Notary Arrives to Draft Noirtier’s Will
After Barrois departs to summon a notary, Noirtier signals for Valentine to remain in the room with an expressive, calculating glance that unsettles Villefort. The young girl comprehends her grandfather’s intent to keep her present during the proceedings. Villefort takes a seat to await the notary’s arrival, his expression darkening with evident displeasure at whatever scheme Noirtier is orchestrating. Barrois returns three-quarters of an hour later, accompanied by the legal officer, setting the stage for the extraordinary testamentary proceeding that follows.
Valentine Proves She Can Interpret Noirtier’s Signals
When the notary expresses doubt about proceeding with a client who cannot speak or move, questioning how he can verify approval or disapproval, Valentine steps forward with a solution. She explains she has spent six years learning her grandfather’s communication system: closing his eyes means “yes” while winking means “no.” She offers to teach the notary this simple language and demonstrates by asking Noirtier to confirm the signs. The old man’s eyes convey tender gratitude toward his granddaughter, and when questioned by the notary, Noirtier verifies through his eye movements that he indeed wishes to make his will and requires the notary’s services.
Notary Proceeds Despite Villefort’s Objections
Villefort attempts to persuade the notary that Noirtier’s physical shock must have impaired his mental faculties, but the legal officer finds the difficulty lies merely in wording questions clearly. Valentine counters by asserting her six years of experience have enabled her to understand every thought Noirtier has wished to express. When the notary asks if Noirtier accepts Valentine as his interpreter, the old man signals his assent. The notary then asks what document Noirtier wishes to have drawn up, prompting Valentine to name letters of the alphabet alphabetically until reaching W, at which point Noirtier’s eye signals her to stop, revealing his intention to create a will.
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