The Count of Monte Cristo

Requesting Money

Andrea begs a nearby jailer for 20 francs to buy a dressing gown, claiming he needs it to receive an important expected visitor, and insisting he will be repaid quickly with no risk to the jailer, as he has wealthy relations. When other prisoners offer to pool money to help him, Andrea arrogantly rejects them, stating he is not their comrade and refusing to be associated with them.

Threat of Violence

Incensed by Andrea’s insult, the other prisoners turn hostile, threatening him with brutal beatings: la savate, a beating with an iron-heeled shoe, and l’anguille, a beating with a sand-filled handkerchief. The crowd closes in on Andrea as violence looms, with the jailer making no move to intervene, as he enjoys the spectacle.

Masonic Recognition

As the prisoners prepare to attack, Andrea uses a secret Masonic sign he learned from Caderousse, rolling his tongue around his cheeks and smacking his lips. The other prisoners immediately recognize the sign, drop their weapons, back down, and leave him alone, stating they respect his right to his own ways. The stunned jailer inspects Andrea, who protests the treatment, before an inspector calls Andrea’s name.

Called to the Visitors’ Room

The inspector calls Andrea to the visiting room, and Andrea acts haughtily, claiming his noble Cavalcanti status means he will be treated better than common prisoners, before rushing out of the courtyard. Both the jailer and the other prisoners are left confused and amazed by the sudden turn of events.

Anticipating the Visit

Andrea’s internal monologue reveals his belief that his mysterious powerful protector is still watching over him. He reasons that the visit cannot be from an examining magistrate, prison director, or doctor, so it must be his protector come to help him, and he resolves not to take any risky action that might alienate his protector before he is certain he has been completely abandoned.