Noirtier’s Mental Capacity and Fortune Are Verified
The notary, now assisted by a colleague brought by Barrois, conducts a formal examination of the testator’s mental capacity. Noirtier successfully responds to questions confirming he understands he is making a will, recognizes the gravity of the act, and can accurately state his fortune. When asked if his fortune exceeds various increasing amounts, Noirtier stops the notary at 900,000 francs. Upon further inquiry, Noirtier indicates this fortune is held in stock rather than landed property. Barrois produces a casket containing 900,000 francs in bank scrip, which the notaries examine and confirm matches Noirtier’s stated wealth, establishing that his mind retains full force and vigor despite his physical paralysis. The notary calculates this capital should yield approximately 40,000 livres in annual income.
Noirtier Rejects Valentine as Will Beneficiary
When Madame de Villefort suggests the fortune should logically go to Valentine, who has tended her grandfather devotedly for six years, Noirtier’s eye reveals he is not deceived by this false display of concern. The notary asks directly whether Noirtier leaves his 900,000 francs to Valentine, and the old man’s decisive wink in token of dissent shocks everyone present. Despite Valentine having nursed him through his affliction and securing his affection, Noirtier explicitly refuses to make her his residuary legatee. Valentine, though struck dumb with astonishment, receives his gaze of tender affection and declares that whatever fortune he withholds, he still leaves her his love.
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