HOFFMANN.

I thought to see again...
The deuce... why reopen old wounds?
Life is short. Enjoy it while we can.
We must drink, sing, laugh, as we may,
Left to weep to-morrow!


NATHANAEL.

Then sing the first without asking,
We'll do chorus.


HOFFMANN.

Agreed!


NATHANAEL.

Something gay.


HERMANN.

The song of the Rat!