Noirtier Disavows Son and Grandson as Beneficiaries
Madame de Villefort, emboldened by the revelation that Valentine is disinherited, suggests the fortune will go to young Edward. Noirtier’s response—a look of hatred and a most decided, terrible wink—immediately eliminates this possibility. When the notary asks if the inheritance goes to Villefort himself, Noirtier again refuses with equal certainty. The two notaries exchange glances of mute astonishment as the real intentions of the testator remain completely hidden. Valentine, puzzled by her grandfather’s apparent rejection of the entire family, asks what they have done that he no longer loves any of them.
Noirtier Reveals Will Ties to Valentine’s Marriage
Noirtier fixes his intelligent gaze on Valentine’s hand, leading her to suddenly understand the true meaning behind his actions. She asks if he means her marriage to Franz d’Épinay, and Noirtier’s eye lights up with joyful gratitude at her correct guess. When she asks if he is angry with them regarding this marriage, the old man’s response is emphatic affirmation. Valentine realizes her grandfather’s inheritance decisions are directly connected to preventing her marriage to Franz, and she demands he explain himself, noting she has never coveted his fortune and is already wealthy through her mother’s estate. Noirtier gazes at her with unutterable fondness as the truth emerges.
Noirtier Stipulates Charity Bequest If Marriage Proceeds
When the notary asks if Noirtier disinherits Valentine because she has contracted an engagement contrary to his wishes, the old man confirms this understanding—he intends the marriage as the reason for her exclusion. The notary verifies that but for this marriage, Valentine would have been his heir. Villefort declares his intention for Valentine to marry Franz d’Épinay regardless, and she sinks weeping into a chair. The notary then asks how Noirtier wishes to dispose of his fortune if Valentine proceeds with the marriage, and the old man indicates he will devote it to charitable purposes. When the notary notes the law prevents complete disinheritance of a son, Noirtier confirms he intends to leave only what the law allows him to subtract from Villefort’s inheritance. His eye beams with triumph when Villefort declares he knows his father will never alter his mind and claims he cannot plead against the poor.
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