Thus it began with laughter. But anon br The ox--eyed queen, who had resumed by rote br The tale of her perfections one by one, br Turned by some ominous chance towards the spot br Where we two stood. ``And take good note,'' said she, br ``All here is honest beauty, flesh and blood, br As any in the world. Yet, if there be br A doubt between you, let me make it good. br Which of you two will honour me so near br As to prove the truth?'' My cheeks in spite of me br Flamed in the dark, and I was seized with fear br And a wild doubt lest mine the choice should be. br The little woman on the chair began br To shout aloud and bid me play the man.