Page:The Count of Monte-Cristo (1887 Volume 2).djvu/263

Rh soldier, step by step—this is uncommon; then, become general, peer of France, commander of the Legion of Honor, you consented to again commence a second apprenticeship, without any other hope or any other desire than that of one day becoming useful to your fellow-creatures; this, indeed, is praiseworthy,—nay, more, it is sublime."

Albert looked on and listened with astonishment; he was not used to see Monte-Cristo give vent to such bursts of enthusiasm. "Alas!" continued the stranger, doubtless to dispel the slight cloud that covered Morcerf's brow, "we do not act thus in Italy; we grow