The Passport
Louise confirmed that the post-chaise had been purchased three days prior and sent to their pickup location. When asked about their passport, Louise produced a document for “M. Léon d’Armilly, twenty years of age, artist,” obtained through Monte Cristo when Eugénie had requested letters to theatres in Rome and Naples. Eugénie had added “travelling with his sister” to the document.
Pooling Their Resources
They counted their resources: twenty-three thousand francs in banknotes from Louise’s portfolio, plus approximately the same value in pearls, diamonds, and jewels. With forty-five thousand francs total, Eugénie calculated they could live like princesses for two years or comfortably for four. Louise would carry the money while Eugénie guarded the jewel-box.
Packing for the Journey
They began filling their trunk with essentials. When Louise struggled to close the heavy portmanteau, Eugénie knelt on top and pressed the two halves together, calling herself “Hercules” to Louise’s “Omphale.” She then retrieved a wadded violet silk travelling cloak from a locked drawer, planning to give it to Louise.
The Disguise
Eugénie revealed a complete men’s costume from the same drawer—boots, pantaloons, cravat, waistcoat, and coat. With practiced promptness indicating prior experience with male attire, she dressed herself completely, transforming into a young man with remarkable effect.
Cutting Her Hair
Despite Louise’s admiration of her disguise, she questioned what would become of Eugénie’s magnificent black braids. Eugénie seized her thick hair and, without hesitation or regret, cut it all off with scissors, her eyes sparkling with greater pleasure than usual as the beautiful hair fell at her feet.
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