Enter Mephistopheles.

Mephistopheles.

I hope the ladies will not think me rude,

That uninvited thus I here intrude.

[Observing Margaret, he draws back respectfully.]

I have commands for Mistress Martha Schwerdtlein.

Martha.

For me? what has the gentleman to say?

Mephistopheles. [softly to her]

Excuse my freedom. I perceive that you