It was no moment for unnecessary explanation or trivial objections.
"Our hope is in celerity," said Don Camillo.

"Secresy is impossible." He was still speaking, when the monk led the way from the room.

Donna Florinda and the half-breathless Violetta followed; Don Camillo drew the arm of Annina under his own, and in a low voice bid her, at her peril, refuse to obey.
The long suite of outer rooms was passed without meeting a single observer of the extraordinary movement.

But when the fugitive entered the great hall that communicated with the principal stairs, they found themselves in the centre of a dozen menials of both sexes.
"Place," cried the Duke of Sant' Agata, whose person and voice were alike unknown to them.

"Your mistress will breathe the air of the canals." Wonder and curiosity were alive in every countenance, but suspicion and eager attention were uppermost in the features of many.