The Merchant of Venice · Act 2, Scene 3

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Enter JESSICA and LAUNCELOT
Enter JESSICA and LAUNCELOT
Jessica

I am sorry thou wilt leave my father so: Our house is hell, and thou, a merry devil, Didst rob it of some taste of tediousness. But fare thee well, there is a ducat for thee: And, Launcelot, soon at supper shalt thou see Lorenzo, who is thy new master’s guest: Give him this letter; do it secretly; And so farewell: I would not have my father See me in talk with thee.

Jessica

I’m sorry you’re leaving my father like this: Our house is a hell, and you, a cheerful devil, Took away some of the boredom from it. But goodbye, here’s a ducat for you: And, Launcelot, soon at dinner you’ll see Lorenzo, who is your new master’s guest: Give him this letter; do it quietly; And so goodbye: I don’t want my father To see me talking to you.

Launcelot

Adieu! tears exhibit my tongue. Most beautiful pagan, most sweet Jew! if a Christian did not play the knave and get thee, I am much deceived. But, adieu: these foolish drops do something drown my manly spirit: adieu.

Launcelot

Goodbye! Tears are making me speechless. Most beautiful pagan, most sweet Jew! If a Christian didn’t act like a fool and marry you, I’d be greatly mistaken. But, goodbye: these silly tears are kind of drowning my manly spirit: goodbye.

Jessica

Farewell, good Launcelot.

Jessica

Goodbye, good Launcelot.

Exit Launcelot
Exit Launcelot
Jessica

Alack, what heinous sin is it in me To be ashamed to be my father’s child! But though I am a daughter to his blood, I am not to his manners. O Lorenzo, If thou keep promise, I shall end this strife, Become a Christian and thy loving wife.

Jessica

What a terrible sin it is for me To be ashamed of being my father’s child! But even though I’m his daughter by blood, I’m not like him in behavior. Oh Lorenzo, If you keep your promise, I will end this conflict, Become a Christian, and your loving wife.

Exit
Exit

End of Act 2, Scene 3

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