The Count of Monte Cristo

第五十七章 In the Lucern Patch

Chapter 57, titled “In the Lucern Patch,” returns to the garden enclosure behind M. de Villefort’s house, where Maximilian awaits Valentine’s clandestine visit. Their meeting is delayed by Madame Danglars and Eugénie, but once the two young women finally speak alone, the chapter centers on their intimate conversation about unwanted marriages, family pressures, Maximilian’s mysterious friend, and Valentine’s deep distrust of the Count of Monte Cristo.

Maximilian Waits for Valentine at Villefort’s Gate

Maximilian arrives first at the gate behind the large chestnut-trees surrounding M. de Villefort’s house. He watches intently for Valentine’s shadow and listens anxiously for the sound of her light step on the gravel walk, having come to their appointed meeting spot before her.

Valentine Arrives with Eugénie Danglars After a Delay

Valentine eventually appears, but she is accompanied by Eugénie Danglars. The delay was caused by a visit from Madame Danglars and her daughter that ran longer than expected. To honor her promise to Maximilian and show that the delay was not her fault, Valentine proposes to Eugénie that they walk in the garden, allowing Maximilian to see her passing and to receive her reassuring looks as she maneuvers her companion away from the gate.

Maximilian Contrasts Valentine and Eugénie Danglars

While he waits, Maximilian mentally contrasts the two young women: Valentine, fair and graceful, with soft languishing eyes and a figure bending like a weeping willow; and Eugénie Danglars, a brunette with a fierce, haughty expression and a posture as straight as a poplar. The comparison only confirms his preference for Valentine. When the visitors finally leave, Valentine re-enters the garden alone, seats herself briefly on a bench to ensure she is not watched, and then hurries to join Maximilian at the gate.