The Count of Monte Cristo

Interrogation of Caderousse About Benedetto

The Count of Monte Cristo, disguised as the Abbé Busoni, interrogates the burglar Caderousse about Benedetto. Caderousse initially claims ignorance, then admits they parted at Hyères. When the “abbé” accuses him of lying and of living on Benedetto’s money, Caderousse confesses that Benedetto has become the son of a great lord who provides him 4,000 francs a month and leaves him 500,000 francs in his will.

Revelation of Benedetto’s Identity as Andrea Cavalcanti

Caderousse reveals Benedetto’s identity as Andrea Cavalcanti, the young man received into Monte Cristo’s house and engaged to Mademoiselle Danglars. The “abbé” expresses astonishment and rebukes Caderousse for not warning Danglars, declaring his intention to expose the plot himself.

Caderousse’s Knife Attack on the Count

Fearing exposure, Caderousse draws an open knife and strikes the Count in the breast. The blade blunts harmlessly, and the Count seizes Caderousse’s wrist, wringing it with such force that the knife falls and Caderousse’s arm is dislocated. The Count forces him to the floor with a foot on his head, then releases him after Caderousse begs for mercy, declaring that God gives him strength to spare the wretch.

Caderousse Forced to Dictate Warning Letter to Danglars

The Count orders Caderousse to take pen and paper and write what he dictates. Caderousse protests he cannot write, but the “abbé” commands him, and he complies, writing a note that identifies Andrea Cavalcanti as felon No. 59 (with himself as No. 58), a fellow escapee from Toulon who knew his real name. Caderousse signs the letter, addresses it to Baron Danglars, banker, Rue de la Chaussée d’Antin, and the Count takes possession of it.