephistopheles. How can the devil best beguile ? 'Tis by a woman's treacherous smile ! Faust. She now draws nearer, and I will Look closer at her brilliant eyes. But thou keep distant and be still, Thou spying father of all lies ! For she is sent to me by heaven ; I feel it by my bosom's heaving. That lately for the past was grieving. But now again to joy is given. Mephistopheles, Go I Go ! To fill your fate you fool, You think you act, and are my tool I 12 faust's death. SCENE IV. Faust [approaching Julia, who reappears on the stage). So lonely, lady, in the night ? Julia, The air is clear, the moon shines bright. Faust. But if a robber sees your charms. And clasps you in his ruthless arms ? Julia. I'd tell him to beware of me, Else in his arms a snake he'd see. Faust. The snake, however, has its tooth, But you are powerless, forsooth ! Julia [drawing a dagger). What think you of this glittering steel ? Its edge a robber-knight might feel. Faust. It is as sparkling and as bright As of your eye the beaming light. Julia. Farewell, sir knight 1 You speak too plain And may we never meet again ! faust's death. 13 Faust. My heart is heavy, sick my life, Disturbed by gloomy reveries ; And now, when in the weary strife. Your beauty charms my enchanted eyes, Will you so coldly walk away, And not my troubled soul allay ? Julia. Who are you whom I thus behold, To cross my path so frank and bold ? Faust. I am a stranger, and have come From distant countries, sick and weary ; I know not where to find a home. For all around is dark and dreary. Julia. How can I know that what you say Is not a traveler's fabulous lay ? Faust. I swear it by the sunbeam bright. By your own beauty's glorious light I Julia, An oath is but a silken tie, By will and deed too easily broken ; So in your features I will spy, To prove if you the truth have spoken. Take off your hat, and look at me. That I your face uncovered see ! [Faust uncovers his head. 14 faust's death. A pleasant face ! But frown not so ! And tell me what these wrinkles mean ? If with a lady you will go, You must look sweet and gay, I ween. drive your gloomy thoughts away, And look at pleasure's bright array ! Faust. We cannot shape our face and figure, Nor change at pleasure soul and mind ; The storms of life destroy our vigor, The soaring youth grows faint and blind. Julia, If I should teach you, you would know A better way through life to go. Faust. If you should teach me ? 0, I pray, "Withhold your secret not from me ; If you the inner storm allay, 1 will in you a goddess see. Lead me into life's surging flood ; Its waves may cool my fevered blood, Its sun may shed his radiance bright, And, bathing in the golden light, I'll drain the cup of earthly pleasure. And rob it of its costliest treasure. Julia. Can you forget the awful doom That hangs upon this goodly town; Surrounds us with unwonted gloom, Death's ever-present, threatening frown ? FAUST'S DEATH. 15 The labor that on man does weigh, The sorrow fastening on its prey ? Can your unheedful glance refrain To look upon the future dark ? And listen only to the strain Of pleasure's sweet deceiving lark ? Can only for the present live ? Then you shall have what I can give. Faust. I can I For happiness is seated Within life's foaming, silvery waves, Whose swelling flood our bosom laves ; A loving fate hath us created, That we with flowers our path embellish. And every pleasure taste with relish. But now remove the envious veil, Let me the dawn of beauty hail I [Julia unmasks herself. How lovely decks your tender brow The smiling garb of youth and grace 1 How can I help to love you, now That I am gazing at your face ? Even unto the abysm below, I feel that I could follow you ! Julia. I think we'd better choose our home In heaven's bright, eternal dome. But listen ! When upon this town The plague its greedy fingers fastened, From every corner death did frown, And every soul below was hastened ; 16 FAUST'S DEATH. When all the friends around us died, O how we trembled, feared, and cried, — We sought a place where we might rest. Not by the awful doom oppressed. There night is changed into day, There whiles the song the fear away. And in the merry dance combines Italia's flower, while flowing wines With generous glow all bosoms warm. And grace leans smiling on love's arm. Into this life I now will take you ; You shall be welcome in our halls. But leave behind the dreams that break you, And bear you down like leaden balls. Your bold address so wins me o'er. That I have opened friendship's door ; But quell your dark and troubled frown. Lest all our pleasures you should drown. Mephistopheles [stepping forward). The very thing I said to him ; 'Tis but a silly, foolish whim ! Call it a thought, call it remorse ! 'Tis nothing but a sickly farce. Did hell itself stare from the cup, If good the wine I'd drink it up. Julia. Who is this man in scarlet clad ? Faust. He is my servant 1 FAUST'S DEATH. It Julia. How the lad Has glittering eyes ! But let us speed ! Too long we tarried ! I will lead ! \_Exeunt. SCENE V. A large room in a palace. A fountain pla,ys in the background. Enter Pietro and Yalerio. PlETRO. And you call this a life ? fie ! A desert, Too good a name ! A rotting of the body And soul together ! Sounds too sermonlike ! What then ? God knows ! A very hell on earth, That is its name. I tell you, ere the plague — The evil spirit take it ! — changed this town Into a graveyard filled with staring corpses, I dealt in silks that to the North I sent. To exchange them for the spices of the East. I labored hard, there was no end of cares ; But when I sunk exhausted on my pillow, When toward night my friends around me chattered, The satisfaction of a well-spent day Spread peace and pleasure through my inmost being. But now ! — perdition take the fatal hour When we resolved to brave the poisonous death By constant merry-making. Deathly sick Am I of all this silly playing, dancing, And deep within me gnaws the bitter thought Of misspent hours, forlorn and deedless days, Until my heart grows heavy. 3 1-8 fal'st's death. Valerio. Little know I Of sucli like fancies. But was I like you, Good Pietro, tired of this abode, I would Soon break my chain. Pietro. I cannot I Valerio. Why ? I see not What is to hinder you. Pietro. A woman, man I Who always is the bait of all the traps That catch our thoughtless hearts. Valerio. I pity you ! But is there, then, no drug for your disease ? If I, perchance, have caught the sweet infection From a fair lady's eye, I court another ; A certain counterpoison. But too long, I know it, has the virus raged within you. Your case is hopeless ! Pietro. Certainly ! While sleeping. My very dreams are calling Julia's name. And, "Julia, hear my thoughts!" I hourly whisper If I can see her, I am all desire ; And far from her, I suffer nameless tortures. In her sweet smile I see the heavens beam ; FAUST'S DEATH. 19 She frowns, and all the scorching flames of hell Envelop me as with a sheet of fire ! A curse on her, who has my heart bewitched, And treacherously plays upon its chords ! A curse, too, on this life, that does not brace me By mighty storms to strong and healthy action I Valerio, have but patience. Love is like the moon, Whose orb now beams in full, unmatched splendor. Then slowly sinks, and on the starlight sky The slightest trace not leaves. PlETRO. But while she thrones In the ethereal sphere, her silvery light Is shed upon the world, and it is said It drives to madness him upon whose brow It falls while he is sleeping. Valerio. But SO far Have you not yet been driven. For your eye Rolls not inflamed beneath your heated brow, Nor does your bristling hair yet stand on end In foolish terror. PlETRO. Think you not, Valerio ? And yet if the twin-brother of my love. Pale jealousy, stands whispering at my side, And I see how the thoughtless girl bestows On others loving glances, burns my heart. The very thoughts revolt within my brain, ) FAUST'S DEATH. And but too easily grasps the willing hand The glittering steel. Even now, when at my side Her merry prattle should my gloom dispel, She walks alone into the poisoned streets, To breathe the air, so says she. But I tell you If she bestows her charms upon another, The earth holds not us both ! Valerio. Be calm I Be calm ! How yet your blood in youthful ardor boils ! When you grow older other ills befall you. Then you'll grow daily fatter, like myself; A piece of moonshine settles on your pate. And like a rosy wine held at the light, So shines your ruby nose. I tell you, Pietro, You think your lot a hard one ; but, forsooth ! You have not yet passed through the storms of life. What is its greatest misery ? Can you guess ? I'll warrant not ! Pietro. Betrayed love ? Valerio. pshaw I Pietro. Ambition strugghng like a swelling flood, And dashed to atoms on the rocky shore ? Valerio. O no ! Pietro. Lost self-esteem ? faust's death. . 21 Valeric. No ! no ! PlETRO, The envy Hurt to the quick by others' happiness ? Valerio. No I Three times no ! It is the gloomy morning, So closely chained to the starlight night, The aching head, the sober second thought, The awaking from intoxication's sleep. PlETRO. You always are the same ! But now allow me One single question. Have you ever felt Perfectly happy ? Valerio. Almost said I yes, Had not a sudden twinging in my toe, TijjG piteous outcry of a sickly body, Thie i(ii;.i3LSwer interrupted. PlETRO. * It is true ! A man and to b^e Ijappy ! Fire and water Into a strengthening' essence to compound Is too ridiculous ! VA|LERI0. Here are om ladies 1 Marietta leads them. Now cheex up, and flutter A winged butterfly from flower to flower. From each the perfume drawing. 8* 22 _ faust's death. PlETRO. I cannot ! I am too heavy for such lofty flights ! SCENE YI. Enter Marietta, Clara, Carlo, and a brilliant cortege of Ladies and Gentlemen. Marietta. Well, master of the ceremonies, have you Discovered new amusement for the evening That it surpass all others ? Valeric. New amusement ? Who thinks of it. Marietta, where the sparkle Of your black pearls, that you call eyes, has robbed Us of our senses ? Marietta. Rather where the light That like a glory plays around your nose The room with splendor fills. Valerio. fie, Marietta! Confess it, only envy makes you mock me. But let another judge us. Tell me, Clara, You bashful child, whose eyes look always down. What is it you prefer, the red or black ? Clara. The red, for it is worn by cardinals, While black befits the lowlv, mournful monk. faust's death. 23 Valerio. A thousand thanks, sweet fairy I And, Marietta, You must accept the sentence of our judge. Marietta. I will appeal ; the sentence is not valid, The judge is not impartial, for a woman Will go against a woman. Hither, Carlo ! Do you prefer the glory to a pearl ? Carlo. Per Bacco, no ! A pearl reminds me always Of snowy shoulders which it has bedecked ; A glory makes me think of sallow monks, With long and crooked noses. Marietta. Thank you, Carlo ! This ribbon will I give you for your judgment. Clara. But where is Julia ? PlETRO. Ask Old Nick for her ! Clara. Why, Pietro, what a rude, uncivil answer ! Valerio. He is not well, his heart is strangely sick ! Marietta. A pity ! Does it hurt ? Pietro. Like a sick tooth I 24 faust's death. Marietta. Then pull it out, and look a little cheerful. Now let us form a circle here, my friends. As Julia is not present, I will take The scepter that she proudly calls her own. And to commence, I do command you, Pietro, In punishment of your morosity. To invent us something new for our amusement. Pietro. I something new invent ? Ay ! Rather let me Change ice to fire, or, better yet, conjure The evil spirit from the depths of hell. Marietta. A good conceit. Indeed, sweet Pietro, tell us How to conjure the infernal majesty. Pietro. let me be ! Vale RIO. Why, Pietro, will you rudely, By your bad humor, spoil our merry games ? Behave more sensibly, and show them all That you have wit, which has been often doubted. Pietro. Well, be it, then, and take the consequences I But now instruct me, lady, where to pray. Marietta. Here, in the midst of us, while we will open The circle at the sides, so that our friend May walk conveniently into our ring. FAUST'S DEATH. 25 PlETRO. Then listen to my incantation. [PiETRO kneels down, holding his drawn sword in his right hand, with its cross pointing downward. Master thou of earth and hell, At whose word our passions swell, Hearken to thy servant's call ! May'st thou dwell in gloomy halls. Where the dripping moisture falls ; May'st amongst the clouds thou ride, Gilded by the purple light ; Dwell'st thou where the ocean beams, Where the flash of lightning gleams, Where the flames uprising glow. Where the winds enraged blow, — Hasten in the wings of light, On this doorsill to alight ! SCENE VII. Enter Mephistopheles, smiling and saluting, while the others run screaming away. Pieteo holds his sword toward him. Mephistopheles. Your servant, handsome ladies, valiant knights ! PlETRO. Be man or fiend, thou stand ! Mephistopheles. What does your honor Mean by this glittering pin ? Alas 1 I feel My fingers itching at its very sight. 26 FAUST'S DEATH. PlETRO. Who are you ? Mephistopheles. I ? I am a singular being, Misunderstood by many ; should be master, And am but servant. Saw you not my master ? PlETRO. Your master ? Mephistopheles. Ay ! I saw him enter here, Led by a masked lady. PlETRO. Julia ! Julia ! Where are they ? Speak ! Mephistopheles. I've lost them, as I told you. Pietro. And you are but an humble, common servant ? Mephistopheles. Am servant of frail beauties, gentle shepherds. Clara. And we held you to be the evil one I Marietta. We will not let the opportunity slip That chance has thrown into our way ; act you As Lucifer to-night, and if with skill You play your part, you shall be richly paid. FAUST'S DEATH. 