The Count of Monte Cristo

Back Forward Menu

well to-morrow; but I claim to-night and will devote it, if you will
allow me, to talk over some serious matters with my wife." This time
the blow was so well aimed, and hit so directly, that Lucien and the
baroness were staggered, and they interrogated each other with their
eyes, as if to seek help against this aggression, but the irresistible
will of the master of the house prevailed, and the husband was
victorious.

"Do not think I wish to turn you out, my dear Debray," continued
Danglars; "oh, no, not at all. An unexpected occurrence forces me to ask
my wife to have a little conversation with me; it is so rarely I make
such a request, I am sure you cannot grudge it to me." Debray muttered
something, bowed and went out, knocking himself against the edge of the
door, like Nathan in "Athalie."

"It is extraordinary," he said, when the door was closed behind him,
"how easily these husbands, whom we ridicule, gain an advantage over