Page 475 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2
P. 475
Wrest once the law to your authority,
To do a great right, do a little wrong,
And curb this cruel devil of his will. [215]
PORTIA
It must not be, there is no power in Venice
Can alter a decree establishèd:
’Twill be recorded for a precedent,
And many an error by the same example
Will rush into the state. It cannot be. [220]
SHYLOCK
A Daniel come to judgement! Yea, a Daniel!
O wise young judge, how I do honour thee!
PORTIA
I pray you let me look upon the bond.
SHYLOCK
Here ’tis, most reverend doctor, here it is.
PORTIA
Shylock, there’s thrice thy money offered thee. [225]
SHYLOCK
An oath, an oath! I have an oath in heaven;
Shall I lay perjury upon my soul?
No, not for Venice!
PORTIA
Why, this bond is forfeit
And lawfully by this the Jew may claim
A pound of flesh, to be by him cut off [230]
Nearest the merchant’s heart. Be merciful,
Take thrice thy money, bid me tear the bond.
SHYLOCK
