The Count of Monte Cristo

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Chapter 87. The Challenge.

"Then," continued Beauchamp, "I took advantage of the silence and
the darkness to leave the house without being seen. The usher who
had introduced me was waiting for me at the door, and he conducted me
through the corridors to a private entrance opening into the Rue de
Vaugirard. I left with mingled feelings of sorrow and delight. Excuse
me, Albert,--sorrow on your account, and delight with that noble girl,
thus pursuing paternal vengeance. Yes, Albert, from whatever source the
blow may have proceeded--it may be from an enemy, but that enemy is only
the agent of providence." Albert held his head between his hands;
he raised his face, red with shame and bathed in tears, and seizing
Beauchamp's arm, "My friend," said he, "my life is ended. I cannot
calmly say with you, 'Providence has struck the blow;' but I must
discover who pursues me with this hatred, and when I have found him I
shall kill him, or he will kill me. I rely on your friendship to assist
me, Beauchamp, if contempt has not banished it from your heart."