English poem
Mephistopheles
by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832)
A pretty play our leisure to beguile! A thousand bridges I could build meanwhile. Not science only and consummate art, Patience must also bear her part. A quiet spirit worketh whole years long; Time only makes the subtle ferment strong. And all things that belong thereto, Are wondrous and exceeding rare! The devil taught her, it is true; But yet the draught the devil can't prepare. (Perceiving the beasts.) Look yonder, what a dainty pair! Here is the maid! the knave is there! (To the beasts) It seems your dame is not at home?