The following day, about three o’clock, a single blow struck on the gong summoned Ali to the presence of the count.
“Ali,” observed his master, as the Nubian entered the chamber, “you have frequently explained to me how more than commonly skilful you are in throwing the lasso, have you not?”
Ali drew himself up proudly, and then returned a sign in the affirmative.
“I thought I did not mistake. With your lasso you could stop an ox?”
Again Ali repeated his affirmative gesture.
“Or a tiger?”
Ali bowed his head in token of assent.
“A lion even?”
Ali sprung forwards, imitating the action of one throwing the lasso, then of a strangled lion.
“I understand,” said Monte Cristo; “you wish to tell me you have hunted the lion?”
Ali smiled with triumphant pride as he signified that he had indeed both chased and captured many lions.
“But do you believe you could arrest the progress of two horses rushing forwards with ungovernable fury?”
The Nubian smiled.
“It is well,” said Monte Cristo. “Then listen to me. Ere long a carriage will dash past here, drawn by the pair of dappled gray horses you saw me with yesterday; now, at the risk of your own life, you must manage to stop those horses before my door.”