Therefore, I pray you, lead me to the caskets
To try my fortune. By this scimitar,— 24
That slew the Sophy, and a Persian prince
That won three fields of Sultan Solyman,—
I would outstare the sternest eyes that look,
Outbrave the heart most daring on the earth, 28
Pluck the young sucking cubs from the she-bear,
Yea, mock the lion when he roars for prey,
To win thee, lady. But, alas the while!
If Hercules and Lichas play at dice 32
Which is the better man, the greater throw
May turn by fortune from the weaker hand:
So is Alcides beaten by his page;
And so may I, blind fortune leading me, 36
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,
Or swear before you choose, if you choose wrong, 40
Never to speak to lady afterward
In way of marriage: therefore be advis'd.
Mor. Nor will not: come, bring me unto my chance.
Por. First, forward to the temple: after dinner 44
Your hazard shall be made.
Mor.Good fortune then!
To make me blest or cursed'st among men!
25 Sophy: Shah of Persia
26 Solyman: He fought the Persians in 1535
32 Lichas: the servant of Hercules
35 Alcides: Alceus was the father of Hercules' stepfather
42 advis'd: cautious
