"Yes. Is my son dead?"
"Your son still lives," replied Maldar.
Monte-Cristo uttered a cry. His son lived and was behind these walls.
"You are Maldar. You have enjoyed my hospitality. What crime have I committed that you should punish me through my child?"
"The crime of your race! You are a son of France."
"You say I am a son of France. Have you not served that country too?"
"Only dissimulation. I waited for a favorable opportunity."
"What will you do with my son?"
"The decision depends on you."
"What do you mean by that?"