The Count of Monte Cristo

Arranging the Duel

Monte Cristo interrupts to declare that the Count of Monte Cristo bows to none but himself and begs Beauchamp to say no more. He states that he does what he pleases, and it is always well done. Beauchamp replies that honest men are not to be paid with such coin and requires honorable guarantees. Monte Cristo declares he is a living guarantee, motionless but with a threatening look. They both have blood in their veins they wish to shed—that is their mutual guarantee. Monte Cristo instructs Beauchamp to tell Albert that tomorrow, before ten o’clock, he will see what color Albert’s blood is. Beauchamp agrees to make arrangements for the duel. Monte Cristo remarks that it is quite immaterial to him and was quite unnecessary to disturb him at the opera for such a trifle. He explains that in France people fight with the sword or pistol, in the colonies with the carbine, in Arabia with the dagger, and tells Beauchamp to inform his client that although he is the insulted party, he leaves the choice of arms to Albert, accepting anything without dispute, even combat by drawing lots—which is always stupid, but different with him, as he is sure to gain. Beauchamp repeats “Sure to gain!” with amazement, asking if Monte Cristo is certain. The count replies that he would not fight with M. de Morcerf otherwise, for he shall kill him. Beauchamp, quite disconcerted and unsure whether he deals with an arrogant braggadocio or a supernatural being, proposes pistols at eight o’clock in the Bois de Vincennes. Monte Cristo accepts, then requests that Beauchamp let him see the performance and tell Albert not to return that evening, as he will hurt himself with all his ill-chosen barbarisms and should go home and sleep. Beauchamp leaves the box, perfectly amazed.