    After Bassanio left Belmont, Portia waited anxiously. She worried about Antonio's dangerous situation. After much deliberation, she decided to go to Venice and defend Antonio herself. Fortunately, she was related to Bellario, a famous lawyer. She consulted with him and together they devised a clever scheme. Then she quickly went to Venice accompanied by her servant Nerissa, with a set of attorney's robe and Bellario's recommendation letter.
    Finally the court was open for Antonio's case. Even the Duke of Venice tried to persuade Shylock to give up his cruel idea. But he failed also. No hope of reconciliation could be seen. Just then, somebody reported, "A messenger is coming with Dr. Bellario's recommendation letter." The Duke was excited to hear that the famous lawyer's messenger had come. He ordered, "Lead the messenger in!" Portia walked in, wearing the lawyer's robe. And no one even recognized her. She handed Bellario's recommendation letter to the Duke. After reading the letter, the Duke agreed Portia would be the judge in this case.
