Will live as maids and widows. Come, away!

For you shall hence upon your wedding-day:

[314] Bid your friends welcome, show a merry cheer:

315 Since you are dear bought, I will love you dear.

But let me hear the letter of your friend.

Bass. [reads] [317] Sweet Bassanio, my ships have all miscarried, my creditors grow cruel, my estate is very low, my bond to the Jew is forfeit; and since in paying it, it is impossible I should live, all [320] debts are cleared between you and I, if I might but see you at my death. Notwithstanding, use your pleasure: if your love do not persuade you to come, let not my letter.

[323] Por. O love, dispatch all business, and be gone!

Bass. Since I have your good leave to go away,

325 I will make haste: but, till I come again,

No bed shall e’er be guilty of my stay,