2t Mephistopheles. By what? Marietta. Bright gold. Mephistopheles. A kiss ? Marietta. Yes I yes ! Mephistopheles [embracing her). You hold the devil in your arms ! [The fountain throws fire instead of water. Marietta tears her- self screaming, away, while the others manifest their terror. SCENE VIII. Enter Faust and Julia, princely dressed. Faust. What is this ? In flames I see All the fiends of hell set free. Servant, slave, who art by heaven In my power at present given, Ere thy promise is fulfilled. Ere my heart by death is stilled, I can force thee to obey ! Know that man's all-powerful will, Led by reason's heavenly ray, Can thy treacherous charms dispel. 28 FAUST'S DEATH. Fiends and spirits, flee ! begone ! For the victory I have won, And your master's strength is broken, See it by this certain token 1 [^The fountain stops playinfj. Mephistopheles. Be not so rude ! You see the thing is over, And all is smooth again. The very noses That grew so pale, chilled by the sudden fear, Are now as red as ever. Faust. Go, you rascal. And tarry with the servants till I call you I \_Exit Mephistopheles. PlETRO. Well, master sorcerer, will you now explain How you have come amongst us ? You, and he Who calls himself your servant ? Faust. Gentle ladies, And noble gentlemen, I crave your pardon. My servant is a strange and self-willed man. Whom I from Germany brought, well skilled in tricks And sleights of hand, that make the unwary think He is possessed of witchcraft. Pietro. And yourself? Faust. You have to thank this lady for my presence. She found me in the dark, deserted streets. FAUST'a DExiTil. 29 Where I had lost my way, and like the star That on the ocean leads the mariner, So she appeared to me. Marietta. How I am shuddering, If I but think how I was terrified ! But I believe this noble stranger's words, That he is not to blame. PlETRO. Do you, Marietta? I have a dark presentiment of evil, And if he chooses, I will Julia. Hush, good Pietro ! Or, by the Yirgin ! I will never speak A single word with you ! But now — enough I Cheer up, pale ladies, wretched-looking knights; Let lively music stir your sluggish blood, And fill the golden cups with sparkling wine, That pleasure's sweet, intoxicating dream The dismal terror of the night dispel ! \_Exeunt. Hear you how the music sounds, And with pleasure us surrounds ! When the rosy wine is flowing. And the cheek is red and glowing, When desire the glance obscures, And the eye the eye allures. You inhale the sweets of life, And forget its weary strife. 4 so FAUST'S DEATH. Faust. How I feel ! The secret longing, That in tears and sighs was thronging Through the sorrows of my breast, Suddenly now sinks to rest. Cursed be the thought and deed ! Pleasure be my only creed, And my only strife shall be How to chain it fast to me. For the moment but to live, That its light to us must give, And to roam from flower to flower, Be the aim of every hour. [^The curtain drops while the couples arrange the dance at the sounds of the music, and a chorus behind the scenes repeats the four last lines. paust's death. 31 -A.GT II- SCENE I. Enter Mephistopheles. Mephistopheles. Could a demon pity feel For mankind, would he 't reveal ? In their youthful dreams they roam Through the spaceless starlit heaven, But the waves around them foam, And by wind and tempest driven, They are tossed upon the sea Of life's endless misery. When man's purity is gone, And when sin his heart has won, — When his course is downward bent, In the false perverted strife, And by doubts and passions rent. He is struggling yet for life, — 'Tis a dreadful chilling view, Rather funny though, 'tis true. Demon in his passions fierce, Human in his joys and tears. Angel in sweet pity's flower. Godlike in creating power, — 'Tis a riddle without key : Mortal and eternal he ! He is day as well as night, And the earth, so fair and bright, 32 faust's death. With its stars, its heaven blue, And its green and golden hue, With its blossoms and its bloom, And its forest's shady gloom, With its change of vale and dell. He perverts it into hell ! But where may my master be ? My too lively, cheerful nature Would a little pleasure see. Shall I frighten every creature, By my tricks and direful charms, Till they with uplifted arms Pale and shrieking hither hasten, And on me their glances fasten ? Ah ! I see gravediggers swarm 'Round this house. 'Twill do no harm To the table them to lead ; Thus have I of charms no need, For the human life still holds Yice and terror in its folds. SCENE 11. Enter Gravediggers. Mephistopheles. Walk in ! Walk in ! My pretty boy, walk in I If you were gray, I'd hold you for a jackass. But stand not back ! My little one, be welcome ! You look as if the gallows frightened you. Be welcome, tall one ! Why, still more ? Walk in ! Walk in I Walk in ! Walk in ! FAUST'S DEATH. 33 First Gbavedigger. Who are you, man ? Mephistopheles. Your uncle, blockhead ! First Gravedigger. Death and lightning I Will you make fun of me ? Mephistopheles. Not yet, but later. You pattern of a guest, you miracle Of modesty and grace ; how bashfully You walk into strange houses, meet your host With unsurpassed civility and kindness ! But make yourselves at home, my honored sirs, You who like kings on rotting corpses strut; The nobleman's proud breast to pieces tread, And lovely ladies to their lovers send, That eat them out of love. Second Gravedigger. Take care, my man ! 'Tis true we entered here without your leave. As we saw light within, and so supposed To find here custom ; but depend on it You will not keep us long away from here. I'll lay a wager you'll be dead to-morrow. And ours is what you have. Mephistopheles. What will you bet. Ere fifty years have passed you are a corpse ? 4* 34 FAUST'S DEATH. Second Gravedioger. I'll not gainsay it, 'tis too long a time. Mephistopheles. Too long a time, when not a second of Eternity has passed I But pray be seated 1 You look so cheerful, that I will this table (Set for a company of merry friends) To your disposal place. There ! Take this seat 1 You, master longleg, farther up ! Now fill The cups with wine, and let us have a speech — Who is the first to make it ? Third Gravedigqer. Now, I like you, And must confess your manners please me so. That I this glass will empty to your health. And call myself your servant. Mephistopheles. Thank you, friend ; In future you may sorely this remember. Now something else. Fourth Gravedigger. I know a little girl. As cunning as a snake and treacherous, Deceiving like an imp, and soft and pretty, That at her pleasure she my heart can turn. Mephistopheles. A woman ! Fourth Gravedigger. This glass I drink to her and to her sex. FAUST'S DEATH. 35 Mephistopheles. - You know what life is. Well, sir grizzly-head, What have you to propose ? Fifth Gravedigger. Not much, my master ! I just was thinking how the plague so nicely The houses empties, and our purses fills To overflowing even. Mephistopheles. Not SO bad ! You love your trade, enjoy an honest profit. You're right, my honorable citizen, And set a good example to the many Who think of nothing but of trade and riches. But let us change our programme. Second Gravedigger. How, my master ? Third Gravedigger. I would propose a dance. The wine my brain In such a manner fires, that I think We'll have a lively time. Fifth Gravedigger. Death and damnation ! For fifty years or more my bones have rested. Mephistopheles. So much the merrier will they rattle now ; The oldest vice will always rage the wildest ; But who will music make ? 36 faust's death. -r First Gravedigger. I have a whistle To call ray clogs with. Mephistopheles. It will do ! Commence ! [JVie Gravediggers dance in a strange manner in a circle. It is right ! One, two, three, four ! 'Tis a royal pleasure sure ! First the right leg slowly raise, Put it clown again with grace ! Now to shovel, then to play, 'Tis the earthly harmony ; Now behind the hearse to trot, Then himself within to rot; Now to carol, and to drink, To damnation then to sink. Almost could I wish to be Sharer of this misery ! Let the left leg upward go ! Do not stamp and stagger so ! All the stones and timbers shake. You the floor to pieces break. I would fain a king be called, Pocket towns and cities walled ; Human greatness braves the storms, Only it is gnawed by worms. But the earthly treasures bright, Certainly would me delight. Gold that glitters temptingly, Wine that takes the sense away, Women plaguing me to madness, Sorrows, troubles, pains, and sadness, — FAUST'S DEATH. 31 liow fair is life and just, And with every comfort blessed ! Hark ! Here comes my growling master ! Rise, my spirits ! Faster ! faster ! Drive the awkward fools away ! Not a second shall they stay ! . Hear, you sorry knaves ? Begone ! In a moment 't must be done ! Or by all the powers of hell 1 myself will drive you well ! [Uxeunt Gravediggers. SCENE III. Enter Faust, wlio perceives the fleeing Gravediggers. Faust. Who are these gloomy forms ? Their tools betoken Their horrid trade ! Alas ! And they remind me Of the grim presence of our conqueror, Of the approach of Death. How short appears Our wretched life I It lasts but for a moment And dies away, e'en as the fleeting thought That flashes through the brain, or as a spark Hurled from a burning star through gloomy skies To gleam but for a second, then to die In everlasting night. I am indeed Not justified in wasting carelessly This precious boon, and spend in idle pleasures The moments, gi'en us by the Creator of life For solemn purposes, as grand and weighty As heaven itself, or as the rocks that tower, 38 FAUST'S DEATH. Like frowning giants, a monument of nature's Unbounded strength. Wherever I may look, I see the working of a reasoning power. Shall I alone rest idle, while the sun Above me sheds his light, which e'en at night Leaves genial warmth behind the flower to strengthen ? While e'en the river laves the blooming shores With fertile waves, and from the perfumed meadows The nourishment arises ? What would be The purpose of my life, if I should die In this voluptuous ease ? Forgot, erased Forever from the memory of man, I would indeed be dead, while otherwise My works might still survive me. Therefore, lead Away me from this gilded charnel-house, Into a life more active and more fit For the high powers of man's ambitious nature. MePHISTOI'IIELES. And you bat yesterday deemed this a heaven. Faust. Ay ! Yesterday ! I then groped in the dark. But now I see the light around me beam. The veil is torn that you deceivingly Had thrown upon my eyes. The inward voice v. Has called me back. Let us this city leave ; I'll break the flowery chains that held me fast, And be an actor in the play of life. Mepiiistopheles. Now you are right. First to the stars to soar. Then on the downward track and disappointed ; FAUST'S BEATH. 39 Then on the rock your useless strength to shatter, — It is the way of man. Faust, Be quiet, and act. Mephistopheles. Although you express yourself with brevity, I cannot understand you. What, my master, Is it you wish ? Faust. The longing and ambition That in my bosom struggles you shall guide. And me the opportunity give to use The powers that dwell within me. Mephistopheles. Rather stay Where we are now, I beg you, for assuredly You will not find it better. Faust. Slave, obey ! Mephistopheles. Well, be it then ! Perhaps, if I consider, You are not very wrong. I must confess This silly shallow life grows sickening With its lovemaking, dancing, and carousing. The flower-garden suits the lowly sparrow, The eagle loves to grasp the craggy summit. You shall be satisfied. When mighty armies In flashing rows like foaming billows swell. The angel of battle draws his gleaming blade, 40 FAUST'S DEATH. And throws his thunders on the bloody field, It is a splendid sight. And when the hand That just has set the unwieldy sword to rest The golden scepter grasps, when at your feet The great ones of the earth in homage kneel, You seem a god whose strength has forced the powers Of all-creating nature to obedience. Faust. I shudder at your bold impious words. You mean not what you say, too well I know it. But still you shall not cool the fiery ardor That onward urges me ; if I am wrong, I have to accuse the darkness that obscures The human sight ; I'll try to reach my aim, And will at last the road toward it find, And all your hellish arts Shall not prevail on me to change my purpose. Mephistopheles. I now will take you to the royal court ; I will succeed to introduce you there By my superior art and devilish cunning. The road lies then before you. It is not. However, free from danger and obstruction. But there are mighty means to enforce success, Which I will lend you. First of all is gold. -- Who ever knew a mortal that could see Its tempting glitter with unmoved eye ? Be it a prince or beggar, young or old. Woman or man, they all obey its power, And give their honor, peace, and happiness, To have their fill of it. Then you have cunning, The wily art that understands to lie FAUST'S DEATH. 