A six-oared gondola, of a size suited to endure the waves of the Adriatic at that mild season, and with a pavilion of fit dimensions, stopped at the water-gate of the palace.
"I wonder at this boldness!" exclaimed Don Camillo.

"There must be no delay, lest some spy of the Republic apprise the police.

Away, dearest Violetta--away, Donna Florinda! Father, away!" The governess and her charge passed swiftly into the inner rooms.

In a minute they returned bearing the caskets of Donna Violetta, and a sufficient supply of necessaries for a short voyage.

The instant they reappeared, all was ready; for Don Camillo had long held himself prepared for this decisive moment, and the self-denying Carmelite had little need of superfluities.