Antonio,

a prominent merchant, was on his way home from a meeting of Venetian ship-owners. His two friends, Solanio and Salerio,
walked with him. The morning hadnt gone well: Antonio had sat silently throughout. The depression that had fallen on him showed no
sign of lifting and the two exchanged glances as their friend stopped at one of the marble columns of the Ca dOro and gazed out over
the Grand Canal. Antonios low mood was becoming a worry to them.

A funeral barge, decked in black and gold was passing slowly along the canal and the waves it caused made the gondolas prance and rear
like wild black stallions as they strained against the ropes that tied them to their striped poles. Antonio stared out towards the open sea,
then sighed and stepped back to join his friends beneath the balcony under which they stood waiting. In all honesty, I really dont know
why Im so depressed, he said. He attempted a smile and failed. Its exhausting. You say it exhausts you! I dont know how I caught it, or
found it, or came by it: I dont know what its made of or what caused it. Im so confused that I dont even know where I am most of the
time.

Salerio put his hand on his friends shoulder and nodded reassuringly. Your mind is tossing on the ocean, he said. Its out there with
your cargo ships, with their billowing sails, like noblemen and rich merchants of the waves or, if you like, colourful carnivals of the sea,
towering above the ordinary ships that bow respectfully to them as the wind hurries them on.

Solanio nodded. Believe me, sir, he assured Antonio, if I had such a valuable cargo on the ocean most of my thoughts would be out
there with it. Id be forever picking blades of grass to gauge which way the wind was blowing: poring over maps, looking for ports and
piers and safe havens. Every little thing that might threaten my venture would depress me.

Salerio agreed entirely. Blowing on my soup to cool it would remind me of what harm a stormy wind might do at sea and blow a chill
through me. I wouldnt be able to look at the sand running through an hourglass without thinking of shallow waters and sandbanks. Id
have an image of my best ship Andrew stuck in mud, her topsail lowered as though for a funeral. I wouldnt be able to go to church
without immediately thinking of the stones its built of as dangerous rocks that, just touching my fragile vessels side, would scatter all the
spices across the sea and clothe it with my silk fabrics. Within an instant Id be rich and then a pauper again. I couldnt help being
miserable if that happened. So dont deny it: it must be because youre worried about your merchandise.

Antonio looked up sadly. Believe me, no, he said. Im grateful for my good luck. My investments arent all in one ship or in one place.
My wealth doesnt depend on this years trading. So its not my merchandise thats making me depressed.

Solanio prodded him playfully in the ribs. Well then, you are in love! he teased.

Come on, come on! said Antonio, and he managed the ghost of a smile.

Not in love either? Solanio looked thoughtfully at him. Then let us say that youre sad because you arent merry. That if you wanted to
you could be laughing and jumping about, saying youre merry because you arent sad. By two-headed Janus, Nature has made some
strange people in her time. Some are eternally smiling and would laugh like idiots at the dismal wailing of a bagpipe, while others are so
sour that they wouldnt show their teeth in a smile even if the most solemn man told them the joke was funny.

Antonio turned again and resumed looking out at the sea. Three young men were coming towards them. When Solanio recognised them
he showed his eagerness to pass their friend on to them. Here comes your noble kinsman, Bassanio, he said. Goodbye then: well leave
you with better company.

Salerio patted Antonio on the back. I would have stayed to cheer you up if better friends hadnt prevented me, he said.

Im most grateful to you for staying with me, said Antonio as he watched his relative and friend approaching with two companions. You
have your own business to attend to, though. And this is a good opportunity to do that.

Good morning my lords, said Salerio.

Bassanio, and his friends, Lorenzo and Gratiano were smiling round at them.

Good gentlemen, both! exclaimed Bassanio as he took their hands. When are we going to have a night out and a good laugh together?
Youre becoming strangers. Is that what you want?

Salerio was keen to get on his way and he nodded in agreement. Well set a time aside to meet you, he said, and with a final bow he and
Solanio turned and left.

The three young men were in high spirits, in contrast to Bassanios relative, who, although pleased to see them, was unable to show it.
Lorenzo nudged Gratiano. Bassanio, he said. Now that youve found Antonio well leave you. But dont forget that were meeting for
dinner.

I wont fail you, said Bassanio.

Gratiano turned to leave then came back and addressed Antonio. You dont look well, Signior Antonio, he said. You let things get you
down. Too much worrying isnt good for you. Believe me, youve changed a lot.

I take life for what it is, Gratiano, said Antonio. The world is a stage on which everyone has a part to play. Mine is a sad one.

Let me play the fool, then! exclaimed Gratiano. Let me be wrinkled from mirth and laughter. And let my liver be heated with wine
rather than my heart cooled with sad groans. Why should a hot-blooded man sit like a stone statue of his grandfather, waking up only to
doze off again and turn yellow with peevishness? I assure you, Antonio I speak out of affection for you there are some men whose
faces are blank and expressionless: they do that on purpose, the idea being to appear wise, serious and deep, as if to say I am Master
Know-all, and when I open my mouth no dog should dare to bark! Oh, my dear friend Antonio, I know of some men who are regarded as
wise just because they dont say anything, when its clear that if they did theyd condemn themselves for their stupidity and invite
ridicule. He saw that Bassanio was trying to catch his eye, indicating to him to stop talking. Ill elaborate another time, he told the
expressionless Antonio. But dont you go fishing for that reputation with this depression as your excuse.

Bassanio was giving him somewhat angry glances now and Gratiano grabbed hold of Lorenzos arm. Come on, Lorenzo, he said.
Goodbye for now. Ill finish my homily after dinner.

Lorenzo laughed and bowed to Antonio. Right then, he said. Well leave you till dinner-time. I must be one of those silent wise men
because Gratiano never lets me get a word in edgewise.

Well keep company with me for just two more years and you wont even recognise the sound of your own voice! said Gratiano.

Goodbye, said Antonio. He made an effort to respond to their lightheartedness. Ill try and develop my conversational skills, he said.

I look forward to that, said Gratiano. Silence is only commendable in dried cow tongues and old maids.
They went off in high spirits, Gratiano whistling.

What do you make of that? said Antonio.

Bassanio laughed. Gratiano talks more rubbish than any man in Venice. The amount of sense in anything he says is like two grains of
wheat hidden in a bushel of chaff: youd search the whole day before finding them. And if you do find them they arent worth the
search!

They started walking, past the grand palaces with their pink and gold-tinted facades and tall arched windows, towards the Rialto. Antonio
tried to pull himself out of his dark mood. Well now, Bassanio, he said. What about this lady whos captured your heart the one you
promised youd tell me about today?

Bassanio stopped. His face was serious now, intense. Well its no secret to you, Antonio, that Ive squandered my inheritance by living
beyond my means. But Im not complaining about the fact that I have to economise now: my main aim is to repay the large debts Ive
saddled myself with. Youre my main creditor, both in money and in affection. And because of that affection you have for me I feel that I
can speak freely about the plans and schemes I have to clear myself of all my debts.

Please, said Antonio, tell me, Bassanio. And if your plan is honourable as you are my wallet, myself, and everything I have, are all at
your disposal.

In my school days, if I lost an arrow, I shot another in exactly the same way, watching it closely to see where the first one must have
fallen. By risking both I often found both. Im using this childhood example because what Im going to propose is just as innocent. I owe
you a lot, and what I owe has been lost. But if you would agree to shoot another arrow in the same direction as you shot the first, I have
no doubt because Ill watch things very carefully that Ill either find both or bring the second back to you and still stand by the debt I
owed you in the first place.

You know me well enough not to have to waste time beating about the bush, said Antonio. By doubting my unreserved support youre
doing me more wrong than you did by squandering my money. Just tell me what youd like me to do, if you think I can do it, and Im
committed. So talk.

Bassanio took a deep breath. Theres a rich heiress in Belmont, he began. And shes beautiful: and even better, shes got wonderful
qualities. And Ive read favourable messages in her eyes. Her name is Portia, and shes not in any way inferior to Catos daughter, Brutus
Portia. Nor is the wider world ignorant of her qualities because the four winds of the earth blow renowned suitors in from every shore.
And her fair hair cascades like a golden fleece and makes her Belmont another Colchos beach, and many Jasons come in pursuit of her.

Bassanio took a few steps toward the canal edge then turned and shook his head. Oh, my dear friend Antonio, if only I had the means to
compete with them, Im absolutely sure that I would win.

Antonio nodded thoughtfully. You know that all my wealth is at sea. I dont have the ready cash, nor any merchandise to sell to raise the
money at the moment. So go and find out how good my credit is in Venice. Stretch it to the limit to finance your expedition to Belmont,
to the beautiful Portia. Go straight away and ask around. I will as well. Find out where money is to be had and Ill borrow i t on the
strength of my credit or that of my friends.

Bassanio embraced him and almost ran as he hurried off on his mission.


Portias companion, Nerissa, had become a close friend since the death of Portias father. Apart from a similar sense of humour, their
being of the same, marriageable, age gave them a great deal in common and much to talk about. Moreover, the impossible situation
Portias late father had placed his only child in by the terms of his will, made a close confidant a most valuable asset.

They sat in the hall of Portias Belmont villa, trying yet again to make sense of it all. Portia sighed. Honestly, Nerissa, she said. My little
body is weary of this great world.

You would be, dearest madam, if your miseries were as numerous as your good fortunes, said Nerissa, but, the way I see it is that one
can be just as sick from over-eating as from starving. So its not such a bad thing to be poor. Having too much makes you old before your
time: having less gives you a longer life.

A good philosophy and well expressed, said Portia.

Nerissa looked around her at the rich furnishings, the priceless paintings, the gold fittings, and smiled. It would be better if that
philosophy were followed, she said.

If it were as easy to do as say, said Portia, chapels would be churches and poor mens cottages princes palaces. Its a good preacher
who follows his own preaching! Id rather teach twenty people what to do than be one of the twenty who had to follow my teaching. The
brain tries to make rules for the body but hot passions ignore them. Youth rejects good advice because it gets in the way. But all this
rationality isnt going to help me choose a husband. She sighed. Oh dear. That word choose! I can neither choose who I want nor reject
whom I dont like. So the will of a living daughter is frustrated by the will of a dead father. Isnt it hard, Nerissa, that I can neither choose
nor refuse?

Your father was a good man and good men often have inspiration on their deathbeds, said Nerissa. And so the lottery of the three
chests he devised gold, silver and lead with you being the reward for choosing the right one will no doubt ensure that you will love
the one who makes the right choice. Her mistress raised her eyes in her exasperation and Nerissa laughed. Then she said provocatively:
But what do you feel about those who have come?

Portia laughed. Oh please, go through their names and as you say them Ill tell you how I feel about each one.

They broke into a fit of giggles and when that had subsided Nerissa cleared her throat. First, theres the Neapolitan prince.

Oh theres a frisky young colt! exclaimed Portia. The only thing he can talk about is his horse and he praises himself for being able to
shoe him himself. I can only think that his mother must have had an affair with a blacksmith!

When they had stopped laughing Nerissa said: Then theres the Count Palatine.

He does nothing but frown, as if to say, If you wont have me then do as you please! He hears amusing stories but doesnt even smile.
Hell be really sour in his old-age, as hes so full of misery in his youth. Id rather be married to a skull with a bone in its mouth than to
either of those. God defend me from those two!

How do you like the French gentleman, Monsieur Le Bon?

Portia made an exaggeratedly effeminate gesture with her hand. Well! she said, God made him so well let him pass for a man. Really! I
know its not nice to mock, but him! Hes got a horse thats better than the Neapolitans: he frowns better than the Count Palatine. Hes
everyone and no-one. If a thrush sings he immediately begins dancing: he wants to fence with his own shadow. If I married him I would
be marrying twenty husbands. If he hated me I would forgive him: even if he loved me to distraction I wouldnt return his love.

Nerissa raised her hand, showing four fingers. Well then, what about Falconbridge, the English baron?

Portia pulled a face. You know I havent spoken to him. He doesnt understand me and I dont understand him. He speaks neither Latin,
French nor Italian, and you would be able to swear in court that Im pretty poor at English. Hes a handsome man but who can converse
with a dummy? And how strangely he dresses! I think he bought his waistcoat in Italy, his breeches and stockings in France, h is hat in
Germany, and his manners everywhere!

Nerissa held up five fingers. What do you think of his neighbour, the Scottish lord?

That hes full of neighbourly love, because he took a boxing of his ears by the Englishman and swore he would pay him back as soon as
he could. I think the Frenchman sided with him and became his guarantor for another beating!

Nerissa could hardly contain herself. How do you like the young German? she gasped. The Duke of Saxonys nephew?

Very little in the morning when hes sober and even less in the evening when hes drunk. When hes at his best hes less than a man and
at his worst hes little better than a beast. If the worst came to the worst I think I could manage without him.

If he decides to choose and he picks the right casket, you would be defying your fathers will if you refused to marry him.

Therefore, to stop the worst from coming to the worst, I beg you to put a large glass of Rhine wine on the wrong casket, because even if
the devil is in it, if that temptation is on the outside I know he will choose it. Ill do anything, Nerissa, rather than marry a sponge!

Portias distress at her predicament seemed to sink in, then, and she looked at her friend with dejected eyes. Nerissa got up and put her
arms around her. Madam, you neednt worry about having any of these men, she said gently. Theyve told me their intentions. Theyre
all going home and wont trouble you again, unless you can be won by some other means than your fathers imposition of the caskets.

If I should live to be as old as the Sibyl I will die as chaste as Diana unless Im won in accordance with my fathers will. Im glad this bunch
of wooers is so reasonable: theres not one of them whose absence I dont adore. May God grant them a safe journey!

Nerissa was thoughtful. Do you remember, madam, when your father was alive, a Venetian a scholar and a soldier who came here
with the Marquis of Montferrat?

Yes, yes! That was Bassanio, I think his name was.

Thats right, madam. Of all the men my foolish eyes have ever gazed upon, he was the most deserving of a beautiful lady.

I remember him well: he deserves your praise.

Nerissa was about to say something more when a servant approached them.

Well? What news? said Portia.

The visitors are looking for you, madam, to say goodbye. A messenger has arrived from another the Prince of Morocco to tell you
that his master will be here tonight.

If I could greet him as heartily as I can bid the others farewell, Id be glad about his arrival, said Portia. If he has the character of a saint
and the looks of a devil Id rather he blessed me than married me. Come on Nerissa. Go on ahead of us, she told the servant. She sighed.
No sooner do we slam the gate on one wooer than another knocks on the door!


Bassanio knew exactly where to go a money-lender who, he thought, would, for a price, immediately produce the money. It would
probably be more expensive than from any other source but it would all be done discreetly no-one would have to know about it. It
would be worth it because he was almost certain to be successful in his Belmont project and the money would be repaid without any
fuss. He entered the dingy streets of the Jewish quarter and knocked on the door of the biggest house in the district. Shylock was at
home and he came out to him. Bassanio came straight to the point.

Three thousand ducats, said Shylock. He nodded thoughtfully. Well

Yes, sir, for three months.

For three months. Shylock nodded again. Well.

