The Count of Monte Cristo

Vampa’s Shot

Realizing he cannot overtake the ravisher, Vampa plants his feet, shoulders his carbine, tracks the fleeing figure for a second, and fires.

第三十三章 Roman Bandits

Chapter 33. Roman Bandits. After Luigi Vampa kills the bandit Cucumetto to rescue his betrothed Teresa, he and Teresa flee into the Roman forest and reach the bandit stronghold of Rocca Bianca, where Vampa claims Cucumetto’s position as captain. Franz and Albert then discuss the legendary Vampa before departing by carriage for the Colosseum through the streets of Rome.

Cucumetto’s Death

Cucumetto’s Death. As the ravisher attempts to flee with Teresa, he suddenly collapses, struck down by a ball from Luigi Vampa. The young herdsman’s unerring aim pierces Cucumetto’s heart, and the bandit dies in agony on the ground with clenched hands, a contorted mouth, and menacing eyes. Vampa recognizes the dead man as Cucumetto, who had once been saved by the two young peasants but had become enamored of Teresa and sworn to possess her.

Teresa Unharmed

Teresa Unharmed. When the shot rings out, Teresa’s legs give way beneath her and she falls on her knees ten paces from the dying man. Vampa rushes to her in fear that the ball has also struck his betrothed, but he finds her entirely unharmed—fright alone has overcome her. Once assured of her safety, Vampa turns his attention to the corpse.

Vampa Claims Cucumetto’s Dress

Vampa Claims Cucumetto’s Dress. Vampa carries Cucumetto’s body into a nearby grotto while Teresa waits outside. Upon emerging a quarter of an hour later, he announces to Teresa that since she is dressed, it is now his turn to clothe himself, and he has assumed the entire costume of the slain Cucumetto.