Page:Merchant of Venice (1923) Yale.djvu/58

44

To signify the approaching of his lord;

From whom he bringeth sensible regreets,

To wit,—besides commends and courteous breath,—

Gifts of rich value. Yet I have not seen

So likely an embassador of love.

A day in April never came so sweet,

To show how costly summer was at hand,

As this fore-spurrer comes before his lord.

Por. No more, I pray thee: I am half afeard

Thou wilt say anon he is some kin to thee,

Thou spend'st such high-day wit in praising him.

Come, come, Nerissa; for I long to see

Quick Cupid's post that comes so mannerly.

Ner. Bassanio, lord Love, if thy will it be!

Exeunt.

 

Salan. Now, what news on the Rialto?

Salar. Why, yet it lives there unchecked that

Antonio hath a ship of rich lading wracked on

the narrow seas; the Goodwins, I think they call

the place; a very dangerous flat, and fatal, where

the carcasses of many a tall ship lie buried, as

they say, if my gossip Report be an honest

woman of her word.

 89 sensible: substantial, meaning his gifts

regreets: greetings

92 likely: promising

98 high-day: holiday, meaning ornate, dressed for holiday

 3 wracked: wrecked

4 narrow seas: English Channel 