SHYLOCK The Merchant of Venice By Alfred de Vigny

SHYLOCK The Merchant of Venice By Alfred de Vigny
ACT I
The stage represents the Rialto. To the left the home of the Jew
Shylock.
Antonio is seated on a bench. Lorenzo and Bassanio are standing to his
right and left, at the front of the stage to the right.
ANTONIO: I am sad today without knowing the cause of it.
Gentlemen, don't ask me what brings about
This puerile chagrin—it's only too certain
That it always pursues me, especially this morning.
BASSANIO: It's because your mind is strolling on the Ocean
With all your ships, following them and bringing them back,
And sees them dominating with their proud colors,
Merchant ships, which, following their wake,
Are coming to salute you by lowering their sails.
LORENZO: If I had, between the water of the seas and the stars,
As much money and as much gold, I would never sleep over it.
I would walk doubled over, seeking at each step
Which way the wind was making the grass lean
To see in it the fate of my proud ships.
I couldn't breathe over a very hot plate
Without thinking that the wind was ruining me as it blows,
Nor look on the high clock and wall of a church
Without thinking of obstacles wherein my great masts were breaking.
Now that, I am sure of it, is what is making you pensive?
ANTONIO: No, I thank God for it, that's not the motive.
I haven't wagered all on a single chance.
So, each day, I have more than one hope.
ACT I 5