"I thought so," muttered the Count. "I shall come, my child, as soon as my affairs are settled."
He took a package from his pocket, and unfolding it read it aloud:
"My Last Will and Testament
"The person who signed this paper, and who is about to die, has been more powerful than the greatest ruler on earth. He has loved and hated strongly. All is forgotten, all is dead to him except the souvenir of the son who was dear to him. This man possessed millions, but dies of hunger. He desired to domineer over every one, made a judge of himself and rewarded the just and punished the guilty. He has no heir, but he thinks it would be wrong for him to destroy the wealth he possesses. It is in existence, though hid away. He bequeaths it to Providence. It will bear this paper together with these mysterious signs.
"Will the money be found?
"Whoever reads this paper will do a wise act if he annihilates it. May he who finds this paper listen and heed to the words of a dying man.
"The Abbé Dantes."
"February 25th, 1865."
Below this signature was a curious design. Monte-Cristo examined it.
"Ah, Faria!" he exclaimed, "may your money fall into better hands than mine!"
He felt singularly feeble and laid his hand on his heart. He entered the tomb of Spero and reclined beside him. His arms were crossed on his breast. His eyes shut. He was dead.
* * * * *
All those who ever knew him never speak of him or hear his name uttered without being deeply affected. One thing has remained a secret for them up to this day. Where did Edmond Dantes, Count of Monte-Cristo, perish?
THE END