41 And flatter to the weakness of its victim. A bolder mind will use the steel and poison, For they remove what thwarts your rash career, And you triumphantly fulfill your purpose. Faust. And is the latter worthy to conjure The gloomy fancies of disturbed conscience, Till you no more the peaceful slumbers taste, And under tortures spend your restless night? Mephistopheles. Just try it ! Drain the bloody cup of glory, And can you tear it from your thirsting lips, After you've drank of it, you are so strong That even I obey you. Faust. Be it then ! But ere we go, I must take leave of those That entertained us here with such good will And gentle grace. I might offend them should I leave And not bid them farewell. Mephistopheles. think not always Of others. Never in this life will you Their faces meet again. What difference makes it How they remember you ? Had you like me Six thousand years been walking through this world, You would have learned the essence of true wisdom — The care of your own self. None but a fool Will think and act for others. 5 42 faust's death. Faust. Fiend ! I have thee, And see the snare that thou hast set for me. The tie that by a common destiny Has been around us strung to bind us fast In love together, wilt thoiS tear asunder ? The quality that likens us to God, Who has the radiant sun above us chained In the ethereal sphere, who always thinks. Creates to uphold the universal welfare, Shall I give up for nothing ? Mephistopheles. Not so loud, I pray you ! Had you seen a little more Of life on earth, you would yourself acknowledge That the enemy of man is man himself If you will change this long-established rule, They on your brow a crown of thorns will press, And hang you on the cross. Faust. O I am lost. In all this gloom and terror ! Saw I not ^' The stars in their prescribed motions wander, In flaming letters write upon the sky, The universal order that again Enlivens all, and flashes from the lightning And from the ocean even, I would fain Despair of all around me, and oblivion In the eternity seek ! But I will go, While thou may'st stay here till I call thee hence. [Exit Faust. faust's death. 43 Mephistopheles. With pleasure, honored master. I obey now, But later, mind it, you will have to crouch. Footsteps I hear. To spy the goodly people Shall now my pastime be. Perhaps I'll hear Some noble truth, and many a handsome lie, That, strung together skillfully and well, Will set the people at each other's throats. \_Hides himself. SCENE IV. Enter Pietro and Julia. PlETRO. Sorceress, at last I hold you. Clasp you to my loving breast ! Never shall my arms unfold you. Till you give me back my rest. Till your cold and heartless spite Melts in pleasure and desire. And again the flame burns bright Of our early loving fire. Julia. Long, my friend, you'll have to wait. For my heart you cannot move ; I will leave you to your fate. Till your manners you improve. Pietro. 'Round the stranger throw your arm I God may keep you out of harm 1 44 faust's death. Julia. Thank 3^ou for the wish, sir knight. How can I this prayer requite ? PlETRO. How your blush, my gentle clove, Now your fickle heart betrays ! For another burns your love : I can read it in your face. Julia. What know you, who have a heart, Dark, deserted, full of gloom, Of the sweet and tender art Of love's symptoms and love's bloom ? Like a ghost you walk around, Threatening me with word and mien. Always looking to the ground, Choked with envy and with spleen. Rather I would death embrace Than this misery to face ! PlETRO. Julia, Julia, can you rest. After speaking in this fashion ? Burn your lips not, that I pressed Often in the fire of passion ? Was I gloomy when the heaven Of your love upon me beamed ? Was I then to sadness given. When I you an angel deemed ? No, but when I knew your guile. Saw your treachery and boldness, FAUST'S DEATH. 45 When you cut me with a smile, I too deeply felt your coldness. Cursed be you from above, Who for pastime or for pleasure, Rob us of our dearest treasure, Of our true and upright love 1 Julia. Now your words are very rude, Quite insulting, I confess it. You are moral, pleasant, good, You lack wit, though heaven bless it. PlETRO. Woman, darest thou coldly sneer At my heartfelt, bitter pain ? By the eternal heaven I swear, Not much longer I'll refrain ! In the bottom of my heart Are the powers of darkness resting; But awake them, and thou art Given to misery everlasting ! Julia. 0, you threaten ? Shall I send For my servants, stout and true, That your idle speech they end, And deliver me from you ? 0, you need not grasp your dagger ; Idle threats can me not stagger. With a single glance I would Wrench the weapon from your hand, — A hyena only could Of my eye the power withstand. 5* 46 FAUST'S DEATH. PlETRO. Woman, hush, or by the throne Of the Creator it is done ! Julia. I will leave you here alone, — Scold the walls when I am gone. \^Exit Julia. [Mephistopheles steps forward and imitates Pieteo, tvho walks around in great excitement. PlETRO [perceiving him). You here ? Mephistopheles. I am ! PlETRO. How you have frightened me ! Mephistopheles. I'm sorry for it. Is my face, indeed, So frightful to behold ? I'll have to change it. What is it you prefer ? A constant smile, Such as a preacher wears ? A graceful mien ? Puffed up respectability, or even Majestic calmness, hiding emptiness Of brain and heart ? Just tell me ; you shall have it. PlETRO. Who are you, fellow, and what is your master ? Mephistopheles. The incarnation of a principle I call myself My master ? O, I like not To speak of him, for ho is • faust's death. 41 PlETRO. What? Mephistopheles. He is PlETKO. Speak out ! • Mephistopheles. The universe ! PlETRO. Thou mock'st me, creature. Beware, or I will send thee to thy grave. Mephistopheles. I will be silent as its mossy sods. PlETRO. Speak, in the devil's name ! Mephistopheles. You have me now. If I but could, I'd love to tell you all. PlETRO. I see your drift. I'll have to buy you over. Take this. An ever-hungry soul like yours Wants to be fed to oppose the unruly conscience. l_Gives him a gold piece. Now you can honestly betray your master. Mephistopheles. How bright it sparkles ! This, then, is the idol ^ Of God's proud image — world-commanding man ! It is the key of life ! 48 FAUST'S DEATH. PlETRO. Speak, mocking rascal ! MEnilSTOPHELES. Speak of my master ? Yes ! My master is a spy, A robber, an intriguer, and defrauder. Are you now satisfied ? PlETRO. I knew it, sir ; I judged him by his servant ; but go on ! What brought you hither ? Mephistopheles. A conspiracy To steal a woman from this very house. PlETRO. Hah! Mephistopheles. Yes! PlETRO. Is stealing, though, the right expression ? Mephistopheles. I know it not. I am inclined to think The lady likes to walk away with us ; But I have little knowledge amongst women They are such artful devils! PlETRO. Truly! Truly! But hurry, fellow ! Tell me all you know ! FAUST'S DEATH. 49 Mephistopheles. The woman that I speak of was, ah'eady, In by-gone times, my honored master's lady. PlETRO. You lie! Mephistopheles. Beware ! Know you not woman's ways ? But let me now proceed. This lady felt A strong desire to renew the broken tie, And e'en to Germany, where we of late were staying, She sent for him, and called him to her arms. The people here — so said she in her message — Are of such silly cast, such blockheads, fops, By jealousy, and other notions turned. That you, Henrico — 'tis my master's name — Appear to me an augel. PlETRO. Heaven protect me ! Mephistopheles. I beg you, therefore, on the wings of love, To Italy to hasten, and to lead me Far from this hated city, which the plague Has now surrounded with a wall of terror. Beware, however, of a rival here ; A small shopkeeper, with a smaller soul. Devoid of all nobility and grace, A treacherous, intolerable being. That deems I love him. PlETRO. May damnation take her! 50 FAUST^S DEATH. Mephistopheles. My master seemed irresolute at first. I heard him mutter, "Julia, radiant sun I" PlETEO. The fool I Mephistopheles. And then, again, he cursed the plague, Of which he stood in awe. At last his love The victory won ; he had the horses saddled. And here we met, according to appointment. The lady that has led us to this house. PlETRO. And, now ? Mephistopheles. For sudden flight is everything prepared. You'll find the nest grown empty over night. And far away will be your lovely bird. PlETRO. Lord I I dreaded it, and still the truth Annihilates me with its iron blows. But, fellow, are you sure she loves your master ? Mephistopheles. Indeed I am ! I saw her glance at him With sweet desire, while purple grew her cheek. Her tender smile, the trembling of her hand. They all betrayed the emotion of her heart. PlETRO. A curse on her, and on the foreign scoundrel I FAUST'S DEATH. 51 Mephistopiieles. I hate him like the devil. He's so proud In all his manners. Let him taste your steel. I will assist you I PlETRO. Heavens ! Can you give me A sign when they together meet again In tender conversation ? I would love To slay him at the feet of his own mistress. Mephistopheles. 'Tis easily arranged. Look at this statue, That rests but loosely on its solid foot. Hear you it crash upon the marble floor, Rush at them with your sword and finish him ! PlETRO. I'll not forget it, should the future even Oceans of terror throw upon my head. But hurry, for the seconds count as years. And minutes are like centuries to me. [Exit PlETRO. Mephistopheles. You soon will count the years as fleeting seconds. And like a minute will the century pass. Dark and mighty powers of nature. All-influencing, all-commanding, Hidden to the understanding Of the lowly earthborn creature, Lead, by forebodings perverted. Her who is by God deserted, Through the self-created gloom To her dreadful final doom I 52 faust's death. SCENE V. Enter Julia. Julia. A strange and dismal feeling drives me hither, And full of terror beats my frightened heart. Who's there ? Mephistopheles. A friend ! Julia. Thank heavens ! It is you I Where is your master ? Mephistopheles. For the trip preparing. Julia. How mean you this ? He surely will not leave me ? Mephistopheles. Already chews his horse the foaming bit. Julia. It cannot be, it must not be, my fellow ; Go I Call your master ! Tell him I must see him I [^Exit Mephistopheles. FAUST'S DEATH. 53 SCENE VI. Enter Faust and Mephistopheles, Julia. What is this ? You thus will leave me In the terror of the night ? How the very thought does grieve me Of your unexpected flight ! Fear you not the awful death That the poisoned streets exhale ? Fails your heart not at the breath Of the ever-threatening gale ? Faust. No I My goodly ship I steer Through the breakers without fear. Julia. O you mean it not. The bloom Of our flowers, our golden light, Will you change for all the gloom Of the dismal, dangerous night ? From the summer's blossom flee To the winter's icy sea ? Better listen to the charm Of sweet music's silvery sounds, When the soft and snowy arm Of the fair one you surrounds ; Or the dice-box you may try ; Fill the goblet bright and fine, And your sorrows soon will fly Through the power of generous wine. 6 54 faust's death. Faust. No ! I will not waste my days / In deceiving pleasure's chase ; When the hour is dying away, Not e'en God can make it stay I Julia. O I see your country's heaven, Leaden colored, gloomy, blind, Has to you its blessings given. The ever-searching, groping mind. All the world you want to change Into something dismal, strange. Take the things but as they are : Walk into the gardens bright, When the melancholy star Of the perfumed summer night Sheds her light upon the leaves. Which the evening breeze upheaves, While the nightingale you hear Whispering to her lover dear ; Or you may your sweetheart lead To where waves beneath you beam. There your cause with her to plead. And of happiness to dream. Lay your arms around her waist. And of love the sweetness taste That is free of all desire Of the gross and sensual fire ; Or the horse you may bestride, For the manly exciting chase. In the cheering crowd to ride As the leader of the race ; FAUST'S DEATH. 55 Not a fairer life you'll find, And to shun it you are blind. Or love you the graceful dance With a woman fair and warm ? Love the promise of her glance, Love to press her in your arm ? All these treasures will I give, If with me, my dear, you'll live. Faust. Noble soul ! It must not be ! For my conscience' thunder- voice Chimes not with these fleeting joys, Forces me to go from thee. As our ever-changing nature Knows not the eternal spring, As the birds not always sing, And upon the frightened creature Oft the cloud pours drenching rain By the lightning rent in twain, — Thus it is ordained by Heaven That our life to storms be given ; 'Tis our destiny to face, To withstand their furious blast, That it serve our soul to brace To uplift us from the past. If we but for pleasure aim. Treacherous vice will us enthrall, And the burning bitter shame Will upon our conscience fall. Till our happiness is lost. And our soul is tempest tossed. 56 FATJST^S DEATH. Julia. By the power of love remain I All my hopes are rent in twain, And you cut me with your words, As with daggers and with swords ; But my all you shall not take, In my faith I will not shake. I will leave you never more, Till your happiness I restore : And my love till then shall hold you, In its meshes shall it fold you, Till you sink into my arms Conquered by its powerful charms I SCENE VII. Mephistopheles tears the statue down. Enter Pietro, who rushes with his sword upon Faust. Pietro. False traitor, die ! [Mephistopheles beats the sword aside that it pierces Julia, and then throws, unperceived by the others, a candle into a curtain. Julia [falling). O heaven 1 Faust [supporting her). Woe is me ! Her eye is broken and her life is gone ; The lovely charms that were around thee woven, paust's death. 