La Carconte’s Warning
La Carconte descends the stairs and warns Caderousse to mind his own business, fearing the stranger’s motives. She and Caderousse argue, with the Abbé assuring her of his good intentions. Though La Carconte mutters and eventually returns upstairs, she remains close enough to overhear everything, repeatedly urging her husband toward silence and prudence.
The Question of Fernand’s Treachery
Caderousse explains that old Dantès was not entirely forsaken, as Mercédès and Morrel showed him kindness, but the old man came to hate Fernand. When pressed, Caderousse suggests that Fernand could not be considered a faithful friend since he coveted Dantès’s betrothed. La Carconte again calls out a warning, but Caderousse proceeds, declaring he fears the malediction of the dead more than the hatred of the living.
Caderousse’s Hesitation
Caderousse hesitates when the Abbé asks him to describe Fernand’s treachery, with La Carconte urging him to hold his tongue. He initially refuses, saying the matter can be buried with the dead, and reflects that it would be sacrilegious to reward traitors like Fernand and Danglars. The Abbé responds coolly that he will then dispose of the diamond and distribute it to the men Caderousse calls treacherous, asking only for their addresses.
The Temptation of the Diamond
The Abbé deliberately displays the diamond again in a flattering light, dazzling Caderousse and his wife, who descends once more upon hearing of the jewel. Caderousse calculates that their fifth share of the profits would be substantial, and La Carconte, despite her earlier caution, washes her hands of the affair and retreats upstairs, warning her husband to consider his actions carefully.
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