"Have you inspected everything?" asked Monte-Cristo of the Corsican. "And are you satisfied?"
"Yes, master."
"How many men have you?"
"Ten, sir; they are all trustworthy and have travelled in Africa before. I can answer for them."
"Good. Ah! there you are, Coucou," said the count, turning to the Zouave. "I am glad that you are punctual."
The count inspected the yacht and expressed his delight to Jacopo.
The Crocodile was also lying, ready to sail, in the harbor. Wharton, confident of overtaking the Ice Bird, paced up and down the deck, rubbing his hands and from time to time casting contemptuous glances at the yacht.
From all the towers of Marseilles the seventh morning hour was rung. The count gave the signal for the departure, and the Ice Bird glided gracefully through the waters.
Monte-Cristo stood on deck looking back at France, where a part of his heart was left behind.