"Come with confidence to us," replied Maldar, earnestly. "In the citadel I will discuss your son's ransom with you."
"Do not go, master," cried Coucou; "they are laying a trap for you."
Monte-Cristo strode, nevertheless, toward the door.
CHAPTER LVIII
MONTE-CRISTO BECOMES EDMOND DANTES
"Maldar," the count cried aloud, "I am here."
The door was opened. Monte-Cristo went into a large courtyard. Maldar was waiting for him.
"Here I am," said the count. "You have called me about the ransom for my son. What is the sum you ask?"