Which, as I said, Antonio will guarantee.

Antonio will guarantee it. Well

Will you do it? Will you help me? Will you tell me?

Shylock stroked his beard. He spoke slowly, thoughtfully. Three thousand ducats for three months and Antonio will guarantee it

Yes, yes, said Bassanio impatiently. Whats your answer?

Hm. Antonio is a good man.

Have you heard any suggestion to the contrary?

Shylock laughed. Oh no, no, no, no, no! When I say he is a good man, you must understand that I mean he is financially sound. But his
wealth is at risk. One of his ships is bound for Tripoli, another for the Indies. Moreover, I have heard on the Rialto that a third is in
Mexico, a fourth sailing for England, and there are several others all over the place. He watched Bassanios impatient gestures for a
moment then laughed again. But ships are only timber, sailors only men. In the same way that there are water rats and land rats, there
are land thieves and water thieves: in other words, pirates. And then there are the dangers of currents, gales and rocks. Putting that aside
though, the man is sound. Three thousand ducats. I think I can accept his guarantee.

You can be sure you can!

I will make sure I can. And to be sure Ill think it over. May I talk to Antonio himself?

Of course! Come to dinner with us if you like.

Shylocks eyes narrowed. Yes, to smell pork and eat the meat your prophet of Nazareth cast devils into! I will buy from you, sell to you,
talk to you, walk with you, and so on, but I will not eat with you, drink with you nor pray with you. He was suddenly smiling again.
Whats the latest chatter on the Rialto? And whos this coming here?

Antonio had obviously had the same thoughts about where he might get the ready money because he was coming down the street. Its
Signior Antonio! said Bassanio.

He went to meet his friend and Shylock watched them conferring closely together. Antonio looked like a fawning innkeeper. Shylock felt
hatred for him because he was a Christian. But more seriously, because he generously lent out money without charging anything, which
brought down the rate of interest in Venice. Shylock was excited because this could be his chance to catch him off-guard and very
effectively pay back some old scores. Antonio hated Jews and was forever going on about Shylock in the business circles of Venice,
denouncing his business methods and condemning his hard-earned profits as extortion. May his tribe be cursed if he forgave him!

He didnt realise that his visitors were standing beside him and talking to him.

Shylock, are you listening? Bassanio was saying.

Im calculating my assets, said Shylock. At a rough guess I cant raise the full sum of three thousand ducats immediately. It doesnt
matter, though. Tubal, a wealthy Hebrew of my tribe, will give it to me. But wait. How many months do you need? He bowed to Antonio.
Dont look so worried, sir. Were trying to help you.

Antonio drew himself up and looked at Shylock with dislike. Shylock, he said, rather formally, Although I never lend nor borrow for
profit Ill break that rule to help my friend in his need. He turned to Bassanio. Does he know how much you want?

Of course, said Shylock. You just heard me. Three thousand ducats.

And for three months, said Antonio.

I had forgotten. Yes, three months. You did tell me that. Well then, your guarantee. Let me see But look here. I thought you said you
never lend nor borrow for profit.

I dont.

Shylock gazed at him for a long moment, then: When Jacob grazed his uncle Labans sheep thats the Jacob that was the third in line of
inheritance from Abraham after his cunning mother had arranged it for him. The third in line yes, thats right, he was the third.

Antonio tutted impatiently. Whats he got to do with it? Did he take interest?

No he didnt, said Shylock. Not directly anyway. Listen to what Jacob did. When he and Laban had agreed that all the new-born lambs
with stripes and patches should be Jacobs to keep as his wages, the ewes became ready and turned to the rams. And when these woolly
animals were in the act of mating the skilful shepherd got some sticks and stuck them in the ground in view of the lusty ewes. They
conceived at that point, and when lambing time came they gave birth to lambs with mottled markings. They belonged to Jacob. It was a
way of thriving and he was blessed. Profit is blessed as long as men dont steal to get it.

That was a gamble Jacob made, sir, said Antonio. It wasnt in his power to make it work. Heaven made the decision. Did you tell me that
to justify charging interest? Or are you suggesting that your gold and silver are ewes and rams?

I dont know. But I make them breed as fast! But listen to me, signior

Notice, Bassanio, said Antonio. The devil can quote the Scriptures for his purpose. An evil man who quotes from the Bible is like a villain
with a smiling face, a rosy apple with a rotten core. Oh what a lovely outside falsehood has!

Shylock was muttering. Three thousand ducats. Its a good round figure. He removed a book of tables from his pocket. Let me see.
Three months from twelve

Well Shylock? Antonio was impatient. Are you going to oblige us?

Shylock slipped the book back into his pocket. He looked at Antonio for a long time then shook his head.
Signior Antonio, he said. So many times on the Rialto, you have berated me about money and my money-lending. Ive always
responded with a patient shrug because enduring such things is the badge of all our race. You call me an unbeliever, a cut-throat dog, and
spit on my Jewish gabardine. And all for using what belongs to me. Well then, it now seems that you need my help. Alright then: you
come to me and you say, Shylock, we want some money. Thats what you say. You, who spat on my beard and kicked me as you would
kick a stray dog from your house. Now you want money. What am I supposed to say to you? Shouldnt I say, Has a dog got money? Could
a mongrel possibly lend three thousand ducats? Or shall I bend low and in the fawning tone of a servant, softly, in a small humble voice,
say this: Good sir, you spat on me last Wednesday: you kicked me on such and such a day: another time you called me dog. And for
these courtesies Ill lend you so much money ?

Im just as likely to call you that again, and spit on you again and kick you too! said Antonio. He glared at Shylock with hatred in his eyes.
If you lend this money dont lend it as you would to your friends, because since when did a friend make money from lending worthless
bits of metal to his friend? Rather lend it to your enemy who, if he fails to repay you, you can exact the penalty in good conscience.

Shylocks face crinkled in a warm smile. Why, look at the way youre raging! I want to be friends with you and have your high regard:
forget the indignities youve stained me with, and lend you the money you need. And take not a penny of interest. And you wont hear
me. This is kindness Im offering.

Bassanio burst into laughter. This is kindness! he exclaimed.

Ill prove its kindness, said Shylock. Come with me to an attorney. Sign your guarantee and just for fun if you dont repay me on
such and such a day, in such and such a place, such sum or sums as are mentioned in the contract, let the forfeit be stated a s a full pound
of your good flesh, to be cut off and taken from whatever part of your body I choose.

Agreed, said Antonio Ill sign such a contract and say the Jew is full of kindness.

Bassanio gripped his arm and took him aside. You mustnt sign such a contract for me. Id rather manage without.

Oh dont worry, man, said Antonio. I wont forfeit it. Within the next two months thats a month before the contract expires Im
expecting a return of nine times the value of this loan.

Shylock threw his hands up. Oh, Father Abraham! he exclaimed. These Christians, whose own tough dealings make them suspicious of
everyone! Please tell me, he said, appealing to Bassanio, If he should fail to repay me by this date, what would I gain by insisting on this
penalty? A pound of flesh taken from a man is not as valuable, or profitable, as the flesh of sheep, cattle or goats. What Im saying is that
Im offering this friendship to gain his goodwill. If hell take it, fine: if not, goodbye. But in any event, dont run me down.

Antonio ignored Bassanios attempts to catch his eye. Yes Shylock, he said. Ill sign this contract.

Then meet me at the attorneys immediately, said Shylock. Give him instructions for this playful contract, and Ill go and get the money,
and see to my house, which Ive left in the unreliable hands of a wasteful wretch: and Ill be with you as soon as I can.

As he turned to go back into his house Antonios lip curled in a scornful grimace. Goodbye, to you, gentle Jew, he said. They began
walking back up the street. The Hebrew would like to turn Christian, he said. Hes getting kind.

I dont like such fair terms from such a crook, said Bassanio.

Come on, said Antonio, taking his friends arm. Theres no cause for concern. My ships are due home a month before the deadline.


A butler ushered the Prince of Morocco into the great hall in Belmont. He was accompanied by his colourfully dressed attendants. As for
himself, he was splendid in gorgeous eastern robes and a spectacular green turban. He bowed graciously to Portia, who sat on a huge
ornate chair, surrounded by her attendants. Nerissa sat beside her. At the other end of the hall the three great oak caskets waited. Portia
invited the prince to sit on the chair opposite her, which he did, with several flourishes. She was aware of Nerissas efforts to maintain a
blank expression. She knew that she should, on no account, glance at her. She motioned the prince to begin his suit.

Do not take a disliking to me because of my colour, he began. His voice was rich and deep, and he had a guttural accent. Its the dark
uniform of those who live beneath the burning sun. Bring me the palest creature born in a northern climate, where the sun is too weak to
melt icicles, and compare our love by cutting through our skins. That would prove whose blood is reddest, his or mine. I assure you, lady,
this face of mine has struck fear into the bravest of men. I swear by my love that the most beautiful virgins of our country have loved it
too. I would not change my colour, my gentle queen, except to win your love.

As far as choice of a husband is concerned, replied Portia, Im not solely influenced by the things that normally appeal to a young
womans eyes. In any case, the lottery of my destiny removes the right to choose for myself. But if my father hadnt restricted me by his
plan to give myself as his wife to whoever wins me by the method I explained to you, you, renowned prince, would have had as good a
chance as any wooer.

I thank you for that, replied the prince with a modest bow of his head. So please lead me to the caskets to try my fortune. By this
sword, that dispatched the Sophy and a Persian prince who had won three battles against Sultan Solyman, I would outstare the sternest
eyes that ever looked, be braver than the most courageous man on earth, snatch the young sucking cubs from the mother bear, even
scorn the predatory lion, to win you, lady. But alas! If Hercules and Lichas were to throw dice to determine which was the greater, the
higher number may, by luck, be thrown by the weaker of the two. In that way, Alcides could be beaten by his page. So could I also, being
a hostage to fortune, lose what a less worthy man may gain, and die of grief.

You have to take that risk, said Portia. You must decide either not to attempt to choose at all, or swear, before you choose, that if you
choose wrong you will never again talk to another woman about marriage. So be warned.



I agree! So come on, lead me to my fate.

First, to the temple to make your vow, said Portia. After dinner youll make your choice.

Good luck to me then! exclaimed the prince. This will make me either the happiest or the most wretched of men.

Shylocks young servant, Lancelot Gobbo, very slowly opened his masters front door, peered round it, looked up and down the street,
then came out and stood in front of the house. His mind was in turmoil. On the one hand he felt no guilt about running away f rom the
Jew, his master the devil was at his elbow, tempting him, saying Gobbo, Launcelot Gobbo, good Lancelot, or good Gobbo, or good
Lancelot Gobbo. Use your legs: get started: run away. But on the other hand, his conscience was saying no, be careful, honest Lancelot,
be careful, honest Lancelot, or, using the same form of address as the devil had, honest Lancelot Gobbo dont run, dont take off.
Then the valiant devil tells him to pack his stuff. Off you go, he says. Away! For heavens sake, be bold, and run! Then his conscience,
like a great weight on his heart says, very wisely, to him: My honest friend Lancelot, being an honest mans son an honest womans
son, more like it, because his father was a bit dodgy Lancelot, dont budge. Budge! says the devil. Dont budge! says his
conscience.

Lancelot shook his finger at the imaginary figure at his right elbow. Conscience, he said out loud, you give me good advice. He shook his
finger in the other direction. Devil, he said, you give me good advice. To satisfy his conscience he would have to stay with his master,
the Jew who, bless us all, was a kind of devil. If he ran away from the Jew he would be satisfying the Devil himself, bless u s all! One thing
was certain, the Jew was the devil personified. For heavens sake, his conscience was being very tough on him to suggest staying with the
Jew. The devils advice was much more friendly. He tapped his left elbow. My heels are at your command, he said. Ill run.

He narrowly missed knocking an old man off his feet. The old man grabbed his coat and clung to it with one hand as he righted himself.
He held a basket in the other.

Master young man, he said, please, which is the way to Master Jews?

Lancelot recognised the voice. He stepped away from the old man and looked at him. Good heavens, it was his own father! He was more
than a bit blind, now, and didnt recognise his own son. He smiled. He would have a bit of fun with him.

Master young man, old Gobbo said again, please, which is the way to Master Jews?

Turn right at the next corner, but at the very next corner turn left. Then at the last corner dont turn any way but turn down indirectly to
the Jews house, said Lancelot, shouting and speaking as rapidly as he could.

By Gods saints, its a hard way to go, said old Gobbo. Can you tell me whether one Lancelot, who lives with him, lives with him or not?

Are you referring to young Master Lancelot? Young Gobbo smiled. He was about to make the tears flow. Do you mean young Master
Lancelot? he shouted in the old mans ear.

Just Lancelot, with respect to your mastership.

Thats right, Master Lancelot. But dont talk about Master Lancelot, old man, because the young gentleman as a result of something
like fate, destiny, or some such old wives tale, the fatal sisters or some such thing is deceased, or as one would say in plain terms, gone
to heaven.

Oh God forbid! exclaimed the old man. The boy was the staff of my old age: my prop! He dropped his basket and sunk to the ground.

Lancelot knelt beside him and smiled. Do I look like a stick or a corner post, a staff or a prop? Dont you recognise me father?

His father looked at him closely then gave up and shook his head. Alas, sir, Im almost blind, I dont recognise you.

No, even if you werent blind, you might still not recognise me. Its a wise father that knows his own child. He sat beside his father in the
street. Well, old man, he said, Ive got news about your son. Give me your blessing. The truth always comes out and murder cant be
concealed for long, even though a mans son may be, but in the end the truth will out.

Old Gobbo took his sons arm. Please, sir, stand up. Lancelot helped him up and he scrutinised the young mans face. He shook his head.
Im sure you arent my boy, Lancelot.

Come on now, said Lancelot, lets stop fooling around: give me your blessing. I am Lancelot, who was your boy, who is your son, and
who will always be your child.

I cant believe youre my son.

I dont know what to say to that, said Lancelot. But I am Lancelot, the Jews servant and Im certain that your wife, Margery, is my
mother.

The old man started. Her name is Margery! he exclaimed. I swear, if you are Lancelot, youre my own flesh and blood. Thank God! His
hands reached towards Lancelots face but the young man turned his back to him and his hands landed on the back of his sons head.
What a beard youve got! he exclaimed. Youve got more hair on your chin than my carthorse, Dobbins, got on his tail!

Lancelot laughed. Dobbins tail must go backward, he said. Im sure he had more hair on his tail than I had on my face last time I saw
him.

Lord how youve changed! Old Gobbo stared at him, trying to see him. How do you get on with your master? Ive brought him a
present. Come on now, how do you get on?

So so, said Lancelot. But for my own part, as Ive made up my mind to run away I wont rest till Ive covered some distance. My masters
a real Jew. Give him a present? Give him a noose! Im starving in this job. You can count every one of my fingers with my ribs! Father, Im
glad youve come. Give your present to a certain Master Bassanio, who issues beautiful uniforms. Either Ill work for him or run as far
away as I can. Oh, what a co-incidence! Look, hes coming this way. Go to him father: if I work for the Jew any longer then Im a Jew!

