The Count of Monte Cristo

The pair acknowledge their shared scheme

The Major notes that the two letters match, and Andrea agrees, though neither truly understands what is happening. They conclude that there must be a dupe somewhere—but agree that dupe is neither of them. Deciding it does not much concern them either way, they resolve to play the game to the end and consent to be “blindfolded.” Andrea promises the Major that he will sustain his part admiratively, a confidence the Major shares.

Feigned father-son reunion with Monte Cristo

At the sound of Monte Cristo’s footsteps, the two men throw themselves into each other’s arms in a theatrical embrace, which the Count observes upon entering. Monte Cristo addresses the Major as “marquis” and speaks of the “son whom your good fortune has restored to you,” while the Major declares himself overwhelmed with delight. Turning to Andrea, the Count asks about his feelings, and Andrea claims his heart is overflowing with happiness. Monte Cristo pronounces them a “happy father, happy son,” though the Major allows that the necessity of leaving Paris so soon grieves him.

Monte Cristo gives Andrea a bank advance

After indicating he will present the Major to some friends, Monte Cristo turns to Andrea and asks him to confess the state of his finances to “M. Cavalcanti.” Andrea, prompted by the Count, admits he needs money. The Major feigns uncertainty, and Monte Cristo steps forward to slip a packet of bank-notes into Andrea’s hand, explaining it comes from his father. Andrea accepts the notes, stuffing them into his pocket and praising his father’s “delicacy” at the secrecy, while Monte Cristo signals him to be silent so the Major’s role is preserved.

Invitation to Saturday dinner at Auteuil

As the visit ends, Monte Cristo invites both Cavalcantis to dine at his country house in Auteuil, at Rue de la Fontaine No. 28, on Saturday at half-past six. He mentions that M. Danglars, their banker, will be among the guests, and that he will introduce the young man to him. The Count prescribes their attire: the Major in uniform, cross, and knee-breeches; Andrea simply, in black trousers, patent-leather boots, a white waistcoat, and a black or blue coat with a long cravat. He recommends Blin or Véronique for clothes, Devedeux for horses, and Baptiste for a phaeton, advising Andrea that the less pretension in his attire, the better the effect for a rich man. The Major and Andrea accept and depart with bows.

Monte Cristo plans to visit the Morrels

After the Cavalcantis leave, Monte Cristo watches from the window as the two walk arm-in-arm across the street. He calls them “two miscreants” and laments that they are not really related. Falling into a moment of gloomy reflection, he then decides to visit the Morrels, musing that “disgust is even more sickening than hatred.”

KAPITEL 57. In the Lucern Patch

Chapter 57, titled “In the Lucern Patch,” returns to the garden enclosure behind M. de Villefort’s house, where Maximilian awaits Valentine’s clandestine visit. Their meeting is delayed by Madame Danglars and Eugénie, but once the two young women finally speak alone, the chapter centers on their intimate conversation about unwanted marriages, family pressures, Maximilian’s mysterious friend, and Valentine’s deep distrust of the Count of Monte Cristo. Chapter 57, titled “In the Lucern Patch,” is set in a garden where Maximilian Morrel and Valentine meet secretly at a grating. Their conversation centers on Maximilian’s deep, almost mystical trust in the Count of Monte Cristo, whom he credits for the good fortune in his life. He recounts his belief that the Count deliberately arranged his introduction to the Villeforts and covertly enabled him to purchase a magnificent horse named Médéah through card winnings. Valentine gently counters his fantastical interpretations with rational explanations, though she shares his emotional connection. The chapter concludes with a tender exchange through the garden grating, sealing their affection before Valentine hurries back to the house.

KAPITEL 57. In the Lucern Patch

Chapter 57, titled “In the Lucern Patch,” returns to the garden enclosure behind M. de Villefort’s house, where Maximilian awaits Valentine’s clandestine visit. Their meeting is delayed by Madame Danglars and Eugénie, but once the two young women finally speak alone, the chapter centers on their intimate conversation about unwanted marriages, family pressures, Maximilian’s mysterious friend, and Valentine’s deep distrust of the Count of Monte Cristo.