The Count of Monte Cristo

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"To make a lunatic asylum of it, similar to that founded by the Count of
Pisani at Palermo. Do you know about that institution?"

"I have heard of it."

"It is a magnificent charity." Having said this, the abbe bowed to
imply he wished to pursue his studies. The visitor either understood the
abbe's meaning, or had no more questions to ask; he arose, and the
abbe accompanied him to the door. "You are a great almsgiver," said the
visitor, "and although you are said to be rich, I will venture to offer
you something for your poor people; will you accept my offering?"

"I thank you, sir; I am only jealous in one thing, and that is that the
relief I give should be entirely from my own resources."

"However"--