The Count of Monte Cristo

Unexpected Arrival of the Count of Monte Cristo

As the friends press Morcerf for proof of his outlandish stories, the clock chimes half-past ten and the count is announced, entering the room silently without any prior sound of a carriage or footsteps in the antechamber. He is dressed in simple, immaculately tailored clothing made by the finest Parisian makers, appears roughly 35 years old, and is an almost exact match to Debray’s earlier physical description. He greets Albert formally, apologizing for being a few seconds late, explaining that traveling 500 leagues through France was arduous, and French rules forbidding postilions from being beaten made the journey slower than expected.

Count’s Unusual Warmth Toward Maximilian Morrel

When Albert introduces Maximilian Morrel, captain of the Spahis, the count—who had been politely but coldly formal with the other guests—steps forward, a faint flush rising to his pale cheeks. He compliments Morrel’s French African uniform, his voice vibrating and eyes flashing with uncharacteristic warmth and intensity before he quickly regains his usual calm composure. Morrel and the other guests notice the count’s unusual, obvious emotional reaction to Morrel’s presence.

Count Apologizes for Unfamiliarity with Parisian Etiquette

Before the group moves to the breakfast room, the count addresses the guests to preemptively apologize for any potential breaches of Parisian etiquette. He explains he is a complete stranger to Paris, this being his first visit to the city, and has only previously followed Eastern customs that are entirely at odds with Parisian social norms. He asks the guests to excuse any behavior that seems too Turkish, Italian, or Arabian, and the group responds with admiration for his frank, polished manner.