The Count of Monte Cristo

Franz’s Hashish-Induced Monte Cristo Vision

Franz’s Hashish-Induced Monte Cristo Vision

第三十二章 The Waking

Franz awakens in a grotto on Monte Cristo Island, initially believing himself still in a dream. He discovers he lies on his bournous atop dry heather, and the statues from his hashish-induced vision have vanished. Approaching the opening, he sees the blue sea and morning sun, with sailors on the shore below. As reality settles in, he recalls his arrival, the smuggler chief, the subterranean palace, the supper, and the hashish—though the experience felt like a year had passed.

Franz Wakes in a Monte Cristo Grotto

When Franz returns to consciousness, he finds himself in a stone grotto, lying on dry heather. The statues from his fantastical dream have vanished as if they were mere shadows. Moving toward the light, he discovers the grotto opens to a view of the sea and sky, with sailors chatting on the shore and a boat anchored nearby. His head is clear, his body refreshed, and he feels unusually light and capable of absorbing the pure air.

Franz Learns Sinbad Has Departed the Island

Franz approaches the sailors, and the patron Gaetano informs him that Sinbad has left his compliments but departed due to important business in Malaga. Franz questions whether this hospitality was real, but Gaetano points to a small yacht sailing toward Corsica. Through his telescope, Franz confirms the mysterious stranger’s identity—he stands at the stern, waves his handkerchief in farewell, and fires a cannon shot as a parting salute. Franz returns the gesture, and the yacht continues toward Porto-Vecchio.