In this chapter, we are told that the events of this story are purely fictional, and that there is no intention to insinuate, or describe, real events or characters. We are also told that this is the first time we have seen Shylock's face, and we are further told that he is holding a young woman in his arms. He is very handsome, and Shylock is very much in love with this young woman. He tells Shylock that he will stay at his friend's house for a while, and then he will return to his own house.