Back in Belmont, the Prince of Morocco presents himself as a suitor for Portia.

Launcelot Gobbo is a clown who is indentured to Shylock as his servant. Unhappy to be working in the employ of a Jew, Launcelot offers up his services to Bassanio.

Later, Bassanio’s friend Gratiano asks to accompany Bassanio to Belmont. Bassanio agrees, as long as Gratiano subdues his rowdy nature.

Shylock’s daughter Jessica is sad to learn of Launcelot’s plans to flee. As Launcelot departs, she gives him a love letter to deliver to Lorenzo, another of Bassanio’s friends. Left alone, Jessica vows to escape Shylock, marry Lorenzo, and convert to Christianity.