51 The power of beauty and the grace of movement, — All that once thou hast hoped and struggled for, Thy thoughts and deeds, thy purposes and wishes, Are doomed to die now with thy bleeding body ! PlETRO. O hell, around me throw thy fiery flames. And let their scorching breath my misery end 1 Mephistopheles. To help I To help ! murder ! Help us, help ! The house is burning I help us I Hell's on fire I [Ladies and gentlemen rush in confusion upon the stage. Voices. Fire! Others. Firel Others. The house is burning I Fire I Mephistopheles {to Faust). Now let us go ; while toward the plague they race. Full many a novel scene must we yet face. \_The curtain drops. 6* 68 FAUST^S DEATH. A.CT III- SOENE I. In a Forest. Enter Faust and Mephistopheles. Mephistopheles. Our journey^s ended I Faust. In the forest ? Mephistopheles. Yes, My all-divining, over-prudent master ! Faust. And 'mong these branches I shall glory seek ? Mephistopheles. Here you shall sow the seeds of future harvests. Faust. How so ? Mephistopheles. By drawing blood, my friend ! Faust. I am disgusted with your constant mockery. That hides your ever-ready wickedness. Tell truth or lies, but do not mix them both In one pernicious draught. FAUST'S DEATH. 59 Mephistopheles. It shall be done ! In future truth alone shall be my watchword. But listen. Through my spies I learned to-day That of a powerful kingdom the happy heir Will at this very time pass through these woods, But ill protected by a single servant. Faust. Proceed I Mephistopheles. He has around his person, well secured, Important papers, certifying the birthright Of their possessor. Faust. Well! Mephistopheles. If they were ours, We with good grace might play his part at court, Where he is now expected. Faust. Ho, sir counselor I The gallows might reward our robbery, Should he appear behind us. Mephistopheles. Never fear I The dead are harmless. Faust. Will you kill him ? 60 FAUST'S DEATH. Mbphistopheles. Yesl Faust. Such dreadful doings chill my heart with terror. Mbphistopheles. Alas I Alas ! Again you moralize I How often shall I tell you, that a life Is not worth thinking of. You men are nothing. Ay ! less than nothing, are the dust and dirt That soil your feet, but rudely pressed together Into a form that with great difficulty May keep a year or two. What matters it If one the less wears out his shoes on earth ? It is the same as if a snake, a worm, A snail, a bat, a fly, a frog, or flea, The more or less was creeping through this life. Faust. Thanks, for the compliment. But do not ask That I agree with you ! Mbphistopheles. I do not care. But would advise you to retire betimes To privacy. 'Mong old decrepit women, You'd better dream away your sleepy life. But leave alone ambition, if you cannot The gory form of death unmoved face. Faust. You are my guide now, and I have to follow To where you lead me. But, indeed, I cannot In cold blood murder. FAUST'S DEATH. 61 Mephistopheles. Take it easy, friend, I will arrange it to your satisfaction. But hark ! A footstep I Hurry ! hurry ! Hide Behind this tree, while I prepare the ball. IFaust hides himself. SCENE 11. JEnter the Prince and his Servant. Mephistopheles (drawing his sword). Who's there ? Prince. Who art thou? Mephistopheles (striking him). I ? I am the devil I Prince. O, heaven 1 I am dying I Servant. Murderer I Murderer I What hast thou done ? Mephistopheles (stabbing him). Take this I Servant. Oh, I am lost I May God protect my miserable soul I 63 FAUST'S DEATH. Enter Faust. Faust. Stop ! By all that's holy, stop ! too late, it is too late, And the weight of every drop Of their heart-blood seals my fate 1 Whither shall I cast my eye Not to see this misery ? Through my sweet and peaceful dreams Will its gloomy fancies throng, Till for happiness I long. While no hope upon me beams. Devil ! Give me back the rest Of a conscience clear and just 1 Mephistopheles. Your cry is useless, for the deed is done ! But now I will this gentleman examine. There ! Take these papers I Lucky one I They make you God's substitute on earth, a powerful prince. Look here 1 A letter of his lady love. A ringlet here ! Alas ! The little mouse Cries out her eyes if we do not return, Until another lover dries her tears. 'Tis funny how so many threads one deed Can set in motion, how so many tears Flow for one single wound ! pshaw ! But trash I 1 will this purse yet from the servant take. Now I remove the bodies from the road. And am prepared to travel. paust's death. 63 Faust. Hence, then I Quick I The very soil is burning under me. Mephistopheles. You will get used to it in time, mj friend. \_JSzeunt. SCENE III. A large Boom in (he Royal Palace. Enter the King, Agnes, Count Robert, Courtiers, Ladies of the Court, etc. King. We have assembled you, our stalwart knights, To announce you the arrival of the son Of our most noble cousin, who this day Will grace this palace with his august presence. Whatever you may do to honor him, To make his sojourn here a cheerful one. Shall be by us considered as a deed More worthy of reward than if you had The victor's laurel won in bloody battle. Ay ! Even to ourselves you need not show Such humble homage as to him, the hope Of our old age, the star of future night I Enter a Courtier. Courtier. The prince whom you expected has arrived. And craves the honor of your royal presence. 64 FAUST'S DEATH. King. Quick 1 Lead him hither I Fortune smile on me, Thou fickle goddess, whom I sought in vain, But now clasp to my breast, secure of thee. For thou art conquered, humbled, by my greatness I {Exit Courtier. SCENE IV. IJnter Faust aiid Mephistopheles. Courtiers. Hail to the prince ! Others. Hail to the future king ! King. Be welcome here, beloved one 1 Blessed be The hour when thou art near us, blooming sprig Of the most noble oak. But get thee up I The kneeling posture does not fit thy rank. For thou art born to press thy iron heel Upon thy people's neck. Now, say what greetings Sends us thy father ? Faust. Here, these letters will Your majesty his love and pleasure show ; But as the shadow but the body's outline Quite indistinctly draws, so will they give you The semblance only of his deep attachment For you and for your family. FAUST'S DEATH. 65 King. How his heart Speaks through these hnes in all its tenderness I And how his love has followed thee, protects thee, Even in the distance, by its fervent blessings ! But look around thee! You, my noble lords, Consider as my son this stately prince. And follow me, thou daughter of my heart, Thou pearl of my existence, smile on him. And think he is thy brother ; nay ! is more — Is what thy dreams have shown thee in thy fancy. But fairer in reality. Faust. I already Heard of your loveliness and beaming beauty; But as the moon grows pale before the sun. And only beams far from the radiant orb. Thus seems your fame obscured by your person. Agnes. Politeness only makes you say these words. Faust. None but yourself can thus speak of yourself. Mephistopheles. It is the same old story. King. What, my fellow ? Mephistopheles. The youngster courts, my lady puts on airs. - 1 66 faust's death. King. Beware thy tongue, my friend. Abuse the right not Of an old servant ! But, my son, proceed. And let me know the adventures of thy journey. Faust. The adventures of my journey ? Woe is me I Help 1 I am fainting ! Mephistopheles. Think you of the forest ? King. How pale thou art ! speak I What is the matter ? Faust. I feel so sick I A sudden terror shook me. But it is nothing. King. Pardon us, my son. That we right selfishly have kept thee here, When thou shouldst rest of thy most tiresome journey, And in the arms of soothing sleep the strength That thou hast lost recover. Come, my lords ! The prince lead to his chambers ! Faust. Give me rest, And all will soon be well. King. Have mercy, heaven ! We rather would our right hand miss than thee, FAUST'S DEATH. 6t Our noble, noble son I But fare thee well, And may the fairest dreams thy slumbers grace I Faust. How shall I thank you for your love and kindness ? [Courtiers throng around Faust. First Courtier. Prince ! Take my arm ! Second Courtier. How feel you now, my prince ? Third Courtier. A glass of water, prince ? Fourth Courtier. Or rather wine ? Faust. Enough, enough I I only want to rest. \_Exeunt Faust and the four Courtiers. Mephistopheles. Ho, ho ! How they in busy kindness turn Around themselves from love and sympathy, And sincere admiration overflowing ! Ho, ho ! my masters ! Care you not for me ? I am of our most noble prince the adviser, The secretary of his royal highness I Fifth Courtier. You hurt me, sir, by your unkind reproaches. What can I do for you ? I can assure you I will do anything you may require. 68 FAUST'S DEATH. Mephistopheles. Perhaps I may unasked take charge of you. But lead me to my rooms. Fifth Courtier. Please step this way I Mephistopheles. Walk you before me ! Fifth Courtier, After you, my lord I Mephistopheles. Why so ? What ceremonies I Pass before me ! Fifth Courtier. I cannot I Mephistopheles. What ! you cannot ? Fifth Courtier. No, indeed ! Mephistopheles. Well, then, I must myself the leader be. You smell a little strong of court air, friend, ^ And so 'tis well to have you walk behind me. \Exmnt Mephistopheles and Courtier. King. The audience is now closed. My lords, farewell. And leave us here alone with our sweet daughter. With whom we will converse. FAUST'S DEATH. 69 Courtiers. Hail to the king ! [^Exeunt except the King a7id Agnes. King. Thou hast till now, my child, in peace and calmness Spent thy fair youth, the spring-time of thy life ; But now thy rank demands its rights, and thou Must for a crown exchange the flowery wreath. Agnes. O no, my father, let me keep my flowers ! King. Thou know'st not what thou askest. So prescribed Has been thy destiny, that even I Can neither change nor guide it. But, indeed. Thou may'st the kindness bless of the Almighty, Who has to thee a future given so bright, That happiness and honor both are thine. The prince, our noble guest, whose stately form Has been by nature moulded in such manner That all admire him, and whose hand will hold The powerful scepter which I once have dreaded, Asks thee to be his queen. Agnes. no, my father ! It cannot be 1 Indeed, it must not be I King. It cannot, must not be ! Strange words, my daughter, From one who so far like thyself has shown Childlike obedience. If it cannot be, TO FAUST'S DEATH. It shall be, foolish maiden ! Know'st thou not That but the low-bom woman suits her fancy, But polity prescribes the future of The daughter of a king ? Agnes. O why was I Not bom then of a peasant, of a beggar, The very scum of earth ? I still would bless The power that made me. But consider, father. You surely can the iron network break If you but will. I beg you, let me free I By all the powers of heaven, let me free I King. And if I would, I could not, senseless child I The powerful king, in all his wishes baffled, Would send the hounds of war into my fields, To insurrection drive my plundered people. Agnes. Wherever I may look I see the walls Of my exalted rank ! Have pity, father I Tear not my heart to pieces ; let my future Not be one wide interminable desert. King. False traitress I Beats thy heart then for another, That thou thus warmly pleadest ? Agnes. If it was so ? Am I no woman then ? Holds then my breast, That you have decked with purple and with gold. FAUST'S DEATH. Yl An ice-cold heart of marble ? You are childish, With all your rank and your exalted birth ! The overtowering powers of nature grasp With giant hands into your silly trash, And tear to fragments it I But hear me, father I Upon my knees I ask for mercy you I King. Up, traitress I All my proud and well-laid plans, For which through years I struggled, thou wilt hinder, Because thy foolish and unguarded heart In childish love is burning. No I by Heaven I swear thou shalt obey I Be thou prepared : Ere three times yet the glorious morning rises, The tie must have been woven that will a crown Upon thy forehead fasten. Agnes. Go not, father I By all that may your heart to pity move I By the sweet smile that played around your lips When you a child were ; ay ! and by the love That tied you to your mother, and by all That you adore as holy, I beseech you Have mercy on me 1 King. No I Thou shalt obey ! And thus exasperates me what thou sayest, That I in chains will drag thee to the altar If thou persist in thy ungratefulness. A king's command requires to be obeyed. Even as the will of the Almighty does. [^Exit King. 72 paust's death. Agnes. I am lost I A burning flame Singes me with scorching breath ! Sorrow is my lot, or shame, And my only hope is death ! Has not love to us been given, By the Almighty's generous hand, As a glorious beam of heaven For our dark and dreary land ? Why then will they thus disturb it, By their laws and shackles curb it ? Will the harmony of our heart By their wall of iron part ? Will the clear and golden light By eternal darkness hide ? Will us of our freedom rob, Throw their dust upon our blossoms. Till our heart in pain does throb In our lacerated bosoms ? O a mockery is our life, Without justice, without grace! And if thou cans't see our strife. See our erring, aimless race, Great and all-commanding Power, Let thy lightnings on us shower ! Give us peace, unbroken rest I Be it death, I'll call it blessed I So that I oblivion drink. To eternal slumber sink ! FAUST'S DEATH. 