Venice becomes the promised destination of Roland’s escape and the place where his criminal fortune is finally enjoyed. Its importance lies in the contrast between his successful flight and the violent collapse of the enterprise he abandons.

Roland’s route to Venice

Roland plans to leave for Venice once the substantial sums he has recently sent to Spain can be converted into letters of credit for Italy. He avoids carrying gold across the Alps, and his scheme depends on keeping the circulation of his false coins separate from the country where he intends to settle. The financial maneuver allows him to move wealth across borders while reducing the likelihood that his counterfeiting will be detected where he establishes himself.

Arrival and fortune

Two years later, news reaches the château that Roland has received the Venetian funds he expected, along with an order for another six million in counterfeit coin, payable in Italy when he arrives to collect it. His successor, Dalville, later reports that Roland has reached Venice, established himself, realized his fortune, and is living there contentedly. The destination thus fulfills Roland’s expectations: the criminal enterprise produces not punishment but security and prosperity for its organizer.

Contrast with the château

Roland’s departure does not end the danger for those he leaves behind. After Dalville takes over, soldiers of the constabulary storm the château in a force of sixty; its occupants have no opportunity to organize a defense and are shackled. The contrast is stark: Roland enjoys the proceeds of his scheme in Venice, while the people and operation left at the château face capture. Venice therefore marks both the completion of his escape and the geographical distance between his good fortune and the consequences borne by others.