The Count of Monte Cristo

Transteverine Ally Descends from the Roof

Transteverine Ally Descends from the Roof A dark shadow appears at the broken opening in the roof above. The newcomer—dressed in the Transtevere costume—grapples a mass of hanging boughs, swings down close to the ground, and lands lightly. He greets the cloaked man, apologizing for being late and noting that Saint John Lateran’s clock has just struck ten.

Conversation About Peppino’s Imminent Execution

Conversation About Peppino’s Imminent Execution The Transteverine explains that he came from the Castle of St. Angelo, where his informant Beppo keeps him apprised of events. He reports that two executions will occur the day after tomorrow: one criminal will be mazzolato for murdering his priest, while Peppino—a mere shepherd who only supplied the band with provisions—will be decapitato. The man laments that the pontifical government makes examples of such men to instill fear.

Plot to Rescue Peppino from Execution

Plot to Rescue Peppino from Execution The Transteverine proposes surrounding the scaffold with twenty of his best men to overpower the guard with stilettos and carry off Peppino. The cloaked stranger dismisses this as too hazardous and instead offers to bribe officials with 2,000 piastres for a respite of a year, followed by another 1,000 to enable Peppino’s escape, asserting that gold will accomplish more than force.

Agreement on Window Signals for Rescue Outcome

Agreement on Window Signals for Rescue Outcome They settle on signals at the three lower windows of the Café Rospoli: a successful reprieve will be indicated by yellow damask on the two outer windows and white damask with a red cross on the center window, while failure will be signaled by yellow draperies on all three. A friar disguised as a penitent will deliver the reprieve to the executioner, and Peppino must be informed to prevent his despair.