The singularity of their situation, the important results of the act in which they were engaged, the impressive dignity of the Carmelite, and the imminent hazard which they all ran of exposure, together with the certainty of punishment for their daring to thwart the will of Venice, if betrayed, caused a deeper feeling than that which usually pervades a marriage ceremony, to preside at nuptials thus celebrated.

The youthful Violetta trembled at every intonation of the solemn voice of the monk, and towards the close she leaned in helplessness on the arm of the man to whom she had just plighted her vows.

The eye of the Carmelite kindled as he proceeded with the office, however; and long ere he had done, he had obtained such a command over the feelings of even Annina as to hold her mercenary spirit in awe.

The final union was pronounced, and the benediction given.
"Maria, of pure memory, watch over thy happiness, daughter!" said the monk, for the first time in his life saluting the fair brow of the weeping bride.

"Duke of Sant' Agata, may thy patron hear thy prayers, as thou provest kind to this innocent and confiding child!" "Amen!--Ha!--we are not too soon united, my Violetta; I hear the sound of oars." A glance from the balcony assured him of the truth of his words, and rendered it apparent that it had now become necessary to take the most decided step of all.