At the look of displeasure, added to the angry tone in which the
count spoke, Ali turned pale and held down his head.
"It is not your fault, my good Ali," said the count in Arabic, and in a tone of such gentleness as none would have given him credit for being capable of feeling "it is not your fault. You do not profess to understand the choice of English horses."
The countenance of poor Ali recovered its serenity.
"Permit me to assure your excellency," said Bertuccio, "that the horses you speak of were not to be sold when I purchased yours."
Monte-Cristo shrugged up his shoulders. "It seems, M. l'Intendant," said he, "that you have yet to learn that all things are to be sold to such as care to pay the price."
"M. le Comte is not, perhaps, aware that M. Danglars gave sixteen thousand francs for his horses?"
"Very well! then offer him double that sum; a banker never loses an opportunity of doubling his capital."
"Is your excellency really in earnest?" inquired the steward.
Monte-Cristo looked at the steward as if astonished at his daring to question him.
"I have to pay a visit this evening," replied he. "I desire that these horses, with completely new harness, may be at the door with my carriage."
Bertuccio bowed and was about to retire, but when he reached the door he paused, and then said:
"At what o'clock does your excellency wish the carriage and horses ready?"
"At five o'clock," replied the count.
"I beg your excellency's pardon," interposed the steward, in a deprecating manner, "for venturing to observe that it is already two o'clock."
"I am perfectly aware of that fact," answered Monte-Cristo, calmly. Then, turning toward Ali, he said:
"Let all the horses in my stables be led before the windows of your young lady, that she may select those she prefers for her carnage. Request her also to oblige me by saying whether it is her pleasure to dine with me; if so, let dinner be served in her apartments. Now leave me, and desire my valet-de-chambre to come hither."
Scarcely had Ali disappeared when the valet entered the chamber.
"M. Baptistin," said the count, "you have been in my service one year, the time I generally give myself to judge of the merits or demerits of those about me. You suit me very well."
Baptistin bowed low.
