A cloud passed over his brow as he said,-- "No, monsieur, I do not know the writing, and yet it is tolerably plain.
Whoever did it writes well.

I am very fortunate," added he, looking gratefully at Villefort, "to be examined by such a man as you; for this envious person is a real enemy." And by the rapid glance that the young man's eyes shot forth, Villefort saw how much energy lay hid beneath this mildness.
"Now," said the deputy, "answer me frankly, not as a prisoner to a judge, but as one man to another who takes an interest in him, what truth is there in the accusation contained in this anonymous letter ?" And Villefort threw disdainfully on his desk the letter Dantes had just given back to him.
"None at all.

I will tell you the real facts.

I swear by my honor as a sailor, by my love for Mercedes, by the life of my father"-- "Speak, monsieur," said Villefort.

Then, internally, "If Renee could see me, I hope she would be satisfied, and would no longer call me a decapitator." "Well, when we quitted Naples, Captain Leclere was attacked with a brain fever.