Siebel. 'Twas all deception and moonshine.
Frosch. Yet I was sure I did drink wine.
Brander. But how about the bunches, brother?
Altmayer. After such miracles, I'll doubt no other!
WITCHES' KITCHEN.
[On a low hearth stands a great kettle over the fire. In the smoke, which rises from it, are seen various forms. A female monkey[28] sits by the kettle and skims it, and takes care that it does not run over. The male monkey with the young ones sits close by, warming himself. Walls and ceiling are adorned 'with the most singular witch-household stuff.]
FAUST. MEPHISTOPHELES.
Faust. Would that this vile witch-business were well over!
Dost promise me I shall recover
In this hodge-podge of craziness?
From an old hag do I advice require?
And will this filthy cooked-up mess
My youth by thirty years bring nigher?
Woe's me, if that's the best you know!
Already hope is from my bosom banished.
Has not a noble mind found long ago
Some balsam to restore a youth that's vanished?
Mephistopheles. My friend, again thou speakest a wise thought!
I know a natural way to make thee young,—none apter!
But in another book it must be sought,
And is a quite peculiar chapter.
Faust. I beg to know it.