The Count of Monte Cristo

第七十七章 Haydée

Chapter 77 opens with Albert de Morcerf and the Count of Monte Cristo traveling in a carriage after a visit to the Danglars household. Albert vents his frustration over being excluded from Eugénie Danglars’ social circle, as her family welcomes Andrea Cavalcanti as a potential suitor for her hand. Monte Cristo reveals he has been commissioned by Baron Danglars to pressure Albert’s father, the Comte de Morcerf, to finalize a formal family arrangement, and notes the recent unexplained rift between Danglars and Debray. The pair arrive at Monte Cristo’s Paris residence, where Albert expresses admiration for the count’s household staff, who anticipate his needs instantly. Albert hears guzla music from an adjacent room, leading Monte Cristo to introduce Haydée, his enslaved companion, and explain the origins and meaning of her uncommon name.

Albert’s Romantic Lament

Albert complains to Monte Cristo that his romantic pursuit of Eugénie Danglars is failing: Eugénie barely speaks to him, and her close confidant Mademoiselle d’Armilly has cut off all communication with him. He describes Danglars’ coldness as a series of metaphorical daggers to his heart, though Monte Cristo counters that Danglars’ jealousy of Albert actually signals hidden affection for him, a claim Albert firmly rejects.

Danglars’ Commission and Quarrels

Monte Cristo informs Albert he has received a formal commission from Baron Danglars to encourage the Comte de Morcerf to make a definitive, formal arrangement between the two families. Albert begs Monte Cristo to refuse the task, but the count insists he will follow through on his promise to Danglars. When Albert asks about the recent falling out between Danglars and Debray, Monte Cristo feigns ignorance, and Albert hints the rift may stem from Danglars noticing suspicious behavior, while mocking the count’s claim of being uninvolved in Parisian social drama.