The Count of Monte Cristo

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Albert expressed his wish to Franz Debray, and Morrel, to see them at
the opera that evening. Then he went to see his mother, who since the
events of the day before had refused to see any one, and had kept
her room. He found her in bed, overwhelmed with grief at this public
humiliation. The sight of Albert produced the effect which might
naturally be expected on Mercedes; she pressed her son's hand and sobbed
aloud, but her tears relieved her. Albert stood one moment speechless by
the side of his mother's bed. It was evident from his pale face and knit
brows that his resolution to revenge himself was growing weaker. "My
dear mother," said he, "do you know if M. de Morcerf has any enemy?"
Mercedes started; she noticed that the young man did not say "my
father." "My son," she said, "persons in the count's situation have many
secret enemies. Those who are known are not the most dangerous."

"I know it, and appeal to your penetration. You are of so superior a
mind, nothing escapes you."