The Count of Monte Cristo

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seen Chateau-Renaud, who had promised to be in the orchestra before the
curtain was raised. Both got into Albert's coupe; and, as the young man
had no reason to conceal where he was going, he called aloud, "To
the opera." In his impatience he arrived before the beginning of the
performance.

Chateau-Renaud was at his post; apprised by Beauchamp of the
circumstances, he required no explanation from Albert. The conduct
of the son in seeking to avenge his father was so natural that
Chateau-Renaud did not seek to dissuade him, and was content with
renewing his assurances of devotion. Debray was not yet come, but Albert
knew that he seldom lost a scene at the opera. Albert wandered about
the theatre until the curtain was drawn up. He hoped to meet with M. de
Monte Cristo either in the lobby or on the stairs. The bell summoned
him to his seat, and he entered the orchestra with Chateau-Renaud and
Beauchamp. But his eyes scarcely quitted the box between the columns,
which remained obstinately closed during the whole of the first act. At