Surely to-day we know
That nothing is so wholly good or bad
As our forefathers thought: not black and white,
But gray, predominates. Well, I am gray,
Possibly. I was never black; and age
Has made me stouter, and with gentle warmth
Ripened my virtues; and, even though I say it,
You will not find me a bad sort to meet
If you will but be fair, and put aside
Your ancient and poetic prejudice.

FAUST

Well spoken! And well met! Come, have a drink.
You are the most diverting visitor
I've had in many a day. Bourbon or Scotch?

SATAN

A very little Scotch. That's plenty, thanks.
It's very seldom those who summon me
Would give, not take. And did you send for me
Only to have a drink?

FAUST

I sent for you?

SATAN

Did you not summon me?

FAUST

Why, no--

SATAN

Ah, well!
It's my mistake; wires get crossed sometimes.
I hope I've not intruded.

FAUST

Not at all.
Delighted to have met you.

SATAN

I regret
That I have bothered you. I have enjoyed,
However, your kind hospitality.
To make amends to you, before I go,
I should be glad to do you any service
Within my power.

FAUST

I thank you; but I think
That there is nothing in your special line
That I have need of.

SATAN

Are you really, then,
A man contented?

FAUST

I would hardly go
As far as that!... I only meant to say
My needs, my troubles, are not of such kind
As you could remedy.

SATAN

Now, there again
You take the poets' word for me--those low
And scurvy fellows who lump all their spleen
And call the mess my portrait! But in fact,
I am more versatile, more broad, more kind
Than they conceive. I venture to believe
That I could aid you.

FAUST

All the fiends in Hell
Lack devilry enough.

SATAN

If you would speak
The symptoms of your trouble, I at least
Could give you friendly counsel for your needs....
Oh, I am deeply learned!

FAUST

And besides,
A most accomplished mocker!... My complaint
Is quite beyond your counsel. Why, I tell you,
I have examined, tried, experienced
The passions and the aims of mortal life
With the grave thoroughness and good intent
That mark a doctor of philosophy
Writing his thesis. And my careful