Page 438 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

What is here?
The fire seven times trièd this;
Seven times tried that judgment is
That did never choose amiss. [65]

Some there be that shadows kiss;
Such have but a shadow’s bliss.
There be fools alive iwis,
Silvered o’er, and so was this.

Take what wife you will to bed, [70]
I will ever be your head.
So be gone; you are sped.
Still more fool I shall appear

By the time I linger here.
With one fool’s head I came to woo, [75]
But I go away with two.
Sweet, adieu. I’ll keep my oath,

Patiently to bear my wroth.
Exit with his train.

PORTIA
Thus hath the candle singed the moth.
O these deliberate fools! When they do choose, [80]
They have the wisdom by their wit to lose.

NERISSA
The ancient saying is no heresy:
Hanging and wiving goes by destiny.

PORTIA
Come draw the curtain, Nerissa.

Enter Messenger.

MESSENGER
Where is my lady?

PORTIA
Here. What would my lord? [85]