Mor. Mislike me not for my complexion, 002 The shadow’d livery of the burnish’d sun, To whom I am a neighbour and near bred. 004 Bring me the fairest creature northward born, 005 Where Phœbus’ fire scarce thaws the icicles, And let us make incision for your love, To prove whose blood is reddest, his or mine. I tell thee, lady, this aspect of mine Hath fear’d the valiant: by my love, I swear 010 The best-regarded virgins of our clime 011 Have loved it too: I would not change this hue, Except to steal your thoughts, my gentle queen. 013 Por. In terms of choice I am not solely led By nice direction of a maiden’s eyes; 015 Besides, the lottery of my destiny Bars me the right of voluntary choosing: But if my father had not scanted me 018 And hedged me by his wit, to yield myself His wife who wins me by that means I told you, 020 Yourself, renowned prince, then stood as fair As any comer I have look’d on yet For my affection. Mor. Even for that I thank you: Therefore, I pray you, lead me to the caskets. 024 To try my fortune. By this scimitar 025 That slew the Sophy and a Persian prince That won three fields of Sultan Solyman, 027 I would outstare the sternest eyes that look, Outbrave the heart most daring on the earth, Pluck the young sucking cubs from the she-bear, 030 Yea, mock the lion when he roars for prey, 031 To win thee, lady. But, alas the while! If Hercules and Lichas play at dice Which is the better man, the greater throw May turn by fortune from the weaker hand: 035 So is Alcides beaten by his page; And so may I, blind fortune leading me. Miss that which one unworthier may attain, And die with grieving. Por. You must take your chance; And either not attempt to choose at all, 040 Or swear before you choose, if you choose wrong, Never to speak to lady afterward In way of marriage: therefore be advised. 043 Mor. Nor will not. Come, bring me unto my chance. Por. First, forward to the temple: after dinner Your hazard shall be made. Mor. 045 Good fortune then! 046 To make me blest or cursed’st among men. [Cornets, and exeunt.