    As they sat chatting, Portia pointed out that her husbund's ring was missing from his finger. And acted as if she was angry. Bassanio said sincerely, "I assure you my love, I gave the ring to the lawyer and not another woman. He insisted taking the ring as a reward. And I could not refuse. Forgive me, dearest, if you were there at the time, I'm sure you would have approved. Antonio said hastily, "I'm very sorry, all this happened because of me. But, Madame, I dare to make a written pledge with my soul to guarantee that your husband never deliberately acted against you." Portia smiled, and showed them the ring on her finger. Everyone was very surprised as she told them her story in detail. What a pleasant surprise! After that, Portia opened a letter she had just received saying, "I have even better news for you, Antonio's ships thought to be lost at the sea have returned from a rewarding journey, and are now safe in the harbor!" All the people cheered, and the whole mansion was filled with rejoicing and laughter.
