'clock at night; the branches of the great trees
in the garden of the count's house stood out boldly against the azure
canopy of heaven, which was studded with golden stars, but where
the last fleeting clouds of a vanishing storm yet lingered. From the
apartments on the ground-floor might be heard the sound of music, with
the whirl of the waltz and galop, while brilliant streams of light shone
through the openings of the Venetian blinds. At this moment the garden
was only occupied by about ten servants, who had just received orders
from their mistress to prepare the supper, the serenity of the weather
continuing to increase. Until now, it had been undecided whether the
supper should take place in the dining-room, or under a long tent
erected on the lawn, but the beautiful blue sky, studded with stars, had
settled the question in favor of the lawn. The gardens were illuminated
with colored lanterns, according to the Italian custom, and, as is usual
in countries where the luxuries of the table--the rarest of all luxuries
in their complete form--are well understood, the supper-table was loaded
with wax-lights and flowers.

At the time the Countess of Morcerf returned to the rooms, after giving
her orders, many guests were arriving, more attracted by the charming
hospitality of the countess than by the distinguished position of the
count; for, owing to the good taste of Mercedes, one was sure of finding
some devices at her entertainment worthy of describing, or even copying
in case of need. Madame Danglars, in whom the events we have related had
caused deep anxiety, had hesitated about going to Madame de Morcerf's,
when during the morning her carriage happened to meet that of Villefort.
The latter made a sign, and when the carriages had drawn close together,
said,--"You are going to Madame de Morcerf's, are you not?"

"No," replied Madame Danglars, "I am too ill."

"You are wrong," replied Villefort, significantly; "it is important that
you should be seen there."

"Do you think so?" asked the baroness.

"I do."

"In that case I will go." And the two carriages passed on towards
their different destinations. Madame Danglars therefore came, not only
beautiful in person, but radiant with splendor; she entered by one door
at the time when Mercedes appeared at the door. The countess took Albert
to meet Madame Danglars. He approached, paid her some well merited
compliments on her toilet, and offered his arm to conduct her to