"It is there, monsieur, I do not doubt."

"That is a reply to one question; but to the other. I asked
you if the sum was so large as to warrant your exposing
yourself thus."

"It is really large; yes, my lord, for it is a million I
inclosed in two barrels."

"A million!" cried Monk, at whom this time, in turn, Athos
looked earnestly and long. Monk perceived this, and his
mistrust returned.

"Here is a man," said he, "who is laying a snare for me. So
you wish to withdraw this money, monsieur," replied he, "as
I understand?"

"If you please, my lord."

"To-day?"

"This very evening, and that on account of the circumstances
I have named."

"But, monsieur," objected Monk, "General Lambert is as near
the abbey where you have to act as I am. Why, then, have you
not addressed yourself to him?"

"Because, my lord, when one acts in important matters, it is
best to consult one's instinct before everything. Well,