Danglars’s Financial News
Danglars approaches Monte Cristo, who subtly mentions the bankruptcy of Franck & Poulmann of Frankfurt, noting that he withdrew his own million from their hands a month earlier. Danglars turns pale upon learning the bankers have drawn on him for 200,000 francs—a loss he cannot recover. The Count’s casual revelation carries weight, particularly given the presence of young Cavalcanti nearby. The banker hurries away, cautioning discretion about the matter.
Mercédès’s Concern
Mercédès watches the Count intently throughout the evening and notices that he persistently refuses all refreshments offered by servants. When she sends Albert to persuade him to accept something, the Count firmly declines. The Countess grows increasingly pale as she observes his abstinence, noting that he has never taken food under Morcerf’s roof, unlike his breakfast with Albert. Despite her son’s reassurances about the Count’s temperance and the Italian heat, Mercédès suspects his refusal is intentional.
To the Garden
Madame de Morcerf throws open the Venetian blinds, revealing the lantern-lit garden and the awaiting supper. The relief among guests is palpable as cool air flows in. She approaches her husband and his circle, inviting them to enjoy the garden rather than suffocate indoors. The elderly general jokes about not going alone, and Mercédès offers her own arm to the Count. Monte Cristo accepts, barely concealing his emotion at her gesture. They descend the flower-lined steps together, followed by a crowd of approximately twenty guests rushing out with exclamations of delight.
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