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. 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.
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