"Why did you not come to me? Were you afraid I would refuse to take you on board?"
"Was I to beg?" asked the Arabian, disdainfully.
"What would you do if I were to put you adrift in a bark?"
"Allah is great!"
Coucou understood enough of Arabian to comprehend the pride which lay in the stranger's words. He would have given anything to have been able to carry out the count's threats; he advanced a step, but Monte-Cristo saw his intention and motioned him back.
"Man," he said to the Arab, "you did wrong to put yourself in my power. Nevertheless, I shall be hospitable to you. Go!"
Turning to Coucou, he said:
"This man is my guest, and as such he must be sacred to you."
The Arab bowed, put his hand to his forehead, and turned toward the stairs.
"One question more," said the count; "what is your name?"