MEPHISTOPHELES
So have we proved our worth—content
If we our patron's praises earn:
With but two ships abroad we went,
With twenty we to port return.
By our rich lading all may see
The great successes we have wrought.
Free ocean makes the spirit free:
There claims compunction ne'er a thought!
A rapid grip there needs alone;
A fish, a ship, on both we seize.
Of three if we the lordship own,
Straightway we hook a fourth with ease,
Then is the fifth in sorry plight—
Who hath the power, has still the right;
The What is asked for, not the How.
Else know I not the seaman's art:
War, commerce, piracy, I trow,
A trinity, we may not part.
THE THREE MIGHTY COMRADES
No thank and hail;
No hail and thank!
As were our cargo
Vile and rank!
Disgust upon
His face one sees
The kingly wealth
Doth him displease!