Page:The Count of Monte-Cristo (1887 Volume 3).djvu/152

132 "If you are already aware of the conversation that passed, the wooden partition which interposed between us and you has proved but a slight security."

"Come, what did she say?"

"She told me that she loved no one," said Valentine; "that she dis liked the idea of being married; that she would infinitely prefer leading an independent and unfettered life; and that she almost wished her father might lose his fortune, that she might become an artist, like her friend, Mademoiselle Louise d'Armilly."

"Ah, you see"

"Well, what does that prove!" asked Valentine.

"Nothing," replied Maximilian.

"Then, why did you smile?"

"Why, you yourself had your eyes fixed on me."

"Do you wish me to go?"

"Ah, no, no! You are the subject on which I would wish to speak."

"True, we must be quick, for we have scarcely ten minutes more to pass together."

"Ma foi!" said Maximilian, in consternation.

"Yes, you are right; I am but a poor friend to you. What a life I cause you to lead, poor Maximilian, you who are formed for happiness! I bitterly reproach myself, I assure you."

"Well! what does it signify, Valentine, so long as I am satisfied, and feel that even this long and painful suspense is amply repaid by five minutes of your society, or two words from your mouth? And I have also a deep conviction that heaven would not have created two hearts, harmonizing as ours do, and restored us to each other, almost miraculously, at last to separate us."

"Thank you, for your kind and cheering words. You must hope for us both, Maximilian."

"But why must you leave me so soon?"

"I do not know. Madame de Villefort sent to request my presence, as she had a communication to make on which a part of my fortune depended. Let them take my fortune, I am already too rich; and, perhaps, when they have taken it, they will leave me in peace and quietness. You would love me as much if I were poor, would you not Maximilian?"

"Oh! I shall always love you. What should I care for either riches or poverty, if my Valentine was near me, and I felt certain that no one could deprive me of her? But do you not fear that this communication may relate to your marriage?"