Goethe's Faust, Part 1: An English Translation

Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1889. Excerpt: ... Higemone. And gracefully be still received The granted wish--the want relieved. Euphrosyne. And graceful be the tone subdued, And home-felt charm of gratitude. Enter The Parcje. Atropos. I, the eldest, am invited At this festival to spin--• Much for you and me to think of 'In this tender life-thread thin. That the threads be soft and pliant, Must the fla-x be sifted fine; And, that they flow smooth and even, Fingers skilled must press the twine. If, at revels or at dances, « Blood beats high; oh! then let wake Caution. Think how short the measure: Think that the frail thread may break. Clotho. Be It Known, to me the scissors, In these last days, they confide: By the late Administration, None were pleased or edified. Husky yarns the dull old woman Left to drawl a weary time; Clearest threads, of brilliant promise, She cut off in youthful prime. Of impatient inexperience, That might make me go astray, Danger now is none. My scissors, In the sheath remain to-day. Glad am I that, thus made powerless, I can smile on all I see; That, all apprehension banished, You may dance and revel free. Lachtsis. Happy maintenance of order To the sagest was decreed: Mine the wheel that ceases never, Circling still with equal speed. Threads flow hither, threads flow thither, And their course my fingers guide: None must overpass the circle-- Each must in its place abide. I--should I a moment slumber--• Tremble for the fate of men: Hours are numbered, years are measured, And the weaver's time comes then. Enter The Furies. Herald. Had you an eye as keen as an inquisitor's, Or were you ever so deep read in books, You'd never guess who these are by their looks, But fancy them every-day morning visitors. These are the Furies. None would think the thing Credible. Pretty, shapely, friendly, you...