Page 473 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

Are you acquainted with the difference
That holds this present question in the court? [170]

PORTIA
I am informèd throughly of the cause.
Which is the merchant here? And which the Jew?

DUKE
Antonio and old Shylock, both stand forth.

PORTIA
Is your name Shylock?

SHYLOCK
Shylock is my name.

PORTIA
Of a strange nature is the suit you follow, [175]
Yet in such rule that the Venetian law
Cannot impugn you as you do proceed.

You stand within his danger, do you not?

ANTONIO

Ay, so he says.

PORTIA
Do you confess the bond?

ANTONIO
I do.

PORTIA
Then must the Jew be merciful. [180]

SHYLOCK
On what compulsion must I? Tell me that.