Contents
Chapter 58.
Overview
Villefort announces Valentine’s engagement to Franz d’Epinay, provoking Noirtier’s silent but intense opposition rooted in an old feud. After Valentine reveals she does not love Franz, Noirtier asserts his agency by demanding a notary, signaling a decisive move to counter the marriage plan.
Summary
Villefort and Madame de Villefort visit the paralyzed Noirtier to announce Valentine’s impending marriage. Observing his impassive face, they detail their plan: Valentine will wed Franz d’Epinay within three months, and Noirtier may live with the couple to remain near his granddaughter.
At Franz’s name, Noirtier’s eyes betray fury, recalling his old enmity with the elder d’Epinay. Villefort coldly frames the union as a conciliatory “peace-offering” to the slain man’s family. Noirtier struggles with anger but remains resolute, signaling refusal and contempt.
After the couple depart, Valentine arrives and deciphers Noirtier’s distress. She admits she does not love Franz and sought a convent to avoid the match. Noirtier’s eyes show joy at her confession and a will to act despite his physical helplessness.
Determined to intervene, Noirtier signals he wants something beginning with “N.” Through their practiced system, Valentine identifies “Notary.” She summons Villefort, and despite his resistance and mockery of the “ridiculous scene,” Barrois asserts Noirtier’s wish and leaves to fetch a notary.
Who Appears
- undefinedParalyzed patriarch; fiercely opposes Valentine’s engagement to Franz; demands a notary to act.
- undefinedProcureur; announces Valentine’s marriage to Franz, dismisses Noirtier’s resistance, and belittles the notary request.
- Valentine de VillefortGranddaughter; confides she does not love Franz, deciphers Noirtier’s signals, and summons a notary.
- undefinedSupports the advantageous match with Franz and tries to manage Noirtier’s response.
- BarroisLoyal servant; sides with Noirtier and goes to fetch a notary despite Villefort’s objections.
- undefinedValentine’s proposed fiancé; absent but central, his name triggers Noirtier’s fierce opposition.