Organ music heard. Enter a company of noble Venetians with the Duke and his train, accompanied by Bassanio, Portia, Antonio, Gratiano, Nerissa and others. Following these, at a little distance, appear Lorenzo and Jessica, the latter gorgeously attired. The company pauses before the font. Shylock enters from the left, led forward by a priest. His gaberdine has been exchanged for the Christian habit, and in his hand is placed a crucifix.
Duke. Old Shylock, art thou well content to do
As thus we have ordain’d, which is, that thou
Renounce thine ancient Jewish faith, repent
Thy sins, and take the holy, solemn vows
A Christian takes when on his brow the drops
Baptismal glister, and be nam’d anew
After the Christian custom of our land?
Shylock. Most noble duke, I am content, and do
Hereby renounce my nation and my faith,