Ernst and Falk: Dialogues for Freemasons, Continuation

fulfill original: "erfüllen" can, without being called a Freemason?

I remember that well enough—But you know surely, once my imagination original: "Fantasie" spreads its wings The word "Fittig" is a poetic or archaic term for a bird's wing or pinion. and takes flight—can I restrain it? — I reproach you with nothing other than that you dangled such a lure original: "Lockspeise," literally a "decoy-food" or bait used to entice someone. before it.

Which you nevertheless very soon grew tired of chasing—And why did you not say a word to me of your intention? Ernst's "intention" refers to his decision to be formally initiated into a Masonic Lodge.

Would you have advised me against it?

Most certainly! — Who would want to ra- The word is cut off; it is likely "rathen" (to advise/counsel). Falk is about to explain why he would have discouraged Ernst from joining the institutional Lodge.