Page:The Count of Monte-Cristo (1887 Volume 3).djvu/185

Rh "Notwithstanding your father's wishes to the contrary?" said Madame de Villefort, selecting a new point of attack. "That is a serious thing!"

Monte-Cristo, who pretended not to be listening, heard, however, every word that was said.

"Madame," replied Villefort, "I can truly say that I have always entertained a high respect for my father, because, to the natural feeling of relationship was added the consciousness of his moral superiority. The name of father is sacred in two senses,—he should be reverenced as the author of our being, and as our master; but, under the present circumstances, I am justified in doubting the wisdom of an old man who, because he hated the father, vents his anger on the son; it would be