mposed. Without communicating his thoughts to his
companion, he sat down, drew out his opera-glass, and looked another
way. Although apparently not noticing Albert, he did not, however, lose
sight of him, and when the curtain fell at the end of the second act, he
saw him leave the orchestra with his two friends. Then his head was
seen passing at the back of the boxes, and the count knew that the
approaching storm was intended to fall on him. He was at the moment
conversing cheerfully with Morrel, but he was well prepared for what
might happen. The door opened, and Monte Cristo, turning round, saw
Albert, pale and trembling, followed by Beauchamp and Chateau-Renaud.

"Well," cried he, with that benevolent politeness which distinguished
his salutation from the common civilities of the world, "my cavalier has
attained his object. Good-evening, M. de Morcerf." The countenance of
this man, who possessed such extraordinary control over his feelings,
expressed the most perfect cordiality. Morrel only then recollected the
letter he had received from the viscount, in which, without assigning
any reason, he begged him to go to the opera, but he understood that
something terrible was brooding.

"We are not come here, sir, to exchange hypocritical expressions of
politeness, or false professions of friendship," said Albert, "but to
demand an explanation." The young man's trembling voice was scarcely
audible. "An explanation at the opera?" said the count, with that calm
tone and penetrating eye which characterize the man who knows his cause
is good. "Little acquainted as I am with the habits of Parisians, I
should not have thought this the place for such a demand."

"Still, if people will shut themselves up," said Albert, "and cannot
be seen because they are bathing, dining, or asleep, we must avail
ourselves of the opportunity whenever they are to be seen."

"I am not difficult of access, sir; for yesterday, if my memory does not
deceive me, you were at my house."

"Yesterday I was at your house, sir," said the young man; "because then
I knew not who you were." In pronouncing these words Albert had raised
his voice so as to be heard by those in the adjoining boxes and in the
lobby. Thus the attention of many was attracted by this altercation.
"Where are you come from, sir? You do not appear to be in the possession
of your senses."

"Provided I understand your perfidy, sir, and succeed in making you
understand that I will be re