73 SCENE V. Enter Count Robert. Robert. Agnes 1 Agnes. Robert I You are here, Where the very walls I fear Hide the dangerous lurking eye Of an ever-ready spy ! Hark I A footstep ! O be quick I In the name of Heaven flee ! Nay I 'Tis nothing I I am sick Through my troubles, — pardon me I Robert. Through your troubles ? If I could, I would take them from you, dear; Even frowning heaven should For myself not make me fear. For since you have chosen me Your preferred knight to be, I would dare my all for you ! Do you ask me yet to go, Lovely maiden, pure as snow ? Know you not that all my bhss Centers in the happy hour When I see you in the flower Of your charming loveliness ? Why I Your eyes are still bent down To the marble of the floor, 14 FAUST'S DEATH. And your features wear a frown, While they always smiled before ! Tell me, lo\re, what you befell; Let me break your gloomy spell I Agnes. Robert, we must part forever, And the tie between us sever ; For I am to wear the ring Of a proud and powerful king. KOBBBT. Holy heaven 1 Can it be ? And you have yourself consented ? O the glittering crown I see Has your worldly eye enchanted. Hail then to your majesty ! And whenever comes the time When the sounds around you chime Of your risen memory, Wear your diamonds bright and hard, That like scalding tear-drops seem, But whose cold and sparkling beam Has like you no feeling heart. Agkes. Robert ! Robert I Grieve me not I For my heart is almost broken ; And the words that you have spoken Make unbearable my lot. Know you not my father's might, That the strongest not withstand ? He disposed of my hand, And his power our love will blight. faust's death. 16 Robert. Never ! for I will perdition On his iron bosom call ! Disenthroned shall he fall, Victim of his own ambition. Is my family not known In the kingdom for its might ? I will struggle for the throne, Tear from him his coronet bright. Bitter shall he rue the hour When he made us feel his power ! Agnes. And upon his grave shall I Myself to his murderer tie ? Robert. Pardon me I The sudden rush Of my thoughts has blinded me ; And my passion's fevered flush Made me speak thus hurriedly. But, my love, should all else fail, Let us flee this very night, Love and liberty to hail. That I claim as ours by right. Soon will we in love united All the splendor here forget, And our happiness, now blighted. Will revive when we are wed ! Agnes. No ! I cannot ! Watched and spied Is the daughter of a king ; Y6 FAUST'S DEATH. Like a slave-girl she is tied, Marked by her master's ring. I must, I must obey I Fare you well, my love, forever I And forget me, never, never ! Fare you well 1 I must away I Robert. How ? You will that I shall leave ? my sorrow and my grief Nearly urge me on to madness I But, my love, cheer up ; your sadness Drive away, for I will dare Anything ere I despair I 1 this novel prince will spy, In his secrets will I pry. And, by force and guile combined, I will have him well entwined, And may drive him yet away. Agnes. O you men can act and think, But a woman's 'tis to bear. In unchangeable despair, What the powers of darkness bring I Hark I They come 1 let us leave ! Holy heavens I I'm undone, If they find us here alone I God protect us in our grief ! Robert. Fare you well I Have faith in me I Agnes. Robert ! Robert 1 Set me free I \_Ezeunt. FAUST'S DEATH. 71 SCENE VI. Another Room in the Palace. Enter Mephistopheles. Mephistopheles. I am weary of the sound Of my footsteps on the ground, Walking round this narrow room, Chafing at its dreary gloom, While my master sighs and groans, Thinks of golden crowns and thrones. Dwarfs and spirits ! from the vault Of the earth fetch me a. wine Hot and fiery, without fault, Sparkling in its crystal shrine. Have it well warm'd at the glow That through human veins does flow ; Let it stir the passions deep, From their light uneasy sleep ; Make appear the hideous sin As to innocence akin. Break the strong and needful ties, By perverted fantasies ; Lead the mind of man astray, Change content to misery I [.4 cask of wine rolls into the room. Mephistopheles taps it, fills a glass, and sits down upon the cask. Now I sit here still and wise, While above me, in the skies, Worlds around each other dance ; And as sun and stars not once 8 t% FAUST'S DEATK. Wander from their wonted way, By the distance led astray, Thus mankind their fate must fill. Bend to Destiny's iron will". But the fools will never learn. Hold themselves both wise and free ; Think the future to foresee, Naught but happiness to earn. Ay ! presuming little man. Deems that he the powers can Of almighty nature chain, By his slow and groveling pain ! But it is too lonely here. To enjoy this tempting cup ; There should be companions near With my majesty to sup. Sing, my spirits, now a song, ^ Not too short and not too long, Of such sweet alluring sound, That whoever here around Listens to this charmed cantation, Must obey my invitation. [^Chorus of spirits behind the scenes. "Hither! Hither! Where the wine Sparkles in its golden shrine, And invites you by its flood, Purple as your own red blood. 'Tis as beaming and as bright As the fiery northern light ; 'Tis as perfumed as the flower In its secret emerald bower ; 'Tis as glittering as the skin Of the snake, the child of sin ; FAUST'S DEATH. 79 As deceiving as the beam Of the Jack o' Lantern's gleam, And as poisonous as the breath Of the swamp air filled with death. Hither I Hither ! Come in haste, Of your master's wine to taste 1" SCENE YIL Enter a Courtier. Courtier. You must enjoy it here all by yourself, For I heard talking here and merry-making. And all at once such strange and powerful singing, That even our crows stared frightened from their nests. Mephistopheles. They love me not, for nature must have warned them. But step a little nearer, honored sir, And let me look at you. Your sight, indeed, Convinces me you are a kindred being To my own self. Will you not taste my wine ? 'Tis of good vintage ! Courtier. From what country imported ? Mephistopheles. From a hot climate, sir, I can assure you. Courtier. A splendid draught, that makes me dream of heaven. Are you not secretary of his royal highness ? 80 FAUST'S DEATH. Mephistopheles. Yes 1 Yes I I once have done some writing for him. Here I Take another cup. Courtier. How do you like Our living here ? Mephistopheles, Beyond comparison I Your palace seems to me a paradise. The people are so kind and amiable, So full of pleasantness and innocence I But take another glass ! How happy you are I Courtier. As happy as an owl I Mephistopheles. Your king, they say, Is quite a pleasant gentleman ? Courtier. The devil ! Mephistopheles. You drink not, sir ; let me your cup refill : The fourth glass will your guarded tongue unchain. You love your king, then ? Courtier. . As the cat the dog ; Or as the mouse the cat. FAUST'S DEATH. 81 Mephistopheles. As I love you ! But drink again. Perhaps he has your merits Not well rewarded ? COURTTEB. There you hit it, fellow I Mephistopheles. If my good master wore this kingdom's crown, You might much more expect. Courtier. How mean you this ? Mephistopheles. What was I saying ? Ay ! My master would His friends advance to offices and riches ; And he would be all-powerful, you know. Courtier. I am his man then, in strict confidence. SCENE YIII. Enter several Courtiers. First Courtier. We heard your voices from a neighboring room, Together with the clinking of the glasses ; It is not well that we are not invited To share your pleasure. 8* 82 FAUST'S DEATH. Mephistopheles. Drink, my masters ! Drink ! Second Courtier. A noble wine I Third Courtier. And merry company. In this worm-eaten palace, it is rare To meet such pleasant faces. Mephistopheles. Is it, though ? I thought it looked a little gloomy here. Had you a younger king it would be different ; Then balls would follow balls, and pleasure rule In all her loveliness. Third Courtier. It would be better. Permit me that I lean me on the barrel. And fill my glass. Mephistopheles. With pleasure. Tap it well ; More is yet to be had from the same source — It is the prince's gift. Third Courtier. Indeed 1 the prince's ? Mephistopheles. And he is such a liberal, generous lord. That if he had the scepter of this empire, You'd lead a better life ! FAUST'S DEATH. 83 Third Courtier. You think so, do you ? Mephistopheles. Here, drink again ! Second Courtier. The man is right, my masters I He ought to be our king who gave this wine. First Courtier. We'd better have the old one first discharged, Before we chose a new one. Third Courtier. So it is. But surely 'twould be strange, if we should here Conspire together for another ruler; I think the prince would pardon us the crime, That gave the crown to him. Mephistopheles. Hahl Hah! Indeed He would do more than that ; he would o'erheap you With gold and honors. First Courtier. Hail to the prince, And down with our old king ! Third Courtier. Hush! Hush! Our life would be at stake were we o'erheard; But really in this joke there is a meaning V 84 FAUST'S DEATH. Of deep import. It surely would be well, If we could place the prince upon our throne. Mephistopheles. He would create you dukes, and counts, and earls, And give you riches more than you desire. How like you this, my lords ? Third Courtier. We'd better talk In secrecy about this serious matter. Let us assemble where the moonlight beams Upon the old castle's ruins. There we may This gentleman's proposals well digest. Here, even walls are listeners. Second Courtier [half drunk). May they listen ; I'll cut their ears off with my goodly sword. Third Courtier. Have you agreed to this ? Fourth Courtier. Yes I We will go I Robert. I also will be there, depend on it. Mephistopheles. I shall be glad to meet the gentleman. [_The curtain drops. faust's death. 85 .A.CT X^sZ-. SCENE I. The Ruins of a Castle by Moonlight. Enter Faust and Mephistopheles. Faust. This landscape is magnificent indeed I The moon, that hangs so dreamHke on the rocks, And sheds her silvery light upon the shades, Exhales the peace that far above us raises The majesty of nature, at whose feet Our miserable life to nothing dwindles. Mephistopheles; Alas ! how fanciful appears your view Of this delightful mixture of gray stones. And mud, and dirt that you call scenery I I did not lead you here to dream and talk, Inspired by the pale and yellow moon ; Nay I To exhume the crown hid in these ruins, And ready for your bold and manly grasp. Faust. If I around me look, and see the light Where every beam shows the Creator's power. While at my feet the landscape rests in silence, The gloomy forests and the perfumed meadows, All sleeping on the bosom of proud nature. This struggle for life's fading treacherous gifts Appears to me as childish as the chase Of faded leaves hurled by the autumn wind. -J 86 fatjst's death. Mephistopheles. J^ay ! Do not call it childish, when you grasp The reins of life, and see your lightning flash On trembling nations, who upon their knees The dreadful blow awart. Man clad in purple Is of his race the leader, and its folds Will make you know its power. Faust. We soon shall see ! Make haste, however, to approach the summit That from the distance looms. Mephistopheles. It shall be done ! But be not so impatient, for as men We cannot fly, but must right slowly trace Our measured footsteps, must the network weave From thousand threads, which I have ready now, Prepared by my art. Faust. How SO, my fellow ? Mephistopheles. I'll tell you. For your bride the king has chosen His own beloved daughter. But should you wait Until his majesty for heaven leaves, It might take you too long, and then, you know. They might our tricks discover, and the gallows Receive your trembling neck. I therefore have Made friendship to some noble gentlemen. Dissatisfied with all but with themselves, Who will make you their king, and to the devil The old one chase. FAUST'S DEATH. 81 Faust. Incorrigible scoundrel ! Mephistopheles. The people hate the iron-fisted tyrant, But look admiring on his handsome daughter, And will delight in honoring her husband. Faust. Yes, for awhile, and then to pieces tear him ! Mephistopheles. This very evening on this lonely spot A company of conspirators will meet To talk about the matter. Faust. 'Tis a treasonous And dreadful undertaking. Once already Have you disturbed the spirits of the deep. And through my slumbers thronged their gloomy forms, And tortured my conscience in such manner, That centuries of happiness would not The memory erase. Mephistopheles. As you command it I If you feel not inclined, we'd better leave it. It seems a pity, though, it is so easy ! What say you, master ? Faust. I will try it then ! 88 FAUST'S DEATH. Mephistopheles. lot me kneel before your majesty, The first to honor you ! Faust. Get up, you rascal ! Your mockery offends me. Better tell me What I shall do ? Mephistopheles. Stay where we are I But stop ! You'd better hide yourself, until I call you Into the crowd that will elect you king. And cheer you till their throats grow hoarse and rusty. Faust. It shall be done ! And in the mean time will I Give you the power to act here in my stead, As you think best. Mephistopheles. The very thing I wanted ! [Uxeunt Faust and Mephistopheles. SCENE 11. U7iter the Conspirators. First Conspirator. I hardly know how we have come to this, And how we could this most important task So easily undertake. The wine, however, That dragged us on from empty words to deeds, Has been the cause of all. FAUST'S DEATH. 