"I am no colonel," said the count.
"Then I must say general?"
"That is unnecessary—I am in no way a soldier."
"But that is hardly possible," cried Coucou, disappointed; "such a nice brave gentleman, and not a soldier?"
"I cannot help you; but now tell me plainly whether you can render me any assistance in finding the captain?"
"A thousand times, marshal, or as otherwise your title may be. You see, sir, I am a man of few words, but if you demand my heart's blood, it is at your service—the Jackal Coucou always keeps his word."
Monte-Cristo smiled—the man suited him.
"Sit down here next to me," he said, in a friendly manner, "and tell me all you know."
"To seat myself—no, that would be disrespectful; I shall remain standing; and now question me."
"Just as you like. Since when has the captain disappeared, and what do you know concerning him?"