Frosch. I'll smoke them, mark you that!
Mephistopheles [to Faust]. These people never smell the old rat, E'en when he has them by the collar.
Faust. Fair greeting to you, sirs!
Siebel. The same, and thanks to boot. [In a low tone, faking a side look at MEPHISTOPHELES.] Why has the churl one halting foot?
Mephistopheles. With your permission, shall we make one party? Instead of a good drink, which get here no one can, Good company must make us hearty.
Altmayer. You seem a very fastidious man.
Frosch. I think you spent some time at Rippach[22] lately? You supped with Mister Hans not long since, I dare say?
Mephistopheles. We passed him on the road today! Fine man! it grieved us parting with him, greatly. He'd much to say to us about his cousins, And sent to each, through us, his compliments by dozens. [He bows to FROSCH.]
Altmayer [softly]. You've got it there! he takes!
Siebel. The chap don't want for wit!