Consulting Private Records
Alone after dismissing the notary, Monte Cristo retrieves a locked book from his pocket and opens it with a key worn around his neck. He compares notes with the deed of sale and confirms the address matches his records: “Auteuil, Rue de la Fontaine, No. 28.”
Summoning Bertuccio
The Count rings for his steward and asks if Bertuccio has traveled in France or knows the Paris environs. The steward denies knowing either, trembling noticeably. Monte Cristo declares his intention to visit the new property that evening and instructs Bertuccio to accompany him, prompting the steward to cry out in alarm at the prospect of going to Auteuil.
Departure for Auteuil
Monte Cristo writes several notes while the carriage is prepared. He orders Bertuccio to fetch his hat and gloves, instructing the steward to accompany him since he intends to reside at the house. Bertuccio complies without protest, taking his place on the front seat as the Count settles into the carriage for the journey.
第四十三章 The House at Auteuil
This chapter depicts Monte Cristo and his steward Bertuccio traveling to Auteuil, where the Count has purchased a house at Number 28 Rue de la Fontaine. During the journey, Bertuccio displays increasing distress and makes religious gestures in the Corsican manner, revealing his deep unease about visiting this particular location. The chapter builds toward a dark revelation as Bertuccio’s terror grows upon their arrival.
Bertuccio’s Distress on the Drive to Auteuil
As they descend the staircase, Bertuccio signs himself in the Corsican manner—forming the sign of the cross with his thumb and muttering a short prayer. Monte Cristo notices the steward’s extraordinary repugnance for leaving the city walls but is too curious to let Bertuccio avoid this journey. Bertuccio crouches in the carriage corner, examining every house they pass with feverish anxiety. His emotion continues to augment as they enter the village of Auteuil, though he obeys the count’s order to stop at Rue de la Fontaine, No. 28.
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