"One word more," interrupted the count. "I understand your aim. You want to lead a French detachment in ambush?"
"Yes. For the head of your son, I require those of a hundred Frenchmen."
"Spero," cried the count, "my darling boy, should I, your father, ensnare one hundred Frenchmen into an ambush? I have written the letter, the signature alone is missing; hear me, while I read it to you."
Monte-Cristo, in a trembling voice, read the letter.
"Spero, my son, choose between life and death. Shall I sign the letter?"
"You cannot hear his voice," said Maldar; "but wait a moment, and I will have him brought here."
He motioned with his hand. The door was thrown open, and the next minute Spero lay in his father's arms.
"Speak, Spero, what shall I do?"
The boy took the paper and tore it into pieces.
"Let them kill us," he said, firmly.