Monte Cristo, part I, a drama by Alexandre Dumas père (original) (raw)

Monte Cristo, part I

Drama in five Acts

by Alexandre Dumas père, 1848

Translated and adapted by Frank J. Morlock

Translation is Copyright © 2000 by Frank J. Morlock. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without explicit consent of Frank J. Morlock. Please contact frankmorlock@msn.com for licensing information.

For more information on this play, click here.

To Conrad - Yet another project that would never have come to fruition without your encouragement and support.

Table of Contents

• Characters

• Act I

• Scene i

• Scene ii

• Scene iii

• Act II

• Scene iv

• Scene v

• Act III

• Scene vi

• Scene vii

• Act IV

• Scene viii

• Scene ix

• Act V

• Scene x

• Scene xi

Characters

• Edmond Dantes
• Danglars
• Dantes, the elder
• Morrel
• Penelon
• Caderousse
• Villefort
• Noirtier, Villefort's father
• Fernand Mondego
• Antoine, jailor
• De Baville
• The Governor
• Bertuccio
• A Policeman
• Baptiste
• Chief of Customs
• A Sailor
• Pamphile
• Germain
• Mercedes
• La Carconte
• Gringole
• Renee de Saint Geran, wife of Villefort
• Madam Distel
• Madame Morrel
• Maid

Act I

Scene i

The bridge of the Pharaoh, the port of Marseille in the background.

EDMOND

Each to his post for the anchoring! Fine -- it looks good to me.

PENELON

Tell me, Mr. Dantes, without being forced --

EDMOND

What is it, my good Penelon?

PENELON

Look who's coming to us, down there in a punt --

EDMOND

Oh -- oh -- it's Mr. Morrel, our owner.

PENELON

The bourgeois doesn't lose any time! He's coming with the Health Inspector.

EDMOND

Damn, you understand -- it's worth the trouble. I am sure that he wouldn't miss his share in this voyage of 5000,000 francs.

PENELON

Five hundred thousand francs! Plague! That's a pretty figure.

GRINGOLE

I bet my share on the voyage won't reach that figure, right, Master Penelon?

PENELON

Shut up, Gringole.

EDMOND

(command)

Start to haul in the top sails, the jib and the spanker -- Act shipshape! What is it Gringole?

GRINGOLE

Lieutenant, the Health Officer.

HEALTH OFFICER

Ahoy, ship -- where are you from?

EDMOND

From Smyrna, Naples and the isle of Elba.

HEALTH OFFICER

Have you been in quarantine?

EDMOND

At Smyrna.

HEALTH OFFICER

Let's see your papers.

EDMOND

Here they are.

(he hands them with tongs)

Good day, Mr. Morrel, a visit shortly, right?

MORREL

Yes, yes, good day, my good friend.

HEALTH OFFICER

It's fine everything in order. You can go aboard, gentlemen of the customs.

MORREL

And I -- ?

HEALTH OFFICER

You, too, Mr. Morrel. And be first. To the gentlemen, all honor.

MORREL

(coming aboard)

Good day, Edmond. Good day my friends. Where is Mr. LeClere? But what's wrong? The ship has an air of sadness which makes me uneasy?

EDMOND

Oh -- we suffered a great misfortune, Mr. Morrel.

MORREL

A great misfortune. You frighten me. What happened?

EDMOND

At Civita Vecchia we lost Captain LeClere.

MORREL

Our poor captain. And how did this misfortune occur, Edmond? Did he fall into the sea?

EDMOND

No, sir. After three days of horrible suffering, a brain fever carried him off.

MORREL

And how did this happen to him?

EDMOND

My God, sir, in the most unforeseen manner. After a long conversation with the Harbor Master, Captain LeClere left Naples in a state of great agitation. Within 24 hours, the fever took him -- 3 days later, he was dead.

MORREL

Truly it's strange.

EDMOND

This misfortune threw us in consternation. Death is terrible anywhere, yet more so, when one is lost in the immensity and is tossed between the sea and the sky.

MORREL

You gave him a proper funeral?

EDMOND

Yes, Mr. Morrel -- he resides softly, wrapped in his hammock off the isle of Giglio with 36 cannon balls at his head and his feet. We bring back to his widow his cross and his sword. It was worthwhile to spend ten years fighting the English and make 3 voyages around the world -- to die in his bed!

MORREL

What do you want my dear Edmond! It's sad, I am well aware. But still, we are all mortal -- the old must make way for the new, without that there would be no progress -- now, Edmond, let us see the invoices.

EDMOND

Hold on, here right now is Mr. Danglars, your accountant, who is just leaving his cabin and who will give you all the receipts you could want. As for me, Mr. Morrel, with your permission, I need to oversee the anchoring and put the boat in ship-shape.

MORREL

Go, my friend, go.

(Edmond goes off.)

MORREL

(aside)

There's a worthy and honest young man. If he doesn't prosper, there is no justice in heaven.

DANGLARS

An irreparable misfortune, sir, that is the word. Where will we find his like again? An old sailor like him -- admirably suited to be entrusted with the interests of a firm as important as yours.

MORREL

I believe you exaggerate, Danglars, not the loss we have suffered, but the difficulty we will have in repairing it. There's no necessity to be an old sailor, you see, to know his job -- and we have Dantes, who does his without the need to consult anyone.

DANGLARS

(with irritation)

Yes, yes, he's young - and he doesn't doubt himself -- still, hardly had Captain LeClere died than he took command of the Pharaoh and cost us a day and a half at Elba instead of returning directly to Marseille.

MORREL

As to taking command of the boat, that was his duty as Chief Mate and he was right to do so. But as for wasting a day and a half at Elba -- he was wrong unless the ship needed repairs.

DANGLARS

The boat was as well as I am and as I hope you are, Mr. Morrel. And the day and a half was lost from pure caprice, for the pleasure of going ashore.

MORREL

You are certain?

DANGLARS

By Jove, I am!

MORREL

(turning)

Dantes! Come here, if you would.

EDMOND

Pardon, Monsieur Morrel, I will be with you in a moment.

(ordering)

Lower the flag to half mast. Put the flagstaff down. Cross the yards.

DANGLARS

You see, he already thinks he is captain, my word of honor.

MORREL

It's all but done.

DANGLARS

Yes, save for your signature, Mr. Morrel.

MORREL

Damnation, why shouldn't I let him have the position? He's young, I am aware, but despite his youth, he appears to me to be very experienced in his job.

DANGLARS

You find him so?

(Edmond comes in.)

EDMOND

There -- now that the ship is anchored here, I am all yours. You called me, I believe?

MORREL

Yes, my friend. I wanted to ask you why you stopped at the Isle of Elba?

EDMOND

I myself do not know, sir.

MORREL

What -- you don't know?

EDMOND

Yes, it was to complete the list recommendation of Captain LeClere who, dying, gave me a package for the Grand Marshall.

MORREL

You saw him, Edmond?

EDMOND

Who?

MORREL

The Grand Marshall.

EDMOND

Yes.

MORREL

Hush! And how is the emperor?

EDMOND

Very well, sire, so far as I could judge by my eyes.

MORREL

You saw the Emperor, too?

EDMOND

He came to the home of the Marshall while I was there.

MORREL

And you spoke with him, Dantes?

EDMOND

Say rather he spoke to me, sir.

MORREL

What did he say to you?

EDMOND

He asked me some questions about the ship from the time of its departure from Marseille, the route it took and the cargo it carried. I think that if it had been empty and if I had been the master of this boat, his intention was to buy it, but I told him I was simply second in command and the boat belonged to the Morrels of Marseille, "Oh, oh! The Morrels," he said, "I know them. They are owners from father to son, and there was a Morrel who served in the same regiment with me while I was in garrison at Valence."

MORREL

By God, that's true, Dantes! That Morrel -- it was my Uncle Policar, who has since become Captain. Edmond, you will tell my Uncle that the Emperor remembered him and you will see him cry, the old grumbler. Come, come, you have done well to follow the instructions of Captain LeClere. But, if it became known you had spoken to the Emperor that could compromise you.

EDMOND

How could it compromise me, sir? I don't know even what I brought, and the Emperor only questioned me in a way he would anyone. But pardon, here comes the customs officer who's making everything go helter-skelter, as he usually does. You will excuse me, won't you?

MORREL

Go ahead, go ahead.

EDMOND

Wait, gentlemen! Wait!

(Edmond goes to the customs officers.)

DANGLARS

(approaching)

Well, Mr. Morrel, he gave you good reasons for his stop at Porto Ferraio, it appears?

MORREL

Excellent ones, my dear, Mr. Danglars.

EDMOND

Ah! So much the better! It's always unfortunate to have a comrade who doesn't know his duty.

MORREL

Dantes knows his, Danglars and it was Captain LeClere who ordered this release.

DANGLARS

Apropos of Captain LeClere, didn't he give you a letter from him?

MORREL

Who? Dantes?

DANGLARS

Yes.

MORREL

For me? No, was there one?

DANGLARS

I thought when he was dying, besides the package, the Captain had given him a letter and I thought the letter was for you.

MORREL

Besides the package.

DANGLARS

The one Dantes took to Porto Ferraio.

MORREL

How did you know he had a package to deliver to Porto Ferraio?

DANGLARS

I was passing before the door of the Captain which was open and I saw him give a package and a letter to Dantes.

MORREL

He didn't mention it to me, if there was a letter he will give it to me.

DANGLARS

Then Mr. Morrel, don't speak of what I have just mentioned to you before Edmond. I was deceived.

(Edmond returns.)

MORREL

Well, my dear Dantes, are you free?

EDMOND

Yes, sir.

MORREL

The thing didn't take long!

EDMOND

No, I gave the customs officers the list of our merchandise and they are now making their inspection.

MORREL

Then you have nothing to do here?

EDMOND

No sir, everything is in order.

MORREL

Then you can come to dine with us?

EDMOND

Excuse me, Mr. Morrel, for refusing the great honor you are doing me; but my first visit must be, you understand, to my father.

MORREL

You're perfectly right, Dantes, you're perfectly right. I know you are a good son.

EDMOND

Do you know if his health has been good?

MORREL

Your father? I believe so, my dear Edmond, although I have not seen him.

EDMOND

Yes, he keeps himself shut up in his little room in the Meilban alley, right?

MORREL

It shows, at least, that he lacked for nothing during your absence.

EDMOND

My father is proud, sir, if he had lacked everything, I doubt he would ask anything of any person in this world, except God.

MORREL

Well, after this visit, can we count on you?

EDMOND

Truly, Mr. Morrel, I am ashamed to reply this way to so much politeness but after this first visit, there is a second which holds me no less by the heart-strings.

MORREL

Oh! It's true, Dantes. I forgot that among the Catalans there is someone who waits you with no less impatience than your father. It's the beautiful Mercedes! Ah! Ah! Nothing surprised me more, Edmond, than that she came 3 times to ask me for news of the Pharaoh.

EDMOND

She came, sir?

MORREL

In person. Plague! Edmond, you have nothing to complain of, and you have a pretty mistress.

EDMOND

She is not my mistress, sir, she is my fiancee.

MORREL

Often it's the same thing.

EDMOND

Not for us!

MORREL

Come, come, my dear Edmond, don't let me keep you. You've done my business so well that I can give you leisure to attend to your own affairs. Do you need some money?

EDMOND

No, sir, I have all my stipends from the trip, earning 3 or 4 months of pay.

MORREL

You are a well-ordered boy, Edmond.

EDMOND

Add that I have a poor father, sir, and that my fiancee is not rich.

MORREL

Go then to see your father and your fiancee, Edmond, go!

EDMOND

Then you will excuse me?

MORREL

Yes, if you have nothing more to tell me.

EDMOND

No, sir -- Penelon -- the small boat!

MORREL

Tell me, Edmond, Captain LeClere, as he was dying, didn't he leave you a letter for me?

EDMOND

It was impossible for him to write, sir. But I recall that I have to ask you for eight days leave.

MORREL

To get married, Edmond?

EDMOND

Yes, sir, first of all, then to go to Paris.

MORREL

Good! You will have the time that you wish. It will take us six weeks to load and unload the boat, and we won't go back to sea for two months. Only in two months, you will have to be there, Dantes. The Pharaoh, cannot, you understand, put to sea without its captain.

EDMOND

Without its captain? Pay attention to what you say there, sir? For you have just answered my heart's most secret hopes. Your intention is to name me captain of the Pharaoh?

MORREL

If I were alone, my dear Dantes, I would offer to shake hands on it, and I would say to you, "Put it there." But for the last 3 or 4 years, I've had an associate, and you know the Italian proverb, "He who has a companion, has a master." But half of the needful is done, since of two votes, you already have one. Count on me to obtain the second, and I will do my best.

EDMOND

Ah, sir, I thank you in the name of my father and Mercedes! Me, captain! My God, Mr. Morrel, you've just spoken a word I didn't expect to hear for four or five years.

MORREL

It's fine, it's fine, Edmond. There's a God in heaven for brave young men. Go see your father, go see Mercedes and come to me afterwards.

PENELON

The boat is prepared Mr. Edmond.

EDMOND

Good, my friend.

(to Morrel)

Would you like me to row you back to shore?

MORREL

No thanks. I will stay to settle my accounts with Danglars. Were you happy with him during the voyage?

EDMOND

It depends on the way you mean the question, sir. If you mean as a good comrade, no! For I believe he looks at me with rancor since the day, at the end of a little quarrel, I had the stupidity to suggest that we make a short stop together at the island of Monte Cristo. If it is an accountant, I believe there is nothing to reproach him with and that you will be content with the manner in which his work was done.

MORREL

But, come, Dantes, be frank. If you were captain of the Pharaoh, would you keep Danglars, with pleasure?

EDMOND

Captain or mate, Mr. Morrel, I will always have the highest regards for those who possess the confidence of my backers.

MORREL

In truth, Dantes, you are in every way an estimable young man. But I won't keep you any longer. I see that you are on burning coals.

EDMOND

I then take my leave.

MORREL

Go, I tell you.

EDMOND

Then goodbye, Mr. Morrel, and a thousand thanks.

MORREL

Till we meet again, my dear Edmond -- good luck!

(to Danglars)

And now, Mr. Danglars, business.

(blackout)

Scene ii

The home of Edmond's father. A little room with a sloping roof, window filled with creeping plants.

LA CARCONTE

So there, father Dantes, you say that my drunken Caderousse isn't here.

DANTES

No, cousin, I haven't even seen him all day.

LA CARCONTE

Go on! He must still be at the cabaret.

DANTES

Let's see -- a little mercy for poor Caderousse, cousin!

LA CARCONTE

Oh! It's that he doesn't do more than that, you see. A man who had such a good situation.

DANTES

Well, but he'll always have it.

LA CARCONTE

Yes, but little by little, he loses all his skill and then they won't give him credit any more for anything.

DANTES

Bah! Cousin, you have some property in Arles and when you wish to leave Marseille.

LA CARCONTE

Ah! That's exactly what I fear.

DANTES

How's that?