Bassanio was walking towards Shylocks house. His servant, Leonardo, and a few other young servants were with him. He was talking to
one of them as he walked.

Yes, you can do that, he was saying, but hurry up about it and make sure that supper is ready by five oclock at the very latest. See that
these letters are delivered, and order the servants uniforms from the tailor, and ask Gratiano to come to my house later.

Lancelot turned his father, pointed him towards Bassanio and gave him a shove. Go to him, father, he said.
The old man groped the air until his hand found Bassanios doublet then he bowed low in front of him. God bless your worship! he
exclaimed.

Thank you, said Bassanio, stepping back. Did you want something?

This is my son, sir, a poor boy

Lancelot interrupted him. Not a poor boy, sir, but the rich Jews servant who, as my father will explain
He has a great ambition, sir, as they say, to serve

Lancelot pushed the old man aside. Well the short and long of it is that I serve the Jew, but would like, as my father will explain He
nudged the old man.

He and his master, with respect to your worship, are scarcely on speaking terms, said Old Gobbo.

To cut a long story short, said Lancelot, the plain truth is that the Jew, having treated me badly, makes me as my father, being an old
man, will explain to you.

Old Gobbo lifted his basked and held it up in front of Bassanios face. I have here a dish of doves that I would like to give to your worship,
and my request is

Very briefly, said Lancelot, his request concerns me, as your worship will find out from this honest old man, and though I say it myself,
old man, although poor man, my father

Bassanio laughed. One can speak for both of you. He looked Lancelot up and down. What is it you want?
To work for you, sir, said Lancelot.

Thats the heart of the matter, sir, said Old Gobbo.

I know you well, said Bassanio. Your request is granted. Your master, Shylock, spoke to me today and recommended you, if its real
promotion to leave a rich Jews service to become a follower of such a poor gentleman.

The old proverb fits my master, Shylock, and you, sir. You have the grace of God and he has the money.

Youve put it well, said Bassanio. Go with your son, old man. He put his hand on Lancelots shoulder. Take your leave of your old
master and go and find my house. Give him a fancier uniform than all the others, he told one of the young servants. Make sure its
done.

Lancelot could hardly believe it. His mind was a blur. Bassanio took Leonardo aside to have a word with him and Lancelot grabbed hold of
his fathers shoulders. He guided him in the direction of Shylocks house. After you, he said. I cant get a job, can I? I dont have a tongue
in my head, huh? Well. He held his palm upward. Have you ever seen a palm that indicates a better fortune? Come on, look at this
lifeline. And that small matter of women. Fifteen wives is nothing. Eleven widows and nine virgins is nothing to a man like me. And then
to escape drowning three times, not to mention not getting caught in bed with those women. Those are all minor matters. Well, if
fortune is a woman, shes the right girl for this job. Come on father, Ill take my leave of the Jew in the twinkling of an eye.

Old Gobbo entered slowly, feeling his way through the door. Lancelot followed.

Bassanio completed his instructions to Leonardo. Take care of everything, please, good Leonardo. And when youve done everything and
packed carefully, come back as fast as you can. Im dining with my noble friend tonight. Off you go then.

Ill do my best, said Leonardo. He encountered Gratiano at the end of the street.

Wheres your master? said Gratiano.

Leonardo pointed. Hes over there.

Gratiano called to his friend. Bassiano!

Gratiano! Bassiano came hurrying towards him.

I need a favour, said Gratiano.

You have it.

Dont say no to this, said Gratiano. I want to go with you to Belmont.

Well then you must come with me. But listen Gratiano. Youre too wild, too rude, too outspoken. To our eyes, those arent faults: but
with people who dont know you theyre inappropriate. I beg of you, please try and tame your high spirits a little lets have a bit of
modesty otherwise your behaviour will spoil things in Belmont and destroy my chances.

Gratiano drew himself up. Signior Bassanio, he said. Listen to me. If I dont dress in a sober manner, talk respectfully, swear only now
and again, carry prayer-books in my pocket, assume a modest look even more than that, when they say grace, take off my hat, and sigh,
and say amen: be on my best behaviour at all times, like one bent on pleasing his grandmother never trust me again!

Bassanio regarded him for a moment then nodded. Well well see how you behave.

Gratiano shook his friends hand vigorously. Yes, but we wont count tonight. You mustnt judge me on what we do tonight!

Of course not: that would be a pity. I would beg you, instead, to be at your best tonight, because our friends intend to have a good time.
But goodbye for now: I have some business to attend to.

And I must find Lorenzo and the others. But well all come to you at dinner time.

Shylocks daughter, Jessica, escorted Lancelot to the door.

Im sorry youre leaving my father like this, she said. Our house is hell, and you, a merry devil, relieved it of some of its tedium. But
goodbye, and heres a ducat for you. She looked at him hesitantly then drew a letter out of her pocket. Lancelot, tonight at supper youll
see Lorenzo, who will be a guest of your new master. Give him this letter, and do it secretly. And so, farewell. I dont want my father to
catch me talking to you.

Adieu, said Lorenzo. My tears speak for me. Most beautiful pagan! Most sweet Jewess! Im much mistaken if a Christian didnt seduce
your mother to produce you. But goodbye. These foolish tears are unmanly. Goodbye!

Jessica watched him go then shut the door. It was goodbye to Lancelot. What a terrible sin it was in her to be ashamed to be her fathers
child. But although she was his natural daughter she wasnt his daughter in other ways. Oh Lorenzo! If he kept his word all her problems
would be over. She would become a Christian and be his loving wife.

Bassanios friends were making their arrangements for the fancy-dress party they had planned for the evening. They stood on a corner,
trying to come to some agreement.

No, Lorenzo was saying. Well slink away at suppertime, get into our costumes at my lodgings and be back within an hour.

Were not ready yet, said Gratiano.

We havent arranged the torchbearers yet, said Salerio.

Its no good unless its properly organised, said Solanio. Its better to drop it.

Its only four oclock, said Lorenzo. Weve got two hours to get ready. His face became animated as Lancelot approached, hurrying.
Whats the news, friend Lancelot?

Lancelot thrust the letter at him. If youd like to open this youll find out.

Lorenzo scrutinised the envelope. I recognise the handwriting, he said. Its beautiful, and the beautiful hand that wrote it is whiter than
the paper its written on.

A love letter, Ill bet! exclaimed Gratiano.

Lancelot made to walk on. If I may go, he said.

Where are you going? said Lorenzo, looking up from the letter.

Indeed sir! Lancelot sniggered. To invite my old master, the Jew, to supper with my new master, the Christian.
Hold on, said Lorenzo. He took a ducat out of his pocket. Take this. Tell dear Jessica I wont let her down. Tell her in private.

Lancelot grinned and took off.

Go gentlemen, said Lorenzo. Get ready for tonights masque. Ive arranged my own torchbearer.

Right, said Salerio. Ill get on with it straight away.

Me too, said Salanio.

Meet me and Gratiano at Gratianos in about an hour.

Perfect, said Salerio.

When they had gone Gratiano said: Wasnt that a letter from the beautiful Jessica?

I have to tell you everything, said Lorenzo. Shes told me how to take her from her fathers house, what gold and jewels shell bring, and
how shes going to dress as a page. If ever the Jew gets to heaven it will be because of his daughter. May misfortune never cross her path
unless its because shes the daughter of a Jew! Come with me. Read this as we go. Jessicas going to be my torchbearer.

Shylock and Lancelot came out of Shylocks house together. Shylock shook his head and tutted. Well you will see, he said. Your eyes will
be the judge as to the difference between Old Shylock and Bassanio. He turned impatiently to the open door. Jessica! he called. You
wont stuff yourself as youve done with me. What, Jessica! Or sleep and snore and wear out your clothes. He called more insistently:
What, Jessica, I say! He was holding a ring of keys and he rattled them impatiently.

Lancelot placed his hands around his mouth. Jessica! he shouted.

Who told you to call? said Shylock, irritably. I didnt tell you to call!

Your worship always said that I never did anything without being told to, said Lancelot.

Jessica came out to them. Did you call? What do you want?

Ive been invited to dinner, Jessica, said Shylock. Here are my keys. I dont know why Im going, though. I havent been invited out of
love. Theyre flattering me. But still, Ill go in hatred, to eat the wasteful Christians food. Jessica, my girl, look after my house. I really
dont want to go. Ive got a premonition that something bads going to happen because I dreamt of moneybags last night.

I beg of you, go, said Lancelot. My young master is looking forward to your bad temper.

As I am his, snapped Shylock.

And theyve planned something together. I wont exactly go as far as to say that youll see a masque Lancelot have him an exaggerated
wink, but if you do it wasnt for nothing that my nose bled on last Black Monday, at six oclock in the morning, when it occurred that
year on Ash Wednesday

What! Are there going to be masques? Listen to me Jessica. Lock my doors. And when you hear the drum and the atrocious squealing of
the curved fife, dont climb up to the window and thrust your head out into the street to stare at the Christian fools with t heir painted
masks. Plug my houses eyes I mean close the shutters and dont allow the sound of shallow foolishness to enter my sober house. By
Jacobs staff I swear I dont feel like eating out tonight. But I will go. Go ahead of me, you, and tell them Im coming.

Im going, sir, said Lancelot, but he hung back for a moment. Miss, he whispered to Jessica. Look out of the window because there will
be a Christian coming by, who will be worth a Jewess eye.

What did that foolish offspring of Hagar say? demanded Shylock as Lancelot went off, whistling.

He said, goodbye mistress, nothing else, said Jessica.

The lad is harmless, but hes a huge eater, a snail-slow worker, and he sleeps more during the day than a wildcat. I wont have drones in
my house so Ill let him go. To someone whom he can help waste borrowed money. Well, Jessica, in you go. I may be back very soon. Do
as Ive told you and lock the doors behind you. Fast bind, fast bind, a proverb always appropriate to a thrifty mind.
Jessica watched him stride off. Goodbye, she thought. And if nothing went wrong she had lost a father and he had lost a daughter. She
went inside and shut the door.

Gratiano and Salerio walked to the Jewish quarter and stopped at the end of Shylocks street. They had their masks on.

This is the porch under which Lorenzo told us to wait, said Gratiano.

Hes late, said Salerio.

And thats a strange thing. Lovers are usually in a big hurry.

Oh, the doves of Venus fly ten times faster to seal the bonds of new-found love than they do to maintain old friendships, said Salerio.

Thats always the case, said Gratiano. Who gets up from dinner with the same keen appetite as when he sits down? Where is the horse
that repeats the fiery enthusiasm of its early steps when its on its way home? The chase is always more exciting than the catch. How like
a youngster the garlanded ship sets out from her harbour, proudly riding the brisk wind, and how like the prodigal son she returns, with
weather-battered timbers and ragged sails, thin, torn and ruined by those brisk winds!

Heres Lorenzo now, said Salerio as Lorenzo came hurrying towards them, also masked. Shhh, well continue this another time.

Good friends, said Lorenzo. Sorry Im late. I was held up by a business matter. One day, when youre stealing a wife, Ill wait just as long
for you. Come. He strode down the street. This is where my father Jew lives. Hello! Anyone home?

A window opened above them and Jessicas head appeared.

Who are you? she said. Tell me so that I can be sure, although I think I recognise your voice.
Lorenzo, and your love.

Yes, Lorenzo! she exclaimed. And my love for sure! Because who do I love as much? And only you know whether I am yours.

Heaven and your feelings know that you are, he said.

Jessica raised a little casket. Here, catch this, she said. Its worth the trouble. She dropped it down to him and he caught it. Im glad its
night-time and you cant see me. Im ashamed of my clothes. But love is blind and lovers cant see the little follies they commit. If they
could, Cupid would blush to see me changed into a boy.

Come down, said Lorenzo. You must be my torch-bearer.

What? Must I hold a light up to my shame? Indeed, it shines out quite enough as it is! Love is a modest thing and I should be concealed.

And so you are, sweet one, he said, being in the lovely clothes of a boy. But come now, because its getting late and theyre waiting for
us at Bassanios party.

Ill lock the doors and get more money. Then Ill be with you. She pulled the window shut.

Well I never! exclaimed Gratiano. Shes more like a gentile than a Jew!

Lorenzo continued gazing at the window. I swear I love her dearly! As far as I can judge shes clever, and if my eyes can see at all, shes
beautiful. And shes faithful, as shes just proved. And so, as shes clever, faithful and beautiful, shell live in my heart forever.

Jessica came out, dressed like a boy, locked the door and turned to them.

Here you are, then, said Lorenzo and took her in his arms. Come on gentlemen, he said, lets go. Our friends will be waiting for us.

Gratiano walked a little behind the others. They turned a corner. Antonio was hurrying towards him from the other direction. Whos
there? he demanded when he saw the dim figure of Gratiano.

Gratiano peered. Is that you, Signior Antonio?

Shame on you, Gratiano! Antonio looked around exasperated. Where are all the others? Its nine oclock and our friends are waiting for
you. The partys been cancelled. The wind is favourable and Bassanios ready to embark. Ive sent twenty men out to look for you.

Gratiano grasped Antonios hand. Im thrilled, he said. I can think of nothing better than being under sail and gone tonight.

Portias musicians announced the arrival of the two parties with a fanfare as she entered, side by side with the Prince of Morocco, their
trains following behind.

Portia sat on her great chair and addressed one of the servants.

Go, draw the curtains aside and reveal the three caskets to this noble prince, she said.

When the curtains were drawn the Prince nodded and went and stood before the first of the three caskets.
The first, of gold, bears this inscription, he said. He leant forward to read it.

Who chooses me shall gain what many men desire. He frowned, then moved to the silver casket. The second, of silver, promises
this: Who chooses me shall get as much as he deserves. He appeared to ponder that. He shook his head thoughtfully. The t hird, made
of dull lead, has a warning just as blunt: Who chooses me must give and risk all he has. He turned and looked at Portia. How will I
know whether Ive chosen the right one?

One of them contains my picture, she said. If you choose that one then Im yours as well.

The Princes eyes gleamed in anticipation. He threw himself on to the floor and crouched in prayer. May some god guide my judgment!
he begged. He got up and rubbed his hands. Let me see. Ill read the inscriptions again. What does the lead casket say? Who chooses
me must give and risk all he has. Must give? What for? For lead? Risk everything for lead? Something wrong with this casket. Men who
risk everything do so hoping for a good return. A high, golden, mind doesnt stoop to things of such shabby appearance, so I wont give or
risk anything for lead!

