Page 498 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

BASSANIO

No, by my honour, madam, by my soul
No woman had it, but a civil doctor, [210]
Which did refuse three thousand ducats of me

And begged the ring, the which I did deny him,
And suffered him to go displeased away,
Even he that had held up the very life
Of my dear friend. What should I say, sweet lady? [215]
I was enforced to send it after him,

I was beset with shame and courtesy;
My honour would not let ingratitude
So much besmear it. Pardon me, good lady,

For by these blessèd candles of the night, [220]
Had you been there I think you would have begged
The ring of me to give the worthy doctor.

PORTIA
Let not that doctor e’er come near my house.
Since he hath got the jewel that I loved,

And that which you did swear to keep for me, [225]
I will become as liberal as you,
I’ll not deny him anything I have,
No, not my body nor my husband’s bed:

Know him I shall, I am well sure of it.
Lie not a night from home; watch me like Argus. [230]
If you do not, if I be left alone,
Now by mine honour which is yet mine own,

I’ll have that doctor for my bedfellow.

NERISSA

And I his clerk; therefore be well advised
How you do leave me to mine own protection. [235]

GRATIANO
Well, do you so: let not me take him then,
For if I do, I’ll mar the young clerk’s pen.

ANTONIO