LA CARCONTE

Because it will be my death, you see. If I return to Arles, I am lost.

DANTES

Ah, yes, those cursed fevers.

LA CARCONTE

I thought I was dying of it, you know.

DANTES

Poor woman! But things are better, right?

LA CARCONTE

I am cured - and since I cannot retake the same air --

DANTES

You will excuse me, cousin?

(He stand in a chair to attach the blinds to the window.)

LA CARCONTE

Take care. You are high up, it is nothing to joke about.

DANTES

Oh -- don't worry.

LA CARCONTE

I hear a step. It cannot be him.

DANTES

You see quite well it doesn't do like that to think badly of his approach.

LA CARCONTE

It's not him.

(seeing Edmond)

Wait! Wait! Oh -- but --

DANTES

What?

(low to Carconte)

Silence!

LA CARCONTE

Yes, and even

(she gestures that she must go)

Right?

DANTES

Thanks!

LA CARCONTE

He's going to be very happy, father, Dantes.

(Exit La Carconte)

DANTES

(his back turned)

Speak, cousin, since it still isn't him. Who is it then, huh?

EDMOND

It's me, my father.

DANTES

Ah, my God -- my God!

EDMOND

What's wrong with you, father? Are you getting sick?

DANTES

No, my dear, Edmond! No, my child! But I wasn't expecting you -- and the joy -- the shock of seeing you return here so unexpectedly, oh, my God! It seems to me I am going to die.

EDMOND

Well, pull yourself together, Father -- it's I -- it's really me! Everyone says that joy never does ill and that's why I came in without warning. Come on, smile at me, instead of looking at me as you are doing with terrified eyes! I am back, we are going to be happy.

DANTES

Ah! So much the better boy! But how are we going to be happy? You will never leave me again?

EDMOND

Poor Captain LeClere is dead and it's likely I am going to have his place. Do you understand? Captain, with five hundred louis in appointments and a share of the profits. Isn't that more than a poor drudge like myself could hope for?

DANTES

Yes, my son, yes -- indeed -- it's very happy.

EDMOND

Also, I want from the first money I receive, for you to have a small house with a garden where you can plant your flowers. But what's the matter, Father? They were saying you were sick.

DANTES

Patience, Edmond; it is nothing!

EDMOND

Come, come, Father, a glass of wine -- that will revive you -- where have you put your wine?

DANTES

No, thanks -- don't look.

EDMOND

Easily done, father. Tell me where it is.

DANTES

Useless. There is no more wine.

EDMOND

What do you mean? There is no more wine? Could you have been short of money, Father?

DANTES

I lack nothing since you are here, my child!

EDMOND

What, could Mr. Morrel not have transmitted to you the two hundred francs on the day of my departure three months ago?

DANTES

Yes -- it's true. But you forgot a little debt at the home of your neighbor, Caderousse. He reminded me of it saying that if I didn't pay on your behalf, he would go to Mr. Morrel for payment. Then from fear that this would injure you --

EDMOND

Well?

DANTES

I paid.

EDMOND

But it was 140 francs that I owed neighbor Caderousse.

DANTES

Yes.

EDMOND

And you gave him from the 200 francs I left for you?

DANTES

Yes.

EDMOND

So that, for three months, you've had sixty francs to live on?

DANTES

You know how little I need.

EDMOND

Oh, my God, my God, pardon me.

DANTES

What's wrong with you?

EDMOND

Oh, my poor Father, you have broken my heart.

DANTES

(smiling)

Bah! You are here! Now everything is forgotten because everything is fine.

EDMOND

Yes, I am here with a good future and a little money. Here, take, take.

(he tosses his money on the table)

And send a right away to get something.

DANTES

Send for what?

EDMOND

Why for you? Come here, Father, take, take! Buy some provisions. Be happy, poor Father. Tomorrow there will be more.

DANTES

Easy, easy! With your permission, I will employ your purse moderately. People will think if they see me buy many things at once that I was forced to wait for your return to buy them.

EDMOND

Do as you wish, Father, but before all else, get someone to serve you. I have down there in the depth of the hold some excellent coffee and contraband tobacco for you -- you will have some tomorrow. It comes from Smyrna, but hush, someone is here.

DANTES

He, it's Caderousse who will have heard of your arrival and who wishes to congratulate you on your safe return.

EDMOND

Good! Still some lips say one thing while the heart says another. But -- no matter -- he's a neighbor who has helped us in the past -- let him be welcome.

CADEROUSSE

Eh? You've come back, little one?

EDMOND

As you see, neighbor Caderousse, and ready to be agreeable to you in whatever may be.

CADEROUSSE

Thanks, thanks, I have no need of anything -- and rather others sometimes have need of me. I don't say that to you, boy -- I already have ready some money you returned me -- that was done between neighbors and we are quits.

EDMOND

Due is never quits with those who have obliged you, for when you no longer owe them money, you still owe them thanks.

CADEROUSSE

What's the good of speaking of it? What is past is past. Let's speak of your happy return, boy. I had gone to the port to watch some chestnut clothe when I met friend Danglars. "You at Marseille," I asked him, "Eh, yes, all the same," he replied. "I could be there, but I've returned." "And Edmond?" I thought of you right away. "Where is the little fellow? "But with his father, doubtless." And I came straight here to have the pleasure of shaking the hand of a friend!

EDMOND

This good Caderousse! He loves us so much.

CADEROUSSE

Certainly I love you, and esteem you even more. Considering honest men are rare. But it appears that you are returning rich.

EDMOND

Ah! This money isn't mine, neighbor - it is my father's. I was expressing the fear that he lacked something during my absence and to reassure me, he opened his purse. Come, Father, put your money in the moneybox unless neighbor Caderousse has need of it, in which case it is completely at his service.

CADEROUSSE

Not at all, boy, I don't need anything, and thank God the state nourishes its help. Keep your money, keep it, one never has too much!

EDMOND

It was with good intention.

CADEROUSSE

I have no doubt of that. Well, there you are in good with, Mr. Morrel, lucky dog that you are.

EDMOND

Mr. Morrel has always been good to me.

CADEROUSSE

In that case, you were wrong to refuse to dine with him.

DANTES

What -- you refused to dine with him? He had invited you to dinner then?

EDMOND

Yes, Father.

DANTES

And why did you refuse, boy?

EDMOND

To return home to you sooner. I was in a hurry to see you.

CADEROUSSE

I know someone down there behind Fort St. Nicholas who won't be upset that you will be captain?

DANTES

Mercedes, right?

EDMOND

Yes, Father -- and with your permission now that I have seen you, Father, now that I know you are well, I ask your permission to pay a visit to the Catalans.

DANTES

Go, my child, go -- and may God bless you in your wife as God has blessed me in a son!

CADEROUSSE

Never mind, never mind. You would do well to hurry.

EDMOND

Why?

CADEROUSSE

Because Mercedes is a pretty girl, and pretty girls do not lack admirers -- her especially. They follow her by the dozen -- but you are going to be captain, to you she will give preference.

EDMOND

Which means that if I were no --

CADEROUSSE

Eh! Eh!

EDMOND

Come, come, neighbor, I have a better opinion than you of women in general and of Mercedes in particular -- and I am convinced that, captain or not, she will remain faithful to me.

CADEROUSSE

So much the better! So much the better! When one is going to marry it is always good to have faith. But never mind, believe me, little fellow, don't lose any time in announcing your arrival.

EDMOND

I am going.

DANTES

And I, I will accompany you to La Cannebierre -- I want to part with you only at the last possible moment.

CADEROUSSE

I must ask your permission to stay here an instant, Father Dantes. This devil Carconte bored no doubt, that I didn't return, left in her turn -- and she has taken the key -- so that I am locked out.

DANTES

Stay, neighbor, stay. You know you are at home here.

CADEROUSSE

Thanks.

EDMOND

Come, Father.

CADEROUSSE

Give my best to Mercedes, little fellow.

EDMOND

I will add them to those I am going to give her.

DANTES

When you leave, lock the door.

CADEROUSSE

Be easy.

(Dantes and Edmond leave.)

CADEROUSSE

(alone)

I am sure of one thing -- it's that this money was brought by the little fellow -- and that the old boaster hasn't a trace of a sou in the house.

Anyway we are going to see. Ah, they are going down the street to Mellhan. Very Good! For people who are disgustingly rich here's an armoire that's stupidly furnished. Look at it. Yes, it's so! That's a bottle but it is empty. At home with me, there are no empty bottles so long as my purse is full -- and I judge others by myself. A scrap of bread. I am not deceived. The old boy was completely broke and the gold was brought by the little fellow. When one thinks what the proud do!

DANGLARS

Caderousse! Caderousse!

CADEROUSSE

Ah, it's Danglars. To whom I gave a meeting at my home and who found the door locked! Hey, Danglars, come up, come up. No one is here. Come here!

DANGLARS

(entering)

Where are they then?

CADEROUSSE

They left. I am the master of the house.

DANGLARS

Well -- did you see him?

CADEROUSSE

I left him.

DANGLARS

Has he spoken of his hope of being captain?

CADEROUSSE

He spoke of it as if he already was.

DANGLARS

Patience! Patience! He presses a little too much.

CADEROUSSE

It seems the thing has been promised by Mr. Morrel.

DANGLARS

Which makes him very happy?

CADEROUSSE

Meaning that he is insolent. He already offered me his services as if he were a great person.

DANGLARS

Is he still in love with the pretty Catalan?

CADEROUSSE

Madly amorous. He went there -- but either I deceive myself or there will be some disagreement there.

DANGLARS

Explain yourself.

CADEROUSSE

What's the use?

DANGLARS

It's more important than you think. You don't like Edmond.

CADEROUSSE

I don't love the arrogant.

DANGLARS

Well, tell me what you know relative to the Catalan.

CADEROUSSE

Well, I know that every time Mercedes comes to town, she is accompanied by a big stud of a Catalan with a black eye, red complexion -- very brown, very ardent and whom she calls "my cousin".

DANGLARS

Ah, truly! And do you believe this cousin is paying court to her?

CADEROUSSE

I think so. What the devil do you expect of a big boy of 20 and a pretty girl of 17?

DANGLARS

And you say Dantes went to the Catalan?

CADEROUSSE

He left in front of my eyes.

DANGLARS

If we were to go the same way? We would stop at the reserve and drink a glass of Lamalga where we would get some information.

CADEROUSSE

Who would give it to us?

DANGLARS

We will be on the way and we will see from his face what has happened.

CADEROUSSE

Let's go! But you are paying?

DANGLARS

Certainly! Are you coming?

CADEROUSSE

Here I am!

(A stranger enters.)

STRANGER

Pardon, gentlemen.

CADEROUSSE

What is it?

DANGLARS

What do you want?

STRANGER

Is this where the Captain of the Pharaoh lives?

DANGLARS

The mate, you mean!

STRANGER

Captain or mate, so be it! The one who was in charge of the ship during the voyage.

DANGLARS

Yes, sir, this is where he lives.

CADEROUSSE

Or rather his father.

STRANGER

Never mind! And he is not home?

CADEROUSSE

He just went out.

DANGLARS

Is it something in which one can act for him?

STRANGER

I want to ask some information from him.

DANGLARS

About what?

STRANGER

On the course the ship took.

DANGLARS

I can tell you that.

STRANGER

You?

DANGLARS

Yes -- I am comptroller aboard the Pharaoh. What information do you wish?

STRANGER

Ah! Very simple. I wanted to know if, in its course, the boat had stopped at Porto Ferraio.

DANGLARS

Yes, sir.

STRANGER

Thanks.

DANGLARS

Well?

STRANGER

What?

DANGLARS

That's all you wish to know?

STRANGER

Yes.

DANGLARS

What more do you want?

STRANGER

I want nothing else. Good day, gentlemen.

(The stranger leaves.)

CADEROUSSE

Well, there's a character.

DANGLARS

There's something strange in all this, Caderousse. Come, come.

CADEROUSSE

Wait a while.

DANGLARS

The old caitiff didn't he tell me to close his door? As if he had something to lose from this shack -- there!

(They leave.)

(blackout)

Scene iii

The interior of Mercedes' house in the Catalan district.

FERNAND

Let's see, Mercedes, here is Paques who is going to return, it's the moment for a wedding. Answer me.

MERCEDES

I already answered you a hundred times, Fernand, and truly, you are your own enemy in questioning me so much about this.

FERNAND

Well, repeat it again, repeat it forever, so that finally I will believe it. Tell me for the hundredth time that you refuse my love, which your mother approves of. Make me understand very well that you play with my happiness and that my life or my death are nothing to you. Ah, my God, my God, after having dreamed for 10 years of being your husband, Mercedes to lose this hope which was the only object of my life.

MERCEDES

At least I was never the one who encouraged you in this hope. You have not a single coquetry on my part to reproach me with. I've always told you -- "I love you like a brother -- don't exact anything more from me except this sisterly friendship for my heart belongs to another." Didn't I always tell you this, Fernand?

FERNAND

Yes, I know it well, Mercedes. Yes, vis-a-vis me you have the cruel merit of frankness -- but have you forgotten that among the Catalan the sacred law is to marry between themselves?

MERCEDES

You are mistaken, Fernand, it's not a law, it's only a custom that's all -- and believe me, Fernand, you cannot invoke this custom in your favor. You are subject to the draft. The liberty you are given is a simple tolerance. From one moment to the next you can be called to the colors. Once you are a soldier what will you do with me? In other words, a poor sad orphan without fortune who owns only a shack almost in ruins where several used nets hang, a miserable heritage left by my father to my mother and from my mother to me! Think Fernand, in the years since she died, that I almost lived on public charity. Sometimes you pretend I am useful to you, and that to have the right to share your fish with me. And I accept, Fernand, because you are the son of a brother of my mother -- because, above all, it would hurt you if I refused you. But I feel this fish I sell from which I earn the money to buy the hemp that I weave -- I feel indeed, Fernand, that it is only charity.

FERNAND

Eh! And what does it matter, Mercedes, if poor and alone as you are, you appeal to me more than the most proud owner or the most rich banker in Marseille! To us, what should we do? An honest woman and a good manager, where would I find better than you under those two headings?

MERCEDES

Fernand, a women becomes a bad housewife and cannot answer to remain an honest when she loves someone other than her husband. Be content with my friendship for I repeat to you, that is all I can offer you, and I won't promise you what I cannot give.

FERNAND

Yes, I understand -- you support your misery patiently, but you are afraid of mine. Well, Mercedes, loved by you, I will challenge fate -- you will bring me luck and I will become rich and I will better my estate of fisherman, I will enter as a clerk in a counting house, I can, myself, become a merchant.

MERCEDES

You cannot do any of this, Fernand, you are a soldier, and if you stay with the Catalans, it is because there is no war. Remain a fisherman, don't dream dreams which will, if realized be more terrible for you and be satisfied with my friendship since I cannot give you anything more!

FERNAND

Well, you are right, Mercedes, I will be a sailor, in place of the costume of our fathers, which you scorn, I will have a leather hat, a silk shirt, and a blue vest with anchors as buttons. Isn't that the way to dress to please you?

