The Pair Discuss Their Unwanted Marriage Arrangements
The reunited pair quickly addresses the reason for the girls’ apparent intimacy. Valentine explains that she and Eugénie were having a confidential conversation: Eugénie confessed her repugnance to marrying M. de Morcerf, while Valentine admitted her own distress at the prospect of marrying M. d’Épinay. Maximilian assures Valentine that she possesses an indefinable charm—a sweetness of character—that Eugénie lacks, though Valentine credits his love for the flattering perception.
Maximilian Asks About Eugénie’s Views on Marriage
Curious about what he observed, Maximilian asks Valentine whether Eugénie objects to the Morcerf marriage because she loves someone else. Valentine reveals that Eugénie claimed to love no one, disliked marriage entirely, and even wished her father might lose his fortune so that she could live independently as an artist, like her friend Mademoiselle Louise d’Armilly. Maximilian suggests that Eugénie’s words reflect Valentine’s own situation, prompting her to threaten to leave before Maximilian refocuses the conversation on their limited time together.
Maximilian Announces Franz de Morcerf’s Imminent Return
Valentine explains that she must leave soon because Madame de Villefort requested her presence for a communication concerning her fortune. Reassuring Maximilian, she adds that she recently encountered M. de Morcerf, who shared news that his friend Franz has written announcing his immediate return. This revelation alarms Valentine, who turns pale and leans against the gate at the thought that Franz’s return may bring her forced marriage closer.
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