He turned away from the lead casket with a dismissive sneer. What says the silver casket with its pure colour? Who chooses me shall
get as much as he deserves. As much as he deserves? Pause there, Morocco, and weigh your value even-handedly. If you were to be
valued according to your own estimation you certainly deserve enough! But enough may not extend to the lady. And yet, to be afraid of
my own worthiness would be to underestimate myself. As much as I deserve? He paced thoughtfully for a few moments then turned to
the assembled observers with a huge grin. Thats the lady, of course! I deserve her in terms of birth, and wealth, manners and quality of
breeding. But above all else I deserve her in love. What if I went no further but chose here? Lets have another look at the inscription
made in gold. Who chooses me shall gain what many men desire. Why thats the lady! The whole world desires her. They come from
the four corners of the earth, to kiss this holy thing, this living saint. The Hyrcanian deserts and the vast wilds of Arabia have become
highways for princes coming to see the beautiful Portia. The watery kingdom of the sea, whos ambitious head spits in the face of heaven,
is no barrier to these foreign suitors: they come as though merely crossing a brook, to see the beautiful Portia. One of these three
contains her heavenly picture. Is it likely that lead would contain her? Its damnable to think such a base thought, and unthinkable to
imagine her as wrapped in a leaden shroud. Or shall I imagine her buried in silver, which is ten times less valuable than true gold? Oh,
what a sinful thought! No gem as rich as she was ever set in anything less than gold. In England they have a coin that has the image of an
angel stamped on the gold. Its only engraved, but in here a real angel lies on a golden bed.

He held his hand out to the attendant who held a cushion with the golden key on it. Give me the key. I choose this one, and good luck to
me.

Take it, Prince, said Portia. And if my picture is in there, then I am yours.

The Prince took the key, unlocked the casket and lifted the lid. He reached in eagerly then let out an anguished cry. Oh hell! He lifted the
contents of the casket. A rotting skull, and in its empty eye socket theres a rolled-up manuscript. Ill read it. He unrolled the scroll and
read it out loud:

All that glisters is not gold,

Often have you heard that told.
Many a man his life has sold,
But my outside to behold.
Gilded tombs do worms infold.
Had you been as wise as bold,
Young in limbs, in judgment old,
Your answer had not been inscrolled
Far you well, your suit is cold.

The Princes face showed his feelings. Cold indeed, he said quietly. And time wasted. So goodbye warmth and welcome cold. Goodbye
Portia. My heart is too heavy for a long leavetaking. He bowed formally. And this is how losers leave, he said. He turned and swept out,
his attendants following.

Portia waited till he was out of hearing then she laughed delightedly. Good riddance! she exclaimed. Draw the curtains. May everyone
with his kind of vanity choose like him!

Salerio and Solanio sat in their favourite inn, at their favourite table, where they had a good view of the Grand Canal with its busy traffic.

Why, man, I saw Bassanio setting sail, said Salerio. Gratiano has gone with him. Im sure Lorenzo hasnt.

The villainous Jew woke the Duke with his shouting, said Solanio. The Duke went with him to search Bassanios ship.

Salerio laughed. He got there too late. The ship was underway. But the Duke was told at the dock that Lorenzo and his love-struck Jessica
had been seen together in a gondola. Moreover, Antonio confirmed to the Duke that they werent with Bassanio in his ship.

Solanio shook his head. Ive never heard such passion so confused, so strange, so outrageous, so inconsistent as the dog Jew was
shouting. He got up and started stamping around the room, clutching his head and imitating Shylocks voice. My daughter! Oh my
ducats! Oh my daughter! Fled with a Christian! Oh my Christian ducats! Justice! The law! My ducats and my daughter! A sealed bag, two
sealed bags of ducats, of double ducats, stolen from me by my daughter! Justice! Find the girl! She has the stones on her, and the
ducats!

Salerio wiped the tears of laughter from his cheeks. And all the boys of Venice follow him, shouting: His stones! His daughter! His
ducats!

Solanio sat down again and stared out at the ships moored alongside the wharf. He shook his head. Antonio had better meet his deadline
or hell pay for this.

Yes, well remembered, said Salerio. I was chatting to a Frenchman yesterday: he told me that a rich Venetian ship was wrecked in the
English Channel. When he said that I thought of Antonio and silently hoped it wasnt his.

It would be a good idea to tell Antonio what you heard. But do it tactfully because it may upset him.

No kinder gentleman walks on this earth, said Salerio. I saw Bassanio and Antonio saying goodbye. Bassanio said he would get back as
soon as possible. Antonio said, No, dont: dont rush your business for my sake, Bassanio. Take as long as you have to. As for the Jews
bond, dont let it interfere with your wooing. Be happy and concentrate on your courting and such procedures as seem appropriate
there. And at that his eyes swelled with tears and, turning his face away, he stretched out his arm behind him. Then, with deep affection
he shook Bassanios hand, and thats how they parted.

I think he only lives for Bassanio, said Solanio. Right, then, eat up. Lets go and find him and try and lift him out of his dejection with
some entertainment or other.

Nerissa came running into the casket room. The servants sprang up and took their positions.

Quick, quick! she said. Draw the curtains right now. The Prince of Arragon has taken the oath and hes on his way to make his choice!

No sooner had they drawn the curtains aside than Portia arrived with the Prince and his attendants.

Look, there are the caskets, noble Prince, said Portia, once she had seated herself in her large chair. If you choose the one that contains
my picture well be married right away. But if you fail, you must say nothing, my lord, and leave immediately.

The Prince of Arragon clasped his hands together, closed his eyes and leaned back slightly. Im bound by oath to observe three things,
he began. First, never to disclose to anyone which casket it was that I chose. Second, if I fail to choose the right casket, never in my life to
woo a woman with marriage in mind. Lastly, if Im unfortunate in my choice, to leave you immediately and be gone.
Everyone who comes to gamble for my worthless self has to swear to these conditions, said Portia.

And I have accepted all this, said the Prince. May fortune grant me my hearts desire. He walked up and down in front of the caskets
for a while then he paused at the lead casket. Gold, silver and base lead. Who chooses me must give and risk all he has. Hm. He turned
and looked at Portia. Youd have to be more attractive before Id give or risk. What does the golden chest say? Ah, let me see. Who
chooses me shall gain what many men desire. What many men desire! By that many may be meant the stupid mob who choose by
appearance, judging by the eyes alone. They dont penetrate to the heart of things but go about it like those birds that build their nests
on outer walls, at the mercy of the weather, right in the way of danger. I will not choose what many men desire, because I dont jump
with the common man, nor do I rank myself among the ignorant masses. Well then, to you, you silver treasure-house! Tell me once more
what inscription you bear. Who chooses me shall get as much as he deserves. And well said too, because who goes out to seek his
fortune, looking for honour, without already having high merit? No-one should assume a status he doesnt deserve. I wish that lands,
titles, and public offices were never gained corruptly, and that honours were always earned by merit. How many men would keep their
hats on instead of politely raising them? How many be ordered about rather than issue orders? How many labourers would come from
the upper classes and how many noblemen would be created from the dregs and castoffs of society? Well. To my choice. Who chooses
me shall get as much as he deserves. I will assume desert. He turned. Give me the key for this and immediately unlock my fortunes
here.

He opened the casket confidently then stood back, shocked.

Too long a pause for what you find there, said Portia.

The Prince of Arragon lifted something out of the casket then staggered backwards.

Whats here? he roared, holding a small object up. A gibbering idiot presenting me with a letter. Ill read it. He took the letter and
threw the figure back into the casket. How unlike Portia you are! he exclaimed How very different my hopes and my deservings were!
Who chooses me shall have as much as he deserves. Did I deserve no more than a fools head? Is that my reward? He appealed to Portia.
Do I deserve no better?

To offend and to judge are two different things, said Portia.

Arragon opened the letter. Whats in it? he said. He read it out aloud.

The fire seven times tried this:

Seven times tried that judgment is
That never did choose amiss,
Some there be that shadows kiss:
Such have but a shadows bliss:
There be fools alive, I wis,
Silvered oer and so was this.
Take what wife you will to bed,
I will ever be your head:
So be gone, you are sped.

Arragon stood, his mouth open, staring at Portia. She shrugged then looked at Nerissa and smiled.

The longer I stay the more of a fool Ill look, said Arragon. I came to woo wearing one fools head, but now Im going away with two.
Goodbye, sweet woman. Ill keep my promise to bear my fate with patience.

He turned and left, sadly and slowly. Portia sighed. Another moth singed by the burning candle. Oh these pompous fools! When they
make their choice theyre too clever for their own good and make a mess of it.
Nerissa laughed. The old saying is right: whether you end up hanged or married is a matter of fate.
Portia got up. Come, she said. Draw the curtain.

A servant met them at the door. Where is my lady? he said to Nerissa.

Here I am. Portia was in a good mood. What can I do for my lord?
Madam, a young Venetian has arrived at your gate to announce the approach of his master. He has brought substantial tokens that is
to say, apart from salutations and courtesies, gifts of great value. Ive never seen such a promising ambassador of love. No sweeter April
day ever anticipated the summer as well as this forerunner introduces his master.

Stop now, please, said Portia. Im half afraid youre going to say he is family of yours, you spend so much time praising him. Come,
come, Nerissa. Im dying to see this messenger of Cupid who arrives in this splendid way.

Lets hope its Bassanio, if its the will of the god of love! said Nerissa.

Salerio and Solanio arrived at the inn at the same time and lingered in the street.

Well now, said Solanio. Whats the news on the Rialto?

Salerio shook his head gravely. Theres a rumour going around that one of Antonios most richly laden ships was wrecked in the Channel
the Goodwins, I think they call the spot: a very dangerous and fatal sandbank, where the carcasses of many tall ships lie buried, if the
stories are true.

I hope they arent, but its certainly true, without putting too fine a point on it, that the good Antonio, the honest Antonio oh I wish I
could find the words to describe him adequately

Come on, Salerio urged. Finish your sentence.

Solanio was staring out towards the open sea. What? What are you saying? he said. Well, anyway, the end result is that he has lost a
ship.

I hope that will turn out to be the full extent of his losses, said Salerio.

Let me say amen at once, agreed Solanio, in case the devil confounds my prayer, because here he comes in the form of a Jew!

Shylock was going somewhere in a hurry.

Hello Shylock, said Solanio, as he came past them. What news among the merchants? He nudged Salerio.
Shylocks face was gaunt as he stopped and faced them full on. You knew! he snapped, shaking his finger at them, none as well as you
of my daughters flight.

Absolutely, said Salerio. For my own part, I knew the tailor who made the wings she flew with.

Solanio put his arm across Shylocks shoulders. And Shylock, for his own part, knew the bird was ready to fly, and in any case its natural
for all of them to leave the nest.

Shylock pushed his arm away. Shes damned for it! he cried.

Thats certain. Salerio winked at Solanio. If the devils her judge.

My own flesh and blood to rebel! cried Shylock.

Shame on you, you old scarecrow! exclaimed Solanio. At your age?

I mean my daughter, who is my flesh and blood, said Shylock.

Salerio laughed. Theres more difference between your flesh and hers than there is between jet and ivory, more difference in your blood
than between red wine and Rhine wine. But tell us now, have you heard whether Antonio has had any loss at sea or not?

Thats another bad deal I have, said Shylock. A bankrupt. A prodigal, who hardly dares show his face on the Rialto: a beggar, who used
to come so smugly into the market place. Let him look to his bond! He always calls me a usurer. Just let him look to his bond! He used to
lend money as a Christian courtesy. Hed better honour his bond.

Well Im sure that if he fails you wont take his flesh. What could you use it for? said Salerio.
To bait fish with! snapped Shylock. If it will feed nothing else it will feed my revenge! He has insulted me and obstructed me half a
million times. He has laughed at my losses, mocked my gains, scorned my race, thwarted my deals, alienated my friends, inflamed my
enemies. And whats his reason? That I am a Jew! Hasnt a Jew got eyes? Hasnt a Jew got hands, organs, limbs, senses, likes and dislikes,
passions? Fed with the same food, injured by the same weapons, vulnerable to the same diseases, healed by the same medicine, warmed
and cooled by the same winter and summer, as a Christian is? If you prick us do we not bleed? If you tickle us do we not laugh? If you
poison us do we not die? And if you wrong us, wont we seek revenge? If a Jew wrongs a Christian, what is his recourse? Revenge! If a
Christian wrongs a Jew, what should the penalty be by Christian example? Revenge, of course. I will carry out the villainy you teach me.
And even though it will be hard, I will even outdo that villainy!

The two watched him, exchanging glances, smirking to each other. Before either could make any cynical response a servant approached
them.

Gentlemen, he said, Antonio is at his house and would like to talk to both of you.

Weve been looking everywhere for him, said Salerio.

Someone was coming towards them, dressed in Jewish gabardine. Solanio laughed. Here comes another member of the tribe. You
couldnt find a finer third unless the devil himself were to become a Jew. He signalled to Salerio and they went off, laughing.

Thank God, Tubal! exclaimed Shylock. What news from Genoa? Have you found my daughter?

I heard her spoken of several times but I couldnt find her, Tubal told him. He gripped his friends arm.

Shylock sank to his knees and clutched Tubals robe. There, there, there, there, he sobbed. A diamond gone cost me two thousand
ducats in Frankfurt. Such a curse never fell on our nation until now I didnt feel it until now! Two thousand ducats in that, and other
precious, precious jewels. I wish my daughter were dead at my feet and the jewels stuffed in her ear! I wish she were lying dead at my
feet and the ducats in her coffin! He looked up at Tubals face. His eyes pleaded. No news of them? When Tubal shook his head he got
up. Alright then. And another thing: I dont know how much the search has cost. Loss on loss! The thief has gone with so much, and so
much more spent trying to find the thief. And no satisfaction, no revenge, no bad luck for anyone except that which lies on my own
shoulders. No sighs but my sighs! No tears but my tears!

Tubal put his arm round Shylocks shuddering shoulders. Yes, other men have bad luck too, he said. Antonio, as I heard in Genoa..

Shylocks sobbing stopped and he turned eagerly. What? What? What? Bad luck? Bad luck?

Has had a merchant ship lost, coming from Tripoli, said Tubal.

Shylock clasped his hands together and looked up to the sky. I thank God! I thank God! Is it true? Is it true?

I spoke to some sailors who survived the wreck.

Oh thank you, good Tubal. Good news! Good news! Shylock laughed loudly. You heard this in Genoa?
Your daughter spent, so I was told, eighty ducats in one night in Genoa.

Shylock groaned. Youre sticking a dagger in me. Ill never see my gold again. Four score ducats at a sitting! Fourscore ducats!

Several of Antonios creditors travelled back with me to Venice and they swear he will be forced into bankruptcy.

Im thrilled about that, said Shylock. Ill plague him. Ill torture him. Im thrilled about it.

One of them showed me a ring that your daughter had exchanged with him for a monkey, said Tubal.

Damn her! exclaimed Shylock. Youre torturing me, Tubal. It was my turquoise ring. I got it from Leah before we were married. I
wouldnt have sold it for a wilderness of monkeys.

But Antonio is definitely ruined, said Tubal.

Yes, thats true, thats very true, said Shylock. Go Tubal get me a lawyer. Give him two weeks notice. Ill have his heart if he defaults
because, once hes been removed from Venice, I will be able to do business in my own way. Go, Tubal, and meet me at our synagogue.
Go, good Tubal. At our synagogue Tubal.

Portia and Bassanio strolled in the garden of her villa, high on the hill that overlooked the blue sea. She was doing everything she could to
delay the fearsome ceremony because she couldnt bear the thought of him making the wrong choice and leaving, never to return. She
stopped and took his hand.

