Mephistopheles. But one thing we must do.
Faust. Well, one good turn deserves another, true.
Mephistopheles. We simply make a solemn deposition That her lord's bones are laid in good condition In holy ground at Padua, hid from view.
Faust. That's wise! But then we first must make the journey thither?
Mephistopheles. Sancta simplicitas! no need of such to-do; Just swear, and ask not why or whether.
Faust. If that's the best you have, the plan's not worth a feather.
Mephistopheles. O holy man! now that's just you!
In all thy life hast never, to this hour,
To give false witness taken pains?
Have you of God, the world, and all that it contains,
Of man, and all that stirs within his heart and brains,
Not given definitions with great power,
Unscrupulous breast, unblushing brow?
And if you search the matter clearly,
Knew you as much thereof, to speak sincerely,
As of Herr Schwerdtlein's death? Confess it now!
Faust. Thou always wast a sophist and a liar.
Mephistopheles. Ay, if one did not look a little nigher.
For will you not, in honor, to-morrow
Befool poor Margery to her sorrow,
And all the oaths of true love borrow?
Faust. And from the heart, too.