MERCEDES

What are you taking about? I don't understand you.

FERNAND

I mean, Mercedes, that you wouldn't be so hard and so cruel to me if you weren't waiting for someone who is dressed like that. But the one you are waiting for is unfaithful perhaps -- and if he is not, the sea for him!

MERCEDES

Fernand, I believed you to be good and I was mistaken.

FERNAND

You have a bad heart to call the wrath of God to the aid of your jealousy.

MERCEDES

Well, yes, I do not hide it. I am waiting for, and I love the one you speak of, and if he doesn't return, in place of accusing this inconstancy you invoke, I will say he died loving me. I understand, you Fernand you hold it against him that I do not love you; and you would match your Catalan knife against his dagger. What will that get you? To lose my friendship if you are vanquished; to see my friendship change into hate if you are the conqueror. Believe me, to find a quarrel with a man is a bad way to please a woman who loves this man. No, Fernand, don't give yourself over to bad thoughts in this way. You cannot have me for your wife, and you must content yourself with having me for your friend and sister.

And besides - wait, wait, Fernand, you said just now, the sea is perfidious -- it's already 4 months since he left -- for four months I have counted many storms.

FERNAND

Let's see, Mercedes, yet one more time, answer -- is it really resolved?

MERCEDES

I love Edmond Dantes, and no one except Edmond will be my spouse.

FERNAND

And you will love him forever?

MERCEDES

So long as I live.

FERNAND

But if he is dead?

MERCEDES

If he is dead, then I will die.

FERNAND

But if he forgets you?

EDMOND

(from outside)

Mercedes! Mercedes!

MERCEDES

Ah, you can see quite well, he has not forgotten me, since he is here. Edmond! My Edmond! Here I am!

FERNAND

Ah! The demon! It's really him!

EDMOND

(entering)

Mercedes, my well-beloved Mercedes! Ah, pardon, I hadn't noticed we were three. Who is this gentleman?

MERCEDES

The gentleman will be your best friend one day, Edmond, for he is my friend, he's my mother's brother's son. He is Fernand Mondego. That is to say, the man, after you, I love most in the world. Edmond, Won't you greet him?

EDMOND

Ah! For sure! Brother of Mercedes, here is my hand.

(Fernand remains immobile.)

MERCEDES

Fernand!

EDMOND

I didn't know I was coming in such haste to your house to find an enemy, Mercedes?

MERCEDES

An enemy! With me, Edmond? If I knew that I would beg you to take me from Marseille, leaving the house never to return, and if you suffered misfortune, my Edmond, I would go up to the cape of Morgion, and throw myself on the rocks head first. But you are mistaken, Edmond, you have no enemy here! You have only a brother, who is going to shake your hand like a devoted friend.

(Fernand comes forward, as if fascinated by the look of Mercedes.)

FERNAND

Oh -- oh -- it's too much -- I cannot. Goodbye, Mercedes.

(He leaves.)

EDMOND

Mercedes, Mercedes, this man will bring us misfortune.

MERCEDES

Misfortune? Is it a misfortune when we see each other again, my Edmond? No, no, nothing can bring us misfortune now. Let me look at you. How handsome you are in your sailor's costume and you wear your uniform like an admiral! Oh -- you don't know Edmond, how much I suffered for 3 months. I believe there never were so many storms. How many prayers to heaven, my God, when this sea, so calm, so tranquill, so joyous over your return, surges in your absence, and come to break against the rocks! Did you think of me -- speak?

EDMOND

Have I thought of you my well beloved Mercedes? And what do you want me to have thought? Aren't you my Lady of the Storms, aren't you my Lady Protectress? You pray to God, and I, I pray to Mercedes. Have I thought of you? Night and day, evening and morning, at every instant, at each instant. And the proof is that I came only a half hour --it's that I have only taken time to embrace my father who loves me so much and then -- here I am.

MERCEDES

Here you are!

EDMOND

Yes, and rich with good news. Do you understand, Mercedes? Captain -- captain of the Pharaoh!

MERCEDES

You?

EDMOND

Yes, me! I have the word of Mr. Morrel; you know how good he is to me! You know for he has been to see you.

MERCEDES

He told you that?

EDMOND

Yes, he knows of our love; he knows that you are my fiancee; that you are going to be my wife! When will it be, Mercedes, speak?

MERCEDES

Ah -- when you like!

EDMOND

Thanks! I counted on this reply. Oh! I have only to speak two words to my father. He is going to run to the home of Mr. Morrel. They will arrange together -- we won't have to bother with anything, except our love.

MERCEDES

In truth, I cannot believe in our happiness!

EDMOND

Same as me, Mercedes, it seems that I am having a dream -- oh, your face, your heart, your whole being! So that I will know I am not dreaming.

(Morrel enters with Dantes.)

EDMOND

Eh, there Mr. Morrel, look at them.

MERCEDES

Ah -- your father, Edmond!

EDMOND

Mr. Morrel.

MORREL

Well, yes, Mr. Morrel, so? It disturbs you. Cursed Morrel, right?

EDMOND

Oh!

MORREL

You asked a leave from me, Edmond, to go to Paris.

MERCEDES

You -- to Paris?

EDMOND

Yes -- I will tell you about it! The last wish of a dying man.

MERCEDES

Fine! Fine!

MORREL

I have already thought of this --

EDMOND

Listen.

MORREL

I said to myself, "These children really want to get married right away."

EDMOND

Oh! Yes!

MORREL

Unfortunately, it is impossible -- there are formalities, requirements, slow up -- but they can still be engaged.

EDMOND

Without doubt, right, Mercedes?

MORREL

Well, let's engage them.

EDMOND

When will that be?

MORREL

Today.

EDMOND AND MERCEDES

Today!

MORREL

And why not?

EDMOND

Mister Morrel! My God!

MORREL

Besides, as I passed by Pamphile at the Reserve -- right near here, you know --and I bespoke a dinner!

EDMOND

What! Mr. Morrel you concern yourself to this degree with me?

MORREL

And with what were you concerning yourself for 4 months, for a year, for the 10 years, you've sailed for me? You helped to make me rich. I am going to help to make you happy.

EDMOND

Mercedes! Mercedes! I will go mad from all this!

MORREL

Plague, don't do that! It would be a great stupidity, especially at this time -- there, it's ready?

EDMOND

What?

MORREL

In an hour -- the engagement banquet.

EDMOND

Mr. Morrel, you are our master or rather our good genius. What must I do? Order.

MORREL

Nothing -- just love and wait!

MERCEDES

Edmond -- you remember this poor wooden crucifix, before which we prayed at the moment of your departure?

EDMOND

Yes? Well?

MERCEDES

It is still there. Let's go thank God for having given you such a happy return.

EDMOND

Will you excuse us?

EDMOND

Go, Edmond, go! We know what it is to pray, don't we, Mercedes? We -- who were waiting.

EDMOND

Then, in an hour, right?

MORREL

In an hour.

EDMOND

At the Reserve?

MORREL

At the Reserve.

(Edmond and Mercedes leave.)

MORREL

Let's go, Father Dantes -- before the Sunday crowd!

(curtain)

Act II

Scene iv

A vaulted room above the court of a cabaret at the Reserve. Danglars and Caderousse.

DANGLARS

There's nothing to be seen yet.

CADEROUSSE

So be it! We'll see something.

DANGLARS

I meant to say there's no sign of Edmond.

CADEROUSSE

No, but Fernand's plainly visible.

DANGLARS

Who's Fernand?

CADEROUSSE

Oh, by God, the rival of whom I told you, the handsome Catalan, the cousin of Mercedes. Would you like me to call him?

DANGLARS

Certainly!

CADEROUSSE

Hey -- the Catalan -- hey! Where are you running like that?

(Fernand comes over.)

CADEROUSSE

Are you in such a hurry, that you haven't the time to say hello to friends?

DANGLARS

Especially, when they have an almost full bottle in front of them.

FERNAND

Good day! You called me, right?

CADEROUSSE

Eh! Doubtless, I called you!

FERNAND

Why?

CADEROUSSE

Because you were running like a madman, and I was afraid you were going to throw yourself in the sea. What the devil! When one has friends, it's not only to offer a cup of wine, but even to prevent you're drinking 3 or 4 quarts of water -- a glass, Father Pamphile.

FERNAND

Ah, my God! My God!

CADEROUSSE

Well, what do you want me to say to you, Fernand. You have the appearance of a discontented lover.

DANGLARS

Bah! A young man with a figure like that? You are joking Caderousse!

CADEROUSSE

I said what I said. Listen rather as he sighs. Come, come, Fernand, look up and reply. It's not very wise not to reply to people who ask news of your health.

FERNAND

My health is fine, thanks.

CADEROUSSE

You see, Danglars, here it is, Fernand, whom you see, who is a good and brave Catalan, one of the best fisherman of Marseille, is in love with a beautiful girl called Mercedes. Unfortunately, it appears that the girl, on her side, is in love with the mate of the Pharaoh -- and as the Pharaoh is arrived in port today, you understand.

DANGLARS

No, I don't understand.

CADEROUSSE

Well, this poor Fernand has received his walking papers.

FERNAND

Well -- and so?

CADEROUSSE

What do you mean "and so?"

FERNAND

Without doubt -- Mercedes is free! Mercedes can love whomever she wishes.

CADEROUSSE

Oh! You take it that way? Good, good, good. That's another matter. I, I thought you were a Catalan -- and they told me that the Catalans are not men to let themselves be supplanted -- they even said that Fernand was terrible in his vengeance.

DANGLARS

The poor boy! What do you want? He didn't expect to see Dantes return, now; he thought he was dead, unfaithful, who knows?

CADEROUSSE

Ah, my word, in every case, Fernand isn't alone from what I hear, that happiness will come to Edmond a contrary way -- right, Danglars?

DANGLARS

No, and I almost dare say it will bring him ill.

CADEROUSSE

Never mind -- in waiting, he marries Mercedes, the beautiful Mercedes -- he is returning for that at least.

DANGLARS

Well, let's drink to Captain Edmond, Dantes! To the husband of the beautiful Catalan!

CADEROUSSE

Come on, enough stupidities! Eh! Eh! Eh! What do I see down there at the bottom of the hill, the devotion of the Catalans? Have a look, Fernand, you have better sight than I do -- and then I think I begin to see trouble. One would say they are two lovers walking side by side, and hand in hand. God pardon me! They cannot doubt that we are watching them and they are embracing.

DANGLARS

Do you know them, Mr. Fernand?

FERNAND

Yes, yes, I know them. It's Mr. Edmond and Miss Mercedes.

CADEROUSSE

Ah -- you see! And I recognize them.

(yelling)

Hey, Dantes! Hey -- pretty girl. Come over here, a while and tell us when the wedding is to be. For here is Mr. Fernand who is so stubborn that he won't tell us.

DANGLARS

Would you please be quiet and let these lovers alone. Wait, look at Mr. Fernand, and follow his example. He is reasonable.

(Mercedes and Edmond enter.)

DANGLARS

(aside)

I can get nothing out of this fool here. I'm greatly worried being caught between a drink and a poltroon. Decidedly, Edmond's destiny is leading him on; he will marry the pretty girl, he will be captain and will make fun of us -- unless -- unless I interfere!

CADEROUSSE

Hey! Edmond -- don't you see your friend? or is it that you are already too proud to speak?

EDMOND

No, no, my dear Caderousse I am not proud, but I am happy and joy blinds, I think, even more than pride!

CADEROUSSE

Good! There's the explanation! Ah, Good day, Madam Dantes.

MERCEDES

(bowing)

It is not yet my name and in this country, it brings bad luck, be sure of it, to call young women by the name of their fiancees before the fiancee becomes their husband. Call me then, Mercedes, I beg you.

EDMOND

He must be forgiven. I am glad to meet you, Mr. Danglars. I am happy to see you, cousin Caderousse!

CADEROUSSE

And why is that? Let's see.

EDMOND

To invite you both to my betrothal which takes place in an hour.

DANGLARS

Where?

EDMOND

Here.

FERNAND

Ah!

DANGLARS

And Fernand, is he invited, too?

EDMOND

The brother of my wife is my brother and Mercedes and I wold profoundly regret to see him separated from us at such a time.

DANGLARS

So today, the betrothal, tomorrow or the day after -- the trip to Paris and on the return, the wedding. The Devil! You are in a great hurry, Captain.

EDMOND

One is always in a hurry to be happy; Mr. Danglars, for when one has suffered for a long while, one has great difficulty in believing in happiness.

DANGLARS

Thus, tomorrow you are going to Paris?

EDMOND

Yes, have you anything for me to do there?

DANGLARS

No, thanks.

EDMOND

And you, Caderousse?

CADEROUSSE

Find out if the King has need of a tailor.

DANGLARS

Yes, yes, I understand.

(aside)

In Paris, to take to his address, without doubt, the letter the great Marshall has given him. By god, this letter gives me an idea! Oh, Dantes, my friend, you are not yet sleeping on the Pharaoh as captain.

(aloud to Edmond)

Well, goodbye Edmond.

EDMOND

In a half hour, right?

DANGLARS

And where are you going now?

EDMOND

Where the happy go -- straight ahead without looking to the rear. See you soon, gentlemen.

(Edmond and Mercedes leave.)

CADEROUSSE

In love or I've never seen it!

DANGLARS

(to Fernand)

Well, there, my dear sir, there's a marriage, which doesn't appear to make everyone happy.

FERNAND

It makes me despair.

DANGLARS

You loved Mercedes.

FERNAND

I adored her.

DANGLARS

For how long?

FERNAND

Since we met; I have always loved her.

DANGLARS

And you are there -- to tear your hair out rather than find a remedy for the thing? What the devil, I don't think this was the way people of your nation behaved. Let's see. You seem to me to be a nice boy, and I wish devil take me, to ease your pain, but --

CADEROUSSE

Yes -- let's see!

DANGLARS

(to Caderousse)

My dear fellow, you are three sheets to the wind, finish the bottle and you will be so completely, and don't mix in what we are doing; because for what we are doing you must have your head screwed on tight.

CADEROUSSE

Me, drunk? Get out, I can drink four more of your bottles -- which are no bigger than a bottle of cologne, Papa Pamphile! Some wine.

FERNAND

(to Danglars)

You were saying, sir?

DANGLARS

What was I saying? My word, I do not recall. This drunk of a Caderousse made me lose the train of my thoughts.

CADEROUSSE

Drunk, if you like. So much the worse for those who fear wine. Those who fear wine never let bad thoughts escape their hearts.

FERNAND

You were saying, sir, that you would like to ease my pain, but you were adding.

DANGLARS

Yes, but I was adding, to ease your pain, it suffices that Dantes not marry the lady you love, and that the marriage can very well be stopped, it seems to me without Dantes death.

FERNAND

Impossible.