Wait a while, she pleaded. Stay a day or two before you take the gamble. If you choose wrong Ill lose you. Therefore wait a while.
Somethings telling me although its not love She looked away guiltily. that I dont want to lose you. Then she said quickly, in a
whisper: although you know that hatred doesnt send the same message. She looked at him again, conveying her feelings with her eyes.
Then she went on. But because you dont know me well and young women can only think their thoughts, not say them Id like to
have you here a month or two before you make your choice. She stopped. I could tell you which one to choose.. she paused. His face
was expressionless. but Im under oath not to. If you lose Ill never be anothers and youll make me wish for something sinful: that I
had broken my oath. Shame on your eyes! she exclaimed and looked away. They have penetrated me and divided me in two one half
of me belongs to you: the other half is yours too. I should say its my own but what is mine is yours, so all of me is yours. Oh, these days
owners dont often get their rights so, though I am yours in one sense, I cant really be. If thats true, Fortune should go to hell for it, not
me! But Im gabbling on. Its only to slow time down, though, to draw it out, to stretch it, and stop you from making your choice.

Bassanio drew her down on to a garden bench and took both her hands in his. Let me choose, he said. I feel as though Im on the rack.

Being tortured, Bassanio? she said. Confess, then, the treason that is mingled with your love.

None but the ugly treason of uneasiness, he said, which makes me afraid to enjoy my love. Snow and fire could exist more easily
together than treason and my love.

Yes, but Im afraid youre speaking from the torture rack, where men are forced to say anything.

Promise me life and Ill confess the truth, he said, pulling a face that suggested the pain of torture.
She laughed. Well then, confess and save your life!

Confess and love would be the sum total of my confession. What a lovely torment, when my torturer tells me the answers that will set
me free! But come, lead me to my fortune and the caskets.

Go then! I am locked in one of them. If you really love me youll find me there.

They walked to the villa and to the room where the caskets waited. Their servants and companions had already assembled.

Nerissa and the rest of you, stand aside. Portia gestured to the musicians. Let music play while he makes his choice. Then, if he loses, he
will fade away in music, like a dying swan. To make the comparison more exact, my tears will be the stream and watery deathbed for
him. She summoned up a smile and looked around at the assembled company. He may win, she continued. And what would the music
be then? It would be like the fanfare that makes loyal subjects bow at a coronation. Its like those sweet bird sounds the dawn chorus
that creep into the sleeping bridegrooms ear, summoning him to his wedding. And so he goes, as securely, and with much more love in
him, than Alcides did when he rescued Hesione from the sea after the Trojans had sacrificed her to appease the sea-monster. Here, I am
the sacrifice. The observers in the gallery are the women of Troy, come, with tears, to see the result of the sacrifice. Go, Hercules, if you
win I will have my life back. I am far far more apprehensive than you, who are making the choice are.

Bassanio walked slowly, thoughtfully, to the caskets. Portia signalled to the musicians, who struck up with recorders and drum, and began
singing:
Tell me, where is Fancy bred
In the heart or in the head?
How begot, how nourished?

It is engendered in the eyes,

With grazing fed. And Fancy dies
In the cradle where it lies.
Let us all ring Fancys knell:
Ill begin it, Ding, dong, bell.
Bassanio had stopped at the lead casket. Outward appearance can be misleading, he said.

Portia gripped Nerissas hand.

The world is always taken in by ornament, continued Bassanio. In a court of law there is no plea, however tainted or corrupt, whose evil
cant be disguised with a saintly voice. In religion theres no heresy that some serious scholar wont bless, and support it with the
scriptures convincing words. Theres no vice, no matter how obvious, that doesnt have some appearance of virtue. How many cowards,
whose hearts are as false as stairs made of sand, still wear beards as manly as those of Hercules and warlike Mars, who, if you could see
inside them, would reveal livers as white as milk? They grow their beards, putting on the cloak of valour to make themselves appear
brave. Think about beauty and you will realise that its often bought by weight and, when in the form of makeup, it works miracles in that
those who use it most heavily are the lightest in their morals. Moreover, those golden silken curls that blow so seductively in the breeze
on the heads of supposedly beautiful women often turn out to be the hair of someone now safely buried in a tomb. And so, ornament is
only the inviting shore of a most treacherous sea: the beautiful scarf veiling a doubtful beauty. To sum it up, ornament is the apparent
truth that, when needed, can deceive the most astute men. And so, gaudy gold, food for Midas, Ill have none of you. Nor you, silver, you
pale common metal of coins but you, you insignificant lead, that seems to threaten rather than promise anything, you move me more
than the eloquence of gold and silver does. And this is my choice. May it bring me joy! He held his hand out for the lead key.

Portia gasped. All her fears were leaving her all those doubtful thoughts, all that unjustified despair: shuddering fear and green-eyed
jealousy. She fought to contain her ecstasy, to control her expressions of joy. She had to reign her excitement in. She felt overwhelmed
by loves blessing: she wanted it to be less in case it drowned her.

Bassanio was unlocking the casket. He raised the lid, reached in and lifted the contents out.

What do I find here? The beautiful Portias portrait. He held it up. How goddess-like it is! Do these eyes move? Or are they reflecting the
movement of my own? Here are lips parted with sugar breath. Only such sweetness should divide such sweet lips. Here, in her hair, the
painter has been a spider, weaving a golden net to trap mens hearts, more surely than gnats caught in webs. But her eyes! How did he
see to do them? Having made one, I would think it must have blinded him and made it impossible for him to do the other one. B ut look.
Just as my praise understates the beauty of this picture, the picture limps behind the original. He took a scroll out of the casket. Heres
the scroll that tells me my fate.

You that choose not by the view,

Chance as fair and choose as true:
Since this fortune falls to you,
Be content, and seek no new.
If you be well pleased with this,
And hold your fortune for your bliss,
Turn you where your lady is,
And claim her with a loving kiss.

A wonderful scroll! He turned and went to Portia. Beautiful lady, with your permission, I come with a letter of introduction, to give and
to receive. He stood, wanting to kiss her but holding back, not sure of himself. Im like a competitor for a prize, thinking from the
applause and cheering that the spectators have been pleased but feeling a bit disorientated, hesitating with doubt that the clapping is for
him. Thats how I feel, thrice beautiful lady: exactly like that, wondering whether what Im seeing is real: and will do so until its
confirmed, signed and ratified by you.

She stood up and went to him. She took both his hands. You see me, Lord Bassanio, where I stand, she said. Exactly as I am. Although I
have no desire to better myself in my own regard, for your sake I wish I were sixty times better, a thousand times more beautiful, ten
thousand times richer. To stand high in your estimation I would like to improve myself in virtue, beauty, wealth and friends. The truth is
that Im really not much. The sum total is an uneducated girl, untaught, inexperienced: happy in this one thing that she is not too old to
learn: even happier in that shes not too stupid to learn, and happiest of all in that she surrenders herself to be instructed by you as her
lord, master and king. She stretched up towards him and they kissed. Myself and what is mine has now been transferred to you. Until a
moment ago I was the lord of this beautiful house, master of my servants, queen of my own life, and now, right now, as from this
moment, this house, these servants and I, myself, are yours my lords. She took a ring off her finger. I give them with this ring. She put
it on his finger. If you part from it lose it or give it away it will mean the end of your love and it will be my reason for blaming you.

Bassanio was overwhelmed. Madam, he said. Im speechless. Only the blood in my veins speaks. Im in a state of such confusion, like a
rapturous crowd being addressed by a beloved prince, all shouting at once. Each enthusiastic voice joins the others to make a wordless
tumult of joy, expressing nothing and everything. But when this ring is separated from this finger, it will be the end of life. It will mean
that Bassanios dead.

Nerissa came forward to join them. Gratiano followed her.

My lord and lady, said Nerissa, its now the turn of those whove stood by and seen our wishes come true to cry good joy. Good joy my
lord and lady!

Gratiano gripped his friends hand. My lord Bassanio and my gentle lady, he said. I wish you all the joy that you could yourselves wish
for: Im sure you dont need my good wishes. And when you marry, I ask your permission to be married at the same time.

Bassanio laughed. With all my heart. He gave Gratiano a friendly punch. If you can find a wife!

Gratiano bowed exaggeratedly. I thank your lordship youve found me one. He took Nerissas hand My eyes, my lord, are as quick as
yours. You saw the mistress I beheld the maid. You loved I loved. I needed no more of a spur than you, my lord. Your fate depended
on those three caskets so, as it turned out, did mine, because, after wooing her till I sweated and swearing my love till my mouth was
dry, at last if promises last I got the promise from this beautiful one here, of her love, on condition that you got the mistress.

Portia couldnt contain her delight. Is this true, Nerissa?

Madam, it is, if youre happy with it.

And you, Gratiano, said Bassanio, are you serious?

Very serious, my lord, said Gratiano.

Our wedding celebration will be enhanced by your marriage, said Bassiano.

Well bet a thousand ducats we have a son first, said Gratiano, smiling at Nerissa.

What a thing to bet on, said Nerissa through her blushes.

Well we wont win that bet if we dont do something about it! said Gratiano.

There was an awkward silence and the situation was saved by the arrival of Lorenzo, Jessica and Salerio. Ah, look whos here, said
Gratiano. Lorenzo and his infidel? And whats this? My old Venetian friend, Salerio.

Lorenzo and Salerio, welcome!exclaimed Bassanio. If I can be so presumptuous, being so new here. Sweet Portia, with your permission,
I welcome my friends and countrymen.

So do I, my lord, she said. Theyre very welcome.

I thank you, sir,said Lorenzo, shaking Bassanios hand. I hadnt planned to see you here but I bumped into Salerio and he begged me to
come with him, not taking no for an answer.

I did, my lord, said Salerio, and I had a good reason for doing so. He handed Bassanio a letter. Signior Antonio sends his compliments.

Before I open this letter, I beg of you, tell me how my good friend is, said Bassanio.

Not sick, my lord, unless its in his mind nor well, unless in his mind. His letter there will explain it all.

Gratiano pointed discreetly at Jessica, who was looking uncomfortable. Nerissa, go and cheer that stranger up, he whispered. Make her
feel at home. He turned to Salerio as Nerissa went to welcome Jessica. Your hand, Salerio. Whats the news from Venice? Hows that
great merchant, good Antonio? I know hell be pleased about our success. We are the Jasons! We have won the fleece!

I wish you had won the fleece that hes lost, said Salerio. He took Gratiano aside.

Portia watched Bassanios face as he read Antonios letter. There had to be something very serious in its contents to drain Bassanios face
of colour like that. A dear friend must have died. Nothing else could change the demeanour of a normal man in that way. It was getting
worse as he read. She touched his arm. With your permission, Bassanio, she said. I am your other half: I will readily share half of
anything this letter contains.

He turned and looked at her with eyes welling with tears. Oh dearest Portia! he exclaimed. Here are some of the most unpleasant
words ever written on paper. Gentle lady, when I first declared my love to you, I told you openly that all the wealth I had ran in my veins.
I was a gentleman and told you the truth. And yet, dear lady, in rating myself at nothing you will see how much I was boasting. I should
then have told you I was less than nothing because, in fact, Ive indebted myself to a dear friend and, to supply my needs, put him in debt
to his worst enemy. Here is a letter, lady. The paper is like the body of my friend, and every word written on it is a gaping wound, spilling
lifeblood. But is this true, Salerio? Have all his projects failed? Not even one saved? From Tripoli? From Mexico and England: from Lisbon,
Africa and India, and not one vessel escaped the dreadful touch of shipwrecking rocks?

Not one, my lord. And moreover, it seems that even if he had the ready money to discharge the debt the Jew wouldnt take it. Ive never
known any creature in human form with such a sharp appetite for destroying a man. He pesters the duke from morning till night, insisting
that its contrary to the principle of equality before the law to deny him justice. Twenty merchants, the duke himself, and t he most
exalted noblemen, have all tried to reason with him but none of them can budge him from his vengeful cause of forfeiture, of justice, and
his bond.

Jessica had been listening with interest and felt the need to tell them about her inside knowledge. When I lived at home I heard him
swear to his countrymen, Tubal and Chus, that he would rather have Antonios flesh than twenty times the money he owed him, she
said. And I know, my lord, that if law, authority and power dont do something to stop him poor Antonios in a lot of trouble.

Is it your dear friend thats in this trouble? said Portia.

Bassanio nodded sadly. My dearest friend, the kindest of men, the most charitable and tireless of those who do good works. One with
more Roman-like honour about him than anyone in Italy.

How much does he owe the Jew? said Portia.

Three thousand ducats. Because of me.

Is that all? Portia threw her eyes up. Give him six thousand and cancel the bond. Double six thousand and then treble that before a
friend of the type youve described will lose even a hair of his head because of Bassanio. She paced briefly while everyone stood
watching her in silence, then she turned and faced Bassanio. First, come with me to the church and make me your wife, she said. Then
go back to Venice to be with your friend because youre not going to sleep with Portia until you have peace of mind. Youll take enough
gold to pay this petty debt twenty times over. When its paid youll bring your dear friend back here with you. In the meantime Nerissa
and I will live like virgins and widows. Come on, off you go then, and because you have to leave on your wedding day, welcome your
friends, show a cheerful face. Since you have cost so much I will love you accordingly. But read your friends letter to me.

Bassanio read the letter: Dear Bassanio, my ships have all miscarried, my creditors are becoming cruel. My assets are few. My bond to
the Jew is due, and since in paying it I have to die, all debts are cleared between you and me if only I could see you again before my
death. Not withstanding, make your own decision. If your love doesnt persuade you to come, dont let this letter do that.

Oh my love! exclaimed Portia. Get ready and go at once!

As I have your sincere permission to leave you Ill go immediately. Bassanio kissed her tenderly. I wont sleep till I return.

Antonio had gained permission to leave the prison to visit Shylock. He wanted the chance to try and reason with him. The Duke had had
to grant Shylocks suit and he was going to hear the case unless the two parties could come to an agreement. A gaoler guarded Antonio
and the merchants friend, Solanio, accompanied them.

Shylock came out into the street to meet them and, in his anger, refused even to hear what Antonio had come to say. He addressed the
gaoler instead. Gaoler, guard him well! he shouted. When Solanio opened his mouth to speak he gestured violently. Dont talk to me
about mercy, he yelled. This is the fool who lent out money for free. Gaoler, guard him closely.

Just listen to me for a moment, good Shylock, pleaded Antonio.

Ill have my bond! said Shylock angrily. Dont try arguing against my bond! Ive sworn an oath that Ill have my bond! You called me
dog without any reason, but since Im a dog, watch out for my teeth! The duke will give me justice. Im surprised, you worthless gaoler,
that youre so foolish as to gallivant about with him at his request!

Please! exclaimed Antonio. Listen to me!

Shylocks face was red. He went up to Antonio and shouted right into his face. Ill have my bond! I wont listen to you! Ill have my bond
so dont waste your breath! I wont be made a soft and stupid fool of shaking my head, changing my mind, sighing and giving in to
Christian pleas. He turned and went to his door. Antonio took a few steps and he whipped round. Dont follow me! Dont talk to me! Ill
have my bond! He went inside and slammed the door.

