"a mistress that is passing fair...as a note"
Metaphor
Act 1,
Scene 1
Lines 229-
A written note is used to jog one’s memory. In this metaphor, Romeo compares seeing an attractive girl to a note, and at the same time cleverly plays on the word “pass.” While looking at a reasonably (passing) beautiful girl, Romeo is reminded of his beloved who exceeds (surpasses) this girl in beauty.