Contents
Chapter 112.
Overview
Monte Cristo collects Maximilian and leaves Paris, affirming his mission’s end. In Marseilles, they witness Albert sailing for Algiers. Monte Cristo visits Mercedes in the old Dantès house; she forgives him, condemns her own failings, and asks only for Albert’s happiness. Monte Cristo promises it, and they part.
Summary
Julie and Emmanuel discuss the sudden downfalls of Morcerf, Danglars, and Villefort as Maximilian sits despondent. Monte Cristo arrives, announces immediate departure, and gently rebuffs Julie’s fears by promising to restore Maximilian’s spirits. He and Maximilian leave at once; Ali has already delivered a letter to Noirtier, who signaled assent.
On the hill of Villejuif, Monte Cristo pauses to bid Paris farewell, claiming his mission is complete. During the rapid journey south—by postchaise and then by the count’s steamboat—Maximilian mourns Valentine; Monte Cristo counsels that the dead live in the heart and urges him to resist despair.
They reach Marseilles. On the Canebière, they spot Albert de Morcerf departing as a lieutenant bound for Algiers; nearby, a veiled Mercedes watches in grief. Monte Cristo sends Maximilian to visit his father’s grave and goes to the old Dantès house, now placed at Mercedes’s disposal.
In the garden, Monte Cristo finds Mercedes weeping. She absolves him, blames herself for past cowardice, and laments her losses. Monte Cristo describes the divine burden of his vengeance and insists he acted as an instrument of Providence.
Mercedes asks only for Albert’s happiness; Monte Cristo vows to secure it. She intends to live quietly in prayer, sustained by the money hidden long ago. She refuses further fortune without Albert’s consent. They part with the hope of meeting again in heaven; Monte Cristo departs while Mercedes watches her son’s ship and softly repeats, “Edmond.”
Who Appears
- undefinedLeads Maximilian from Paris, bids Paris farewell, witnesses Albert’s departure, consoles Mercedes, and vows to ensure Albert’s happiness.
- Maximilian MorrelGrief-stricken over Valentine; follows the count to Marseilles and visits his father’s grave at the count’s suggestion.
- undefinedGrieving mother in the old Dantès house; forgives Edmond, blames herself, chooses a life of prayer, asks only for Albert’s happiness.
- Albert de MorcerfSeen departing Marseilles as a lieutenant bound for Algiers, leaving his mother behind.
- AliDelivers the count’s letter to Noirtier and signals Noirtier’s assent; drives and attends the journey.
- undefinedFears for her brother’s melancholy; bids him and the count an emotional farewell.
- Emmanuel HerbaultDiscusses the recent catastrophes; thanks and admires the count; says farewell to Maximilian.
- Noirtier de VillefortReceives the count’s letter via Ali and indicates assent with his customary signal.