The Count of Monte Cristo

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is a captain, an officer of the Legion of Honor." The old man signified
that he recollected him. "Well, grandpapa," said Valentine, kneeling
before him, and pointing to Maximilian, "I love him, and will be only
his; were I compelled to marry another, I would destroy myself."

The eyes of the paralytic expressed a multitude of tumultuous thoughts.
"You like M. Maximilian Morrel, do you not, grandpapa?" asked Valentine.

"Yes."

"And you will protect us, who are your children, against the will of my
father?"--Noirtier cast an intelligent glance at Morrel, as if to say,
"perhaps I may." Maximilian understood him.

"Mademoiselle," said he, "you have a sacred duty to fulfil in your
deceased grandmother's room, will you allow me the honor of a few
minutes' conversation with M. Noirtier?"