The Count of Monte Cristo

Morrel’s Arrival

Maximilian Morrel departs from Monte Cristo’s residence and makes his way slowly toward Villefort’s house, having hurried through his farewell because he wished to be alone with his thoughts. He is permitted to visit Noirtier and Valentine twice weekly, and arrives to find Valentine expecting him. She seizes his hand with evident uneasiness, nearly crazed with worry, leading him to her grandfather. Her anxiety stems from the widespread news of Morcerf’s adventure at the Opera, for the affair has become generally known. Valentine fears Morrel may serve as Monte Cristo’s second in a duel, and knowing his courage and devotion to the count, she dreads he might not remain merely passive. When Morrel assures her the affair has concluded happily and unexpectedly, Valentine reads joy in his eyes. She then raises the subject of Noirtier’s desire to leave the house, mentioning that her grandfather wishes to take separate apartments, and Morrel approves of the plan.

Valentine’s Mysterious Illness

Valentine explains that Noirtier believes the air of the Faubourg Saint-Honoré is harmful to her. Morrel observes that she has not seemed well for a fortnight, and Valentine admits to feeling general uneasiness, having lost her appetite and experiencing stomach discomfort as if her body is struggling to accommodate something. Noirtier watches every word she speaks. When Morrel inquires about her treatment, Valentine reveals she swallows a spoonful each morning of the mixture prepared for her grandfather—she began with one spoonful but now takes four. She speaks of it as a panacea, though her smile cannot conceal that she is suffering. Maximilian gazes at her in devoted silence, noting that her usual pallor has increased, her eyes are more brilliant than ever, and her hands—normally white as mother-of-pearl—now resemble wax tinged with yellow.