Still, I do like Venice." They had now reached the steps of the Palazzo Polani.

They had not proceeded by way of the Grand Canal, as the merchant was anxious that his daughters should reach their home unrecognized, as, had they been noticed, it would have given rise to no little excitement, and they had had more than enough of this, and needed quiet and repose.

Besides, until the prisoners were in the safe custody of the officials of the state, it was in every way desirable that the events of the morning should remain unknown.
Their return home created quite a tumult of joy in the house.

The preparations that had been made had been kept a profound secret, as the merchant could not be sure but that some other member of his household was in the pay of Mocenigo.

Thus, until the girls alighted at the steps, none in the house were aware that any clue had been obtained as to their hiding place.