Alexandre Dumas: The Count of Monte Cristo

Chapter 53: Robert le Diable. (continued)

"The name of the owner of the winning horse?"

"Excessively; only imagine -- but do tell me, viscount, whether you really are acquainted with it or no?"

"I beg your pardon, madame, but you were about to relate some story, were you not? You said, `only imagine,' -- and then paused. Pray continue."

"Well, then, listen. You must know I felt so interested in the splendid roan horse, with his elegant little rider, so tastefully dressed in a pink satin jacket and cap, that I could not help praying for their success with as much earnestness as though the half of my fortune were at stake; and when I saw them outstrip all the others, and come to the winning-post in such gallant style, I actually clapped my hands with joy. Imagine my surprise, when, upon returning home, the first object I met on the staircase was the identical jockey in the pink jacket! I concluded that, by some singular chance, the owner of the winning horse must live in the same hotel as myself; but, as I entered my apartments, I beheld the very gold cup awarded as a prize to the unknown horse and rider. Inside the cup was a small piece of paper, on which were written these words -- `From Lord Ruthven to Countess G---- .'"

"Precisely; I was sure of it," said Morcerf.

"Sure of what?"

"That the owner of the horse was Lord Ruthven himself."

"What Lord Ruthven do you mean?"

"Why, our Lord Ruthven -- the Vampire of the Salle Argentino!"

"Is it possible?" exclaimed the countess; "is he here in Paris?"

"To be sure, -- why not?"

"And you visit him? -- meet him at your own house and elsewhere?"

"I assure you he is my most intimate friend, and M. de Chateau-Renaud has also the honor of his acquaintance."