CADEROUSSE

You are thinking like a shell fish, my friend, and there's Danglars who is a cheat, a bad fellow, a Greek, who is going to teach you that you are wrong. Show him, Danglars, I have replied for you -- speak -- it is not a necessity for Dantes to die -- moreover, it would be a nuisance if Dantes died, he's a good kid. I love him, Dantes. To your health, Dantes.

DANGLARS

Let him say it, and besides, drunk though he is -- it isn't far from the truth. His absence would wreck everything just as effectively as his death and let's suppose there was between Edmond and Mercedes the walls of a prison, they would be as effectively separated as if it were the walls of a tomb.

CADEROUSSE

Yes, but people get out of prison and when one gets out of prison and your name is Edmond Dantes -- you will seek revenge.

FERNAND

Who cares?

CADEROUSSE

Besides, why put Dantes in prison? He hasn't stolen anything or killed anybody.

DANGLARS

Shut up!

CADEROUSSE

I don't wish to shut up! I want someone to tell why Dantes should be put in prison. Me, I love Dantes -- to your health, Dantes.

DANGLARS

Well, you understand now, there's no need to kill him?

FERNAND

No, surely, if as you said, just now, there's a way to have Dantes arrested -- but is there such a way?

DANGLARS

In looking around carefully, it could be found. But why the devil should I mix in this? Is it my concern?

FERNAND

I don't know if it is your concern, but I know that you have some motive of special hate against Dantes. He who hates himself is not deceived by the motives of others.

DANGLARS

Me -- motives of hate against Dantes? none on my word. I see you were unhappy and your unhappiness interested me, that's all. But from the moment that you believe that I am acting on my own account -- goodbye, dear friend. Extricate yourself from this business as best you can.

FERNAND

(holding him)

No! Stay! It matters very little in the end what you've got or haven't got against Dantes. I've got it in for him. I admit it, I hate him. Find the way and I will do it -- so long as it doesn't involve killing him because Mercedes has said she'll kill herself if Dantes were killed.

CADEROUSSE

To kill Dantes, who's talking of killing Dantes? I certainly don't want to kill him. He's my friend! He offered this morning to split his money with me, as I split it with him. I don't want anyone to kill Dantes.

DANGLARS

Eh! Who spoke to you of killing him, you fool? Its' simply a question of a little joke. Drink to his health and leave us in peace.

CADEROUSSE

(drinking)

Yes, yes, to Dantes health, to his health, to his health, there!

FERNAND

But the means -- the way?

DANGLARS

You sill haven't found it, yourself?

FERNAND

No -- you were working on it.

DANGLARS

Waiter a pen and paper.

FERNAND

(shouting)

A pen, ink and paper.

BOY (waiter)

It's right on the table. Mr. Morrel has just made the dinner menu.

DANGLARS

Fine -- come!

CADEROUSSE

(pointing to the paper)

When one considers that there is a surer way to kill a man than hiding in the woods to assassinate him. I've always been more afraid of a pen than a pistol or dagger.

DANGLARS

The clown isn't as drunk as he seems -- give him a drink Fernand.

CADEROUSSE

(shivering)

Ah, if love turns sour, I will stay at home.

FERNAND

Well?

DANGLARS

Well, I said there. That if, after a voyage which Dantes just completed where he stopped at Naples, then at Elba, suppose someone denounced him as a Bonapartist agent?

FERNAND

I will denounce him myself.

DANGLARS

No, no -- if we decide to do such a thing, it would be better to do it merely with a pen as I am doing now -- to destroy him with ink, and to write with your left hand so the writing cannot be recognized -- a cleverly conceived little denunciation.

FERNAND

(reading)

To the King's attorney.

DANGLARS

To whom should a denunciation be addressed -- to the King's attorney.

CADEROUSSE

(rising and shivering)

I was working so hard and so long that I made my friends --

Live for love and wine

Live for love in the vineyard.

DANGLARS

The King's attorney is informed by a friend of the throne that the man named Edmond Dantes, second mate on the Pharaoh, just landed this morning from Smyrna, having stopped at Naples and Elba, was charged by Murat with a letter for the Usurper and by the Usurper with a letter for the Bonapatriot underground in Paris. One can find proof of his crime by arresting him on his person or with his father or in his cabin on board the Pharaoh.

FERNAND

Ah!

DANGLARS

You understand. Thus your vengeance will have common sense -- for in no way can it be traced back to you and the thing works by itself -- one has to do no more than to fold this letter and address it --

(writing)

To the King's attorney -- all said and done.

CADEROUSSE

Yes -- all said and done -- only it will be a great shame.

DANGLARS

Also, what I said and what I did is a joke and first of all, I would be very angry if something really happened to this good Dantes -- so, that's it.

(He signs the letter and throws it.)

CADEROUSSE

Good! Dantes is my friend and I don't want him done any harm.

DANGLARS

Eh! Who the devil thinks of doing him any harm? Not I nor Fernand!

CADEROUSSE

In that case, let them bring us some wine. I want to drink to the health of Edmond and the pretty Mercedes.

DANGLARS

You have already had too much to drink, you sot, and if you continue --

CADEROUSSE

Well?

DANGLARS

You won't be able to drink any more at the engagement dinner of this dear Edmond.

FERNAND

(aside)

Ah, I cannot suffer that. May God pardon me for what I am going to do.

(He takes the letter and leaves.)

CADEROUSSE

Well, where's he going?

DANGLARS

Where do you expect? To Catalans.

CADEROUSSE

To Catalans? He's going to Marseille! What the devil! I can see clearly he is headed for Marseille. Fernand! Fernand!

DANGLARS

Come on, sit down. You cannot stand on your legs.

CADEROUSSE

Me? I bet I can climb the clock at Aeroules and without balancing, either! It's about this letter.

DANGLARS

What letter?

CADEROUSSE

The letter -- the letter that was there. It was -- it's not there anymore. I want the letter.

(Danglars gives him a glass of wine -- he drinks)

Ah -- how well you know me.

DANGLARS

(aside)

Just in time. Here they are.

(Enter Gringole, Penelon, 4 sailors.)

GRINGOLE

This way, over here everybody. Come on. It's hard to make you happy.

PENELON

Shut up then, so you don't confuse us. What you tell us makes us waste our time.

GRINGOLE

Waste your time, I wasn't able to tell you that. Still, it's possible. You are correct. There's nothing to say. As for me, I'm very handsome and elegant. As for confusing you, boss, I hope you won't put me in the hold for that.

PENELON

Shut up, then.

WORKER

Let's see -- why did you bring us here?

GRINGOLE

(pointing to some ribbons)

Do you know what that is?

WORKER

It's a red and white ribbon.

GRINGOLE

I brought it. All my savings have been spent. It's the throwing of the garter. I am the youngest, it's my honor. Damn, it's expensive, but it's worth it.

PENELON

You are going to the betrothal feast. Shut up then!

GRINGOLE

To the betrothals -- I am invited and I am bringing you.

ROUGHNECK

To whose betrothal?

GRINGOLE

Here -- I was going around the port like a tramp when I saw our lieutenant, Mr. Edmond, pass by. He was flying all sails in celebration. "Gringole," he yelled to me, "Hey, Gringole! Stop!" I stopped. "I'm getting married" and he shone like the sun, and added "I want my betrothal to be a feast for the whole crew of the Pharaoh. Tell the master of my plan -- inform all my good friends and bring them to the Reserve." Two times, five movements. I am emptying my purse on the counter of the shopkeepers, the shirt off my back. So there!

ALL

Bravo, Gringole.

ROUGHNECK

To the betrothal of the Lieutenant.

GRINGOLE

It will be a little stuffy, Mr. Morrel will be there.

PENELON

Mr. Morrel?

GRINGOLE

Witness to the marriage. Nothing more.

PENELON

Shut up then.

GRINGOLE

If you are in doubt, Mr. Penelon, look to the larbord -- the hatch is open, and the sun is shining for the whole world.

SAILOR

Right, there they come now.

GRINGOLE

Eh, what a beautiful betrothal! And how lucky for you that I am come with bodies that I found up in the four corners of Marseille in less than an hour. Ah, there's Mr. Morrel. There's the lieutenant. There's his father, there's everybody! And isn't that the villainous head of the gentlemen?

(bumping into Danglars)

What! Mr. Danglars! What are you doing here?

DANGLARS

You see, my friend. I'm waiting on our friend, Edmond.

GRINGOLE

Ah! Ah! You are part of it, Mr. Danglars. So much the better! So much the better.

(aside)

This is amusing. I certainly wouldn't have invited him.

PENELON

Well -- you shut up!

SAILOR

They are reconciled. They want to break out the other day.

GRINGOLE

Meaning that Mr. Edmond wished to kick out Mr. Danglars but the accountant has cut his knot, and as he's a fine sailmaker, he's seen to reappear under the flat. But silence! Here are the betrothal couple.

ROUGHNECK

Oh! Oh! Is this pretty girl the fiancee?

GRINGOLE

Hold on -- do you mean, Mr. Penelon, that this she has very agreeable prow?

PENELON

Shut up, now!

(The wedding party comes in with guests.)

PENELON

Good evening, children! Mr. Morrel, you allow these five people to join us.

MORREL

Certainly, aren't they your companions?

PENELON

Speak, my friends.

GRINGOLE

(to workers)

You see -- you hear?

EDMOND

Well paper -- the table.

PAMPHILE

It seems to me there's nothing to say. In five minutes everything will be ready.

EDMOND

In five minutes, understand. Not in ten. We are in a hurry.

CADEROUSSE

I hear the voice of Edmond. Where is he, Edmond, hello, Edmond.

EDMOND

Ah, ah, it's you Caderousse! Well, good, you are not late, my friend. And your wife -- did you bring her?

CADEROUSSE

My word, no!

EDMOND

Why not?

CADEROUSSE

Because I haven't left this place.

EDMOND

Couldn't you go find her?

CADEROUSSE

Down here, down here -- Oh, it's too far.

MERCEDES

Oh, how bad that is what you just said.

CADEROUSSE

You think it is, Madame Dantes.

MERCEDES

Oh, not yet married, Mr. Caderousse.

EDMOND

Let's see, Mercedes, it isn't worth the trouble to give the lie to this poor neighbor for so little.

DANGLARS

What do you mean for so little?

EDMOND

Without doubt. Mercedes is not yet my wife, it's true, but in an hour and a half, she will be --

DANGLARS

In an hour and a half -- ?

EDMOND

Oh, my yes, my friend -- thanks to Mr. Morrel's credit -- the man to whom, after God, I owe most in the world; all the difficulties have been smoothed away. We have rented the tables and in two and a half hours the Mayor will meet us at the city hall, so as an hour and a quarter has struck, I do not believe I am deceiving myself much in saying that in an hour and a half, Mercedes will call herself Madame Dantes!

DANTES

It's really a time for action, huh? Has he wanted his time in your opinion? Arriving afternoon, married today at three! Tell me of sailors going roundly to work.

DANGLARS

But the formalities -- the contract -- the paperwork?

EDMOND

The contract is completed. Mercedes has nothing, I have nothing. We will marry under the community property law. That's it. It doesn't take long to write and it won't take long to pay out.

CADEROUSSE

So what we thought was an engagement dinner is really and truly a wedding dinner?

EDMOND

Not yet, neighbor -- and you won't lose by it, rest easy. Tomorrow morning, I am leaving for Paris, four days to go -- four days to get back, one day to perform the commission I have been charged with and on the 4th of March, I will be back. On the fifth and better late than never, the church ceremony and the real wedding dinner.

PENELON

(in a low voice)

Tell me, my lieutenant -- from here to where?

EDMOND

From here to there?

PENELON

Won't there be a short stop?

EDMOND

Hush!

MERCEDES

What's he say?

EDMOND

Nothing, dear Mercedes -- he says that you are pretty and that I love you.

PAPA PAMPHILE

To table, gentlemen, to table.

GRINGOLE

Well, and me?

EDMOND

With the best will in the world, Gringole, there's no seat for you here.

GRINGOLE

Well, I demand precedence at the small table -- no one disputes it. So judged!

EDMOND

Let's sit down.

(he sits)

What's that?

MORREL

Read it, Edmond.

EDMOND

My commission as captain, signed by you and your partner. Oh, Mr. Morrel, oh my father.

MORREL

It's my wedding gift.

EDMOND

My friends, my good friends, thank Mr. Morrel for me. As for me, I have neither the voice nor the words.

ROUGHNECK

Long live our captain!

CADEROUSSE

Life to our captain.

MORREL

And wait, Dantes, here's the finest thanks they can give me, these fine fellows --

PAMPHILE

(to Edmond)

Excuse me, Mr. Edmond.

EDMOND

What?

PAMPHILE

There's a gentleman who wishes to speak to you.

EDMOND

To me?

PAMPHILE

(pointing to the stranger)

Yes.

EDMOND

Continue, my friends. I am yours, Mr. Morrel.

MORREL

Fine, fine -- I accept the Vice Presidency.

DANGLARS

Oh! Oh! It's the stranger who was looking for Edmond. What does he want of him?

EDMOND

You wish to speak to me, sir?

STRANGER

You are the 1st mate of the Pharaoh?

EDMOND

I was before. Now I am the captain.

STRANGER

Small matter! I am informed, sir, and I have learned that your ship put in at Malta, Naples and Elba?

EDMOND

That's true, sir.

STRANGER

I learned, moreover, that Captain LeClere, who was one of my friends, died between Civita Vecchia and Porto Ferraio?

EDMOND

That's true, also.

STRANGER

Now, sir, when succeeding to Captain LeClere's position weren't you given some commission.

EDMOND

For what country?

STRANGER

For the Island of Elba, for example?

EDMOND

Yes, sir.

STRANGER

And from the Island of Elba --

EDMOND

Well?

STRANGER

Weren't you given a second commission which followed from the first?

EDMOND

For what city?

STRANGER

For Paris.

EDMOND

It's true.

STRANGER

This commission -- wasn't it a letter?

EDMOND

Yes.

STRANGER

Weren't you to carry it yourself?

EDMOND

Yes.

STRANGER

And weren't you told only to deliver it to the proper hands?

EDMOND

Yes.

STRANGER

Cog-Heron Street Market.

EDMOND

Number five.

STRANGER

To Mr. --

EDMOND

Say the first, half of the name, and I will finish it --

STRANGER

To Mr. Noir--

EDMOND

--tier!

STRANGER

To Mr. Noirtier, that's right. Well, I am he.

EDMOND

You?

STRANGER

I will give you proof when you wish.

EDMOND

Sir, I don't have the letter here on my person.

STRANGER

Where is it?

EDMOND

In my cabin on the Pharaoh.

STRANGER

Sir, this letter is enormously important to me. And you easily understand, since you were coming to Paris and only to give it to me.

EDMOND

Well, sir, this evening at five o'clock -- prove to me that you are Mr. Noirtier and I will give it to you.

STRANGER

Where?

EDMOND

On board the Pharaoh -- if you will come join me there.

STRANGER

It's fine, sir. I will be there.

EDMOND

While waiting sir, we are having a party and if you wish to join us --

STRANGER

Thanks -- at five, this evening, abroad the Pharaoh!

