The Count of Monte Cristo

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with wax-lights and flowers.

At the time the Countess of Morcerf returned to the rooms, after giving
her orders, many guests were arriving, more attracted by the charming
hospitality of the countess than by the distinguished position of the
count; for, owing to the good taste of Mercedes, one was sure of finding
some devices at her entertainment worthy of describing, or even copying
in case of need. Madame Danglars, in whom the events we have related had
caused deep anxiety, had hesitated about going to Madame de Morcerf's,
when during the morning her carriage happened to meet that of Villefort.
The latter made a sign, and when the carriages had drawn close together,
said,--"You are going to Madame de Morcerf's, are you not?"

"No," replied Madame Danglars, "I am too ill."

"You are wrong," replied Villefort, significantly; "it is important that
you should be seen there."