"No, mamma," said the boy, holding his head proudly erect. "I could not remain behind. I knew papa was in danger, and, taking a pistol that I had seen Ali load this morning from the cabinet of fire-arms, I followed the servants, arriving at the almond grove just in time." Haydee ran to her son, and, taking him in her arms, pressed him fondly to her heart, kissing him again and again. "Oh! Esperance," she cried, "had I known you were in the midst of those bloodthirsty cut-throats I should have died of terror! But you have saved your father's life, my son, and I bless you for it!" "He is a little hero," said Monte-Cristo, impressively. Zuleika had thrown herself upon the divan, and, utterly worn out by the excitement through which she had passed, was already wrapped in a deep slumber. The Count, Haydee and Esperance, however, could not resign themselves to sleep, and when the gray light of dawn appeared in the eastern sky, they were still in the library and still watching. Benedetto had not been seen again, and a diligent search of the entire island, made by Ali and the servants, failed to reveal even the slightest trace of him. He had evidently succeeded in finding some fisherman's skiff and in it had made his escape. This view of the case was confirmed a few hours later, when old Alexis came to the palace and informed Monte-Cristo that his smack had vanished during the night, having, in all probability, been carried off by thieves. "I knew," said the fisherman, "that the Island of Kylo was infested by bandits, but I had no idea they would venture here. Now, however, I thought I had better put you on your guard." "I am much indebted to you, Alexis," said the Count; then, slipping a purse of money into his hand, he added: "Take that and provide yourself with a new boat." Alexis touched his cap, bowed and was about to withdraw when Monte-Cristo said to him, assuming a careless tone: "By the way, my good fellow, have you ever chanced to meet any of the bandits you mentioned?" "Often, Excellency," replied Alexis. "What kind of men are they?" "Bold, bad wretches, whose hands have been more than once stained with innocent blood." "What is their strength?" "They number about fifty." "Do any women dwell among them?" "Yes, Excellency, their wives and sweethearts." "Who is the leader of the band?" "A strange, morose man, who has not been long in their midst." "Is he a Greek?" "No, Excellency, he is a foreigner." "A Frenchman?" "Quite likely, though I am not sure." "What is his name?" "He calls himself Demetrius." "Did he ever question you about me?" "Yes, Excellency." "And what did you reply?" "I told him you were the Count of Monte-Cristo." "Ah! What did he say then?" "He said he had heard of you before." "That will do, Alexis; I have all the information I require." The fisherman again touched his cap, and, making a low bow, took his departure.