EDMOND

A done deal.

STRANGER

(to Pamphile)

Serve lunch -- in a private room.

PAMPHILE

Escort the gentlemen to room #5.

(The stranger leaves.)

MORREL

(to Pamphile)

Well?

EDMOND

Well, Mr. Morrel, all happiness comes to me at the same time. It seems likely I won't have to go to Paris.

MORREL

Oh, this gentleman with whom you spoke?

EDMOND

In all probability, this gentleman with whom I spoke is going to spare me a journey to Paris.

MERCEDES

We won't be separated then -- ?

EDMOND

No, Mercedes, not an hour, not a minute, not a second.

LA CARCONTE

(entering)

Oh -- I was sure I'd find you at a cabaret.

CADEROUSSE

And in good company, as you see.

EDMOND

Dear Madam Caderousse, it's not my fault if you were not there -- with your husband, I told him to get you, but I don't dare tell you what he replied to me.

CADEROUSSE

I said it was too far away, that's all.

LA CARCONTE

Oh, I recognize him in that.

EDMOND

But since our good fortune led you here -- come -- come here.

LA CARCONTE

Near you?

EDMOND

Aren't you my neighbor.

LA CARCONTE

Excuse me, Mr. Edmond.

EDMOND

And from what?

LA CARCONTE

Damn, if I'd known this, I'd have dressed up.

EDMOND

Oh! You are charming in your Adesean costume. Come, come --

PENELON

Captain, without asking you, would you permit a song?

EDMOND

You? No! I know your songs and I'm not proud of them.

ROUGHNECK

And Gringole?

EDMOND

Go for Gringole.

ALL

Gringole, yes, Gringole.

GRINGOLE

(singing)

When the sailor leaves the beach, the bottomless sea swallows him.

(The song is interrupted by a commotion at the door.)

GRINGOLE

What's that.

MERCEDES

My God.

GRINGOLE

Police -- a commissar.

MERCEDES

Edmond, I'm frightened.

EDMOND

Of what?

MERCEDES

I don't know, but I'm frightened.

DANGLARS

(aside)

He delivered the letter!

(A police agent, a brigader and 4 gendarmes enter.)

AGENT

Watch the door, gentlemen.

MORREL

(coming forward)

What's it all about? Certainly sir, it's some mistake which brings you here?

AGENT

If it's a mistake, Mr. Morrel, rest assured that this mistake will be quickly set to right. Meanwhile, I bring an arrest warrant, and although it is with regret that I fulfill my duty, I must nonetheless do so! Which of you gentlemen is Edmond Dantes?

EDMOND

(taking a step forward)

It is I, sir.

AGENT

Edmond Dantes! In the name of the law, I arrest you.

EDMOND

You arrest me, sir? And why do you arrest me?

AGENT

I have no idea; but at your first interrogation, you will learn.

MERCEDES

Edmond!

DANTES

Sir, sir, in the name of heaven, you must know why you are arresting him, he's my son, sir, oh, a word, I beg you.

MORREL

Decidedly, sir, there must be an error -- this young man just arrived, this morning; I will answer for him.

AGENT

(to Dantes)

Rest easy, sir, perhaps your son has neglected some formality with customs or the public health and in all probability, when he has given the information desired, he will be released.

MERCEDES

Edmond!

CADEROUSSE

(to Danglars)

Oh -- what does this mean?

DANGLARS

How should I know? I'm like you -- I see what's happening and I remain confounded.

MERCEDES

Edmond --

(She throws herself in his arms.)

CADEROUSSE

Oh -- oh! Is this the result of the little joke you were speaking of before, Danglars? In that case, misfortune to those that did it, it is very sad!

LA CARCONTE

What joke?

DANGLARS

Not at all! You know very well I tore up that paper.

CADEROUSSE

You didn't tear it up, you threw it in a corner -- there, and it isn't there any more.

LA CARCONTE

What paper?

DANGLARS

Shut up -- you didn't see anything -- you were drunk!

CADEROUSSE

Yes, that's what I pretended -- where is Fernand?

DANGLARS

How do I know? At his business probably.

CADEROUSSE

(aside)

Fernand did it.

LA CARCONTE

Did what -- what do you mean?

GRINGOLE

(low to Edmond)

Mr. Edmond, there are six sturdy fellows here -- they ask if they should throw the police out?

EDMOND

No, not a word, not a gesture, my good Gringole. Respect for the law.

GRINGOLE

Oh, Captain -- it could be done so quickly.

EDMOND

Rest easy, my friends, rest easy, the error will be explained. It's probable that I won't even be taken to the prison.

DANGLARS

Oh -- indeed, I will answer for that.

MERCEDES

(to Agent)

Can I follow him, sir?

AGENT

No -- but without doubt you can obtain permission later.

EDMOND

Mercedes, Mercedes, I put you in my father's care. Look, look, they didn't say they were going to kill me.

MERCEDES

(going to Dantes)

My father -- my father.

EDMOND

Goodbye, Mercedes! Goodbye!

MERCEDES

Edmond, my Edmond -- oh, I am dying.

MORREL

Fear nothing, my child, am I not here?

STRANGER

(in the doorway)

Oh -- oh -- what does all this signify? Watch out for yourself.

(curtain)

Scene v

Villefort's office

VILLEFORT

Well, sir, have we news of what we've been looking for since yesterday?

POLICEMAN

Yes, sir, he's been seen on the bridge from the moment he got out of a boat to walk, then went to the streets of Meilhan -- near the Reserve.

VILLEFORT

And it's indeed the man whose description I gave you? Forty to forty-five years of age, black hair, buttoned coat, the rosette of an officer of the Legion of Honor?

POLICEMAN

It's the same, yes, sir.

VILLEFORT

Then arrest him and bring him here -- what do you want, Germain?

GERMAIN

The ladies are asking if you will take tea with them.

VILLEFORT

Tell, the ladies that I am stuck here for at least one more hour, and that it would be very nice of them to come find me in my bureau. If they accept, you will serve the tea here.

POLICEMAN

Now, in the absence of the King's attorney --

VILLEFORT

One must behave as if he were. Have your whole brigade after the man in the waistcoat. He appears to me to be a very dangerous man and whom we must catch! Go!

RENEE

(entering)

Oh! A frightful job, my friend. Always misfortunes!

VILLEFORT

Speak always of the guilty, Renee.

RENEE

My friend, more than anyone, you should not forget that the criminals of one political epoch are the martyrs of the last.

VILLEFORT

And you too, Renee, you also, as your relatives do, make a crime of my father's opinion?

RENEE

Ah -- how can you believe that?

VILLEFORT

And now, you see, if I am severe to others, I am not less so to myself. My father professes another opinion than myself. After having been a Girondin in 93, became a Senator in 1806. Well -- not only have I broken with my father, but I have almost disowned him. I've separated not only from his principles but even from his name. He's called Noirtier; I am called Villefort, and only my most intimate friends know the indisolvable but secret union that exists between these two names -- now all is broken between us, fortune, family, future. I know he knows my position, but I am completely ignorant of what he does -- and I don't wish to know it. Since the fall of the Usurper, I haven't seen him. I haven't written him, and I haven't received letters from him. Eh! My God! What more can I do?

RENEE

Look, my friend, leave this frightful office for a while and all these horrible papers which speak only of death, of prisons, of cells, and come breathe at my place, the air of the world.

If something happens, someone will inform you. My mother, Madam de Nargone, Mr. de Salview and my father are there.

VILLEFORT

Let's go; it will be nice since you wish it.

(a valet enters)

What is it, Germain?

GERMAIN

From the Secretary of the King's Attorney.

VILLEFORT

A letter and a package. Wait Renee. I'll be right with you. Is there nothing else?

GERMAIN

No, sir.

VILLEFORT

Leave us.

RENEE

You can read that later. Let's see.

VILLEFORT

Wait while I skim this letter at least. Oh -- oh!

RENEE

Something new again?

VILLEFORT

Almost nothing, dear friend. It appears someone's just discovered a Bonapartist plot.

RENEE

Oh, my God!

VILLEFORT

Truly, I have it in for them mortally all these bad French, dear Renee, if only for the terrors they cause you. The letter is short, but it is clear. "The King's Attorney is informed, by a friend of the throne, and of religion that the man called Edmond Dantes, first mate on the Pharaoh arrived this morning from Smyrna after having stopped at Naples and Porto Ferraio, has been charged by Murat with a letter for the Usurper and by the usurper with the Bonapartist underground in Paris. One can find proof of his crime by arresting him. The letter will be found on him or at his father's home or in his cabin on board the Pharaoh."

RENEE

But this letter is only an anonymous letter and besides, it is addressed to the King's Attorney and not to you.

VILLEFORT

Yes, sweetheart, but the King's Attorney is absent and in his absence, the letter goes to his secretary; he opened it, he gave orders for the arrest; and now that the man is arrested, undoubtedly he sends me the letter and the dossier.

GERMAIN

(announcing)

Mr. Morrel.

VILLEFORT

Who is Mr. Morrel?

GERMAIN

He's the owner you ought to know him; he is head of one of the first houses in Marseille.

VILLEFORT

Exactly, he's the owner of the Pharaoh, I believe. Is he alone?

GERMAIN

He is with a young woman dressed as a Catalan.

VILLEFORT

Will you go back to your mother, Renee?

RENEE

Would it be indiscreet if I were to remain? I don't know why but I am interested in this young man.

VILLEFORT

Stay there. I don't see any inconvenience. Bring them in, Germain.

You come very apropos, sir. Perhaps, I would be about to send for you.

MORREL

There, you know already what brings me. Imagine, sir, they have just committed the strangest mistake, the most unheard of. They have just arrested the first mate on one of my ships.

VILLEFORT

I know it, sir, and the affair is very serious.

MERCEDES

Ah, my God!

MORREL

Sir, you clearly don't know of what he's accused. Can you imagine the nicest, most honest man -- and I dare say one of the best officers in the merchant marine.

VILLEFORT

You know, sir, people can be sweet in their private life, honest in their social relations, yet nonetheless politically speaking, great criminals.

MORREL

I beg you, Mr. Villefort, be just as you must be, good as you always are, and release poor Edmond to his father and his fiancee.

MERCEDES

Ah, yes, to his father and his fiancee, sir.

VILLEFORT

And that's who you are?

MERCEDES

Yes, sir, it's me he loves and it is I who beg in my turn, as Mr. Morrel has just done.

VILLEFORT

You don't need to beg me, Miss, if the accused is innocent, you won't have to call uselessly for justice, but if he is guilty --

MERCEDES

He is not, sir, I swear it, I will answer for it.

VILLEFORT

According to the circumstances --

MERCEDES

Circumstances are not proof and you know it. But though appearances are against him, well, sir, you will think won't you? That this young man, who in his life has always been honorable and honored, who always fulfills any vow he makes, who today reached the goal of his desires you will think of his existence which was going to be happy and that an unexpected accusation strikes him in the midst of his happiness.

RENEE

Poor woman!

VILLEFORT

You understand, miss, that a judge cannot be stopped by such considerations.

MERCEDES

Sir, a judge is a man, especially when this judge bears a resemblance to the one he is interrogating, a person who in eight hours was about to fulfill his vows to marry the woman he loves. Oh, think, sir, this couldn't happen to you, I know, but suppose, anyway, that it did -- what would be the despair of your fiancee if from this table where you are seated near her, you were torn and taken to prison? Do you think that she could make this distinction of guilt or innocence? No, no, she would beg you from those who come to judge you as I beg you who are going to judge Edmond. She would say to you, "Sir, the man you've arrested is the one I love, to separate him from me is to separate from me a being united to me. His life is my life! Sir, a word from you will make us eternally happy, or miserable." That's what she would have said. Isn't it true, Madam? Oh, sir, in the name of she who loves you, whose heart I am sure of it, responds like my heart, whose hands join before you as mine join at your feet, sir, you will be a judge tomorrow, but today, be a man!

RENEE

My friend.

MERCEDES

(kneeling)

Oh, at your knees, at your knees, sir!

VILLEFORT

Well, reassure yourself, Miss, you have known how to find a powerful ally; yes, today, I am a man and you have invoked a name which holds the deepest part of a man's heart -- and if there is a way to make you happy --

MERCEDES

Well?

VILLEFORT

Well -- count on me.

MERCEDES

Ah, sir.

MORREL

I told you so.

AN USHER

The prisoner is here.

VILLEFORT

As to the rest, you will know in a quarter of an hour what you face.

RENEE

Come, Miss! You will wait with me. And you, Mr. Morrel, run to reassure the poor father.

(to Villefort)

You promise.

VILLEFORT

Rest easy, dear Renee.

(Renee, Mercedes and Morrel leave.)

VILLEFORT

(to usher)

Bring him in.

(Edmond was brought in.)

VILLEFORT

(to usher)

Leave us alone!

(to Edmond)

What is your name?

EDMOND

Edmond Dantes.

VILLEFORT

Your occupation?

EDMOND

I am the first mate on the Pharaoh which belongs to Mr. Morrel.

VILLEFORT

What were you doing when you were arrested?

EDMOND

I was having my engagement.

VILLEFORT

Continue, sir.

EDMOND

I am to continue?

VILLEFORT

Yes.

EDMOND

To do what, sir?

VILLEFORT

To enlighten justice.

EDMOND

Let justice inform me on what point it desires clarification and I will say whatever I know. Only, I warn you, I do not know much.

VILLEFORT

Did you serve under the Usurper?

EDMOND

No, sir -- I was only going to join the coast guard when he fell.

VILLEFORT

They say you have exaggerated political opinions.

EDMOND

My political opinions, sir? It's almost shameful to admit, but I have never had what is called an opinion. I am destined to play no role. The little that I am, I owe to Mr. Morrel. All my opinions, I would not designate as political, but private born, from three feelings -- I love my father, I respect Mr. Morrel and I adore Mercedes. That, sir, is all I can say to justice; you see it is of little interest.

VILLEFORT

Sir, do you have some enemies?

EDMOND

Me? Enemies? I have the good fortune to be very unimportant, as my position shows -- as for my character, a little excitable perhaps, I have always been kind to my subordinates. I have ten or twelve sailors under my orders. Let them be questioned, sir, and they will tell you that they love and respect me not like a father, I'm too young for that, but like an older brother.

VILLEFORT

But, lacking enemies, perhaps you have some who are jealous of you. You've been given a captaincy at your age, which is an exalted post in your condition. You are going to marry a pretty woman, whom you love, which is a joy rare in all places on earth. These two things are destined to make others envious of you.

EDMOND

Yes, you are right. You must know men better than I know them and it's quite possible. But if the envious are among my friends, I admit to you that I prefer not to know them so as not to be forced to hate them.

VILLEFORT

You are wrong, sir, one must always to the extent possible, see clearly about oneself -- and in truth, you appear to me such a worthy, such a brave sailor, that I am going to deviate from the ordinary ways of justice and help you to shed some light by showing you the denunciation that brought you before me. Do you recognize the paper or the handwriting?

