Because of this , and other factors , her first appearances as Portia in the play The Merchant of Venice and in other parts were not well received . She received a note from the manager of Drury Lane saying that her services would not be required . Owing to inexperience as well as other circumstances , her first appearances as Portia and in other parts were not well received and she received a note from the manager of Drury Lane stating that her services would not be required .