Page:The Count of Monte-Cristo (1887 Volume 3).djvu/301

Rh Meanwhile he advanced through the crowd of curious glances and exchange of salutations toward Madame de Morcerf, who, standing before a mantel-piece ornamented with flowers, had seen his entrance in a looking-glass placed opposite the door, and was prepared to receive him.

She turned toward him with a serene smile just at the moment he was bowing to her. No doubt she fancied the count would speak to her, while on his side the count thought she was about to address him; but both remained silent, for to both a few commonplace words, doubtless, seemed unfitting, and after a mere bow, Monte-Cristo directed his steps to Albert, who received him cordially.