"Got to the other end," repeated Vistarnini breathlessly. "A noble underground passage, Graziosa, that is what we have discovered, large enough to admit an army if need were, and with a concealed opening, leading out through a cave to the midst of——"
"A pond," suggested Graziosa with a glance at his garments.
"A wood—the pond was a mere accessory; a wood, some two miles beyond the town."
"Then since this end is reached from our house, we are the only ones who can gain access to it?" said Graziosa.
"We are," returned the painter proudly. "And, Graziosa, we will remain so."
"Thou mean'st thou wilt tell no one?" asked his daughter.
"No; it will be very useful. I hate to be forever passing the gate, giving accounts of myself to every saucy soldier. In time of need, should there be a war, then perchance we can speak of it."
"I think we should speak of it now," said Graziosa thoughtfully. "I think we should tell the Duke."
"Tell the weathercock!" said Vistarnini. "I tell thee it will be useful; the tolls nearly ruin me—and now I can bring everything I buy outside in through the secret passage."
"'Tis scarce honest, father."