The Count of Monte Cristo

The Blackmail Bargain

Caderousse explains he had been living in poverty, believing Andrea was earning a living as a porter or guide in Tuscany, when suddenly he spots him passing through the barrier with such wealth. He admits jealousy and reminds Andrea of their shared past in Marseille, claiming he had pitied him and once called him his child. He notes that Andrea has two coats and should give him one, referencing the meals he once shared with the hungry young man. When Andrea reveals he found his father, Caderousse presses for details. Major Cavalcanti is revealed as the father, a connection arranged by Monte Cristo, and Caderousse becomes interested in securing his own position with the Count as well.

Payment and Promise

Caderousse proposes living on 150 francs a month, and Andrea immediately offers 200 francs instead, placing ten gold louis in Caderousse’s hand. He instructs Caderousse to apply to the steward on the first day of each month for the same amount. However, Caderousse objects to receiving payment through servants, preferring to transact business directly with Andrea alone. Andrea agrees, promising that Caderousse will be paid directly as long as his own income continues. Caderousse declares Andrea a fine fellow and inquires about his future plans, to which Andrea responds with cautious ambiguity.

Discussion of Major Cavalcanti

Caderousse probes how Andrea came to dine at the Count’s house, learning that the Count of Monte Cristo arranged the introduction of Major Cavalcanti as his father. As long as Andrea answers the major’s purpose, he will honor and believe in him. When Caderousse asks what Andrea will become, he wonders if he might become a peer of France, though Andrea notes that hereditary rank is abolished and declines to discuss politics. Caderousse shares his own aspirations to live like a retired baker—renting a respectable room, wearing decent clothes, shaving daily, reading papers in cafés, and attending theaters in the evening.