Have you not felt, I mean, a serious
intention?
Faust, a Tragedy by Goethe
[_They pass on_. ]
_Martha_. But the poor women suffer, you must own:
A bachelor is hard of reformation.
_Mephistopheles_. Madam, it rests with such as you, alone,
To help me mend my situation.
_Martha_. Speak plainly, sir, has none your fancy taken?
Has none made out a tender flame to waken?
_Mephistopheles_. The proverb says: A man's own hearth,
And a brave wife, all gold and pearls are worth.
_Martha_. I mean, has ne'er your heart been smitten slightly?
_Mephistopheles_. I have, on every hand, been entertained politely.
_Martha_.
Have you not felt, I mean, a serious intention?
_Mephistopheles_.
Jesting with women, that's a thing one ne'er should mention.
_Martha_. Ah, you misunderstand!
_Mephistopheles_. It grieves me that I should!
But this I understand--that you are good.
[_They pass on_. ]
_Faust_. So then, my little angel recognized me,
As I came through the garden gate?
_Margaret_. Did not my downcast eyes show you surprised me?
_Faust_. And thou forgav'st that liberty, of late?
That impudence of mine, so daring,
As thou wast home from church repairing?
