(Students, with Maidens on their arms, preceded by Musicians, take possession of the stage. Burghers in the rear, as at the commencement of the act.)
Students, Maidens, Burghers, etc., afterwards Siebel and Marguerite.
Cho. (marking waltz time with their feet). As the wind that sportively plays, At first will light dust only raise, Yet, at last, becomes a gale, So our dancing and our singing, Soft at first, then loudly ringing, Will resound o'er hill and dale.
(The Musicians mount upon the table, and dancing begins.)
Mep. (to Faust). See those lovely young maidens. Will you not ask of them To accept you?
Faust. No! desist from thy idle sport, And leave my heart free to reflection.
Sie. (entering). Marguerite this way alone can arrive.
Some of the Maidens (approaching Siebel). Pray seek you a partner to join in the dance?
Sie. No: it has no charm for me.
Cho. As the wind that sportively plays, At first will light dust only raise, Yet, at last, becomes a gale, So our dancing and our singing, Soft at first, then loudly ringing, Will resound o'er hill and dale.