‘Who chooseth me shall get as much as he deserves:’
And well said too; for who shall go about
To cozen fortune, and be honourable
[039] Without the stamp of merit? Let none presume
040 To wear an undeserved dignity.
O, that estates, degrees and offices
[042] Were not derived corruptly, and that clear honour
Were purchased by the merit of the wearer!
How many then should cover that stand bare!
045 How many be commanded that command!