The Count of Monte Cristo

KAPITEL 23. The Island of Monte Cristo

As they sailed toward the island, Dantès spent a feverish night filled with visions of emerald grottos, ruby-paneled caves, and diamonds that turned to common pebbles when daylight struck, and he awoke unable to sleep despite his exhaustion. Upon anchoring at Monte Cristo, he discovered to his horror that there were no grottos on the island—the very thing he had counted on finding—and when he questioned Jacopo about caves, the sailor denied any knowledge of them, causing cold sweat to spring forth on Dantès’ brow as he realized he would need to discover the hidden entrance himself. The next morning, Dantès pretended to go hunting wild goats, but while examining the rocks he found marks that seemed made by human hands, leading him toward a large round rock that appeared to mark the end of some path, when suddenly his foot slipped and he tumbled down a declivity, bloody and nearly senseless, yet his pain conveniently prevented him from being moved to the ship. Though his companions wished to carry him aboard, he insisted they leave him with supplies and a pickaxe, refusing even Jacopo’s generous offer to stay behind and care for him, so they departed with sorrowful farewells, and as soon as the tartan disappeared from view, Dantès rose agile and light as a mountain goat, took his pickaxe in hand, and hastened toward the marked rock, declaring “Open Sesame” as he recalled the tale of the Arabian fisherman that Abbé Faria had once told him.

Securing Passage to Monte Cristo

Dantès receives an unexpected stroke of fortune that will allow him to land on Monte Cristo without raising suspicion. Through simple and natural means, the opportunity he has long sought finally presents itself, and one more night will find him on his way to the island.

Feverish Dreams of Treasure

The night before departure is one of feverish distraction. Dantès experiences visions both good and evil—visions of grottos paved with emeralds, panels of rubies, and roofs glowing with diamond stalactites. He dreams of filling his pockets with radiant gems, only to discover upon returning to daylight that his prizes have transformed into common pebbles. When he attempts to re-enter these wondrous caverns, they recede and the entrance vanishes, becoming a labyrinth. Despite his efforts, he cannot recall the magical words that opened Ali Baba’s treasure cave. All efforts prove useless, and the treasure eludes him once more.

Taking Command of the Crew

As departure preparations begin, Dantès has gradually assumed such authority over his companions that he functions almost as a commander aboard. His orders are always clear, distinct, and easy to execute, earning him swift and willing obedience. The old patron recognizes Dantès’s superiority over both crew and himself, seeing in the young man his natural successor. He even regrets not having a daughter to bind Edmond to him through closer alliance.

The Voyage to Monte Cristo

At ten minutes past seven in the evening, they double the lighthouse just as the beacon is kindled. With a fresh southeast breeze and calm seas beneath a bright blue sky, they sail onward with Dantès at the helm while all hands turn in. When the patron awakens, the vessel is hurrying forward at nearly ten knots per hour with every sail set and full. Monte Cristo looms large on the horizon. After passing the Island of Elba, with Pianosa to starboard, the peak of Monte Cristo appears against the azure sky, reddened by the setting sun. By five o’clock in the evening, the island becomes distinct and plainly perceptible.

Arrival at the Island

At ten o’clock at night, La Jeune Amélie anchors at the rendezvous. Despite his usual composure, Dantès cannot restrain his impetuosity and is the first to jump ashore. The moon rises at eleven o’clock, silvering every wave of the ocean and casting pale light upon the rocky hills. Though the island is familiar to La Jeune Amélie’s crew as one of their regular haunts, Dantès himself has only passed it on previous voyages without ever touching at it.