Question

Who is Nerissa? What does she say to cheer up Portia?

Answer 1

Nerissa is Portia's lady-in-waiting and close confidant. She is a smart lady with an intelligent mind and true sense of humour.
To cheer up Portia, Nerissa says to her that her father was always a good man, and such men have good guidance inspirations from Heaven at the time of their death when making their wills. Therefore, Nerissa assures Portia that none but the person who really loves her and not her money will choose the right casket.