Master Doctor Faustus, I have heard strange report of thy knowledge in the black art, how that none in my empire nor in the whole world can compare with thee for the rare effects of magic: they say thou hast a familiar spirit, by whom thou canst accomplish what thou list This therefore is my request, that thou let me see some proof of thy skill, that mine eyes may be witnesses to confirm what mine ears have heard reported: and here I swear to thee by the honour of mine imperial crown, that, whatever thou doest, thou shalt be no ways prejudiced or endamaged.

Then, Doctor Faustus, mark what I shalt say.

As I was sometime solitary set

Within my closet, sundry thoughts arose

About the honour of mine ancestors,

How they had won by prowess such exploits,

Got such riches, subdued so many kingdoms

As we that do succeed, or they that shall

Hereafter possess our throne, shall

(I fear me) ne'er attain to that degree

Of high renown and great authority;

Amongst which kings is Alexander the Great,

Chief spectacle of the world's pre-eminence,

The bright shining of whose glorious acts

Lightens the world with his reflecting beams,

As when I hear but motion made of him

It grieves my soul I never saw the man.

If therefore thou by cunning of thine art

Canst raise this man from hollow vaults below,

Where lies entombed this famous conqueror,

And bring with him his beauteous paramour,

Both in their right shapes, gesture, and attire

They used to wear during their time of life,

Thou shalt both satisfy my just desire,

And give me cause to praise thee whilst I live.

Go to, Master Doctor, let me see them presently.

Master Doctor, I heard this lady while she lived had a wart or mole in her neck: how shalt I know whether it be so or no?

Sure these are no Spirits, but the true substantial bodies of those two deceased princes.

One of you call him forth! [Exit Attendant.

Re-enter the Knight with a pair of horns on his head.

How now, Sir Knight! why I had thought thou had'st been a bachelor, but now I see thou hast a wife, that not only gives thee horns, but makes thee wear them. Feel on thy head.

Good Master Doctor, at my entreaty release him: he hath done penance sufficient.

Farewell, Master Doctor; yet, ere you go Expect from me a bounteous reward.