1 Gratiano speaks an infinite deal of nothing, more than any man in all Venice.
2 First go with me to church and call me wife, And then away to Venice to your friend.
3 Why, all the boys in Venice follow him, Crying, his stones, his daughter, and his ducats.
4 There came divers of Antonio's creditors in my company to Venice that swear he cannot choose but break.
5 I will have the heart of him if he forfeit, for were he out of Venice I can make what merchandise I will.
6 The dearest ring in Venice will I give you, And find it out by proclamation, Only for this I pray you pardon me.
7 In such a night Did Jessica steal from the wealthy Jew, And with an unthrift love did run from Venice As far as Belmont.
8 I have spoke thus much To mitigate the justice of thy plea, Which if thou follow, this strict court of Venice Must needs give sentence 'gainst the merchant there.'
9 It must not be, there is no power in Venice Can alter a decree established; 'Twill be recorded for a precedent, And many an error by the same example Will rush into the state.'
10 The Duke cannot deny the course of law, For the commodity that strangers have With us in Venice, if it be denied, 'Twill much impeach the justice of the state, Since that the trade and profit of the city Consisteth of all nations.'
11 Thou know'st that all my fortunes are at sea; Neither have I money nor commodity To raise a present sum, therefore go forth Try what my credit can in Venice do; That shall be rack'd even to the uttermost, To furnish thee to Belmont to fair Portia.
12 Take this same letter, And use thou all th endeavour of a man In speed to Padua, see thou render this Into my cousin's hands, Doctor Bellario; And look what notes and garments he doth give thee, Bring them, I pray thee, with imagin'd speed Unto the traject, to the common ferry Which trades to Venice.