Contents
Chapter 92.
Overview
Maximilian parts from Monte Cristo as the count receives a furious visit from Fernand. Monte Cristo reveals himself as Edmond Dantès, shattering Fernand. Returning home, Fernand sees Mercedes and Albert depart for good, then, overwhelmed by disgrace and abandonment, takes his own life.
Summary
Monte Cristo returns to Paris with Emmanuel and Maximilian after the duel is peacefully avoided. He dismisses Emmanuel home and invites Maximilian to the Champs-Élysées, teasing out the young captain’s happiness and hinting at his support if love presents obstacles. At the count’s house, Bertuccio reports that Mercedes is leaving and Albert may follow. Monte Cristo pens a letter, sends Bertuccio, and reassures Haïdée of their safety.
General Morcerf arrives unexpectedly. Monte Cristo hides Haïdée and receives Fernand, who demands to know why Albert did not fight. Monte Cristo coolly notes that Albert recognized a guilt beyond his own—his father’s. Fernand declares enmity and insists on a duel to the death. Pressed for a true name to curse in combat, Monte Cristo changes into a sailor’s garb and reveals himself as Edmond Dantès.
The revelation devastates Fernand, who staggers away, uttering “Edmond Dantès!” He orders his carriage home, but stops short at his mansion, where a hackney-coach and open doors signal upheaval. Hiding, Fernand watches Mercedes, supported by Albert, leave, hearing Albert say, “This is no longer our home.” Their silent departure confirms his total ruin.
As the coach carrying Mercedes and Albert exits, a gunshot cracks from within the house and smoke bursts from a window. Overwhelmed by disgrace, exposure, and abandonment, Fernand ends his life, completing Monte Cristo’s long-sought reckoning.
Who Appears
- undefinedCalmly receives Fernand, reveals his true identity, and completes his vengeance as Fernand collapses and later kills himself.
- undefinedConfronts Monte Cristo, learns he is Edmond Dantès, witnesses Mercedes and Albert’s departure, and commits suicide.
- Maximilian MorrelParts from Monte Cristo buoyant with love and promises to seek help if needed.
- undefinedOverjoyed at Monte Cristo’s return; he reassures her she is safe from Fernand.
- BertuccioReports Mercedes’s departure; carries Monte Cristo’s letter as events unfold.
- undefinedLeaves the Morcerf mansion with Albert, definitively abandoning Fernand.
- Albert de MorcerfSupports Mercedes as they depart, confirming renunciation of name and home.
- undefinedRejoices in the avoided duel and parts to reassure his wife.
- undefinedAnnounces Fernand’s arrival and facilitates the tense meeting.
- undefinedFernand’s valet; believes Albert will also leave, and later aids the shaken master.