EDMOND

No, sir, I don't recognize this handwriting. It is disguised, and it is of a common kind. In any case, it's the hand of a facile person that has done it. I am indeed happy to be dealing with such a good man as yourself, sir, for this person is a true enemy.

VILLEFORT

And now, let's see, answer frankly not as a suspect before his judge, but as a man in a false position answers to another man who is interested in him. What is true in this anonymous accusation?

EDMOND

As we left Naples, Captain LeClere fell ill with a cerebral fever. As we had no doctor on board, and as he wouldn't stop anywhere, pressed as he was to reach Elba, his illness worsened, to such an extent that towards the end of the third day, feeling he was going to die, he called me to him. "My dear Dantes," he said to me, "swear to me on your honor to do what I am going to tell you; it is an important matter."

I replied, "I swear to you, Captain." "Well, as after my death, the command of this ship belongs to you as first mate, you will fulfill this order, you'll put in at Elba, debark at Porto Ferraio. You will ask for the Grand Marshall, you will give him this letter. Perhaps he will give you another letter and confer some mission on you.

This mission, which was kept from me, Dantes, you will accomplish in my place and all the honor will be yours." "I will do it, Captain, but perhaps I will not be received as easily as you think by the Grand Marshall." "Here," said the Captain, "is a purse which you will take to him and which will alleviate all difficulties." On those words, he gave me a purse. It was just in time; two hours later, the delirium took him. The next day, he was dead.

VILLEFORT

And what did you do?

EDMOND

What I was obligated to do, sir, what anyone would have done in my place. In any case, the last wishes of a dying man are sacred; among sailors, the last wishes of a superior are orders which must be accomplished -- I then sailed for the isle of Elba where I arrived the next day. I ordered everyone to stay on board and alone, landed. As I had foreseen, they made many difficulties about introducing me to the Grand Marshall, but I sent him the purse and all doors opened before me. He received me, questioned me as to the last circumstances of the death of the unfortunate LeClere. As forewarned, the Grand Marshall gave me a letter that he ordered me to take to a person in Paris. I promised it, for it was to fulfill the last wishes of my Captain. On the return to Marseille, I rapidly put all the affairs on board in order, then I ran to see my fiancee whom I found more lovely and more loving than ever.

Then seated, as I told you, at my engagement party, I was going to marry her, an hour later, when this denunciation that you appear to scorn now more than I do, caused my arrest. That's the truth, sir, on my honor as a sailor, on my love for Mercedes, on the life of my father.

VILLEFORT

Yes, yes, all this appears to me to be the truth; if you are guilty it is of poor judgment, still this is excused by the orders of your Captain. Give me this letter that you were given at Elba. Give me your word to appear at the first inquiry and you are free to go to your friends.

EDMOND

Then, sir, I am free?

VILLEFORT

Yes -- only give me this letter.

EDMOND

You must have it, sir, for they took it from me with my other papers that were in my cabin.

GERMAIN

(entering)

Sir.

VILLEFORT

I said I was not to be disturbed.

GERMAIN

It's a stranger who desires to speak to you about the affairs of the highest importance.

VILLEFORT

I am not here to anyone.

GERMAIN

He pretends that you will receive him after you have seen his name.

VILLEFORT

Where is his card?

GERMAIN

Here it is!

VILLEFORT

(aside)

Noirtier! My father! Yes, without doubt, yes -- bring him in.

(to Edmond)

Go in there. We will be finished shortly. Go! Go!

(Edmond goes out. After a moment, Germain brings in Noirtier.)

VILLEFORT

(aside)

My Father! What brings him here? What has he come to warn me about? What does this mystery signify? My God, my God, will I always be hounded by this implacable passé old man?

NOIRTIER

Eh! By God, my son, these are nice manners. Is it the custom in Marseille to keep their fathers waiting in the antechamber?

GERMAIN

Goodness, it's your father!

VILLEFORT

Leave us, Germain.

(Germain exits.)

NOIRTIER

Your valet is curious or so it seems. It's a villainous fault of which you must cure him. Oh well, but you know this is a singular city, your Marseille and very inhospitable.

VILLEFORT

How so?

NOIRTIER

I got here yesterday and I've been surrounded by spies who track me, who spy on me, who pursue me, as if I were a traitor. Let's see, what have I in my face which reveals the conspirator?

VILLEFORT

In your face? Yes in fact, your button down coat, the black color, the rosette of the Legion of Honor -- these whiskers. That's the description.

NOIRTIER

What description?

VILLEFORT

The description I have given myself.

NOIRTIER

You have given my description?

VILLEFORT

The description I gave of a man who is conspiring for the return of the Usurper.

NOIRTIER

What! You already know about the conspiracy here?

VILLEFORT

Then you are conspiring?

NOIRTIER

What the devil do you expect me to do?

VILLEFORT

Truly, sir, your sangfroid makes me tremble!

NOIRTIER

What do you expect? When one has been proscribed by the Mountain and left Paris hidden in a hay cart, and hunted in the land of Bordeaux by Robespierre's blood hounds, that accustoms you well to such things. Well, go on, I am conspiring supposedly.

VILLEFORT

At least, you've been accused.

NOIRTIER

With whom?

VILLEFORT

With the exiles on the Isle of Elba.

NOIRTIER

Oh! What a pretty fable! Who told you this?

VILLEFORT

The police!

NOIRTIER

Truly, my dear, your police are very well informed. I give them my compliments. I didn't think they were that good.

VILLEFORT

Yes, but meanwhile, your description is in the hands of all the agents. You are pursued, tracked.

NOIRTIER

I am well aware of it, since I only escaped them by coming to see you.

VILLEFORT

But you can't stay with me!

NOIRTIER

I know that perfectly well.

VILLEFORT

You will have to leave one day or another.

NOIRTIER

I am planning to leave this evening.

VILLEFORT

But how's that?

NOIRTIER

Truly, my dear, one would think.

(He rings, Germain enters.)

VILLEFORT

What do you intend?

NOIRTIER

You are going to see. What's this valet's name?

VILLEFORT

Germain.

NOIRTIER

Germain, escort me to your Master's chambers.

VILLEFORT

Germain, escort the gentleman.

NOIRTIER

Goodbye, Gerard.

(Germain and Noirtier go out.)

VILLEFORT

(aside)

Let's finish first with this Dantes.

(aloud)

Is the suspect still here?

EDMOND

(off)

Yes, sir.

VILLEFORT

Come in!

EDMOND

(entering

Here I am.

VILLEFORT

We were concerned about this letter, right?

EDMOND

Which was given to me by the Grand Marshall. Yes, sir and you were kind enough to tell me that if I was guilty, it was from bad judgment, and that in any case, this imprudence was legitimated by the orders of my superior.

VILLEFORT

Yes, and I don't withdraw that remark.

EDMOND

Then, I am free.

VILLEFORT

Yes, only the letter --

EDMOND

I told you, sir, you must have it. Ah! Sir, so you can recognize it.

VILLEFORT

Wait -- to whom is the letter addressed?

EDMOND

To Mr. Noirtier, Rue Cog-Heron #5 Paris.

VILLEFORT

To Mr. Noirtier?

EDMOND

Yes, sir -- do you know him?

VILLEFORT

A faithful servant of the King does not know conspirators.

EDMOND

But is it a question of a conspiracy? In any case, sir, I do not conspire. I am entirely ignorant of the contents of the dispatch which I was carrying.

VILLEFORT

Yes -- but you know the name to whom it was destined?

EDMOND

It was on the address.

VILLEFORT

And you have not shown this letter to anyone?

EDMOND

On my honor, sir, to no one.

VILLEFORT

Everyone was unaware that you were carrying a letter from Elba addressed to Mr. Noirtier.

EDMOND

Everyone, except the one who gave it to me, and to whom I was to take it.

VILLEFORT

You have seen Mr. Noirtier?

EDMOND

Yes.

VILLEFORT

And when were you to bring him this letter?

EDMOND

This evening! Yes, my God! What's wrong, sir. You are going to be ill. Do you want me to call, to ring.

VILLEFORT

No, sir, don't budge, don't say a word. I give orders here, not you!

EDMOND

Sir.

VILLEFORT

Listen, the most overwhelming charges result against you from this interrogation. I am not yet able to set you at liberty as I wish to do, while waiting, you saw in what way I behaved toward you?

EDMOND

Yes, sir, and up until the moment you read this unfortunate letter you've behaved more to me as a friend than as a judge.

VILLEFORT

Well, sir, I am going to keep you a little longer as a prisoner, the shortest time I must. The principle charge against you is this letter and you see -- you see -- I am destroying it.

(He burns the letter.)

EDMOND

Oh, sir, you are more than just, you are good.

VILLEFORT

There, after such an action, you understand you must have confidence in me.

EDMOND

Oh, sir, tell me what I must do and I will obey.

VILLEFORT

It is possible that someone other than myself will come to question you. Tell them what you have told me, but not a word about this letter.

EDMOND

I promise you.

VILLEFORT

You understand, sir, we alone now know that this letter even existed. They cannot show it to you. Deny it then, deny it boldly and you will be saved.

EDMOND

I will deny it, sir.

VILLEFORT

It was the only letter that you had?

EDMOND

The only one.

VILLEFORT

Swear it!

EDMOND

I swear it.

(Villefort rings. The Commissioner enters.)

VILLEFORT

(to Edmond)

Follow him.

EDMOND

(expansively)

Thanks, thanks, sir!

(He leaves with the Commissioner.)

VILLEFORT

Oh, my God! What keeps life and fortune together? If the King's Attorney had been in Marseille, if a judge had been called instead of me, I would have been lost and this paper, this cursed paper hurls me into the abyss. Oh! Father! My Father, will you always be an obstacle to my rise in the world, and must my future struggle eternally with your past?

NOIRTIER

(who has changed clothes and shaved his curls)

You were saying?

VILLEFORT

Sir!

NOIRTIER

Ah! Bravo! You don't recognize me yourself.

VILLEFORT

It's you?

NOIRTIER

Doubtless. Didn't you inform me they had my description.

VILLEFORT

Yes.

NOIRTIER

Well, I've changed my appearance.

GERMAIN

(entering)

Sir, the police are here.

VILLEFORT

Which ones?

GERMAIN

Those who gave you the description of the stranger newly arrived in Marseille.

VILLEFORT

Let them wait! Tell them to go.

NOIRTIER

No, on the contrary, let them enter. I much prefer them to be here rather than outside.

VILLEFORT

Right. Let them come in.

(Germain goes out.)

NOIRTIER

Eh. Doubtless, let them come in. My dear, I have always said there is nothing useful in descriptions. Hair and curls, black, buttoned, dresscoat, rosette of the legion of honor -- broad hat -- a cup of tea with me, Gerard.

VILLEFORT

They are here.

NOIRTIER

By God. I recognize them well.

VILLEFORT

Well, gentleman.

MAN

Eh, well, sir, we missed him but not by much. At the corner of the Quai, he was not taken. He must be in some private house about here. We have come to request an order to search every house in the street.

NOIRTIER

My dear Villefort, I don't wish to interfere with your business. Give this order -- give it.

VILLEFORT

But.

NOIRTIER

Give it, my dear. Search, apprehend, it's your duty. Goodbye, my friend.

(to police)

You'll excuse me, gentleman? Goodbye, Villefort.

(He goes out in the midst of the police.)

POLICEMAN

Sir, won't you give us a warrant?

VILLEFORT

Useless. The man we were looking for was taken prisoner in Aix but we have another, here, much more dangerous.

POLICEMAN

Which one?

NOIRTIER

The one who was arrested today at the Reserve. Let him be escorted immediately to the Chateau'd'if. A prison of the most profound secrecy. Here is the order from the governor. Go!

(The agent leaves.)

GERMAIN

Madame is here with this young girl.

VILLEFORT

Tell them that I cannot receive them. And then come meet me at the door. I am leaving immediately for Paris. Go.

(Germain leaves.)

VILLEFORT

(alone)

Napoleon, debarking in three days. Let's see; what must have caused my ruin, will perhaps become my fortune. To work, Villefort, to work!

(curtain)

Act III

Scene vi

Edmond's cell in the Chateau d'if.

(Edmond is sleeping on the flagstone.)

JAILOR

Speak up, friend! You don't answer. As you please. Here's your bread and water, you understand bullheaded! He ought to get used to me for I've been working here for four years almost. Hum! I'm of the opinion he won't last much longer. No -- he won't make old bones. While waiting here's bread -- here's water. Here's your bread, do you hear? No, Goodnight, then!

(Jailor goes out.)

EDMOND

(alone, rising)

Oh -- once -- before in my distant past when I was still a man, when free and powerful, I gave commands to other men who executed them, I saw the sky darken; the sea shiver and growl, the storm rising in a corner of the sky and like a gigantic eagle, battering the horizons with its two wings, then I felt that my vessel was only a weak refuge. For my ship, light as a feather in the hands of a giant, trembled and shook itself. Soon, to the frightful noise of waves, the sight of jagged rocks told me of death, and death moved me, and I gathered all my human strength and the intelligence of a mariner to struggle against God! For I was happy then. To return to life was to return to joy, for this death, I hadn't called it to me, I didn't see it, for sleep still seemed hard on this bed of rocks and stones, for I was unworthy, I who thought myself a creature made in the image of God, to serve after my death, food for sea gulls and vultures. But things are different today -- today I have lost everything that could make me love life. Why, today death smiles at me like a nurse smiles at a baby she is caring for! Why, today I am dying my own way. Today I sleep fitfully, as I slept after one of those nights of despair and rage during which I had counted 3 thousand turns in my cell. Meaning three thousand steps or more than 10 leagues. But today, today I want to die and I will die. My life is the image of this bread and water. I destroy it, bit by bit, I spill it drop by drop.

(he breaks his bread against the bars of a loophole)

Tomorrow, tomorrow, I hope, oh, my God, all will be over. And you, my judge, you my external and merciful judge -- you will perhaps tell me that perhaps the crime I committed --

(The Governor, De Baville, the Jailor enter.)

GOVERNOR

(warden)

Come this way, inspector, come this way.

DeBAVILLE

Which prisoner is this we're visiting?

GOVERNOR

Number 17.

DeBAVILLE

I don't know really why we make these useless inspections -- see one prisoner see a hundred, listen to one prisoner, listen to a hundred. It's always the same thing -- innocent and badly wounded. What about this fellow?

GOVERNOR

Oh, this one is a very dangerous conspirator and he comes to us particularly recommended as a man capable of anything.

DeBAVILLE

Has he been alone here for a long while?

GOVERNOR

He was brought to us several days before the Usurper landed on the 28th of February 1815 at 11 p.m.

DeBAVILLE

And he's been in this cell since his entry into the Chateau D'if.

GOVERNOR

No, sir, he was first placed in a better cell, but in an access of rage, he tried to kill his jailor, and he was put down here.

DeBAVILLE

(to jailor)

Was it you he threatened?

JAILOR

Yes, sir.

DeBAVILLE

Do you wish to complain about him?

