n his watch from his fob, dividing
his attention between noting the flight of time and intently observing
the patient. So profound was the silence in the room that the regular
tick of the watch was distinctly audible in all parts of it.

Suddenly Giovanni began to quiver. A violent convulsion followed,
shaking him from head to foot and fearfully contorting his face, his
hands curling up like a strip of paper that has been scraped with a
knife. His condition was frightful to behold. Maximilian and the Italian
looked on anxiously, holding their breath. Valentine unable to bear the
sight turned away, emotion and terror contending within her for the
mastery. The Hebrew, however, was all nerve and confidence. When a
quarter of an hour had elapsed he put up his watch. Massetti's
convulsion had passed away, his hands had uncurled and his unearthly
pallor had been succeeded by a faint flush. He reclined in his chair as
if wrapped in a healthful slumber. Presently his lips parted.

"Zuleika!" he murmured. "Oh! my beloved!"

Dr. Absalom glanced at the Italian physician significantly,
triumphantly.

"The patient is dreaming," he said, "and it is a good sign--he is
dreaming of his betrothed whom in his insanity he had entirely
forgotten--another good sign! My treatment is working! I shall succeed!"
Turning to Maximilian, he added: "Aid me to place the Viscount upon his
bed, if you please."

M. Morrel complied with alacrity and Massetti was immediately extended
on his couch in a comfortable position. Dr. Absalom again felt his
pulse, counting it as before by his watch; then he said:

"The patient may now awake at any time, but it is probable that fifteen
minutes will first elapse. Let the Count and his daughter be summoned."

Maximilian opened the door and beckoned without. Monte-Cristo and
Zuleika entered.

"My child," said the Hebrew, taking the latter by the hand and leading
her to her lover's bedside, "look upon your betrothed! He is sleeping
peacefully and dreaming of you! Awhile ago he uttered your name!
Courage, daughter, courage! The worst is over! The clouds are sweeping
from the young man's mind to leave it clear and perfect! Remain here
where I place you! It is important that upon awaking the patient's eyes
shall rest on you!"

Zuleika, astounded, bewildered, gazed at her lover and with difficulty
resisted the impulse to cast herself upon his neck.

Monte-Cristo, Maximilian, Valentine and the Italian physician