The Count of Monte Cristo

Examination of Count Morcerf’s Portrait

In the most conspicuous part of the salon hangs another portrait, this one of a man of five to eight-and-thirty in the uniform of a general officer, wearing heavy bullion epaulettes, the ribbon of the Legion of Honor, the star of a grand officer of the order of the Saviour, and the grand cross of Charles III., indicating service in the wars of Greece and Spain or an equivalent diplomatic mission. Monte Cristo examines this portrait with as much care as the previous one, just as another door opens to reveal Count de Morcerf in person.

Introduction to Count Morcerf

Count de Morcerf appears as a man of forty to forty-five, though looking at least fifty, with black moustache and eyebrows contrasting against his almost white military-cut hair, dressed in plain clothes with the ribbons of his various orders. He enters with dignified step, and Monte Cristo, though pointed to a chair, remains rooted to the ground, his eyes fixed on the count, reading on the careworn and livid features a whole history of secret griefs written in each wrinkle. Albert formally introduces Monte Cristo, and the count welcomes him warmly, crediting him with preserving the house’s only heir.

Count Morcerf’s Career Discussion

In conversation, Monte Cristo alludes to fortune’s inequity and asks whether she may yet hold a marshal’s staff for the general, perhaps on the plains of Mitidja or in the mountains of Atlas. Morcerf explains that he left the service after the Restoration, having served under Marshal Bourmont, and that the Revolution of July proved ungrateful toward services not dating from the imperial period, so he resigned and turned to politics, industry, and the useful arts. Monte Cristo praises the French ideal of a gentleman and general consenting to begin a second apprenticeship, calling it sublime, while Albert marvels at such an unusual burst of enthusiasm from the count. The general then offers to take Monte Cristo to the Chamber to hear a debate, but Monte Cristo defers in hopes of meeting the countess.

Countess Mercédès’ Gratitude

As Monte Cristo voices his wish to meet the countess, Mercédès appears at the opposite door, pale and motionless, having listened to the final words. She thanks God for the friend who saved her son and, advancing with the majesty of a queen, blesses Monte Cristo for preserving her child from tears and desolation. Monte Cristo, bowing lower than before and even paler than Mercédès, demurs that saving a man or sparing a parent’s feelings is merely a simple deed of humanity rather than a good action. Mercédès raises her fine eyes to heaven with such fervent gratitude that the count imagines he sees tears in them, as M. de Morcerf approaches her.

CHAPITRE 41. The Presentation

Chapter 41, “The Presentation,” opens with Monte Cristo taking polite leave of the Countess de Morcerf, who must depart to speak at a sitting. After a courteous exchange, Monte Cristo exits the house to find his lavish carriage waiting. Albert, escorting him to the door, is impressed by the elegance of the equipage. When Albert returns to his mother, he finds her visibly unsettled in the dimly lit boudoir. A conversation unfolds in which Mercédès questions Albert closely about the Count of Monte Cristo—his origins, manners, age, and intentions. Albert describes the Count as a man of remarkable distinction, comparing him to one of Byron’s romantic heroes. Despite Albert’s reassurances, Mercédès remains uneasy, her private reflections suggesting a deeper, unspoken connection to the mysterious visitor. The chapter closes with Albert leaving his mother to her reverie, reflecting on the undeniable impression the Count has made.

Monte Cristo Takes Leave of the Countess

Monte Cristo excuses himself to the Countess de Morcerf, explaining that the sitting commences at two and he is scheduled to speak. The Countess gracefully accepts his departure, inviting him to spend the rest of the day with her and the Vicomte. Monte Cristo declines, citing his recent arrival in Paris and unfamiliarity with his own lodgings. The Countess presses him to promise a future visit, and he inclines his head in a gesture that may pass for assent. She finally releases him, noting that she would not have their gratitude become indiscreet or importunate.