Page:History of the wicked life and horrid death of Dr. John Faustus (6).pdf/4

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THE HISTORY OF

had been there: Faustus, in the mean while, asking the devil many questions, and commanding him to shew many tricks.

CHAP. III

How Mephostophiles came to Dr. Faustus's house, and what happened between them.

FAustus commanded the spirit to meet him at his house by ten of the clock the next day. At the hour appointed, he came into his chamber, asking Faustus what he would have; Faustus told him it was his will and pleasure, to conjure him to be obedient to him in all points of those articles, viz.

First, That the spirit shall serve him in all things he asked, from that time till his death.

Secondly, Whatsoever he would have he should bring him.

Thirdly, Whatsoever he desired to know he should tell him.

The spirit answered him and said, he had no such power of himself, until he had acquainted his Prince that ruleth over him: "For, said he, we have rulers over us, that send us out, and command us home, when they please; and we can act no farther than our power is, which we receive from Lucifer, who you know, for his pride was thrust out of heaven; but it is he that commands whole legions of us; his kingdom, is under heaven. But, saith the spirit, I am not to tell you any more except you make yourself over to us."

Whereupon Faustus said, I will have my request; but yet I will not be damned with you. Then saidthe