CHAPTER V
The decision was no sooner made, than it was carried into execution. The order was given to the gondoliers, and instantly the long dark gondola swung round, disengaging itself from the tangle of surrounding craft, and headed for the quieter spaces of the middle stream.
The Palazzo Ugochini was on the Grand Canal; and as they glided westward, past the beautiful church of Santa Maria della Salute, Barnard leant forward and directed her attention to their destination.
"There is the Palace of the Ugochini," he said. "It contains some of the finest frescoes in Italy. It was bought up some years ago by an enterprising Frenchman who lets it out in sections. Just now Lady Frances Hope is the proud occupier of the first floor."
With a movement of interest, she followed his glance looking silently at the long line of irregular, imposing buildings that stretched away before her.
"What a beautiful old place!" she said. "Are those your friend's windows?"
She indicated the first floor of the palace, from the open windows of which a warm stream of light poured downwards upon the water.
"Yes. I expect they're playing bridge up there. Frances is an enthusiast. By the way, do you gamble, Mrs. Milbanke?"
Involuntarily Clodagh started and looked round; then, as she met Barnard's bland, amiable face, she blushed at her own emotions.
"Oh no!" she said in a low voice. "I—I never play cards."