Narrate what happened in Portia' house after Bassanio reached there
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She tries to convince him to hang out for a while before he plays the casket lottery, as she would be really unhappy to see him go. She wishes she could tell him how to win the game, but that would be cheating. Then she ponders that, if he loses, she'll be sinning in the sense that she will wish she had helped him cheat. So either way, she's a sinner. Then she complains some more about not being able to make her own choices. Portia and Bassanio fawn over each other for some time. She consents to let him try his hand at the casket gig, adding that he's likely to find her portrait and win her if he loves her. She tells everyone to stand back so the man can make his choice, and asks that music be played, which will either be fun if he wins or a swan song if he loses. She compares him to Hercules on his quest to rescue a virgin from a sea monster, and compares herself to that virgin sacrifice. Portia delights in Bassanio's choice of the lead casket. She knows he's picked the right one and that she'll now be his wife. She immediately gets a fluttery stomach and tries to calm herself down. Portia responds to Bassanio's shock about making the right choice. She's clearly excited, but she asks him to take her as she is. She's inexperienced at being the best wife ever, but she's ready and willing to learn. She also wishes she could be better—prettier and wealthier—for his sake. She notes that he is now her lord and king, and she's now under his direction. All of her belongings, mansion, and servants are now his. Finally she gives him a ring, qualifying her gift with a promise that if he loses it or gives it away, it's as good as ruining their love. Portia asks Nerissa if it's true that Graziano has won her love. Apparently, now that Portia's paired off, she might as well get married too. Portia welcomes all of Bassanio's friends, but she's alarmed when she sees Bassanio's reaction to the letter Salerio has brought from Venice. She thinks the letter must declare the death of some dear friend. She encourages Bassanio to share the bad news with her, as she's now his other half. Portia gets filled in on Antonio's situation back in Venice.