Page 406 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

How like a fawning publican he looks!
I hate him for he is a Christian; [40]
But more, for that in low simplicity
He lends out money gratis and brings down

The rate of usance here with us in Venice.
If I can catch him once upon the hip,
I will feed fat the ancient grudge I bear him. [45]
He hates our sacred nation and he rails

Even there where merchants most do congregate
On me, my bargains, and my well-won thrift,
Which he calls interest. Cursèd be my tribe
If I forgive him!

BASSANIO
Shylock, do you hear? [50]

SHYLOCK
I am debating of my present store,
And by the near guess of my memory
I cannot instantly raise up the gross
Of full three thousand ducats. What of that?

Tubal, a wealthy Hebrew of my tribe, [55]
Will furnish me. But soft, how many months
Do you desire? (To Antonio) Rest you fair, good signor,
Your worship was the last man in our mouths.

ANTONIO
Shylock, albeit I neither lend nor borrow

By taking nor by giving of excess, [60]
Yet to supply the ripe wants of my friend,
I’ll break a custom. (To Bassanio) Is he yet possessed

How much ye would?

SHYLOCK

Ay, ay, three thousand ducats.

ANTONIO