_Friar John._ A German Prince and his train, Who arrived here just before the rain. There is with him a damsel fair to see, As slender and graceful as a reed! When she alighted from her steed, It seemed like a blossom blown from a tree. _Friar Cuthbert._ None of your pale-faced girls for me! (_Kisses the girl at his side_.) _Friar John._ Come, old fellow, drink down to your peg! do not drink any farther, I beg! _Friar Paul (sings)._ In the days of gold, The days of old, Cross of wood And bishop of gold! _Friar Cuthbert (to the girl)._ What an infernal racket and din! No need not blush so, that's no sin. You look very holy in this disguise, Though there's something wicked in your eyes! _Friar Paul (continues.)_ Now we have changed That law so good, To cross of gold And bishop of wood! _Friar Cuthbert._ I like your sweet face under a hood. Sister! how came you into this way? _Girl._ It was you, Friar Cuthbert, who led me astray. Have you forgotten that day in June, When the church was so cool in the afternoon, And I came in to confess my sins? That is where my ruin begins. _Friar John._ What is the name of yonder friar, With an eye that glows like a coal of fire, And such a black mass of tangled hair? _Friar Paul._ He who is sitting there, With a rollicking, Devil may care, Free and easy look and air, As if he were used to such feasting and frollicking? _Friar John._ The same. _Friar Paul._ He's a stranger. You had better ask his name, And where he is going, and whence he came. _Friar John._ Hallo! Sir Friar! _Friar Paul._ You must raise your voice a little higher, He does not seem to hear what you say. Now, try again! He is looking this way. _Friar John._ Hallo! Sir Friar, We wish to inquire Whence you came, and where you are going, And anything else that is worth the knowing. So be so good as to open your head. _Lucifer._ I am a Frenchman born and bred, Going on a pilgrimage to Rome. My home Is the convent of St. Gildas de Rhuys, Of which, very like, you never have heard. _Monks._ Never a word!