Solanio shook his fist at the closed door. Hes the most intransigent mongrel that ever kept company with human beings!

Leave him alone, said Antonio. I wont pester him anymore with useless pleas. He wants my life and I know why: Ive frequently helped
people who have come to me because theyve been caught up in his web. Thats why he hates me.

Im sure the duke will never allow this penalty.

Antonio shook his head sadly. The duke cant interfere with the course of the law because if we denied foreigners their rights here in
Venice it would undermine all our notions of justice and we cant do that because the success of our trade and commerce depends on
our relationship with all the nations. So, go. These worries and losses have caused me to lose so much weight that Ill hardly have a pound
of flesh to spare for my vicious creditor tomorrow. Come on then, gaoler, lets go. I pray only that Bassanio will come and watch me pay
his debt. Apart from that I dont care!

Portia had a secret plan, a scheme to help her husband resolve the situation his friend had found himself in. She invited Lorenzo and
Jessica to join her and Nerissa in the garden. She assured the young couple that Bassanio would be back very soon.

Madam, said Lorenzo, although I say it in your presence, you have a great understanding of true friendship, judging from your
acceptance of your husbands absence. But if you knew the man youre honouring, what a good gentleman you have lent this help to
how much he loves my lord, your husband I know that you would be even prouder than you are of the help you are giving.

Ive never regretted any good Ive done, she said, and Im not regretting it now because friends who talk and spend their time together,
who love each other equally, must have such things as character, style and ideas in common. That makes me think that this Antonio,
being the close friend of my lord, has to be similar to him. If thats true then I have rescued a soulmate from hellish cruelty very cheaply.
But this is too much like praising myself, so not another word about it. I want to mention other things. Lorenzo, Im putting the
management of my household in your hands until my lords return. Theres a monastery two miles away and thats where were going to
stay. I hope you wont object. Its something we have to do.

Lorenzo bowed. Madam, Ill always concede wholeheartedly to your requests.

My servants already know my plans and will obey you and Jessica in the absence of Lord Bassanio and me. So farewell until we meet
again.

Lorenzo bowed again. May you have peaceful thoughts and a happy time, he said.

I wish your ladyship great peace of mind, said Jessica.

Thank you for your good wishes, said Portia. She beckoned to a servant who stood at a discreet distance. It gives me pleasure to wish
you the same. She watched them as they walked back to the house. Then: Now, Balthazar, Ive always found you honest and faithful so
thats what I expect of you. Take this letter and hurry to Padua. Make sure you deliver it to my cousin, Doctor Bellario, personally. Hell
give you some documents and some clothes. Bring them with lightning speed to the terminal where the public ferry leaves for V enice.

Balthazar opened his mouth to speak but she stopped him. Dont waste time with words. Just go. Ill be waiting there.

Madam, Ill hurry, he said.

Come on Nerissa, said Portia when Balthazar had gone. Ive got work to do that you dont know about yet. Well see our husbands
before they even get a chance to think about us.

Will they see us, though? said Nerissa.

They will, Nerissa, but theyll think by our clothes that were men. Portia laughed. Ill bet you anything that when were both dressed as
young men Ill be the more handsome of the two, wearing my dagger in a jaunty way and speaking in a high voice like someone between
boy and man. Ill exchange my lady-like walk with a manly stride and talk about fighting like a swaggering youth. Ill exaggerate my
experience of honourable ladies, of how they throw themselves at me and die broken-hearted when I reject them. Then Ill show remorse
and wish I hadnt killed them. Ill tell twenty such stories so that everyone will believe that I must have left school at least a year ago. Ive
got a thousand of those bragging stories in my mind, which Ill practise.

What? Nerissa affected alarm. Are we going to be turned into men?

Portia laughed. Shame on you! What a question that would be to ask if there were a dirty-minded person within earshot! But come, Ill
tell you my whole plan in my coach, which is waiting for us at the park gate. So lets go: we have to travel twenty miles today.

Jessica enjoyed being mistress of Portias house and her friend Lancelot Gobbos presence made it even more pleasant. Today he was, for
some reason, being quite personal, although thinking himself funny. They sat in the garden and Lancelot was teasing her about being a
Jew.

Yes absolutely, he was saying, because, look here, the sins of the father are visited on their children, so, quite honestly, I fear for you.
He got up and took a few steps then turned and faced her. Ive always spoken frankly to you and now Im going to tell you exactly what I
think about it so brace yourself: I honestly think youre damned. Theres just one ray of hope that could do you any good and thats not
really a legitimate hope either.

And what hope is that, pray? she said.

Indeed! You could partly hope that your father didnt conceive you and that youre not, in fact, the Jews daughter.

She laughed. That would indeed be an illegitimate kind of hope! So the sins of my mother would be visited upon me.

Hmm, he said. Quite frankly then, I fear you are damned by both your father and your mother. So when I reject Scylla, your father, I
bump into Charydbis, your mother. Well, either way youre doomed.

Ill be saved by my husband, she said. Hes made me a Christian.

In all honesty, hes even more to blame, said Lancelot. We had enough Christians already as many who could exist side by side. This
making of Christians will raise the price of pigs. If we all became pork eaters it wouldnt be long before we wouldnt be able to afford to
cook bacon!

Ill tell my husband what you said, Lancelot, she said as Lorenzo came towards them. Here he comes.

Ill start getting jealous of you, Lancelot, if you keep getting my wife into corners like this, said Lorenzo.

You dont have to worry about us, said Jessica. Lancelot and I have fallen out. He tells me flatly that theres no mercy for me in heaven,
because Im a Jews daughter. And he says youre not a good citizen because, in converting Jews to Christians, youre raising the price of
pork.

Its easier to explain that than to account for the pregnancy of that Moorish woman weve been hearing about, said Lorenzo. She must
be with child by you, Lancelot.

Its very strange that a virgin should be pregnant, said Lancelot. But if shes no better than she should be then shes indeed worse than I
took her for.
Lorenzo and Jessica looked at each other then Lorenzo shook his head. See how any idiot can play with words. The time will come when
all intelligence will be silenced and conversation only take place among parrots. Go in, idiot, tell them to prepare for dinner.

Thats already done, sir, said Lancelot. They all have appetites.

Good lord, what a comedian you are! exclaimed Lorenzo. Then tell them to prepare dinner.

Thats done too sir. It needs only the table cloth.

Lorenzo pointed to Lancelots hat, which he had taken off when hed encountered Jessica and which he now held in his hand. Will you
put that on, now? he said.

Lancelot affected a humble manner. Oh no, sir! I know my place!

Still more wordplay, said Lorenzo. Are you trying to display the totality of your wit all in one go? If you dont mind, try and understand a
plain man with a simple request. Go to your fellow-servants. Tell them to set the table. Bring in the food. Then we will come in to dinner.

Lancelot nodded. He put on a stupid look and repeated the instructions in the same tone but getting them confused. Regarding the
table, sir, well bring it in. As for the food, well set it, and as far as your coming in to dinner is concerned, well, sir, well leave that to how
you feel. He made an elaborate flourish with his hat, plonked it on his head and marched off.

Lorenzo and Jessica watched him, laughing. Hes good with words, said Lorenzo. The fool has a good vocabulary. I know of several
famous comedians who find themselves at a loss for words on some occasions. How are you feeling, Jessica? Come on, tell me, my love,
how do you like Bassanios wife?

More than I can say! exclaimed Jessica. Lord Bassanio should live a virtuous life because, being blessed with this lady, he finds the joys
of heaven here on earth, and if he doesnt value that on earth then hell never get to heaven. Indeed, if two gods should play some
heavenly game with two earthly women as their betting stakes, and Portia were one of them, there would have to be something else
offered with the other. This poor, crude world doesnt have another woman to match her.

You have just such a husband in me as he has in a wife began Lorenzo, teasing her.

She interrupted him with: Youll have to prove that!

He kissed her. I will in due course. First, lets go to dinner.

She stopped him. No, let me praise you while I have the appetite for it.

He pulled her gently. No, please. Save it for table talk. Then, whatever you may say, I will be able to digest it with my dinner.

Well, Ill lay it all out in front of you, she said as they walked happily in to dinner.

Antonio, Bassanio, Gratiano, the court officials and the merchants who had come to observe the trial, all went silent as the Duke entered
the courtroom. He sat down behind his raised bench. Well? Antonios here, is he? he said.

Ready, at your pleasure, Your Grace, said Antonio, who stood between two guards.

The duke shook his head. Im sorry for you, he said. You have come to answer a stony adversary, an inhuman wretch, incapable of pity
and devoid of even a drop of mercy.

Ive been told Your Grace has taken great pains to dissuade him from his course, said Antonio. But as hes determined, and as the law
cant help me avoid his revenge, Ill encounter his anger with patience. Ive resigned myself to submission to his merciless rage.

Go, one of you, and call the Jew into the court, said the duke.

Hes waiting at the door, said Solanio. Here he comes, my lord.

Make way for him and let him stand before me.
The court was crowded and they moved to make way for Shylock, who strode in and bowed curtly to the duke.

Shylock, began the duke, addressing him gently. Everyone thinks and I think so too that you intend to keep up this act until the last
minute, and then, its thought, youll show your mercy and remorse even more strikingly than youve shown your strange apparent
cruelty. And whereas youre now demanding the penalty a pound of this poor merchants flesh youll not only waive that penalty but,
touched with human gentleness and love, waive some of the debt as well, as you cast an eye of pity over the losses that have so
burdened him enough to disable even a royal merchant and touch the brassy and stony hearts of merciless Turks and Tartars who are
unaccustomed to showing sympathy.

Shylock was silent. He stared defiantly at the duke.

We all expect a gentle answer, Jew. The duke gestured to him to speak.

Shylock cleared his throat. Ive told Your Grace what my intentions are. Ive sworn by our holy Sabbath to get the full penalty for failure
to pay the bond. If you deny it you will be undermining your citys constitution and the rule of law. He looked around the c ourt at the
hostile faces. Youll ask me why Id rather have a measure of dead flesh than receive three thousand ducats. Well I wont answer that!
Just say I feel like it. Is that good enough? What if my house were plagued by a rat and it suited me to pay ten thousand ducats to have it
poisoned? Well, have you got your answer? There are some men who dont like the sight of a gaping pigs head: some who go mad if they
see a cat: and others who cant help wetting themselves when they hear the nasal whine of the bagpipes. Thats because our likes and
dislikes govern our emotions. Now: your answer. Because no good explanation can be given as to why one man cant stand a gaping pigs
head, why another man a harmless, useful cat: why yet another cant hear a woollen bagpipe without bringing inevitable shame on
himself and committing an offence because he has been offended, I cant give an answer either. Nor do I want to, apart from a solid
hatred and a loathing that I have for Antonio. That makes me pursue this money-losing case against him! Have you got your answer?

Bassanio, incensed, was unable to stop himself from shouting out. This is no excuse for your cruelty, you callous man!

I dont have to please you with my answers! snapped Shylock.

Do all men kill the things they dislike? said Bassanio.

Wouldnt every man just love to kill the things he doesnt like? said Shylock.

Not every offence causes hatred in the first instance, retorted Bassanio.

What? said Shylock, Would you allow a serpent to sting you twice?

Antonio put his hand on his friends arm. Please, he said. Dont forget, youre arguing with the Jew. You may as well stand on the beach
and tell the sea not to reach its usual high point. You may as well ask the wolf why he has made the ewe bleat in bereavement of its lamb.
You may as well forbid the mountain pines to sway or make a noise in the buffeting winds. You may as well do any hard thing rather than
try and soften the hardest his Jewish heart. So I beg you not to try anything else or use any further means, but let me have the
judgment and the Jew his will as soon as possible.

Bassanio ignored his friends pleas. Instead, he snapped his fingers and Gratiano handed him a leather bag. Bassanio went slowly across
the tense courtroom till he faced Shylock. He held the bag out to him. For your three thousand ducats here are six.

Shylock snarled. If every ducat in that six thousand were multiplied by six I would not take the money. I want my bond!

The duke sighed. He shook his head sadly. How can you hope for mercy, not giving any yourself?

What judgment should I fear, not having done anything wrong? Shylock turned and faced the assembled onlookers. Between you you
have many a slave which, like your donkeys, your dogs and your mules, you use for abject and servile jobs, because youve bought them.
If I were to say: Free them marry them to your children, why make them sweat under heavy burdens? Give them beds as soft as yours
and good food like your own, you would answer: The slaves are ours. And thats how Im answering you. The pound of flesh that I
demand of him was expensive. Its mine and Im going to have it! If you deny me then shame on your law! It will mean that the laws of
Venice have no force. He turned back to the duke. I stand for justice. Answer! Will I have it?

There was uproar as the merchants noisily urged the duke to dismiss Shylocks suit. The duke held up his hand for silence.
According to the power invested in me by the state Im able to dismiss the court, he said. But I have sent for Doctor Bellario, a learned
lawyer, to resolve this case. Hes due here today.

Solanio called from the door: My lord, theres a messenger waiting outside, just arrived from Padua with letters from the doctor.

Bring me the letters, said the duke. Call the messenger in.

Bassanio gripped his friends shoulder. Dont worry, Antonio, he said. Come on man, be brave. The Jew will have my flesh, blood, bones
and all before youll lose one drop of blood for me.

Shylock watched the two friends through narrowed eyes. He touched the handle of the sheathed knife that hung from his waist.

I am the runt of the flock and the most vulnerable, said Antonio. The weakest fruit drops earliest to the ground, and so will I. The best
thing you can do, Bassanio, is stay alive and write my epitaph.

Solanio escorted the messenger to the bench. He was a boy. He was, in fact, Nerissa, dressed as a boy.
The duke nodded. Have you come from Padua, from Bellario?

Nerissa bowed. From both, my lord. Bellario sends his compliments to Your Grace. She handed him a letter.
Shylock had taken his knife out and was honing it on the sole of his boot.

Why are you sharpening your knife so earnestly? said Bassanio.

Shylock indicated Antonio with a slight nod. To cut the forfeiture from that bankrupt there, he said softly.

Its not on your sole but on your soul that youre sharpening your knife, cruel Jew! exclaimed Gratiano. But no metal not even the
hangmans axe is half as sharp as your envy. Can no prayers move you?
None that youre intelligent enough to make, retorted Shylock.

Oh, rot in hell, you heartless dog! Gratiano itched to strike him. Justice is the culprit for allowing you to live! You almost make me waver
in my faith and Im beginning to agree with Pythagoras that the souls of animals enter the bodies of men Your currish spirit is that of a
wolf whose soul fled into your evil mother when he was hanged for murder, and possessed you in her womb, because your motives are
wolfish, bloody, mean and ravenous!

Shylock laughed. Until the time comes that you can shout the seal from off my bond youre only hurting your lungs with that noise. Do
something about your brains, young man, or theyll fall apart in ruins. Im standing firm on the law.

The duke had finished reading the letter and now he addressed the young messenger: This letter from Bellario recommends a young and
learned lawyer to our court. Where is he?

