The Count of Monte Cristo

Albert’s Reluctant Engagement

Albert reveals his deep reluctance to marry Eugénie Danglars, comparing the prospect to being compelled to retain an inferior diamond when admiring a superior one. He confesses that while Eugénie would make a charming mistress, she would be an awful wife, trapped forever in his proximity, singing verses and composing music within ten paces of him for his entire life. Albert wishes he could find a wife like his father found in his mother, still beautiful and charming after years of marriage. He reveals he has already attempted to redirect Franz d’Épinay toward Eugénie through four allurin letters, but Franz remained devoted to his promise. Monte Cristo suggests that perhaps Albert need not worry, as M. Danglars would pay double what Albert would to break the engagement.

Eugénie Danglars

The character of Eugénie Danglars emerges through Albert’s detailed critique of her as a potential wife. Albert views her as talented in music and poetry but unsuitable as a lifelong companion. He anticipates with grim humor the day when Eugénie perceives him as “a pitiful atom with scarcely as many hundred thousand francs as she has millions,” suggesting the financial dimensions of their arranged marriage. Their mutual dislike appears mutual, and Albert only tolerates the engagement because he feels compelled by family obligations, noting that unlike himself, Franz d’Épinay bears his similar matrimonial misfortune patiently.

Franz d’Épinay’s Visit

Monte Cristo inquires about Franz d’Épinay’s whereabouts and upcoming marriage plans. Albert explains that Franz is being summoned by M. de Villefort, who is as anxious to marry off his daughter Valentine as M. Danglars is to settle Eugénie. Franz bears his impending marriage with patience, speaks seriously about the matter, and maintains a high opinion of the Villefort family, whom Albert acknowledges as deserving of respect. Albert promises to bring Franz to visit Monte Cristo upon his arrival in five or six days. The marriage will occur immediately upon the arrival of M. and Madame de Saint-Méran.

The Summer Ball

Albert announces that his father General de Morcerf intends to host a summer ball, which Albert correctly notes is fashionable during the July season. He extends an invitation to Monte Cristo on behalf of his mother, explaining that Madame de Morcerf has spoken of no one else during the four days at Tréport and desires his presence. Monte Cristo appears startled at the mention of the Comtesse de Morcerf but ultimately accepts. The ball is planned for Saturday and will be a select affair for true Parisians remaining in the city during summer. Albert also seeks to invite the Cavalcanti, but Monte Cristo declines to present them, though he may attend himself. Monte Cristo confirms he does not dance but enjoys watching others, and he may speak with Madame de Morcerf, who delights in his conversation. M. Danglars has already been invited by Albert’s father.

Bertuccio’s Mission

After Albert departs, Monte Cristo turns his attention to his steward Bertuccio, who reports that “she” went to the Palais and stayed for an hour and a half before returning directly home. The identity of this mysterious visitor remains unclear from the text. Monte Cristo then advises Bertuccio to pursue the acquisition of the small estate in Normandy that was previously discussed. Bertuccio accepts the order happily, as it aligns with his own desires, and departs the same evening. This concluding exchange suggests secretive preparations being made by Monte Cristo that extend beyond his social obligations, hinting at deeper schemes in motion.

Chapter 69. The Inquiry

M. de Villefort keeps his promise to Madame Danglars and initiates an investigation into how the Count of Monte Cristo learned the secrets of the house at Auteuil. He writes to M. de Boville, a former prison inspector now holding a high position in the police, requesting detailed information about the Count’s background.

Promise to Madame Danglars

Villefort commits to investigating the Count’s knowledge of the Auteuil house’s dark history. This promise sets in motion a chain of inquiries that will involve multiple contacts within the Parisian authorities.