89 Second Conspirator. It is so, sir ! And I am fearful of the consequences If we come not to reason while 'tis time. I tell you, noble sirs, the matter means Conspiracy, high treason, and such like. With bloody noses, chopped off hands and heads, And hangmen in the background. Third Conspirator. Surely 'tis A ticklish and most dangerous undertaking. It is rebellion, turn it as you will ; And there's a certain itching in my throat, A fear of future tightness I suppose. That makes me disinclined to follow you On this too slippery road. Fourth Conspirator. You speak like women I There's everything to win, and naught to lose Worth speaking of. And you will stand aghast. When you already see the Rubicon Beneath you beam, and in the distance loom The spires and domes of the desired aim ? fie ! fie ! You really deserve not To reap the gold and honors that are yours, If you will stand your ground. Third Conspirator. Thanks, master preacher ! 'Tis true that you risk nothing but your life. Unsalable and miserable life. While I have broad estates. 9 90 faust's death. Fourth Conspirator. Yes, and a soul As mean as any I Third Conspirator. Never mind, I'm going ! First Conspirator. And I! Second Conspirator, And I! Robert. Had we not better first Receive the prince's proposals ? Third Conspirator. No ! I leave ! Second Conspirator. Take me along ! First Conspirator. And me I SCENE III. Enter Mephistopheles. Mephistopheles. Hold on, my masters ! Is your house on fire, That you in such a hurry run away From your own fortune ? Tell me who it was That first his legs for speedy flight has moved. He may announce himself ! FAUST'S DEATH. 91 Third Conspirator. Him! Second Conspirator. Him I Mephistopheles. Ho, ho I You shall have something to inspire your courage, Even as the dew the fading flower strengthens. Look here, my friends ! First Conspirator. What is it ? Mephistopheles. 'Tis an order Given by the prince to honor those that trust him. There ! Take it ! For with it goes lordly rank And liberal pension. Fourth Conspirator. I will take it, sir. Mephistopheles. You're right. The others soon will envy you. When my most noble master, as the husband Of your fair princess wears the kingdom's crown, And from the throne his enemies destroys And elevates his friends. First Conspirator. There's something in it ! FAUST'S DEATH. Second Conspirator. I think so too. But how will you arrange The whole affair ? Mephistopheles. We'll rush upon the king "With swords and knives, and tear him from the throne That is by right my master's. Third Conspirator. God Almighty J Think of his guards and soldiers. Mephistopheles. Hahl My fellows! A bag of gold has bought their hungry souls. Robert. So far I listened, traitor, to your lies. To learn your schemes and dangerous deep-laid plans ; The time has come now to obstruct your path ! On, gentlemen, and seize this sorry scoundrel. And lead him, tied and pinioned, to the palace, That vengeance overtake him and his master. You dare it not ? O fie I I will myself Secure the wretch ! Mephistopheles. You lie I Robert [drawing his dagger). Take this ! \_ A flash of lightning dazzles Robert's eyes, who staggers back in confusion. FAUST'S DEATH. 93 Mephistopheles. A black sheep, in my shining, spotless herd ! You may yourselves be judges, gentlemen, We all are lost should he escape from here. On 1 Seize him ! Tear him rudely to the ground, And hush his blabbering mouth, that otherwise Will ruin us all by its untimely talk. Fourth Conspirator. Yes, seize him I Robert. Help me I Help I First Conspirator. Just stab him ! Third Conspirator. We have you now, my playful little kitten I SCENE IV. Enter Faust. Faust. What is the matter ? How ! Your daggers drawn Upon a trembling and defenseless victim ? Stand back ! Stand back I You know not what you do! Much rather would I give my own red blood, Than take the sacrifice of a young life In all its bloom. 9* 94 FAUST'S DEATH. CONSPIBATORS. Hail to the prince 1 Others. Our king 1 Our noble king, be welcome 1 Mephistopheles. Sire I Consider ! If we let loose this gallows bird, he might The rope for us prepare. Faust. Secure him, sir, But do not kill him. Mephistopheles. But the ropes might break, The walls might let him through ; if he was dead, He would not trouble us. Faust. Nay ! Do desist I For I forbid you in the Almighty's name, To hurt a single hair grown on his head. Mephistopheles. 'Tis well ! 'Tis well I You ought to know it best ; Keep him imprisoned then, and well secured. Until the deed is done. Faust. Yes, gentlemen I You are informed now of our will and plans, Can I for certain count on your assistance ? paust's death. 95 FiEST Conspirator. On mine, you can I Second Conspirator. And mine I Third Conspirator. I am your own 1 Dispose of me I Fourth Conspirator. And of us all I Faust. I thank you I But for a little while I need assistance ; And in the mean time you may wear the sign That makes you known to me, and stand by me With iron resolution. Should I call you To action suddenly, be well prepared, And my command obey I For this, I will Make you the first ones in the nation's council, And leaders of my army. First Conspirator. We obey you ! And would for you through fire and water pass. Upon my knees I swear allegiance to yoa. All the Conspirators. We all acknowledge you our king and master. Faust. Now let us close the council of this night, Erom which the deed will brilliantly arise I 96 FAUST'S DEATH. Secure the prisoner, gentlemen, and slowly And cautiously back to the palace walk, Prepared for my call ! All the Conspirators. Hail to our king I [Uzeunt. SCENE V. A Hall in the Palace. Enter two Sentinels. First Sentinel. Here is our post. This door we shall protect From men and devils, thus the order says. Second Sentinel. Is it the door of the king's sleeping-room ? First Sentinel. It is! Second Sentinel. How such a powerful lord may feel, Who sees the world beneath him, and is holding, God's substitute, the destiny of nations In his own hand 1 First Sentinel. I think he must, indeed, Live pleasantly enough. Whatever 'tis That he may fancy 'tis at his command. And thousand hands are ready at his call. FAUST'S DEATH. 91 Second Sentinel, And all the misery that the like of us Must bear in silence, touches not his heart, Awed by his majesty. First Sentinel, Yes, yes 1 It is so 1 Who's there ? Enter Mephistopheles. Mephistopheles. Your humble servant. First Sentinel. Who is he ? Mephistopheles. I'm something low, my friend. I am guardian, And sovereign, besides am servant, and But 't matters not. First Sentinel. A likely, merry fellow I How came you here ? Mephistopheles. Through idleness, my friend ! I saw you from the distance, and stepped nearer To while the time away. First Sentinel. Do you not know That 'tis forbidden through this hall to pass ? I must arrest you, friend. 98 FAUST'S DEATH. Mephistopheles. Nay I Do it not ! What damage could I do here ? Second Sentinel. Let him off ! There is no harm in him ! Mephistopheles. look, how bright Your spear is gleaming ! Is it very heavy ? First Sentinel. No I Not for me, but for the scoundrel's pate That it will knock to pieces. Mephistopheles. Yes, indeed I The instrument is made to kill and break. 'Tis sensible in men to take such pains Their neighbors to the other world to send; They might, however, leave it to old Death, Who reaps his harvests with untired hand. But then — men live so long that 'tis right well They cut each other's throats. First Sentinel, What mean you, sir ? I do not understand you. Are you fond Of weapons ? See this highly-finished blade ; Damascus only can such steel produce. See how I bend it ; still it does not break. FAUST'S DEATH. 99 Mephistopheles. You have it from Damascus ? Ho, my friend ! A devilish joke, that men should fetch so far The knives to rip their bowels. But, my dear, Tell me your trade. First Sentinel. You know it by my dress. I am a soldier. Mephistopheles. And how many more Contains your kingdom ? First Sentinel. Nearly a hundred thousand. Mephistopheles. Ho, ho ! One hundred thousand men are taught To cut and beat and shoot to best advantage. And they receive their pay at stated terms For being shot at or to pieces cut ! O heavenly reason, spirit most sublime. That rules this noble earth ! First Sentinel. What mean you, man ? Mephistopheles. Tell me, my friend, how you are stationed here, You guards and soldiers. First Sentinel. Ask the officer I 100 FAUST'S DEATH. Mephistopheles. Where is he ? First Sentinel. I don't know. Mephistopheles gives him a gold piece. Take this, my friend, And if you look into its stainless mirror, Your memory will improve. First Sentinel. How dare you this ? With glittering gold you mean to bribe our honor ! Hence in an instant I Or I'll crack your pate I Mephistopheles. Ho, ho ! my friend, you need a stronger dose ! Love you no maiden ? First Sentinel. What is that to you ? Mephistopheles. Look at this purse, it will your sweetheart win. First Sentinel. Hence, tempter ! Mephistopheles. She is yours forever ! First Sentinel. Go! Mephistopheles. I'd like to see her smile when she receives it. FAUST'S DEATH. 101 First Sentinel. I tell you I don't want it. Mephistopheles. O she'll love you I First Sentinel. Give it I Second Sentinel. Give it to me I Mephistopheles. Ho, ho I my masters! You now will let me pass here with my friends, Whenever I desire it ? Is it so ? First Sentinel. You beat the devil with your oily tongue ! SOENE VI. Enter an OrFiCER and a guard of Soldiers. Mephistopheles. Forward, march I Draw in your belly I Or I'll mash your heads to jelly I Stiff beside you hold your hand, Let your noses upright stand I Nature has a thorough drill To make man obey her will, So that all, combed by one comb, Trot ahke toward their tomb, 10 102 FAUST'S DEATH. That they all one leader follow, Through the woods, through plain and hollow, And that all beneath the moon Dance round to one single tune. I, myself, am mankind's tutor, Nature's chosen executor; For the devil surely rules Over rogues and over fools. Officer. Who goes there ? Stop 1 You are my prisoner ! This is forbidden ground to walk on, sir I As you will soon find out, Mephistopheles. O let me off I I beg you, let me off ! Officer. Secure him, boys, And stop his grinning mouth ! Mephistopheles empties a bag of gold on the floor. Ho, ho I my masters I Look at my yellow boys I A Soldier. ^Tis gold, indeed ! Another. And plenty for us all I Officer. Stand back ! Stand back ! You dare not touch it. FAUST'S DEATH. 103 Soldier. We must have it, sir I \_The Soldiers grapple for the gold. Officer. May God have mercy on me I They are mad ! I cannot hold them ; so it will be best That I myself my empty pockets fill. Mephistopheles. Now, boys, you understand me. You are mine, For I have bought you over, and right well Will I your service pay. Soldier. Yes, we are yours ! We follow you to hell and to damnation. Mephistopheles. Just SO, my fellows I And you'll find a leader Worthy your mettle. But around this hall Now stand in silence, until further orders. Soldier. We will obey you to the very letter. Mephistopheles [stationing the soldiers). There is in this air a smell As of bloodshed. Guess I well There will be a dreadful deed Perpetrated here with speed. All my comrades will I call To be ready for the ball ; The conspirators to boot. 104 paust's death. Who so boldly used their words, I will try their maiden swords, Dipping them in human blood. Hither hasten all who own As their master, me, unknown, That we to the common foe May our glittering weapons show I — Now the trusty ones are near To protect the front and rear. If I call, they'll prick their ears. Draw their forks and pruning shears. SCENE VII. Enter Count RoBERr. Robert. I want to pass here ! Soldier. Whither? ROBEBT. To the king. Soldier. Have you a pass ? Robert. I have not ; but, indeed. Delay me not, for I was taken prisoner, And just escaped to tell the king a story That will make him grow pale. faust's death. 105 Soldier. You cannot pass. Robert. I cannot ? Holy heavens I But I will I Hold at your peril me I Mephistopheles. What noise is this ? Ho, ho 1 How are you ? Robert. Treason in the palace I Mephistopheles. Hush, or by hell 1 I'll cut your screeching throat I Robert. There's treason in the palace 1 Treason, treason 1 Mephistopheles [aping him). There's treason in the palace I Treason, treason I Enter the Conspirators, while the King steps forth from his sleeping-room. King. Where are the guards that should here order keep ? Do they allow this disrespectful noise ? Then I myself will punish him who made it I Who dares to raise his voice before my room ? Upon his head shall without mercy fall The vengeance of insulted majesty. 10* 106 FAUST^S DEATH. Mephistopheles {drawing his sword). Upon him, comrades, or we all are lost I Eat thy own majesty, thou dust-born worm ! [The Conspirators slay the King. KOBERT. Stand by the king I O God have mercy on him 1 Mephistopheles. By his dead body stand I Now, valiant knights, Secure this forward boy, and cheer the prince. That I see here approaching, as our king. Enter Faust. Conspirators. Hail to our king ! Others. Hail to our happy king I Faust. This is indeed more than I had expected. paust's death. lOY SOENE VIII. Enter Courtiers, Ladies, and Guards. Agnes, dressed in white, throws herself upon the body of her father. Agnes. Father, father I Is this blood ? O Almighty God in heaven ! Is then of thy life the flood From thy veins forever driven ? Faust. Lady, let me pray you leave From this dreadful bloody scene, And allay your natural grief As becomes the future queen. Agnes. O has thus thy struggle ended, Thy ambition and thy power ? Has this noble vessel stranded ? Broke the storm this giant tower ? If thou had'st before thee seen This approaching dreadful end, Would'st thou have as cruel been, Torn my heart with iron hand ? Faust. Dry your tears, they are in vain. For the dead have ever lain Unconcerned and stiff and cold For the woe that we behold. 