Plaster Removal and Progress Calculation
Discovering that the damp had rendered the plaster friable, Dantès is able to break it off in small morsels. In about half an hour, he scrapes off a handful. A mathematician would calculate that at this rate, supposing no rock is encountered, a passage twenty feet long and two feet broad could be formed in two years.
Lamenting Wasted Years of Imprisonment
Dantès reproaches himself bitterly for not having employed his hours more productively. During the six years of his imprisonment, he reflects on what he might have accomplished had he used the time for work rather than vain hopes, prayer, and despondency. This realization imparts new energy to his efforts.
Exposing the Wall’s Embedded Hewn Stone
In three days, exercising the utmost precaution, Dantès succeeds in removing all the cement and exposing the stonework beneath. The wall is built of rough stones, but blocks of hewn stone are embedded at intervals to provide structural strength. Dantès has uncovered one of these hewn stones, which he must now remove from its socket.
Failed Stone Removal with Nails
Dantès attempts to remove the hewn stone using his fingernails, but they prove too weak. Fragments of the jug also break. After an hour of useless toil, he pauses with anguish on his brow, confronted by the question of whether he is to be stopped at the beginning and forced to wait inactive for his fellow workman to complete his task.
Plotting to Acquire the Saucepan Handle
An idea suddenly occurs to Dantès, and he smiles with relief as the perspiration dries on his forehead. He recalls that the jailer always brings his soup in an iron saucepan, which holds portions for both prisoners depending on the order of service. Dantès would have given ten years of his life in exchange for the saucepan’s iron handle.
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