The Count of Monte Cristo

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"But first," said Morrel, "allow me, sir, to tell you who I am, how much
I love Mademoiselle Valentine, and what are my designs respecting her."
Noirtier made a sign that he would listen.

It was an imposing sight to witness this old man, apparently a mere
useless burden, becoming the sole protector, support, and adviser of the
lovers who were both young, beautiful, and strong. His remarkably
noble and austere expression struck Morrel, who began his story with
trembling. He related the manner in which he had become acquainted with
Valentine, and how he had loved her, and that Valentine, in her solitude
and her misfortune, had accepted the offer of his devotion. He told
him his birth, his position, his fortune, and more than once, when he
consulted the look of the paralytic, that look answered, "That is good,
proceed."

"And now," said Morrel, when he had finished the first part of his
recital, "now I have told you of my love and my hopes, may I inform you