108 FAUST'S DEATH. Agnes. who will protect me now From the murderer's greedy claws, When the breaker of our laws Deals on me the fatal blow ? Justice tempers e'en the coldness Of a father well beloved ; But the stranger's cruel boldness Makes the hand of death seem soft. Faust. Do not speak so 1 Courage take I Among friends shall be your stay Till the sorrows you forsake, And the years your grief allay. Agnes. Dare you really tell your lies In this awful, bloody hour. When against you angels rise. And their doom upon you shower ? Traitor I Murderer I Tho' e'en now You have braved the Almighty's ire. Scorned his avenging fire, 1 will bend your brazen brow. you deem me in your power, Think to drag me to the altar, Gayly decked with many a flower, Like a victim led to slaughter. But I'll rend your chains and ties, Like a lioness, in twain, And before your staggered eyes 1 will liberty regain 1 paust's death. 109 Ay ! I'll clasp unto my breast Even the icy form of death, And before I go to rest, Curse you with my dying breath. I'll the memory of this deed Keep before your haunted sight. Till it make your bosom bleed, And your joys forever Wight. Tell me now what you have gained By the robbery of the crown ? Bear no cares your conscience down. That you have with murder stained ? Is the working of your brain Lighter since you are a king ? Are your limbs now free from pain, Do the birds now merrier sing ? Does sweet slumber close your eyes With a softer, fairer hand ? Do you in the morning rise By more perfumed breezes fanned ? Does no hope upon you beam, Like a ray from paradise. To dissolve before your eyes To a vague and dreadful dream ? Do the passions not enfold Kings Hke others ? Has on you Love perhaps a stronger hold, Wears your heart a brighter hue ? Are you mortal not like all On this planetary ball ? See my father's marble face. See, proud king, his withered brow ! 110 FAUST'S DEATH. You will pass the narrow space, Soon be cold as he is now. What is now his hand that drew In its strength the gleaming sword ? Where is his commanding word That o'er mighty armies flew ? They are powerless ! He is gone I And his fate will be your own. l_Exit Agnes, led by Robert, who has torn himself away from the Soldiers. All the others foliow the body of the King, which is carried away, only Faust and Mephistopheles remaining. SOENE IX. Faust. I see the aim of life, .v^" See the purpose of our strife, Now before my opened eyes ! Lured hj siren melodies, By my passions led astray, 1 have wandered from my way. But a clear and golden light Bursts upon my dazzled sight. And my future course grows plain. Through my suffering and pain. As God's image, man was made Master of the earth to be ; But his bosom is the see Of the spirits of the shade. FAUST^S DEATH. Ill Who, unnoticed, wander near him, And to guilt and misery lead him : His it is his works to raise To the clouds, in towering height. There to glitter in the face Of the sun, like glaciers bright. And a monument to stand Of his never-dying hand. Mephistopheles. I will steal away from here ; Nothing can be done, I fear, With this o'er-excited fool, Till his silly head grows cool. Faust. Demon I Snake I Infernal imp I Back to thy own homestead limp ! Far too long have I, misguided. To thy treachery confided ; Now I break thy hidden chain. And am saved, am free again I Mephistopheles. How ? I have you red on white ; Mine you are, I hold you tight. Let us argue it, however. When your crazy spell is over. Faust. So you have me, brood of hell ? By the Master of the world. Who has you from heaven hurled, I defy your threatened spell ; 112 faust's death. You are powerless o'er man's fate, Which you harass like a wasp. He who can like God create, And whose reasoning mind can grasp Nature's mysteries, and can wander Through the stars in all their grandeur, Scorns your arts. Begone I Begone ! Or I'll use the hated words Which you fear like fiery swords, — y In the name of God, begone I / Mephistopheles. Well, my master, fare you well I You are not yet ripe for hell ! But depend on't, I'll return. When you better manners learn. [^The curtain drops. paust's death. 113 .A.CT TT". SOENE I. A Printing Office. Enter Faust. Faust. How strange appears to me this narrow room, With all the tools of lowly constant labor, If I compare it to the dazzling splendor Of other scenes through which I once have wandered I The thoughtless mind, that but the surface treads, And by appearance judges, would, indeed. Have pity on me. But within me burns A warm and sacred fire, and the proud thought That I impress the stamp of my own genius On future generations, must console me. Since I, in company with Gruttenberg, Have labored for the advancement of mankind, By introducing to their understanding The art of printing, I have given all Of which I was possessed. I am, moreover. Companion now of rude and low-born men ; But I am furtherer of a mighty task. And all the strife, without a settled aim, The longing of my soul, misunderstood, Are at an end, for I have clear before me The purpose of my life and of my labor. But there are obstacles to be removed, And storms are brewing in the leaden sky ; 11 114 FAUST'S DEATH, I therefore am required to use my powers In all their strength, in order to accomplish The weighty task which has been set for me. And I will do it, cost it what it may. Until I conquer the opposing forces, And die a victor in the battle of life ! SCENE 11. Enter Guttenberg, with a hook in his hand. GUTTENBERG. I here present you with our first-born son, The product of our press. O look at it, And clasp it to your bosom, for indeed It has cost enough to make us love it ! Faust. How, Guttenberg ? In this most happy hour, When we have set the monument of our mind, When over us, invisible, the chorus Of angels celebrates the happy end Of the accomplished task, will you complain ? O not for all the gold in the wide world, Not for the fairest woman's lovely glance ! Nay I Not for Caesar's, Alexander's crown. Would I give up the luxury of the thought. That we have reached the summit of the ladder Of our creation ! Guttenberg. Formerly, alas ! When undefined, yet this great invention paust's death. 115 In many ways my aching brain has tortured ; When now I saw before my enraptured eyes The beaming aim, and then the fogs grew thick, And tore it from my sight ; when now the waves Rolled me toward the long-desired coast. And then the breakers hurled me back to sea, I looked upon this hour as on the sun. That should the gloom and terror of the past In pity cover by its radiant splendor. And now I Calumniated, persecuted, Impoverished, derided, and despised, Before me hard and pitiless mankind, Impenetrable to imploring love I O Faust I I could despair of all success I Ay, of myself — of the Creator's justice I Faust. Nay I Speak not so ! Look at grand nature's lesson I Does not the winter chain the shivering landscape, And change its smile into an icy desert ? But lo ! A storm is rising from the west, The air, impregnated with spring, is groaning ; And suddenly, while vivid lightnings flash, And all the elements appear in battle. The tender plant sprouts forth its blooming sprigs I Nay, Guttenberg ! The power that shows its strength, When thunders roar through lacerated clouds. And worlds are doomed to the destroying flame. That sheds upon our earth the golden sun. And lights by night the peaceful silvery globe, Surrounded by a wreath of fiery sparks. That has a paradise for us created. With perfume filled, and flowers and golden light, . 116 FAUST'S DEATH. Can certainly not let the good go under, That gathers strength even in its childhood's struggle. GUTTENBERG. Your manly words console my sickened mind ; Besides, the power of genius onward urges me, And sweeps my fears before its swelling blast. My best endeavors will I use henceforth To introduce the invention to the world ; And to accomplish it, I will set heaven And earth in motion ; will even deign to flatter, Will ask assistance from the great and small. Will sacrifice my rest, and even my pride, Until we have succeeded ! Faust. You are right I Half finished only is the inventor's task. When yet his work is buried in his brain. It must be sent into the open world, That will at first receive it with contempt. And stone the generous giver for his present. But finally truth will conquer, break the mist That hides its merits from the thoughtless crowd. But let us separate now I Every hour Is of importance. While without you labor. And bare your breast to storms more merciless Than those of heaven, I will finish here. With tender care, our most important work. And polish it, and to perfection bring it. Farewell, my friend ! GUTTENBERQ. My brother, fare you well I [jEzit GUTTBNBERO. FAUST'S DEATH. Ill SCENE III. Faust {seizing the book). I hold thee fast, unseemly, powerful being, That will the aspect change of a whole world. Thy crooked letters breathe exalted thought, And man advanced a step toward his end When he had made thee. In this sacred hour My burning heart shall feel the spirit of love Exhaled by thee, thou testament of heaven I And, purified by thy sublime reflections, My soul is rising from the earthly dust Toward the spirit of good, Almighty God ! Voices {withoict). Where are our masters ? Others. Ho 1 Where are our masters ? Faust. Again mankind disturb my solemn dream. And interrupt the harmony of my soul. But I am strengthened now, and do oppose My iron will to their unruly tide. 11* 118 FAUST'S DEATH. SCENE IV. Enter Bookprinters. First Printer. Ho, master, are you here ? Faust. What wish you ? First Printer. Money I Faust. The constant cry that vibrates through the world. But, fellow, I have given you yesterday, And now to-day you beg for it again. Already poured I down your thirsty throats Rich streams of gold, but still the leaky barrel Holds not the flood. What is it, tell me, That brings you hither ? First Printer. Think you really, master, That we will work, like other citizens. For a small pittance, at your damned work. To which you are either set by Satan's self, Or by your madness ? 'No, indeed I Whoe'er Will leave the beaten path, and turn aside. Must pay for it. Just give us, or by Heaven I We will inform on you, and tell the judges That you do things forbidden here, make use Of witchcraft, sorcery, and infernal powers ; Yes, even we ourselves have been suspected. Look at the risk we run. FAUST'S DEATH. 119 Faust. Ungrateful dogs 1 Whom I have raised from nothing ! Shame on you ! For striking at my heart with adder teeth, While I have always helped you in your troubles, And been a father to you. Fie on you 1 You are not worth to tread upon the earth, For you surpass the evil spirits even By your malignity. First Printer. Tut, tut 1 My man 1 Give us your purse. Faust. I will not, wretched beggars ! At once I will discharge you from my service. If you return not to your given labor. First Printer. Ho, master I But we have you I For I tell you If you refuse our moderate request You are a ruined man ; we will to pieces Your plates and presses knock ; will write with ink Upon your door that you a sorcerer are. And leave you here alone until the dungeon Your trembling limbs receives. Faust. Almighty Heaven ! A fortnight only, and the work is done. And they may go in peace. My gold, my all. Is spent already. There 1 Take this 1 take this I Divide among you all this golden ring. 120 FAUST'S DEATH. It is the only thing of value left me, And it may go to advance my sacred cause. Second Printer. Is it of gold ? First Printer. It seems so 1 Second Printer. Yes I A diamond I Third Printer. Indeed, indeed 1 It is a diamond ring I Fourth Printer. Hurrah, hurrah ! It is a diamond ring I First Printer. Quick to the jeweler that we have it sold, And fairly share the proceeds. After that Let's to our labor go, for, Heaven knows. Our master's pocket might hold more like this. \_Exeunt Printers. Faust. Their greediness is sickening, and of such Consist mankind whom I have benefited. \_Opens the Bible. " Thy neighbor shalt thou love as thy own self" O difficult commandment I which, obeyed, Would change our earth to heaven, and at once Life's rugged waters soothe to peaceful calmness. Who knocks there ? \_Knocking at the door. Enter, for already have you Disturbed my thoughts by your untimely rudeness. FAUST'S DEATH. 121 SCENE V. Enter Councilmen and Scrivener. First Councilman. Are you the so-called Faust ? Faust. I ami First Councilman. Let's see I Give, Scrivener, the description. Listen now I At first an eagle's nose. Second Councilman. 'Tis false 1 'Tis false ! An eagle, neighbor, has a crooked beak ; But this man surely wears a common nose. First Councilman. You must not take it literally, friend. A crooked nose is called an eagle's nose, And you must say now whether this man's nose Is straight or crooked. Second Councilman. Neither, I should say 1 Third Councilman. I rather think 'tis crooked. Fourth Councilman. It is straight. We'll count the votes. 122 FAUST'S DEATH. Third Councilman. 'Tis crooked 1 First Councilman. Nay ! 'Tis straight. Second Councilman. You are mistaken, neighbor ; it is crooked. Just look at it. First Councilman. Yes ! You are right ; 'tis crooked. Write, Scrivener, that he has an eagle's nose. Faust. What means this farce ? I told you plain enough That I am Faust himself. First Councilman. Have patience, man I 'T might be a lie, for aught I know of you. The accused cannot stand as his own witness, And therefore we must look at the description. "His hair is dark." Yes, gentlemen, it is so ! His hair is dark. D'ye hear it, master Scrivener ? His eyes are black. Second Councilman. Nay I They are brown ! What say you, neighbor ? Third Councilman. Bluish, I should think. paust's death. 