The Count of Monte Cristo

Monte Cristo Advises Albert on the Slander

In his study, Monte Cristo learns that Albert’s quarrel is with Beauchamp, whose journal printed the Yanina article implicating an officer named Fernand. Albert insists on a retraction before witnesses, and Monte Cristo argues against both the duel and the manner of Albert’s approach, offering his own theory of dueling. He proposes three alternative courses of action: seeking further information from Haydée, who could clarify the count’s role in the events at Yanina; visiting Beauchamp alone to allow him to retract voluntarily without the pressure of witnesses; or abandoning the challenge entirely. Albert rejects consulting Haydée and rejects the notion that his father could be at fault, but he accepts the advice to visit Beauchamp alone, recognizing the wisdom of avoiding the appearance of wounding Beauchamp’s self-love. Monte Cristo refuses to serve as Albert’s second, citing reasons he declines to disclose, and refuses to offer lessons in shooting or fencing as well, maintaining his principle of noninterference.

Albert Demands Beauchamp Retract the Article

Albert departs for Beauchamp’s office, a gloomy, dusty room strewn with newspapers. He leaps over the scattered papers and announces that he has come regarding the journal. Beauchamp reads the Yanina article, and when Albert demands a retraction, Beauchamp gently asks what action Albert wishes. Albert presses the point insistently, reminding Beauchamp of their long friendship and warning that he intends to maintain his resolution. Beauchamp’s anger begins to rise as Albert bites his lips convulsively, and the confrontation intensifies.