Question

why does Antonio say that no lawful means can carry him out of his enemy's reach? Merchant of Venice ActIV scene I​

Answer 1

This is because Antonio already signed and agreed to the terms of the bond and its forfeit. He is thus unable to back out of it when he cannot repay back the loan in time.

Answer 2

Answer:

Antonio say so because he knew that shylock is very much stubborn man and so there is no legal way to protect Antonio as shylock wants to take his revenge and Duke also can't help Antonio because if he helped Antonio then shylock and all his Jew friends will be against the law of Venice and this can harm Venice law and trade