Contents
Chapter 90.
Overview
On the morning of the duel, Monte Cristo prepares for death, amends his will, and realizes Haidée’s deep love for him. At the meeting, Albert publicly apologizes, acknowledges Monte Cristo’s justice against Fernand, and withdraws the challenge. The duel is averted, affirming Providence’s hand and shifting Monte Cristo’s course.
Summary
After Mercedes departs, Monte Cristo spends a sleepless night in despair over the impending duel and the collapse of his long-planned vengeance. He writes a codicil to his will, framing his possible death as a voluntary act and asserting that his enemies’ punishments are only deferred by Providence.
Haidée, who has waited at his door and fallen asleep, wakes to find him writing bequests. When Monte Cristo explains he may die, Haidée tears the will, declares she would need nothing without him, and faints. Monte Cristo, moved, realizes she may love him beyond filial affection, but he recopies the will and prepares to leave.
Maximilian Morrel and Emmanuel arrive early. Morrel tries to secure a change of weapons, but failed; Monte Cristo demonstrates uncanny pistol skill and declares Albert will kill him, alluding to a haunting resolve. They drive to the grounds, where Beauchamp, Chateau-Renaud, Debray, and Franz assemble as witnesses.
Albert arrives, pale and solemn. He halts the formalities, publicly retracts his accusations, and acknowledges Monte Cristo’s right to avenge himself—now understanding Fernand’s betrayal of Edmond Dantès and its consequences. Albert thanks Monte Cristo for his restraint and offers his hand. The duel is averted. Monte Cristo, overwhelmed, credits Providence and recognizes Mercedes’s role in this reconciliation.
Who Appears
- undefinedPrepares for death, amends his will, resolves to spare Albert, recognizes Haidée’s love, and attributes the duel’s end to Providence.
- Albert de MorcerfArrives solemnly, publicly retracts his accusations, acknowledges Monte Cristo’s justice, and ends the duel by apologizing.
- HaidéeWaits through the night, tears the will, faints; her reaction reveals deep love beyond filial affection.
- Maximilian MorrelSupports Monte Cristo, fails to switch weapons, witnesses pistol skill, and facilitates the meeting on the field.
- Emmanuel HerbaultAccompanies Maximilian and Monte Cristo to the duel grounds and observes proceedings.
- BeauchampServes as Albert’s witness, brings pistols, witnesses Albert’s public apology.
- undefinedAlbert’s witness on the field; helps manage formalities and observes the reconciliation.
- Franz d’ÉpinayArrives at Albert’s request to witness the duel; observes its unexpected resolution.
- Lucien DebraySummoned by Albert to witness; remarks on the surprising outcome.
- undefinedValet who follows in fear and points out the arriving carriage at the grounds.
- AliReceives and dispatches Monte Cristo’s sealed will to the solicitor.