The Count of Monte Cristo

Villefort Forcefully Retrieves Doctor d’Avrigny

Villefort arrives at Doctor d’Avrigny’s home in a hired cabriolet, rings the door so violently the porter is alarmed, runs upstairs without speaking, and forces the door to the doctor’s study open.

d’Avrigny Agrees to Examine Ailing Valentine

Inside the study, Villefort tells d’Avrigny his house is cursed and reveals Valentine is the latest victim. D’Avrigny, who had previously warned Villefort this outcome would occur, agrees to come examine her, insisting they hurry as there is no time to waste given the threats at play.

Morrel Confesses His Love for Valentine to Monte Cristo

Morrel arrives at Monte Cristo’s study in a distraught state. After Monte Cristo greets him, Morrel reveals he has come from a house where death has just struck, and after hesitating, finally confesses he loves Valentine de Villefort, who is currently dying, and begs Monte Cristo for help to save her.

Monte Cristo Reveals Knowledge of the Poisoning Secret

Morrel shares the secret he overheard: that the repeated sudden, unexpected deaths in the Villefort household are the result of poison. Monte Cristo reveals he already knows the full details of the secret, including the specific deaths of Madame de Saint-Méran, her husband, and Barrois, and tells Morrel he has no conscientious scruples related to the matter.

Monte Cristo Commands Morrel to Stay Calm and Discrete

Monte Cristo instructs Morrel to remain calm, take no action of any kind, and let no expression betray his thoughts, promising to send him updates. He orders Morrel to return home immediately and not stir from the house.