"But," commencing anew with trembling voice, "also I am a mother, and my son—"
"Your son, Haydee," interrupted Monte-Cristo, with flaming eyes, "your son shall be made worthy of you. The world calls him the son of the Count of Monte-Cristo—let him be deserving of this title! Spero is noble and courageous; he knows what is good and evil, and his pure heart I am proud of. To be just he believes to be his aim—to be just means to combat for what is good. In the midst of approaching dangers you never saw me trembling; with firm step I faced all danger and death; and Spero shall be trained to act in the same manner. The terror of the desert shall not make him turn pale—he is to face danger and learn to become worthy of the mission his father began, in order to accomplish it. 'Noble be man, efficacious and good'—may this poetical phrase be his shield, and may God guide him in his ways! Answer me, Haydee—is Spero to accompany me?"
"Yes," escaped in a low tone, like a breath, from the lips of the young wife.
"Thanks, Haydee; now listen as to what your mission consists of. You are yourself a mother—and you will know how to console a mother. Mercedes—enter!"
The door leading to the terrace opened, and Mercedes with tottering steps approached Haydee.
"Haydee," said Monte-Cristo, turning toward his wife, "here is Mercedes, whom you have known through me for some time."
Haydee hastened toward Mercedes with extended arms.
"Be welcome, dear friend," she accosted her with a sweet, melodious voice.
"Oh, how beautiful you are," muttered Mercedes, looking at the young wife admiringly.