Hes waiting nearby, to know your answer, said Nerissa. To hear whether youll admit him or not.
With all my heart, said the duke. Three or four of you officials go and escort him here with all due courtesy. In the meantime the court
shall hear Bellarios letter.

He began reading: Your Grace should know that at the time of receiving your letter I was very sick, but it so happened that when your
messenger arrived a young lawyer from Rome was visiting me. His name is Balthazar. I told him about the dispute between the Jew and
the merchant, Antonio. We consulted several books together. He knows my opinion, improved by his own learning which I cannot
praise enough and he brings that with him as he takes my place at my request. I beg you not to judge him inadequate on account of his
youth because I never knew such an old head on so young a body. I hope you will accept him. His performance will commend him more
than my words can.

The duke put the letter down and looked round at the assembly. You hear what the learned Bellario writes. And here, I take it, is the
doctor himself. He got up and shook Portias hand. Youve come from old Bellario?

Portia was dressed in academic robes and a large doctoral hat. She looked absurdly young but they had all heard Bellarios letter.

I have, my lord, she said.

You are welcome. Take your place. The duke indicated the seat beside him behind the bench and she sat down. Are you acquainted
with the dispute that occupies this court today?

Im fully briefed on the case, she said. Which is the merchant, and which the Jew?
Antonio and old Shylock, both come forward, said the duke.

Portia looked at Shylock. Is your name Shylock?

Shylock is my name, he said.

Your suit is an unusual one, she told him. But it stands up legally and Venetian law cant challenge its validity. She turned to Antonio.
Youre in some danger from this suit of his, arent you?

Yes, thats what he claims, said Antonio.

Do you admit to this debt?

I do.

Portia nodded. She looked at Shylock again. Then the Jew will have to be merciful.

On whose authority must I? said Shylock. Tell me that!

Portia looked at him for a long time before speaking.

The quality of mercy is not strained, she said. It drops on to the world as the gentle rain does from heaven. Its doubly blessed. It
blesses both the giver and the receiver. Its most powerful when granted by those who hold power over others. Its more important to a
monarch than his crown. His sceptre shows the level of his temporal power the symbol of awe and majesty in which lies the source of
the dread and fear that kings command. But mercy is above that sceptered power. Its enthroned in the hearts of kings. It is an attribute
of God himself. And earthly power most closely resembles Gods power when justice is guided by mercy. Therefore Jew, although justice
is your aim, think about this: none of us would be saved if we depended on justice alone. We pray for mercy and, in seeking it ourselves,
we learn to be merciful. Ive spoken about this to soften the justice of your plea. If you insist on pure justice, however, then this serious
Venetian court has no alternative other than to pronounce sentence against the merchant there.

Ill take the responsibility for my deeds! Shylock snapped. Im insisting on the law! Thats the penalty and forfeit of my bond!

Is he unable to pay you the money?

Bassanio held up the bag of money. Yes, he can pay. Im offering it to him here in the court. Indeed, twice the sum. If thats not enough
Im willing to be bound over to pay it ten times over, on forfeit of my hands, my head, my heart. If thats not enough then its not the
money thats at issue its pure malice thats hiding the truth. I beg of you, use your authority to bend the law. Do a small wrong to bring
about a great right and prevent this cruel devil from having his way.

It cant be done, said Portia. Theres no power in Venice that can circumvent an established law. It would create a precedent and
encourage many other irregularities in the court. Its impossible.

Shylock threw his hands up and laughed with joy. A Daniel come to deliver justice, he cried. Yes, a Daniel! Oh wise young judge, how I
honour you!

Please, she said. Let me see the bond.

Shylock swiftly drew the scroll out of his pocket. Here it is, most reverend doctor. Here it is!
She didnt unroll it. Shylock, she said. Theres three times the money offered.

My oath! he cried. My oath! I have sworn an oath before heaven. Do you want me to burden my soul with perjury? No, not for the
whole of Venice!

Portia opened the document and read it carefully. The court was hushed. Then: This bond is valid, she said. Accordingly, the Jew may
lawfully claim a pound of flesh, to be cut, by him, nearest the merchants heart. She rolled the document up amidst the shocked
muttering of the merchants. Be merciful, she said. Take three times the money. Tell me to tear the bond up.
When its paid, according to its terms! Shylock spoke with the confidence of a man who has right on his side. You appear to be a good
judge. You know the law: your interpretation has been very sound. In the name of the law, of which you are a well-deserving pillar, I ask
you to proceed to judgment. I swear by my soul, no man has the power of speech enough to make me change my mind. I stand by the
legality of my bond!

I heartily wish the court to give its judgment, said Antonio wearily.

Well then, this is it, said Portia. You must prepare your breast for his knife.

Oh noble judge! exclaimed Shylock. Oh excellent young man!

The intention and purpose of the law is to honour the penalty, which according to this bond, seems due, she said.

Thats very true! Shylock hopped about excitedly. Oh wise and upright judge! How much older you are than you look!

Therefore, she said, looking at Antonio. Uncover your breast.

Yes, his breast! Shylock pulled his knife out of its sheath. Thats what the bond says, doesnt it, noble judge? Nearest his heart. Those
are the very words.

Thats so, said Portia. Are there scales here to weight the flesh?

I have them here. Shylock bent down and took a balance out of his bag.

Portia nodded. Have a doctor standing by, Shylock she said. At your expense, to stop his wounds in case he bleeds to death.

Shylock strode to the bench and swept the document up. Does it say that in the bond?

Its not detailed, but what of that? she said. Youd naturally do that out of charity.

Shylocks nose was right up against the document as he perused it. I cant find it: its not in the bond! he exclaimed.

You, merchant, she said. Have you anything to say?

Very little, said Antonio. Im fortified and mentally prepared. Give me your hand, Bassanio. Farewell! Dont grieve that Ive fallen to this
state for your sake. In this, Im more fortunate than most men. Fortune usually lets the wretched man outlive his wealth to endure years
of poverty with hollow eyes and wrinkled brow. Ive been spared that lingering misery.

The two men embraced. Remember me to your dear wife. Tell her the story of Antonios death: tell her how much I loved you speak
well of me, and when the tale has been told ask her to judge whether Bassanio was once dearly loved. Regret only that you will lose your
friend, while he doesnt regret that he paid your debt. If the Jew cuts deeply enough Ill pay it immediately, with all my heart.

Bassanio looked into his friends eyes. Antonio, Im married to a woman who is as dear to me as life itself, but I dont value life, my wife,
and all the world more than I do your life. I would give them all, yes, sacrifice them all, right here and now, to this devil, to save you.

He was about to say more but Portia interrupted him. Your wife wouldnt thank you much for that, were she here to hear you make that
offer, she said.

Gratiano, not very happy with the young judges decision, supported his friend. I have a wife whom I swear I love, he said. I wish she
were in heaven so she could plead with some higher power to change this currish Jews mind!

Its a good thing youre offering that behind her back! retorted Nerissa. Otherwise youd have an unsettled household.

Shylock was impatient with all this. He felt contempt for the attitude of Christian husbands. He thought about his daughter. As things
were he would rather she had married a descendant of that villain Barabbas than a Christian. Were wasting time, he said. The
sentence, please!

A pound of that merchants flesh is yours, said Portia. The court awards it. The law allows it.
Most rightful judge! Shylock was smiling again.
And you must cut this flesh from his breast. The law allows it and the court awards it.

Most learned judge! Shylock gripped his knife firmly. A sentence! He began moving across the court towards Antonio. Come, he said.
Prepare!

Antonio took his coat off.

One moment, said Portia. There is something else. This bond doesnt allow you a drop of blood. The words expressly are a pound of
flesh. But if, in cutting it, you shed one drop of Christian blood, under the laws of Venice your lands and goods are subject to
confiscation to the state of Venice.

There were gasps all round. Shylock stopped in his tracks and turned to face the young doctor. Gratiano was the first to speak.

Oh upright judge! he exclaimed. Did you hear that, Jew? Oh learned judge!

Is that the law? said Shylock.

Portia opened one of the books she had brought with her and shoved it across the bench. You can see the act for yourself. As you urged
justice so strongly, be assured that you will have more justice than you want.

Gratiano went right up to Shylock and stood beside him. Oh learned judge, he said, imitating Shylocks voice. Look at that, Jew! A
learned judge!

Shylock looked from Portia to Antonio, whose face now showed the beginning of a smile. Bassanio stood beside his friend. He held out
the bag of money.

Ill take this offer then, said Shylock. Pay three times the bond and let the Christian go.

Heres the money, said Bassanio.

Portia raised her hand. Not so fast, she said. The Jew will have full justice. Wait: not so fast. He will have nothing but the penalty.

Oh Jew! Gratiano punched the air with his fist. An upright judge, a worthy judge!

And so, continued Portia, prepare to cut off the flesh. Shed no blood, and take care to cut off no more and no less than just a pound of
flesh. If you take more or less than just a pound, even if its as much as to make it lighter or heavier by the twentieth of a fraction: yes, if
the scale turns as much as the weight of a hair, you die and all your property is confiscated.

Gratiano, hanging on her every word, responded immediately with a whoop of joy. A second Daniel! A Daniel, Jew! Ha, infidel, Ive got
you squirming!

Shylock had stopped dead, the knifes point an inch from Antonios chest.

Why is the Jew hesitating? said Portia. Take your forfeit.

Shylocks hand dropped to his side. His shoulders slumped. He half turned to Portia. Give me my capital and let me go, he mumbled.

I have it ready, said Bassanio, digging into the bag and pulling a handful of the money out. Here it is.
Portia held up her hand again and looked sternly at Bassanio. He has refused it in open court. He will have only justice, according to his
contract.

I say again, a Daniel! yelled Gratanio, a second Daniel! Thank you, Jew, for teaching me that word!

Shylock turned and faced Portia. Am I not to have at least my capital?

Youll have nothing but the penalty, she said. To be taken at your peril, Jew.

Shylock looked around desperately. There was no sympathy anywhere. Well then, he said, may the devil give him the benefit of it! I
wont stay and argue this any longer.

He started for the door but Portia stopped him.

Wait, Jew, she said. The law has another hold over you. She opened the law book again, read silently for a moment then nodded. With
her finger on the text she said: It is stated in the Venetian law that if it should be proved against an alien that he has, by direct or indirect
efforts, sought the life of any citizen, the person against which he has conspired is entitled to seize one half of his goods, the other half
going to the state coffers. Furthermore, whether the offender lives or dies becomes the subject of the dukes sole discretion. I say that
you fit into that category. Its clear that both indirectly and directly, you have plotted against the life of the defendant, and you have
therefore incurred the penalty Ive described. Kneel, therefore, and beg the duke for mercy.

Gratiano hugged himself with glee. Beg for permission to hang yourself! He danced about in front of Shylock. But of course, your
property being forfeited to the state, you havent got enough money left to buy a rope, so youll have to be hanged at the states
expense!

The duke gave Gratiano a look that silenced him. Then he looked around to bring the court back to order. To demonstrate the difference
in our outlooks, I pardon your life before you ask for it. Regarding half your wealth it goes to Antonio. The other half goes to the state.
Showing remorse could convert this to a fine.

As long as its the states part, not Antonios, said Portia.

Shylocks voice was almost inaudible when he spoke. Just take my life as well, he whispered. When you take my house you take the
means of maintaining it: you take my life when you take away the means whereby I live.
What mercy can you give him, Antonio?said Portia.

A free noose, said Gratiano. Nothing else, for Gods sake!

If it pleases my lord the duke and the court to waive the fine for one half of his wealth I will be content, said Antonio, provided that I
may have the use of the other half during his lifetime, and that I can then give it, on his death, to the gentleman who recently eloped with
his daughter. There are two more conditions: that in return for this favour he will immediately become a Christian: the other, that he
make a will, here and now, in the court, leaving everything he owns at the time of his death to his son, Lorenzo, and his daughter.

He will do this, said the duke, or Ill withdraw the pardon that Ive just pronounced.

Are you satisfied, Jew? said Portia. What do you say?

Shylock didnt look up. Im content, he muttered.

Portia looked at Nerissa. Clerk, draw up a will, she said.

Shylock sunk to the floor. I beg of you, he said, Give me permission to go. Im not well. Send the will after me and Ill sign it.

Go then! said the duke. But make sure you do it!

As Shylock rose unsteadily to his feet and began making his way slowly to the door, amid jeers, Gratiano barred his way. When youre
christened youll have two godfathers, he said. If I had been the judge, you would have had ten more to take you to the gallows, not
the font.

Shylock staggered to the door, the catcalls and jeers ringing in his ears. Then he was gone. The duke rose.
Sir, he said to Portia, I invite you to my home for dinner.

Portias face expressed regret. I humbly beg Your Graces pardon, she said. I have to go to Padua tonight and I must leave soon.

Im sorry that you cant manage it, said the duke. Antonio, reward this gentleman because, in my opinion, youre seriously indebted to
him.

When the duke and his entourage had left Bassanio smiled at Portia. My dear sir, he said, my friend and I have escaped some serious
penalties today, as a result of your wisdom. I have the honour of offering you the three thousand ducats that were due to the Jew as
payment for the trouble youve taken.

And, in love and gratitude, well be indebted to you forever, said Antonio.
:Portia laughed as she pushed the money away. Satisfaction is good enough payment, she said. In rescuing you, Ive achieved
satisfaction, so I regard myself as having been well paid. Ive never been interested in money. She lifted he books and began walking to
the door. Nerissa followed her. Please, remember me when we meet again. Good luck. And so, goodbye.

Bassanio hurried after them. Dear sir, I really must insist, he said. Take a souvenir, as something to remember us by, not as a fee. Grant
me two things, I beg of you: not to say no to me, and to pardon my insistence.

She stopped and turned. Youre very insistent, she said, and therefore I will concede. Let me have your gloves. Ill wear them to
remember you by. Bassanio hurried to remove his gloves. She took his hand and touched his ring. And as a token of your goodwill Ill
take this ring, she said.

Bassanio pulled his hand away.

No, dont pull your hand away, she said. I wont take anything else. Surely you wont refuse me?
This ring, good sir? Bassanio didnt know what to do. Oh no, its worthless. I wouldnt shame myself by giving it to you.

Portia swept his objections aside with an impatient gesture. I wont have anything but this, she told him. Ive taken a liking to it.

This ring has sentimental value for me, he said. Ill advertise for the most expensive ring in Venice and give it to you. But as for this ring,
I beg you to pardon me.

I see, sir, that you are very free with your offers, she said, preparing to leave again. You were the one who taught me how to beg, and
now, it seems, youre teaching me how a beggar should be treated.

She turned, but he pulled on her gown. Good sir, he said. My wife gave me this ring, and when she put it on my finger she made me
promise that I would never sell it or give it away or lose it.

Thats an excuse many men use to avoid giving gifts, she said. And unless your wife is mad, knowing how well I deserve this ring, she
wouldnt hold it against you forever that you gave it to me. Well, goodbye, and good luck.

Antonio couldnt watch her go like that. Let her have the ring, my Lord Bassanio, he said. Balance his worthiness and my love with your
wifes instruction!

