The Count of Monte Cristo

Barrois Questioned on the Lemonade

Turning to the stricken Barrois, d’Avrigny establishes that Barrois himself made the lemonade, left it unattended in the pantry when called away, and that Valentine subsequently brought it into the room. The doctor strikes his forehead in horror at the implication.

Barrois’s Acute Poisoning Symptoms

Barrois suffers a violent fit—his throat closes, his heart and head ache, and he cries out in agony, realizing the gravity of his condition. He begs God for mercy as the pain intensifies.

Attempted Emetic for Barrois

When an emetic finally arrives, prepared by a chemist who accompanied Villefort, d’Avrigny tries to administer it to Barrois, but it is too late. Barrois can no longer swallow, his throat already closing against the poison.

Barrois’s Death

Barrois falls back as if struck by lightning and dies almost immediately. D’Avrigny places his hand on the man’s heart and a glass to his lips, confirming the death. The speed of Barrois’s demise shocks Villefort, who notes how suddenly he has passed.

Confrontation Over Villefort’s Poisoning Pattern

D’Avrigny confronts Villefort with the pattern of sudden deaths in his household, pointing out that both the Saint-Mérans and now Barrois have died with alarming speed. He declares he has never ceased to suspect foul play and insists on his accusation. He reveals his knowledge of a poison that kills without leaving perceptible traces—one he recognizes in all three cases.

Lemonade Poison Test with Syrup of Violets

D’Avrigny obtains syrup of violets from the chambermaid and explains the test to Villefort. He carefully pours drops of the remaining lemonade into the cup. The syrup changes color: from blue to sapphire, from opal to emerald, and finally settles into a distinctive green.