One would think that Bassanio would have a strained relationship with Antonio. However, Antonio (in Act 4) does not seem to blame Bassanio for his life being in danger even though the dramatic court scene is partially a result of Bassanio's poor spending habits. In fact,while Antonio is frightened by Shylock's insistence on cutting out a pound of Antonio's flesh, he doesn't seem to be upset with Bassanio at all.
In reference to Bassanio's motivation for rushing to Antonio's defense and using Portia's money to try to satisfy Shylock's bond, I think that Shakespeare intends for the relationship between Bassanio and Antonio to be sincere. While modern audiences are suspicious of Bassanio's motives, by the time the action of Act 4 occurs, Bassanio does not need to borrow more money from Antonio because he has just married the extremely wealthy Portia who bestowed upon Bassanio all her possessions, status, and wealth. Most likely, Bassanio helps Antonio not just because he cares for him as a friend but also because he feels guilty for asking Antonio to lend him money in the first place because that leads to the bond with Shylock.
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