This is a very short scene (Note how short the scenes are at the minute, as Shakespeare picks up the pace and brings the plot along) where Lorenzo is making preparations for a masque at Bassanio’s feast.
Launcelot enters and gives Lorenzo the letter from Jessica and Lorenzo sends a message with Launcelot to Jessica. “Tell Gentle Jessica/ I will not fail her. Speak it privately.” Lorenzo plans to use Jessica as a torch bearer.
Lorenzo reveals the contents of Jessica’s letter to Gratiano, telling him that Jessica has planned how he will take her away from her father’s house and that she intends on taking gold and jewels with her. “What gold and jewels she is furnished.” She will be dressed as a boy and will act as a torch bearer for the group.
In this scene, we learn that not only does Jessica plan on running away with Lorenzo, but that she also plans to take her father’s gold and jewels with her. This again heightens the tension in the play as we know that Shylock will be incensed to lose both his daughter and his fortune and his hatred for Christians will grow further.