The young English lady skipped over the threshold, but she stood still and blushed as soon as she saw the stranger.
"My dear little friend," said Mercedes, presenting the girl, "keeps me company in my desolation, and thus helps me to pass away many a weary hour."
The count bowed respectfully, whereupon he extended his hand to Mercedes and went away.
"Who is the gentleman?" asked Clary, as soon as the door closed behind Monte-Cristo.
"The Count of Monte-Cristo," said Mercedes.
"Was he the person whom you expected?"
"Yes."
"Oh, then be of good cheer," said Clary, putting her tiny hand upon her heaving breast; "something tells me that this man is almighty! Hope, Mother Mercedes—hope!"