A Father’s Counter-Explanation
Danglars reveals he proposed this marriage not for Eugénie’s happiness but purely for his own benefit—certain commercial speculations required him to marry her off as soon as possible.
The Secret of Ruin
Danglars confesses he is ruined. His credit, which sustains him as breath animates the body, has been severely shaken by recent losses, and bankruptcy looms.
Eugénie Unmoved by Misfortune
Eugénie remains unmoved by her father’s financial catastrophe. She declares she will always find resources through her books, pencils, piano, and artistic talents, comparing herself favorably to opera stars like Pasta and Malibran.
The Railway Speculation
Danglars explains his scheme: M. Cavalcanti’s three-million-livre fortune will be invested in a railway concession that promises enormous returns. The marriage will restore his credit and enable him to recover his position.
Terms for the Marriage
Eugénie agrees to the marriage but extracts a crucial condition: she must be left entirely free in her person. She insists she will help rebuild her father’s fortune but refuses to be an accomplice in ruining others.
The Bargain Struck
Eugénie agrees to pay official visits and sign the contract in three days. Father and daughter exchange terse approvals, but neither warmth nor gratitude accompanies the handshake—only cold calculation on both sides.
Eugénie’s Mysterious Intentions
When Danglars asks what Eugénie is “up to,” she deflects with cryptic words: “That is my affair.” She refuses to reveal her plans, maintaining the advantage of knowing her father’s secrets while keeping her own intentions hidden.
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