Bassanio pulled the ring off his finger. Run, Gratiano! he exclaimed. Catch up with him. Give him the ring, and bring him to Antonios
house if you can.

As Gratiano rushed off Bassanio beckoned to his friend. Come, he said. Well go to your house, and well both set off for Belmont early
tomorrow. Come Antonio.

Portia stopped a short distance from the court. She reached into her bag, withdrew a document and handed it to Nerissa. Ask the way to
the Jews house, give him this will and make sure he signs it. Well leave tonight and be home a day before our husbands. Lorenzo will be
very pleased with this document.

Gratiano came running out of the door of the court and down the street towards them. Dear sir, he panted, Im glad Ive caught you.
My Lord Bassanio, has, on second thoughts, sent you this ring and requests your company at dinner.

Portia shook her head. Its impossible. But I accept his ring with gratitude. Please tell him that. One last thing: please show my youth the
way to old Shylocks house.

Ill do so, said Gratiano. He turned, and Nerissa began to follow him but then she ran back to Portia.

Sir, Id like a word, she said. Then whispering: Ill see if I can get my husbands ring the one I made him swear to keep forever.

That will be easy, chuckled Portia. Well get the old story that they gave the rings to men but well be able to contradict them
beautifully. Off you go, hurry up. You know where Ill be waiting.

Come Sir, said Nerissa, as she joined Gratiano. Will you show me to this house?
The moon was full and bright. Lorenzo and Jessica sat on a garden bench, enjoying being together. The moon shines bright, said
Lorenzo. On such a night as this, when the sweet wind kissed the trees so gently that they didnt make a sound it was such a night, I
imagine Troilus scaled the walls of Troy and sighed soulfully towards the Grecian tents, where Cressida lay asleep.

Jessica reached up and kissed his cheek. On such a night, she whispered, Thisbe tiptoed apprehensively through the dew and, seeing
the lions shadow before he himself appeared, fled in dismay.

Lorenzo thought for a moment, then: On such a night Dido stood on the wild coast, holding a willow wand, willing her lover to return to
Carthage.

Jessica smiled and searched her imagination. On such a night Medea gathered the magic herbs that rejuvenated old Aeson.

On such a night, said Lorenzo, Jessica stole away from the wealthy Jew, and with an extravagant love, ran far away from Venice, to
Belmont.

On such a night, said Jessica, young Lorenzo swore he loved her completely, winning her soul with many vows of faith. She paused.
And not one of them true! She gripped his hand tightly.

On such a night, pretty Jessica slandered her lover, like a little shrew. And he forgave her.

Jessica turned her head to listen. I would out-night you if we werent interrupted. But listen, I can hear footsteps.

Lorenzo got up. Whos that running around here in the silence of the night? he called.

A voice came from another part of the garden. A friend.

A friend? Lorenzo still couldnt see him. What friend? Your name, if you please!

The young man, guided by Lorenzos voice, found them. My names Stephano and Ive come to tell you that my mistress will be here at
Belmont before dawn. Shes been stopping at every holy cross, where she kneels and prays for a happy marriage.

Whos coming with her? said Lorenzo.

Only a holy hermit and her maid. May I ask whether my master has returned yet?

No. Nor have we heard from him. But lets go in, Jessica, and prepare a formal welcome for the mistress of the house.

Lancelots voice called from somewhere behind them. Whos that? said Lorenzo.

Hello? Lancelots voice again. Has anyone seen Mister Lorenzo? Mis-ter Lor-en-zo! Hello.Hello!
Stop shouting, man, Im here,

Hello? Hello? Where? Where?

Here!

Tell him a messenger has arrived from my master with his bag full of good news! My master will be here before morning!

My love, said Lorenzo, lets go in and prepare for their arrival. But yet, why go in? My friend, Stephano, please go and tell the servants
that your mistress is coming, and send the musicians out.

They were alone again.

How sweetly the moonlight falls on this flowerbed, said Lorenzo. Well sit here and let the sound of music fall sweetly on our ears. The
beauty of harmony is suited to stillness and the night. Sit down, Jessica. See how the dark sky is inlaid with patterns of bright gold. Even
the smallest sphere that you can see sings like an angel in its movement, forever harmonising for the keen-eyed cherubim. Such harmony
is natural to the immortal souls of angels, but as long as we are shut into these rude earthly decaying bodies we cant hear it.

The musicians were coming towards them.

Come on, called Lorenzo. Wake Diana with a hymn! Reach your mistress ear with sweet strains to draw her home with music.

Sweet music makes me sad, said Jessica.

Thats because your mind is engaged by it, said Lorenzo. Just look at stampeding cattle or frisking young untamed colts, bellowing and
neighing loudly, which is their natural behaviour if they happen to hear the sound of a trumpet, or if any tune reaches their ears, youll
see them all stop and stand still, the savagery in their eyes changed to a docile gaze by the sweet power of music. Thats why the poet,
Ovid, maintained that Orpheus music affected trees and stones and tides. Theres nothing so brutish or stubborn or angry that music
wont soften it for a while. The man who has no music in his soul, who isnt moved by the harmony of sweet sounds, is fit only for
treasons plots and trouble-making. His spiritual life is as dull as night and his character as dark as Erebus. No man like that should be
trusted. He signalled to the musicians to begin. Listen to the music.

They held hands and listened to the sweet strains of the musicians art, and as the moon disappeared behind a bank of clouds, Portia and
Nerissa arrived on the hill overlooking the house.

That light we see over there is burning in my hall, said Portia. How far that little candle can throw its light. Its like a good deed shining
in a worthless world.

They began walking down the hill.

If the moon were shining we wouldnt see the candlelight, said Nerissa.

Thats because the greater dims the lesser ones, said Portia. An imitator shines as brightly as a king until the king is actually there then
he becomes less significant, like a small tributary when it flows into the main river. Listen! Music!

Its from your house, madam your own musicians.

Nothing is good out of context. I think it sounds much better than it does by daylight.

The silence all around makes it better, madam.

They walked on. The crow sings as sweetly as the lark when no-ones around, observed Portia. If the nightingale were to sing in the
daytime, when every goose is cackling, it would be thought no better as a musician than the wren. There are so many things that appeal
because they are seen in their right context.
They arrived at the gate.

Quiet now, said Portia. The moon has gone behind the clouds and doesnt look as though its going to emerge.

The music came to a stop in the middle of Portias sentence.

Thats Portias voice if Im not mistaken, said Lorenzo.

Portia and Nerissa hurried towards them. He knows me, said Portia. Just as the blind man knows the cuckoo by its terrible voice.

Lorenzo sprang up and went to meet them. Dear lady! he exclaimed. Welcome home!

Weve been praying for our husbands welfare, said Portia. We hope theyll be back all the sooner because of those prayers. Are they
back?

Not yet, madam, but there was a messenger come to announce their imminent arrival.

Go in, Nerissa, instructed Portia. Tell my servants not to say a word about our absence. Nor must you, Lorenzo, nor you, Jessica.

Bassanios personal fanfare sounded from somewhere beyond the gate.

Your husband is nearby, said Lorenzo. Thats his trumpet. Dont worry, madam, were not tell-tales.
The moon emerged from behind the clouds.

Its like a version of daylight tonight, said Portia. Its just a little paler. Its like a day when theres no sunshine.
Bassanio heard her and as he approached he said: Well have day at the same time as they do in the Antipodes if you carry on walking
about at night like this.

As long as I spread light without being morally light! she exclaimed as she rushed into his arms. Because a loose wife makes an unhappy
husband. May Bassanio never be that because of me. But what will be will be. Welcome home, my lord!

Thank you, madam, said Bassanio. Welcome my friend. This is Antonio, to whom Im eternally indebted.

So you are, completely, she said, because I understand that he was in grave debt for you.

It was no more than I was prepared to pay, said Antonio, bowing.

Sir, youre very welcome to our house, she said I intend to show you in more than words, so Ill cut these compliments short.

Gratiano and Nerissa had been talking quietly together and there was a sudden outburst from Gratiano. By the moon above us I swear
youre wronging me. I promise you, I gave it to the judges clerk. As far as Im concerned he could lose his manhood as you take it so
much to heart, my love!

What! exclaimed Portia. A quarrel already? Whats the matter?

Its about a hoop of gold, a paltry ring she gave me, said Gratiano. It had an inscription on it, like a cutlers verse on a knife: Love me
and never give me away.

Why are you talking about the inscription or the value? said Nerissa. When I gave it to you you promised me that youd wear it till you
died and that youd take it to the grave with you. If not for my sake but because of your vehement oaths you should have been more
serious and kept it. Gave it to a judges clerk! Never! As Gods my judge the clerk whos got it will never have a beard!

He will if he lives to be a man, said Gratiano.

Indeed, if a woman lives to be a man!

I swear by this hand, I gave it to a youth! exclaimed Gratiano. A kind of boy; a little well-scrubbed boy, no taller than you the judges
clerk, a chattering boy who begged me for it instead of a fee. I didnt have the heart to refuse him.

Bassanio watched in silence as his wife approached Gratiano. You were at fault, she said. I must be frank with you. Parting with your
wifes first gift so thoughtlessly. It was placed on your finger with vows and welded to your flesh with trust. I gave my love a ring and
made him promise never to part with it, and there he stands. I would bet he would never lose it nor take it off his finger for all the worlds
wealth. Now, really, Gratiano, youve given your wife too unkind a cause for grief. If I were her Id be furious.

Bassiano was worried. The best thing would be to cut his left hand off and swear hed lost the ring defending it. And then the worst thing
happened. Gratiano pointed to him: My lord Bassanio gave his ring away, to the judge, who begged him for it and, I have to say, he
deserved it too. Then the boy, his clerk, who had taken so much trouble over the documents, begged for mine. Neither the boy nor his
master would take anything but the two rings.

Portia turned. Her expression filled Bassanio with horror. What ring did you give him, my lord? Not the one I gave you, I hope!

There was no point in denying it. If I wanted to add a lie to a mistake Id deny it, but you can see the ring isnt on my finger. He held his
hand up. Its gone.

Just like the faithfulness from your heart! she exclaimed. By heaven, I wont come anywhere near your bed until I see that ring!

Sweet Portia, he said. If you knew who I gave the ring to, If you knew who I gave the ring for, and if you could understand why I gave
the ring, and how reluctantly I parted with the ring when nothing but the ring would be accepted, you would temper your anger.

If you had realised the significance of the ring, or half the worth of she who gave you the ring, or understood your own obligation not to
have parted with the ring then you wouldnt have parted with the ring, she said. What man could be so unreasonable, so insensitive, as
to insist on having something of such sentimental value? Nerissas right. Id bet my life that some woman has the ring.

Bassanio tried to embrace her but she stepped back. No, on my honour, madam, on my soul, no woman had it! he exclaimed. Only a
lawyer. He refused to take three thousand ducats and demanded the ring, which I refused him, and let him leave displeased. The man
who had saved the life of my dear friend! What can I say, sweet lady? I was forced to send it after him: I was filled with shame and a
sense of obligation. I couldnt besmirch my honour with such ingratitude. Pardon me, good lady, but if you had been there I think you
would have begged me for the ring to give to the worthy doctor.

Dont let that doctor come anywhere near my house! she exclaimed. But since hes got the jewel that I loved, and which you swore to
keep for my sake, Ill be as generous as you: I wont deny him any of my possessions. No, not even my body, nor my husbands bed. I
know now that Im going to be intimate with him. Watch me like Argus because if you dont, if Im left alone, by my honour which is still
mine to give Ill have that doctor in my bed.

And Ill have his clerk, said Nerissa. Take care not to leave me unchaperoned.

Well do it then! said Gratiano. But dont let me catch him because if I do Ill destroy his pen.
Antonio sighed. Im the unhappy subject of these quarrels.

Portia turned quickly and reassured him. Sir, dont be troubled. You are welcome nevertheless.

Portia! Bassanio was desperate. Forgive me for offending you but it was forced on me. Here, with all these friends as witnesses, I swear
to you, even by your lovely eyes, in which I see myself

Listen to that! she retorted. In both my eyes he sees himself doubled! One in each eye. Swear by your hypocritical self. Now theres a
reliable oath! She turned her back on him and looked out towards the sea.
No! Just listen! Forgive this fault and I swear by my soul that Ill never break a promise to you!

Antonio put his hand on Portias arm. I staked my body for his happiness. If it hadnt been for the man who has your husbands ring there
would have been a disaster. Now I offer to be bound again, with my soul as the forfeit, that your husband will never again knowingly
break faith with you.

Then youll be his guarantor, she said. She took the ring off her finger and gave it to Antonio. And tell him to look after it better than the
other.

Antonio held the ring out to Bassanio. Here, Lord Bassanio. Swear to keep this ring.

Bassanio took it. He began putting it on his finger then he stopped. By heaven! he exclaimed. Its the one I gave the doctor!

I got it from him, said Portia. She swung round to face him. Forgive me, Bassanio. The doctor slept with me in return for this ring.

Nerissa took her glove off and displayed her ring. And forgive me, my gentle Gratiano, she said, because that same scrubbed boy, the
doctors clerk, slept with me for this.

What? said Gratiano. This is like mending roads in summer, when theyre in good repair. Are we going to be cuckolded before weve
deserved it?

Dont be so crude! said Portia. Youre all astonished. She opened her bag. Heres a letter; read it at your leisure. It comes from Padua;
from Bellario. In it you will discover that Portia was the doctor, Nerissa there, her clerk. Lorenzo here, will tell you that I set out
immediately after you and have just returned. I havent even been inside yet. Antonio, you are welcome, and I have even better news for
you than you expect. She took another letter out of her bag. Open this letter soon. Youll find that three of your ships returned to the
harbour richly laden. I wont tell you how I got hold of this letter.

Im speechless! said Antonio.

Were you the doctor and I couldnt tell? said Bassanio.

Were you the clerk who wanted to cuckold me? said Gratiano.

Yes, but the clerk who doesnt intend to do it, unless he lives to be a man!

Bassanio took Portia in his arms. Sweet doctor, you will be my bed partner, he said. And when Im away you can sleep with my wife.

Antonio looked up from the letter. Sweet lady, youve given me life and hope. I read here that my ships have reached the port safely.
Well now, Lorenzo, said Portia. My clerk has good news for you too.

Yes, and Ill give it to him for nothing, said Nerissa. She gave Lorenzo the will. I hereby give you and Jessica a special deed of gift from
the rich Jew all his possessions after his death.

Fair ladies, cried Lorenzo. You drop manna in front of starving people!

Its almost morning, said Portia. Im sure theres more that you want to know about these events. Lets go in. You can interrogate us
there and well tell you everything you want to know.

Lets do that, said Gratiano. Her took Nerissas hand and led the way. The first question my Nerissa will be sworn in to answer is
whether she would rather wait till tomorrow night or go to bed now with only two more hours until daylight. If it were morning Id be
wishing it were dark so that I could take the doctors clerk to bed. Anyway, for as long as I live Ill respect nothing more than keeping
Nerissas ring safe!

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