The Count of Monte Cristo

Revelation of Noirtier’s Feud with General d’Épinay

Monte Cristo gradually draws out the history behind the dispute, learning that Noirtier harbors hatred toward Baron Franz d’Épinay’s father, the late General d’Épinay. Villefort reveals that Noirtier was a Jacobin who, despite wearing Napoleon’s senator’s robe, conspired against the Bourbons. The General d’Épinay, though serving under Napoleon, retained royalist sentiments and was assassinated after leaving a Bonapartist meeting. Madame de Villefort explains that Villefort conceived the marriage precisely to end the old feud by uniting the children of these enemies.

Villefort Defies His Father’s Marriage Opposition

Villefort delivers a decisive speech affirming his respect for his father as both progenitor and moral superior, but declares he will not regulate his conduct by an old man’s caprices. He vows to preserve his respect for Noirtier while suffering the pecuniary deprivation, remaining firm in his determination to marry Valentine to Franz d’Épinay. The conversation continues with discussion of alternative inheritances and the proposed visit of the Saint-Mérans. Monte Cristo advises Villefort to settle the matter decisively upon d’Épinay’s return, and Villefort gratefully accepts this counsel, resolved to keep his promise regardless of the cost.

Discussion of the Villeforts’ Auteuil Visit

The conversation turns to Monte Cristo’s Saturday gathering. When it is revealed that the count resides at No. 28 Rue de la Fontaine in Auteuil, Villefort becomes visibly agitated upon discovering that the house formerly belonged to M. de Saint-Méran. He confesses an inexplicable dislike for Auteuil but, after pressing from the count, promises to attend on Saturday, eager to dispel any notion that the house holds a gloomy tradition. Monte Cristo observes Villefort’s evident effort to maintain composure.