123 First Councilman. And grayish, too I However, let them pass, As everything besides appears to agree. Well, master Scrivener, add to your description That he has coal-black eyes, and thus is proven To be the culprit. Faust. Gentlemen, what wish you ? « First Councilman. Have patience, master Faust ! Have patience, sir. Until I gain the breath to explain myself ! The august council of this goodly town Has sent these honorable gentlemen, Shoemaker Ox and tailor Swallowbird, The celebrated baker, Jacob Ass, And me, the razor-grinder. Goggle-eye, To ascertain the truth of the report That you most damnably are exercising The horrible black art I Faust. Yes, gentlemen, With heart and soul, I am ! First Councilman. Quick, Scrivener I Good Lord ! He has confessed I All the Councilmen. He has confessed! Faust. Stop, gentlemen ! For God's sake do not take ]My rash expression in its literal sense. 124 FAUST'S DEATH. I meant the art of printing ; meant the art To chain the thoughts for future generations, By black unseemly letters. Second Councilman. Never mind I He has confessed I First Councilman. Will you the goodness have To show us all the tools and hellish traps Of your unholy trade ? Faust. I have them here. There's nothing simpler ! See I Into these plates We cut the letters, which we wet with ink ; A sheet is then upon them pressed, and thus The writing reproduced. First Councilman. Impossible I You never would obtain a clear impression. The sheet would be besmeared, unreadable, Unless the devil aids you in your task. Faust. This book will show it. First Councilman. What ? The sacred writings ? See, gentlemen, how he defiles the gospel 1 What holds this dirty bottle ? Faust. Printers' ink ! FAUST'S DEATH. 125 First Councilman, Black as the devil's self. Well, Scrivener ! You now may read your record. Listen, sirs I Scrivener. The accused has confessed that he made use Of the unholy and forbidden arts. First Councilman. ' Just so I Second Councilman. Just so I Scrivener. And, furthermore, he says That he employed for his hellish purpose The sacred characters of holy writings, And, aided by a bottle of charmed stuff. Has done the crime of which he stands accused. First Councilman. Just so ! Just so I Now listen, master Faust I We shall report to our most learned council What we have seen, and what you have confessed. That they impartially may decide Whether you shall be hanged, or drawn and quartered, Or be acquitted of this dreadful crime. Come, neighbors, let us leave this gloomy place I Second Councilman. Upon my soul ! I'm glad that we are going. This sorcerer might bewitch us if we stay. lEzeunt Councilmen and Sceivenee. 12 126 faust's death. Faust. When I see man in all his littleness, The low-born creature, earth's despised dust, I really could wish to grasp the scepter Of the infernal powers, and have permission To shatter with one blow the soiled structure, And hurl its scattered sparks through distant skies, A dire example for the worlds around. But I will leave these narrow, gloomy walls. And breathe the perfume-laden air of spring ; Will pour my cares into my mother's ear. Almighty nature's, in whose loving arms i My lacerated bosom pains no more. Where, in the splendor of the radiant sky. By rustling leaves to peaceful slumber soothed, I will forget my sorrows and my cares, \ The curse and misery of humanity. [JEzit Faust. SCENE VI. A lovely country scene. Enter a Teacher, with a number of young Girls. Teacher. Let us rest here in this glade. Where the giant trees around Spread upon the mossy ground Their delightful cooling shade, Intermingled with the light Of the trembling sunbeam bright. FAUST'S DEATH. 12t See how merrily the wind Plays with leaves and blossoms kind, While it tears their quivering wood Often in its savage mood. In the charming time of spring Nature wears her loveliest gown ; Even the birds above us sing, From the perfumed leafy crown, With a clearer, happier voice. Praise their Master for their joys. First Girl, But our voices, you shall hear. Are more powerful, fine, and clear. Teacher. Raise them in this flowery vale, That I may compare them here, With unprejudiced ear, To the silvery nightingale. Second Girl. In the mean while we will play, At each other throw the ball, Which, precisely aimed, may On the most unskillful fall. Third Girl. We, however, would much rather Flowers and odorous blossoms gather ; Dance upon the blooming green, Happier than the mightiest queen. 128 FAUST'S DEATH. Teacher. Well 1 You may your circles form ; And you others, let your song Through the leafy forest storm, Till, by breezes borne along, Gradually your untutored lay In the distance fades away. Chorus op Gikls. The queen is softly sleeping In the castle gray and strong ; A storm the air is sweeping, It drives the clouds along ; It rides through vale and mountain, And rattles at the tree ; Disturbs e'en to its fountain The foaming, surging sea. Then glares a lurid light. And rends the sky in twain, And, dazzled at its sight, Up starts the youthful queen. Awake I Awake, ye people I That to my heart are dear ; The thunder shakes the steeple, — The king, the king is near I Put on your costliest dresses. Your master well to meet ; Bedeck with flowers your tresses, Strew flowers before his feet. paust's death. 129 Enter Faust. First Girl. who may this stranger be, Whom I here approaching see ? Faust. 1 am sick, devoid of joys, Am forsaken and alone ; But your cheering youthful voice Called me back to days now gone. Lovely children, let me stay, And assist your merry play. Teacher. Cheerfully I will allow it ; Surely though you soon will rue it ; For the children's games are plain, And fatiguing if once seen. Third Girl, my big and powerful knight, Shall I you to dance invite ? Faust. Gladly I accept the honor : Many thanks to you, the donor Of this happiness. But lead To the dancers me with speed. Second Girl. 1 will give this flower to you. 12* 130 FAUST'S DEATH. Faust. And what, in return, wish you ? Second Girl. That you may as happy be As the girls that we here see I Faust. you pure and youthful hearts, Yet unwounded by the darts Of misfortune ; budding flowers, 1 am grateful for the hours Which I have among you spent, And to which your charms have lent. I had lost my faith in all — In the struggle of my life, In my body -tearing strife, When I saw the heavens fall. But you have again renewed My belief ; with strength imbued, I look forward ; for you show That the graces still are living, Innocence its blessings giving ; That the better feelings glow Yet in human hearts before Worldliness their bosoms tore. FiEST Girl. Are you not Faust, the dreadful sorcerer ? Faust. I am 1 First Girl. O maidens, flee I He is a sorcerer I paust's death. 131 Teacher. Yes I Flee before this man's infecting breath, For innocence must ever hide her countenance Where he is wandering. First Girl. Flee then, maidens, flee 1 Else he might look at us with evil eyes. And thus bewitch us. Girls. Flee, then 1 Others. liet US flee I [^Exeunt Girls. Faust. O universal Justice, art thou dead ? Sounds through the shattered ruins of our chaos No more the voice of God ? Is virtue then No more protected by her inborn value. That even tender childhood can look down On him who gave his all for mankind's sake ? O it is hard to create a mighty work I ^ Around the bold inventor tower rocks Of giant size, and tumble on his path, Annihilating him whose breast has not Been hardened by the blows of adverse fate. But I am still consoled by the thought Of what I did, and I contented look From the surrounding gloom toward the future, And all my hopes, but one, are hushed forever. O end of life ! Thou all-consuming Death, While thou appearest to our youthful eye 132 faust's death. A frightful specter, hideous to behold, Thou art an angel for the worn-out soul, A radiant being spending happiness ! Come to my bosom, messenger of peace ! My task on earth has almost been performed : The humble laborer from the field returns, And with the sun that is in purple setting. My star may sink into oblivion's flood. Around me it grows dark. A sudden terror. Such as I never felt ; it shakes my limbs, It bears me back into the tide of time. In vain I try to struggle with its stream ; The shores are fading from my troubled sight, And I am hurled to where I started from. The gloomy power, to which in evil hours I gave myself, asserts its dreadful claim I SCENE VII. Enter Mephistopheles. Mephistopheles. Just so, my friend, I claim thee as my own I Faust. O get thee hence, thou dreadful, dreadful form. In terror clad, and sin ! — Lord ! Thou stayest ! Thou even pressest nearer to my heart, Which beats in anguish at thy horrid sight I — Begone ! Begone I By all that's great and holy I O Heaven 1 All my prayers are in vain, And hell now sits in judgment over me I paust's death. 133 Mephistopheles. Yes I Yes ! Thou hast forfeited happiness, My former friend, deluded by my power. Thou who the boldness had'st to force the powers Of hell into thy fragile patched-up yoke ; The time has come now, when the treaty 's up That we have sealed together. Read it over : Whenever, in the course of thy whole Hfe, Thou should'st confess thy inward longing sated, Thou should'st be mine ! And now I take thee with me Into the bottomless eternity, Through which the angel of hght can never pierce, And which the cry enHvens of the damned 1 Faust. Thou liest, traitor ! Never meant I thus, The lines which I in madness once have signed ; Not thou hast led me from the depth of sin Into a purer life. It was the strength That the Almighty gave me in his wisdom, And therefore I defy thee. Get thee hence'! Thou once hadst power o'er my sinful soul. But, purified, it now is wafted upward, And thus escapes thy greedy fiendish spirits. Mephistopheles. Ho, ho ! Thou think'st to cheat me of the fruit Of my hard labor, through such trickery ? Because thou hast ascribed a different meaning, In thy own mind, to the important words. Thou deemest thou art saved ? Ho, ho ! my darling : Just so I catch you I Many times you think 134 PAUST^S DEATH. To clasp a goddess to your enraptured breast, And when you lift your eyes, you see a skull In all its hideousness toward you grinning. I have deceived thee, and thou wast deceived : Thus thou art mine. Be ready for the journey I Faust. Should earth itself below me break to pieces, And from the chasm glow the fire of hell, My bosom scorching, I would still look upward y Into the calm, majestic sky above me, / And search the Almighty with imploring glance ; And I am confident that he would save me. For I have well performed the task he set me, His humble servant, and his noble image. Mephistopheles. Thou boast of purity ! Look back, my friend. Into the soiled mirror of thy past I Through doubts, thou'st sunk into the depth below, Where sin was thy companion. Ha ! Ha ! Ha 1 Around the Almighty's throne the victims throng That thou hast mercilessly sent to heaven ; And in the scales that weigh thy trembling fate They throw their tears, their flowing purple blood. They tremble, sink, and thou art lost forever ! Faust. No ! I am not 1 Thou, fiend, hast been deceived I Mephistopheles. I know right well how to convince thee, friend, And show thee that thou must respectfully Behave to a mighty sovereign like me ; Faust's death. 135 Then thou wilt know how dangerous it is To sup familiarly with the devil. Do your work, my spirits, well I To the fiery ports of hell Drag your victim ! Let him taste Of your tortures there in haste I Lead him to eternal night, Dimly broken by the light Of the lurid flames below, That like fiery adders glow ! There reproaches on him pour, That despair may him devour, And in never-ceasing fear He may shed repentance' tear I [7%e rocks in the background open, and the whole scene is en- veloped in red fire. Faust {kneeling doion). thou, who hast their fate to mankind given, The body's weakness and the power of mind, Thou who did'st bid us hope, that we have striven In vain not for the advancement of our kind, 1 ask thee for salvation from this terror I In wild and bloody scenes my life was spent, . And I at last had sunk to guilt and sin. My bosom is with doubt and terror rent, And never could I hope thy grace to win, If thou had'st pity not on erring man ! But thou, I know, art generous and just, Art the protector of our worldly strife ; I therefore pray thee, let me go to rest. Pardoned by thee, thou giver of our life, Thou living thought ! Thou ruler of the world I 136 FAUST'S DEATH. Mephistopheles. The time has come I Enough hast thou now raved 1 A Voice [from above). Thou hast not vainly labored. Thou art saved ! [Faust sinks, slain by a flash of lightning, Mephistopheles walks reluctantly away, tvhile the red fire dies out, and the rising moon sheds her mild light upon the scene. Chorus of Angels. Through the gloom of night Thy path has lain ; Thou hast labored in pain, Hast struggled and fought, Hast suffered and thought; But the heavens bright Are beaming now with radiant light, That bursts in streams upon thy sight. The veil is rent, The doubt is spent ; Before thy eyes The worlds arise ■11^ In all their grandeur, HKP Unhidden splendor ; And in the golden light does beam, Even what to thee once wrong did seem I %.,'''' ,^'% .^^"-. ^'^^^ v-o^ ' V..' /^'- -^^..^^^ «V^^'. \ 'bV'^ .'^'^^ '^bv^ ^^•^^ ... ..«fe.'. \^/ ,^, -.^^