How shall I answer him?

Gott. Is aught amiss?

Bess.How well thou carriest

Thy new-born rank!

Gott. (impatiently). The devil take my rank!

Tell me of Gretchen!

[Bessie, at fault, watches her opportunity, and exit with Soldier.

Bar.Prithee, ask us not,

We would not say a word to give thee pain

On such a day.