The Count of Monte Cristo

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attacked Barrois gradually increased, the features of the face became
quite altered, and the convulsive movement of the muscles appeared to
indicate the approach of a most serious nervous disorder. Noirtier,
seeing Barrois in this pitiable condition, showed by his looks all the
various emotions of sorrow and sympathy which can animate the heart of
man. Barrois made some steps towards his master.

"Ah, sir," said he, "tell me what is the matter with me. I am
suffering--I cannot see. A thousand fiery darts are piercing my brain.
Ah, don't touch me, pray don't." By this time his haggard eyes had the
appearance of being ready to start from their sockets; his head fell
back, and the lower extremities of the body began to stiffen. Valentine
uttered a cry of horror; Morrel took her in his arms, as if to defend
her from some unknown danger. "M. d'Avrigny, M. d'Avrigny," cried she,
in a stifled voice. "Help, help!" Barrois turned round and with a great
effort stumbled a few steps, then fell at the feet of Noirtier, and
resting his hand on the knee of the invalid, exclaimed, "My master, my