The Count of Monte Cristo

The Library and Conservatory

The library contains over two thousand volumes, with one section devoted entirely to novels including the volume published the previous day. Matching the library on the opposite side of the house is a conservatory filled with rare flowers blooming in china jars. At its center stands a billiard-table that appears as though players had just abandoned it an hour before.

The Closed Room

One chamber alone was left untouched by Bertuccio despite his otherwise magnificent renovations. Servants pass this room with curiosity, while Bertuccio approaches it with visible terror. The room can be reached via the grand staircase but exited through a back staircase, suggesting its special significance in the house’s design.

The Count’s Arrival

Monte Cristo arrives at precisely five o’clock with his servant Ali. Bertuccio awaits with mixed impatience and unease, hoping for compliments while fearing disapproval. The count walks through the entire house without showing pleasure or displeasure until he reaches his bedroom. There he notices a rosewood furniture piece and correctly guesses it holds gloves. Finding everything as he requires—smelling-bottles, cigars, and various knick-knacks—he simply says “Good,” leaving Bertuccio enraptured by his master’s powerful influence.

Morrel and Médéah

Captain of Spahis Maximilian Morrel arrives at six o’clock on his horse Médéah, claiming to be first intentionally to have a private moment with the count. He speaks of his horse’s exceptional pace, having distanced both M. de Château-Renaud and M. Debray who rode the minister’s Arabians. Monte Cristo notes the horse cost 5,000 francs and discusses with Morrel the wager that required taming Médéah within six months.