The Count of Monte Cristo

Morrel Declares His Betrothal

Morrel cries out, pointing to Valentine’s body: “See what they have done!” He addresses Noirtier as “father” and demands the old man reveal Morrel’s connection to those present. Noirtier’s eyes become bloodshot, veins swelling, as he communicates through his gaze. Morrel, seizing Noirtier’s hand, finally declares through choked sobs: “Tell them that I am her betrothed. Tell them she was my beloved, my noble girl, my only blessing in the world.”

Morrel Denounces the Murder

Rising on one knee, Morrel announces that Valentine requires not merely a priest but an avenger. He declares to Villefort that “the father has mourned sufficiently; now let the procureur fulfil his office.” Morrel announces that Valentine has been assassinated—this is the fourth victim in four months. He claims the poison dose was doubled and the poison changed, and accuses Villefort of knowing these facts since d’Avrigny forewarned him as both doctor and friend.

Morrel Appeals to d’Avrigny

Morrel appeals directly to d’Avrigny, asking him to recall the words spoken in the garden on the night of Madame de Saint-Méran’s death. He reveals he overheard Villefort and d’Avrigny discussing that “fatality,” and acknowledges his own culpability in not denouncing what he witnessed. Now transformed from accomplice to avenger, Morrel swears he will pursue the assassin for this fourth apparent murder.

Noirtier Confirms the Crime

D’Avrigny joins Morrel in demanding justice. When Morrel asks Noirtier if he knows the assassin’s identity, the old man indicates affirmatively. Morrel exclaims in horror when asked to leave the room temporarily, but Noirtier confirms through his gaze that he wishes to speak with Villefort alone. D’Avrigny leads Morrel from the chamber, and after a quarter hour of silence, Villefort emerges with torn quill fragments in his fingers, his face livid.