E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Por’tia.
A rich heiress in The Merchant of Venice, in love with Bassa’nio. Her father had ordained that three caskets should be offered to all who sought her hand—one of gold, one of silver, and one of lead—with this proviso: he only who selected the casket which contained the portrait of the lady should possess her hand and fortune. (Shakespeare.)
