"Because the rupture or the fulfillment of this engagement is connected with the person of whom we are speaking."
"How?" said Albert, whose brow reddened; "you think M. Danglars"
"I ask you only how your engagement stands? Pray put no construction on my words I do not mean they should convey, and give them no undue weight."
"No," said Albert, "the engagement is broken off."
"Well!" said Beauchamp. Then, seeing the young man was about to relapse into melancholy,—"Let us go out, Albert," said he; "a ride in the Bois in the phaeton, or on horseback, will refresh you; we will then return to breakfast, and you shall attend to your affairs, and I to mine."
"Willingly," said Albert; "but let us walk; I think a little exertion would do me good."
The two friends walked out along the boulevard. When they arrived at the Madeleine:—
"Since we are out," said Beauchamp, "let us call on M. de Monte-Cristo; he is admirably adapted to revive one's spirits, because he never interrogates; and, in my opinion, those who ask no questions are the best comforters."
"Gladly," said Albert; "let us call, I like him."
