rudent," said Chateau-Renaud, "to come on horseback to fight a
duel with pistols, after all the instructions I had given him."

"And besides," said Beauchamp, "with a collar above his cravat, an
open coat and white waistcoat! Why has he not painted a spot upon his
heart?--it would have been more simple." Meanwhile Albert had arrived
within ten paces of the group formed by the five young men. He jumped
from his horse, threw the bridle on his servant's arms, and joined them.
He was pale, and his eyes were red and swollen; it was evident that he
had not slept. A shade of melancholy gravity overspread his countenance,
which was not natural to him. "I thank you, gentlemen," said he, "for
having complied with my request; I feel extremely grateful for this
mark of friendship." Morrel had stepped back as Morcerf approached, and
remained at a short distance. "And to you also, M. Morrel, my thanks are
due. Come, there cannot be too many."

"Sir," said Maximilian, "you are not perhaps aware that I am M. de Monte
Cristo's friend?"

"I was not sure, but I thought it might be so. So much the better; the
more honorable men there are here the better I shall be satisfied."

"M. Morrel," said Chateau-Renaud, "will you apprise the Count of Monte
Cristo that M. de Morcerf is arrived, and we are at his disposal?"
Morrel was preparing to fulfil his commission. Beauchamp had meanwhile
drawn the box of pistols from the carriage. "Stop, gentlemen," said
Albert; "I have two words to say to the Count of Monte Cristo."

"In private?" asked Morrel.

"No, sir; before all who are here."

Albert's witnesses looked at each other. Franz and Debray exchanged some
words in a whisper, and Morrel, rejoiced at this unexpected incident,
went to fetch the count, who was walking in a retired path with
Emmanuel. "What does he want with me?" said Monte Cristo.

"I do not know, but he wishes to speak to you."

"Ah?" said Monte Cristo, "I trust he is not going to tempt me by some
fresh insult!"

"I do not think that such is his intention," said Morrel.

The count advanced, accompanied by Maximilian and Emmanuel. His calm and
serene look formed a singular contrast to Albert's grief-stricken face,
who approached also, followed by the other four young men. When at three
paces distant from each other, Albert and the count stopped.

"Approach, gentlemen," said Albert; "I wish you not to lose one word
of what I am about to have the honor of saying to the Cou