JAILOR

Useless, sir. He's punished enough in this way. Besides he's going crazy and in a year he will be completely mad.

DeBAVILLE

My word, so much the better for him! He will suffer less.

(to Dantes)

My friend.

EDMOND

Who is it that calls me his friend?

DeBAVILLE

I do.

EDMOND

You are a man and you call me your friend?

DeBAVILLE

Ah! Ah! It's a misanthrope or so it seems. Have you something to complain of?

EDMOND

I complain of being put in prison without knowing why.

DeBAVILLE

In short, what do you want?

EDMOND

I want to know what crime I have committed. I demand to be judged. I demand that they shoot me, if I am guilty, but if I am innocent that I be set free.

GOVERNOR

You are very humble today. You were not always like this. You spoke much differently, my dear friend, the day you wanted to murder your guardian.

EDMOND

It's true, sir. And I very humbly ask this man's pardon, who after all only does his duty. But what can you expect? When I was crazy, I was furious!

DeBAVILLE

And you are not anymore?

EDMOND

No, sir. This captivity has broken me, annihilated me. It is so long since I came here.

DeBAVILLE

It's the 30th of October 1818. You've only been a prisoner for 3 years and nine months.

EDMOND

Oh, sir, 3 years and nine months you find that is not long! Nearly 4 years in prison to a man who, like me, was in luck and going to marry the woman he loved. Who saw an honorable career opening before him -- and in an instant all snatched away. And who from the most beautiful day fell into the most profound night -- who saw his career destroyed, and who doesn't know if the woman who loved him, still loves him -- who doesn't know if his old father is dead or living! Four years or prison to a man habituated to the air of the sea, to the independence of a sailor, to space, to immensity, to infinity -- four years of prison. It is not merited by all the most odious crimes known to man. Have pity on me, sir, and ask for me, not mercy but severity, not for grace but for judgment. Some judges, sir. I ask only for judges -- no one can refuse judges to an accused.

DeBAVILLE

That's well enough. We shall see

EDMOND

We shall see. You've said "we shall see." Oh, sir, it is the first time in 4 years that I find the occasion to speak to a man besides my jailor. Listen to me before leaving me, for perhaps it will be another four years before someone comes to my prison. Yes, they told you the truth; I began with pride which is something that follows from hope and consciousness of innocence. Then I began to doubt my innocence; I sought to find some crime that I could have committed. Then I thought I had become insane. Then I fell from the height of my pride, then I prayed -- not yet to God, but to men. God is the last resource, and the wretch who ought to begin with him never gets to him until after having exhausted all other hopes. I prayed that they would drag me from one cell to put me in another cell even it was darker and bleaker still than the one I was in. A change, even one disadvantageous to me was still a change and promised me distraction for a few days. I asked for a walk, for aid, for books, for tools, but all were refused me, or rather, no response was made to my requests. But no matter, I spoke, and to speak to a mute and inflexible jailor is still a pleasure. I spoke to hear the sound of my own voice. I had tried to speak when I was alone but then I frightened myself. Often, when I was free, I had made an example of the cells of prisoners composed of vagabonds, bandits, and murderers. Well, I came to wish to be thrown into one of these holes, just to see some other face than that of this impassive jailor who never wanted to reply to me. I regretted the prisoner with his infamous dress, his chain on his foot, his brand on his shoulder. At least the galley slaves are in the society of their kind; they breathe the air, they see the sky. The galley slaves are indeed happy.

DeBAVILLE

It's very strange. He began with despair, he turned pious, and then he was touched with madness. Oh! I am aware of this sort of things, since I observe prisoners.

EDMOND

A day, a day came, when I asked them to give me a companion, even this abbey of whom I had heard speak. I would have cared for him, I would have tried to cure him. My life would not pass away useless and unseen. Then having exhausted the circle of human resources, despair succeeded piety, death was repose -- I decided to die.

DeBAVILLE

And when was that?

EDMOND

Four days ago, sir.

DeBAVILLE

And by what type of death did you wish to die?

EDMOND

Oh, I can say, sir, if I intend to carry out my plan, no human power can stop me from executing my project. I intend to die of hunger.

DeBAVILLE

And how long has it been since you've eaten?

EDMOND

Four days.

JAILOR

The prisoner is lying -- every day I find his plate empty and his bread gone.

EDMOND

I empty the plate in a corner of my cell. I break the bread into little pieces and I crumble it on sand.

DeBAVILLE

And in spite of my visit, you will preserve in your plan?

EDMOND

If, tomorrow, at this time, I am not in another cell, tomorrow I hope I will be dead.

DeBAVILLE

Very well --

(low to governor)

You will give him white bread and a bottle of wine, in place of his black bread and pitcher of water.

EDMOND

Sir, in the name of heaven! Tell me one word, one -- tell me to hope.

DeBAVILLE

I will review your file, that's all I can tell you. You will show me the registration book, right, Warden?

GOVERNOR

Certainly, but you will find against the prisoner terrible comments.

DeBAVILLE

You hear?

EDMOND

Yes, but on my honor, I do not understand.

DeBAVILLE

Who had you arrested?

EDMOND

Mr. de Villefort.

DeBAVILLE

Do you suspect him of harboring a motive of hate against you?

EDMOND

On the contrary, sir, he was excellent to me. See him, discuss it with him.

DeBAVILLE

Mr. de Villefort is no longer in Marseille. He went from Marseille to Nimes and from Nimes to Versailles.

EDMOND

Oh -- I am not surprised any more that I have been forgotten -- my protector is no longer here.

GOVERNOR

Would you like to see the prison register right away?

DeBAVILLE

No, let's finish with the cells. You haven't spoken to me of the abbey?

GOVERNOR

He's not a misanthrope like this prisoner and his madness is less grievous than the sanity of his neighbor.

DeBAVILLE

And what is his folly?

GOVERNOR

Oh -- a strange madness. He believes himself possessed of an immense treasure. The first year of his captivity he offered the government a million if the government would set him at liberty; the second year two millions, the third three, and so on progressively -- he is in his seventh year of captivity and he is going to offer us seven millions.

DeBAVILLE

Oh -- that's funny. What's his name?

GOVERNOR

Faria.

DeBAVILLE

Very good. Escort me to his cell.

EDMOND

Sir, in the name of heaven!

DeBAVILLE

Oh, he's right.

GOVERNOR

What are your orders regarding this prisoner?

DeBAVILLE

If tomorrow he continues to refuse nourishment, put him in a straightjacket and force feed him.

EDMOND

Sir --

DeBAVILLE

I promise nothing. They will show me your record.

(The Warden and DeBaville exit.)

EDMOND

Oh, my God! My God!

JAILOR

Hush -- they are going to bring you white bread and some wine.

EDMOND

Why?

JAILOR

Because they want you to live.

(The jailor goes out.)

EDMOND

Because they want me to live! Don't they understand Christian principles? My God -- is it permitted to falsify words so in a human tongue. They want me to live! Can they intend a brotherhood in this word that my worst enemy wouldn't pronounce? You want me to live, tigers that you are! But tell me then, your thought: You intend that I suffer. No, die! Die! My God, let me die!

(listening)

What is that? This low noise, mysterious, untouchable -- I thought I heard it yesterday. It seems to me that I again hear it. Yes, yes, where's it coming from? From this side -- from there! It's coming from there. Oh -- without a doubt it's some workers repairing a cell. No, no, they would strike harder. They would not take so many precautions. One would think it is the pressure of a chisel on the stones.

EDMOND

There it is -- there -- behind my bed. Oh, my God. Someone's coming. What is anyone coming to do in my cell? Oh, it's the jailor bringing me my white bread and wine. My God, he's going to hear the noise. Let's prevent him! Here he is.

(Jailor enters.)

JAILOR

Well, are we still angry? Are we still determined to die?

EDMOND

No, no, no, my God, Antoine -- give me!

JAILOR

You are not disgusted? The King doesn't eat better bread.

EDMOND

Yes, yes.

JAILOR

And some wine.

EDMOND

Good, excellent, right?

JAILOR

I truly think so. If this continues, better to be prisoner than jailor -- word of honor -- nobody knows prisons these days.

EDMOND

(aside)

It has stopped.

JAILOR

Come on, do not eat to quickly and especially don't eat too much.

EDMOND

Be tranquill, my good Antoine.

JAILOR

Can I go back and say that I have seen you eat?

EDMOND

Without doubt, return and thank the inspector. Thank the warden, thank --

JAILOR

(aside)

Decidedly, he's gone crazy, poor devil.

(aloud)

Come on, come on, eat your pittance. You have had enough until tomorrow.

(The jailor goes out.)

EDMOND

Yes, yes, until tomorrow. It was indeed a prisoner. He understood my warning and he ceased. Workers would have continued. Oh, I breathe, but if he's going to dig in another way. There it is -- there. It can't be heard any more. Was it really a mistake? Oh, my God, my God! After having taken my liberty, after taking from me the calm of death -- my God who has recalled me to existence, my God, have pity on me and don't let me die of despair.

VOICE

Who speaks of God and despair at the same time?

EDMOND

Oh, I heard the voice of a man! In the name of heaven, you who spoke to me -- speak again!

VOICE

Who are you?

EDMOND

A wretched prisoner.

VOICE

Your country?

EDMOND

France.

VOICE

Your name?

EDMOND

Edmond Dantes.

VOICE

I know you. This stone remaining for me to break into your cell.

EDMOND

Yes!

VOICE

Which side of your cell?

EDMOND

Behind my bed!

VOICE

Have you moved your bed since you've been in prison?

EDMOND

Never.

VOICE

Then I can act.

EDMOND

Without delay, instantly, I beg you. Oh, come, come! A man, a companion -- a brother; thanks Lord, thanks.

FARIA

(entering)

Wait! First see if my entry has left no trace.

EDMOND

You see!

FARIA

All our tranquility to come -- depend on it -- do you understand? No -- fine -- you heard me working?

EDMOND

Yes.

FARIA

For how long?

EDMOND

Since yesterday.

FARIA

Was it you who rapped?

EDMOND

It was me.

FARIA

To warn me of danger?

EDMOND

Yes.

FARIA

That's what I thought so I stopped working.

EDMOND

Oh! How full of fear I was that you would never finish your work.

FARIA

Let's see -- your cell is yours.

EDMOND

To do what?

FARIA

To know if we still have some hope. What does this wall give on?

EDMOND

On the corridor.

FARIA

Impossible to flee by this way. There are three doors before getting to the gate. This corner is of granite, it would take 10 years of work and 10 miners, including their tools to pierce it. And this loophole?

EDMOND

It gives on the gallery where the guards patrol.

FARIA

You are sure of it?

EDMOND

At night, I hear the noise of their steps, and sometimes little stones which roll under their feet and fall almost on my bed.

FARIA

You see then it is quite impossible to escape from your cell.

EDMOND

Well?

FARIA

Well, let God's will be done.

EDMOND

But why are you so discouraged? It would be too much to ask of God, to expect to succeed on the first try! Can't you begin again, in another place, what you have done in here? I will be here, this time, I am young, I am strong and full of hope since seeing you. I will help you.

FARIA

But do you know what I've done to tell me to start over again, young man? Do you know that it took me four years to make the tools I possess? Do you know that for two years, I scraped and excavated a stone as hard as granite? Do you know that finally, I thought I had got to the end of all my work, and that God not only postponed this end, but moved it I don't know where. Ah, I tell you, I repeat to you, I won't do any more from now on to try to regain my liberty, since it is God's will that I lose it forever!

EDMOND

Well, I found what you were looking for.

FARIA

You?

EDMOND

Yes -- we were loosening these bars which give on the exterior gallery, we will kill the guard and we will escape. For this plan to succeed we must have some courage -- you have some strength -- I am not lacking in it. I won't say any more of patience, you have given proof of yours. I will prove mine.

FARIA

One moment! You don't understand what kind of courage mine is, and to what uses I put my strength. Up to this point, it's only been a matter of things and what you are proposing to me, will make it an affair of men. I can break through this wall and destroy a staircase, but I cannot pierce a human breast or destroy a human being.

EDMOND

What! If you were able to get free, you would be restrained by such a scruple?

FARIA

But you are young and strong. Why don't you, one night, murder your jailor, dress in his clothes and try to flee?

EDMOND

The idea didn't occur to me.

FARIA

Isn't it that instinctively you have such a horror of this type of crime that you are unable to think of it? Man is revolted by blood. It isn't only social laws that prohibit murder; it is natural law.

EDMOND

What manner of man are you then, who can tell me what happens in my soul?

FARIA

Besides, from the seven years I've been in prison, I have considered all celebrated escapes, and very rarely did violent escapes succeed. Let us wait for an opportunity, and if this opportunity presents itself -- let's profit by it.

EDMOND

You are able to wait, you? This long work took up all your time -- and when you didn't have your work to distract you, you had your hopes to console you.

FARIA

And I had still other occupations.

EDMOND

What did you do?

FARIA

I studied, I wrote.

EDMOND

They gave you paper, pen and ink?

FARIA

No, I made some.

EDMOND

You made paper, pen and ink?

FARIA

Yes, and tools to break down the wall. Would you like to see all this?

EDMOND

Yes, of course.

FARIA

Well, come then.

EDMOND

Where?

FARIA

Into my cell.

EDMOND

Lead on, I am with you.

(curtain, blackout)

Scene vii

Faria's Cell.

FARIA

Come -- God be thanked we have plenty of time. The sun is setting. Begin by lighting this lamp.

EDMOND

They permit you to have a light?

FARIA

I got it myself. From the meat they gave me twice a week I extracted the grease, and I made this type of solid oil that you see in the cover of this pot of water. The wick is made with threads from my clothes and curtains. See, here's all my work on Italy -- it makes about nearly a quarto volume.

EDMOND

On what is it written?

FARIA

On strips of linen four inches wide as you see, and 18 inches long almost. I've invented a substance which makes this linen smooth like a parchment.

EDMOND

But still to write this tract, you still needed pens, ink, a pen knife.

FARIA

Pens I made from fish bones.

EDMOND

But the ink?

FARIA

There was once a chimney here, as you see. The chimney was filled up, but there was still fire during some long years -- it was then covered by soot. I dissolved the soot in the portion of wine they gave me on Sundays, and for the special notes which must attract the eyes, I stuck my fingers and wrote in my own blood.

EDMOND

But the pen knife, the pen knife!

FARIA

The pen knife is my best work. I made it, like the knife here, with an old iron chandelier.

EDMOND

Oh, sir, I have heard marvelous things said of the patience and cleverness of prisoners, but in truth nothing resembling this. Who are you sir, and what is your name?

FARIA

My name is Faria.

EDMOND

What, the prisoner they think is sick?

FARIA

That they think is mad, you mean?

EDMOND

I wouldn't dare --

FARIA

Yes, yes, I pass for mad, I have diverted the hosts of this prison for a long time; it is I who will rejoice the little children, if there were little children in the doldrums of sadness lacking hope. Now in your turn.

EDMOND

But my life is short, only it is falling back into an abyss and I am fallen with it.

