The Mysterious Disappearance of the Chevalier Valmont

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(14)

He started to take off the ring, but with little success.

“Don’t bother,” said the monster. “The robbers will take it off your finger. They will be here quite soon, I presume. But by that time, you will long be dead. As for me, I’m not interested in petty knick-knacks. It’s moments like this that add purpose to my life. To watch my victim tremble in fear – that’s what I live for. And, as much as I’d love to prolong this moment – beautiful as it is – I’m afraid that we may soon be interrupted by one of these vulgar creatures who make a living out of robbing others.”

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The passenger stopped fumbling with the ring. He just sat there, spellbound, listening to the monster.

Meanwhile, the cat continued:

(15)

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Suddenly, the cat broke off his speech, and pricked up his ears. The next moment, a loud cry shattered the night’s silence: “Listen to my command! We shall now attack this monster! Draw your swords, fellas, and follow me!” There was a cracking of branches, and a dark figure swung down from a tree. It landed on the monster’s head, and began to stab at him furiously with a sword. The cat tried his best to shake off his attacker, but to no avail.