Also, the bridge of Rialto was a broad bridge of boats, on which shops were built on each side of the way, and the middle of the bridge could be drawn out, for the great Bucentoro to pass through, when the Doge went out in state to wed the sea.
Giovanni Beroviero was well known to Contarini's household, for all knew of the approaching marriage, and the servants were not surprised when he inquired for the Governor of Murano, saying that his business was urgent.

But the Governor was not there, nor the master of the house.
They were gone to the Grand Canal.

Would the Signor Giovanni like to speak with Messer Jacopo, who chanced to be in the palace and alone?
It was still early, and Giovanni thought that the opportunity was a good one for ingratiating himself with his future brother-in-law.

He would go in, if he should not disturb Messer Jacopo.

He was announced and ushered respectfully into the great hall, and thence up the broad staircase to the hall of reception above.