Fer. O most dear mistress,
The sun will set, before I shall discharge
What I must strive to do.
Mira. If you'll sit down,
I'll bear your logs the while. Pray, give me that; 24
I'll carry it to the pile.
Fer. No, precious creature:
I had rather crack my sinews, break my back,
Than you should such dishonour undergo,
While I sit lazy by.
Mira. It would become me 28
As well as it does you: and I should do it
With much more ease; for my good will is to it,
And yours it is against.
Pro. Poor worm! thou art infected:
This visitation shows it.
Mira. You look wearily. 32
Fer. No, noble mistress; 'tis fresh morning with me
When you are by at night. I do beseech you—
Chiefly that I might set it in my prayers—
What is your name?
Mira. Miranda.—O my father! 36
I have broke your hest to say so.
Fer. Admir'd Miranda!
Indeed, the top of admiration; worth
What’s dearest to the world! Full many a lady
I have ey'd with best regard, and many a time 40
The harmony of their tongues hath into bondage
Brought my too diligent ear: for several virtues
Have I lik'd several women; never any
With so full soul but some defect in her 44
Did quarrel with the noblest grace she ow'd,
And put it to the foil: but you, O you!
32 visitation: sudden affliction (with pun on the meaning 'visit')
42 several: various
46 put . . . foil: defeated
