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BASSANIO. Lorenzo and Salanio, welcome hither, If that the youth of my new interest here Have power to bid you welcome. By your leave, I bid my very friends and countrymen, Sweet Portia, welcome.
PORTIA. So do I, my lord; They are entirely welcome.
LORENZO. I thank your honour. For my part, my lord, My purpose was not to have seen you here; But meeting with Salanio by the way, He did entreat me, past all saying nay, To come with him along.
SALANIO. I did, my lord, And I have reason for it. Signior Antonio Commends him to you.
[ Gives BASSANIO a letter ]
BASSANIO. Ere I ope his letter, I pray you tell me how my good friend doth.
SALANIO. Not sick, my lord, unless it be in mind; Nor well, unless in mind; his letter there Will show you his estate.
GRATIANO. Nerissa, cheer yon stranger; bid her welcome.