The delay was short; for no sooner was the old senator apprised of her presence, than he hastened from his closet to do her honor, with a zeal that did credit to his fitness for the trust he filled.

The countenance of the old patrician--a face in which thought and care had drawn as many lines as time--lighted with unequivocal satisfaction as he pressed forward to receive his beautiful ward.

To her half-uttered apologies for the intrusion, he would not listen; but as he led her within, he gallantly professed his pleasure at being honored with her visits even at moments that, to her scrupulous delicacy, might appear the most ill-timed.
"Thou canst never come amiss, child as thou art of my ancient friend, and the especial care of the state!" he added.

"The gates of the Gradenigo palace would open of themselves, at the latest period of the night, to receive such a guest.

Besides, the hour is most suited to the convenience of one of thy quality who would breathe the fresh evening air on the canals.