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1854–1900

Poem: Portia

Oscar Wilde

I marvel not Bassanio was so bold To peril all he had upon the lead, Or that proud Aragon bent low his head Or that Morocco's fiery heart grew cold:

For in that gorgeous dress of beaten gold Which is more golden than the golden sun No woman Veronese looked upon Was half so fair as thou whom I behold.

Yet fairer when with wisdom as your shield The sober-suited lawyer's gown you donned, And would not let the laws of Venice yield Antonio's heart to that accursed Jew —

O Portia! take my heart: it is thy due: I think I will not quarrel with the Bond.

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Poem: Portia · Oscar Wilde · Poetry Cove