Page:Merchant of Venice (1923) Yale.djvu/96

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
82
The Merchant of Venice, IV. i

And it is meet I presently set forth.

Duke. I am sorry that your leisure serves you not.
Antonio, gratify this gentleman,
For, in my mind, you are much bound to him. 408

Exit Duke [with Magnificoes] and his train.

Bass. Most worthy gentleman, I and my friend
Have by your wisdom been this day acquitted
Of grievous penalties; in lieu whereof,
Three thousand ducats, due unto the Jew, 412
We freely cope your courteous pains withal.

Ant. And stand indebted, over and above,
In love and service to you evermore.

Por. He is well paid that is well satisfied; 416
And I, delivering you, am satisfied,-
And therein do account myself well paid:
My mind was never yet more mercenary.
I pray you, know me when we meet again: 420
I wish you well, and so I take my leave.

Bass. Dear sir, of force I must attempt you further:
Take some remembrance of us, as a tribute,
Not as a fee. Grant me two things, I pray you, 424
Not to deny me, and to pardon me.

Por. You press me far, and therefore I will yield.
[To Antonio.] Give me your gloves, I'll wear them for your sake;
[To Bassanio.] And, for your love, I'll take this ring from you. 428
Do not draw back your hand; Ill take no more;
And you in love shall not deny me this.

Bass. This ring, good sir? alas! it is a trifle;
I will not shame myself to give you this. 432

Por. I will have nothing else but only this;
And now methinks I have a mind to it.


407 gratify: reward
413 cope: match, requite
422 force: necessity
attempt: tempt, urge