FARIA

Yes, the wife of a jailor, whom I took care of during an illness, told me everything. You were arrested on the very day of your engagement, at the moment you were about to become the captain of a ship, they arrested you on the basis of an anonymous denunciation that you had seen the Emperor on the Island of Elba and for having brought to France a letter addressed to a Bonapartist agent. Tell me, did some one have an interest in your not becoming the Captain of the Pharaoh?

EDMOND

No, I was well liked aboard.

FARIA

By all?

EDMOND

By all -- one man excepted.

FARIA

What was this man's name?

EDMOND

Danglars.

FARIA

What was his job?

EDMOND

Financial agent.

FARIA

If you had become Captain, would you have kept him in his job?

EDMOND

No -- if the thing depended on me.

FARIA

Fine -- was some one present during your last conversation with Captain LeClere.

EDMOND

No -- we were alone.

FARIA

Did someone overhear your conversation?

EDMOND

The door was open -- and still -- wait! Danglars passed just as Captain LeClere gave me the dispatch for the .Grand Marshall.

FARIA

Bravo! We are on the trail. Did you bring someone with you, when you landed on Elba?

EDMOND

No one.

FARIA

This letter that they gave you, did you hide it?

EDMOND

It was much too large to put in the pocket of my mariner's vest. I carried it in my hand.

FARIA

So that on board they could see you were bringing a letter to Elba.

EDMOND

Certainly.

FARIA

Danglars as well as the others?

EDMOND

Danglars as well as the others.

FARIA

Now listen carefully, what was Danglars' writing like?

EDMOND

A fine cursive.

FARIA

What kind of writing was on the anonymous letter?

EDMOND

A reversed writing.

FARIA

Counterfeit, then.

EDMOND

Too strong to be counterfeit.

FARIA

Wait.

(He takes one of his pens and writes with his left hand.)

EDMOND

Oh, this is astonishing.

FARIA

As the other writing resembled this, correct? So this denunciation was written by the left hand. I've observed something.

EDMOND

What?

FARIA

That all writings traced by the right hand are varied while all writings traced by the left hand resemble each other.

EDMOND

You've seen everything, observed everything?

FARIA

Let's continue. Was there someone with an interest that you may not marry your fiancee?

EDMOND

Yes, a young man who loved her.

FARIA

His name?

EDMOND

Fernand Mondego.

FARIA

Do you believe he was capable of writing the letter?

EDMOND

No, he might have given me a poke with a knife, that's all. Besides, he was unaware of all the details mentioned in the denunciation.

FARIA

You didn't tell anyone?

EDMOND

Nobody.

FARIA

Not even to your mistress?

EDMOND

Not even my fiancee.

FARIA

It was Danglars.

EDMOND

Oh, now I am sure of it.

FARIA

Danglars knew Fernand.

EDMOND

Yes -- wait -- I am recalling.

FARIA

What?

EDMOND

The day of our engagement, I saw them seated together in the arbor of Papa Pamphile. Danglars was friendly and joking. Fernand was pale and troubled.

FARIA

They were alone?

EDMOND

No, they had a 3rd companion with them -- a tailor named Caderousse; but he was drunk. Wait! Wait -- near the table they were drinking at they had some ink, paper, pens. Oh, the infamous ones -- the infamous ones.

FARIA

(laughing)

No, men, men. Would you know something now?

EDMOND

Yes, yes -- since you fathom everything. Since you see so clearly, I want to know why I was interrogated only once why they haven't sent to me to trial and how I have been condemned without a verdict.

FARIA

Oh, this is a little more serious. Justice has its somber attractions and mysteries which it is difficult to penetrate. You must give me the most precise indications on this point.

EDMOND

Let's see, put some questions, for in truth, you see more clearly in my life than I do.

FARIA

Who interrogated you?

EDMOND

A man of 27 or 28.

FARIA

Fine. Not yet corrupted but already ambitious. What were his manners toward you?

EDMOND

Soft rather than harsh.

FARIA

You told him everything?

EDMOND

Everything.

GOVERNOR

And did his attitude change in the course of the interrogation?

EDMOND

An instant they were changed when he read the letter which compromised me. He appeared to be overwhelmed with my misfortune.

FARIA

With your misfortune?

EDMOND

Yes.

GOVERNOR

Are you sure that it was your misfortune that bothered him?

EDMOND

He gave me a great proof of his sympathy at least.

FARIA

How so?

EDMOND

He burned the only thing that compromised me.

FARIA

What? The denunciation?

EDMOND

No, the letter.

FARIA

You are sure of it?

EDMOND

He did it in front of me.

FARIA

That's another matter. This man could be a much greater villain than you can believe.

EDMOND

On my honor, you make me shiver. Is the world populated by tigers?

FARIA

Yes, only the two-footed tigers are more dangerous than the other kind.

EDMOND

Let's go on, let's go on.

FARIA

He burned the letter, you said?

EDMOND

Yes, while saying excitedly, "Only this proof exists against you, and I am annihilating it."

FARIA

His conduct is too sublime to be natural.

EDMOND

You think so?

FARIA

I am sure of it. To whom was this letter from Napoleon addressed?

EDMOND

To Mr. Noirtier, Rue Coq-Heron #5, Paris.

FARIA

Mr. Noirtier? I knew a Comte de Noirtier at the court of the old Queen of Tuscany who had been a Girondin during the Revolution -- what was this fellow called?

EDMOND

De Villefort -- what's the matter?

FARIA

Do you see this light?

EDMOND

Yes.

FARIA

Well everything is clearer now than this transparent and luminous beam of light -- and this man was good to you?

EDMOND

Yes.

FARIA

He made you swear never to mention the name Noirtier?

EDMOND

Yes.

GOVERNOR

This Noirtier, poor blind fool that you are, do you know who Noirtier was? Noirtier was his father.

EDMOND

His father! His father!

FARIA

Yes, who's name is Noirtier de Villefort.

EDMOND

Oh, leave me, leave me! I have to be alone to think of all this.

FARIA

Poor child!

(curtain, blackout)

Act IV

Scene viii

A richly decorated salon in the home du Morcerf. A servant enters followed by Mr. Morrel.

SERVANT

This way, sir, I beg you. would you please wait a moment in this boudoir?

MORREL

Pardon, my friend, I did not understand. It seems there's a party here, and I thought that no one would ask for me.

MERCEDES

(entering)

Here she is, sir.

MORREL

Madame.

MERCEDES

(to the servant)

Leave us. Don't you recognize me, Mr. Morrel?

MORREL

Madam, I am trying to recall -- it seems to me I have already had the honor.

MERCEDES

Look at me carefully.

MORREL

Excuse me, Madam --

MERCEDES

Your hand, Mr. Morrel, I am Mercedes.

MORREL

Mercedes, the Catalan?

MERCEDES

Yes, sir, Mercedes, the Catalan.

MORREL

Impossible?

MERCEDES

You find me much changed -- quite aged?

MORREL

On the contrary, Madam! You are beautiful, you are young, and it appears rich and happy.

MERCEDES

Rich, yes, Mr. Morrel. But sit down, I beg you.

MORREL

Madam.

MERCEDES

Oh, you make me feel you take no pleasure in seeing me again and that you are in a rush to leave.

MORREL

You deceive yourself doubly in thinking that, Madam -- but will you be willing to let me put some questions to you?

MERCEDES

All the more willingly, sir, since I asked you to come see me so I could question you myself.

MORREL

The letter that I received was signed by Madam the Countess de Morcerf.

MERCEDES

That's me, sir.

MORREL

But then, Fernand -- ?

MERCEDES

Everything is but fortune and misfortune in this world, you know dear Mr. Morrel. Fernand has become the Count de Morcerf.

MORREL

And you?

MERCEDES

And I, sir, I have become his wife.

MORREL

Really, why not? It was the usual way of things.

MERCEDES

Oh, sir, there is a cruel reproach in what you said to me.

MORREL

A reproach? Madam Countess.

MERCEDES

Yes, I understand it. But you must be in my place to judge. Poor, faced by a man who adored me and that I myself loved, not like a lover but like a brother, I kept for nearly two years, the promise I had sworn to poor Edmond. Then still having no hope, I gave up the obsession. That's how I came to marry Fernand, sir, and that's how I became Countess de Morcerf.

MORREL

My God, Madam, but it's a dream!

MERCEDES

I am going to explain to you. Fernand, you know, left as a soldier in 1816, you saw him return a lieutenant in 1818. It was then that we were married. The war of independence broke out in Greece. Fernand left with the grade of captain, Ali Pasha of Janina had need of a training officer. My husband entered his service, and became his intimate. You have heard tell of the death of the Lion of Epirus as he was called. He was surprised in a kiosk, butchered after an unparalleled defense. My husband was among his last supporters, and dying, Ali gave him a purse fall of diamonds. This purse was the source of our fortune. Fernand returned to France with the grade of general that His Majesty very willingly conferred on him -- and to which has been added the title, Count. That, dear Mr. Morrel is how my letter came to be signed Countess de Morcerf and not Mercedes the Catalan.

MORREL

In truth, Madam, you give me great joy. And the Count?

MERCEDES

In the neighboring salon.

MORREL

Now, could you explain to me, Madam, how it happened?

MERCEDES

That having written you, that I receive you in the midst of a ball? I am going to tell you. I only learned today at five o'clock that you were in Paris and that you were leaving tomorrow morning. I wanted to see you, Mr. Morrel and I thought you would be good enough to inconvenience yourself at my request.

A CHAMBER MAID

(entering)

Madam --

MERCEDES

That's fine. I am going to embrace my son, right now -- go!

MORREL

You have a son, Countess?

MERCEDES

Yes, but you yourself, Mr. Morrel, speak a little about yourself, your wife, your family. For you, too, you have a son?

MORREL

Yes, Madam, and a daughter. The boy, my Maximilian, is at the Ecole Polytechnique.

MERCEDES

And the daughter?

MORREL

She's a child of six or almost seven, she is in Marseille with her mother. Poor little Julie. But pardon, Madam, you seem distressed.

MERCEDES

Yes, sir, for you have just pronounced the word "Marseille" and this word recalls the memory of other people I knew -- in that city.

MORREL

Yes, I understand, you are thinking of --

MERCEDES

Excuse me, Mr. Morrel -- having been indulgent to me as a lover, don't judge me too severely as a wife.

MORREL

Oh, on the contrary Madam, I would judge you severely if you had forgotten.

MERCEDES

No, no, I have not forgotten, Mr. Morrel, no! And now, I will admit that my desire to see you --

MORREL

Yes, yes, I understand --

MERCEDES

Well?

MORREL

No news?

MORREL

None.

MERCEDES

He hasn't reappeared in Marseille?

MORREL

No one has ever seen him.

MERCEDES

And you know absolutely nothing about him?

MORREL

Nothing.

MERCEDES

You made some efforts to find out?

MORREL

I did everything it was possible to do.

MERCEDES

But you've gone back to the sources?

MORREL

To the most certain. I want straight to Mr. de Villefort.

MERCEDES

He's being presented to me this evening. We had the same idea, Mr. Morrel. I was hoping, through him, either directly or indirectly.

MORREL

It is useless for you to speak to him about Edmond, Madam.

MERCEDES

Why's that?

MORREL

He wont' tell you more than he told me.

MERCEDES

And what did he tell you? You understand my impatience, don't you, sir?

MORREL

He told me that he sent the trial papers to Paris and that eight or ten days after sending them, the prisoners were removed by order of his superior.

MERCEDES

Removed?

MORREL

Yes.

MERCEDES

Poor Edmond! -- and then?

MORREL

And since then. Mr. de Villefort has been successively assigned to Nimes, to Versailles, to Paris. He was the only one who would give me any information. I have not seen him since.

MERCEDES

So, you were not able to learn anything?

MORREL

Not a thing.

MERCEDES

He is dead!

MORREL

It is more than likely, Madam.

MERCEDES

Listen, Mr. Morrel, I cannot accustom myself to this idea, that poor Edmond may be dead. And how, God is my witness, if I thought he was living, no power in the world could have made me become the wife of another. I mean to tell you that if ever you discover we've been deceived -- that if by chance he returns to Marseille or if you learn that he is living in some strange place -- I mean to tell you that I count on you, Mr. Morrel, to write two words to me -- he's alive.

MORREL

Madam, at that very instant, I will do it.

MERCEDES

Thanks, sir. And perhaps then I will be more unhappy -- but at least I will be calmer.

MORREL

I have no need to tell you, Madam, that if you ever return to Marseille --

MERCEDES

Oh, Mr. Morrel, one can't go back so easily to a place where one suffered so much sorrow.

MORREL

There is a house on the Mulhan Alley --

MERCEDES

Where we will go to make a pilgrimage.

MORREL

Both of us, right, Madam?

FERNAND

(entering)

And why not all three of us? Dantes was one of my friends. You know it, Madam.

MORREL

Count --

FERNAND

Good day, dear Mr. Morrel. You are one of our old friends and it's very nice of you. Are you staying the night at the hotel?

MERCEDES

Thanks, Count. You see, I came --

FERNAND

To accept an invitation from the countess? Thanks. It was I who begged her to write to you. We often speak of this poor Dantes -- and in returning to France after a long absence I hoped of discovering some news.

MORREL

Sir, Madam did me the honor of telling me, just as you entered that she was expecting a lot of company and I begged her to excuse me. I am leaving tomorrow.

FERNAND

That's all right. Mr. Morrel. We were hoping, the Countess and I, to be able to spend the summer in the neighborhood of Marseille. You will allow us to pay you a visit?

MORREL

It will be a great honor to me. Count, Countess --

(He bows and leaves.)

FERNAND

Will you never forget this man, Madam?

MERCEDES

Did I ever promise to forget him, sir?

FERNAND

No, I am well aware of that. But you ought, out of respect for the name you bear, not to put strangers in the secret of your love.

MERCEDES

Mr. Morrel, is not a stranger to me, sir. He was a second father to him --

FERNAND

To the one you love. Say it plainly!

MERCEDES

The one I loved and the one I intended to marry. Nothing was purer than this love, sir, and no one has the right to reproach me with it. I was not his mistress, I was his fiancee. I was almost his wife, and I wore his mourning as if I was a widow.

FERNAND

You wore it! Say that you still wear it!

MERCEDES

In my heart, yes, sir, forever.

FERNAND

Eh? Madam, aren't you afraid that in the end?

MERCEDES

Pardon, sir, I believe we are no longer alone.

A VALET

(announcing)

Mr. de Villefort.

FERNAND

(entering)

Ah! Come now! Countess, will you allow me to present Mr. de Villefort to you, whom I had the honor of meeting at Madam Mangonver?

VILLEFORT

(entering)

Madam Countess.

FERNAND

(to the Countess)

Not a word of Marseille, you understand!

MERCEDES

Sir, I am proud to play host to a man of so high a reputation as yours and now, you could make me prouder still. I am looking for Madam de Villefort and I don't see her at all.

VILLEFORT

Oh, Madam, I don't dare.

FERNAND

(to the Countess)

You know that Miss St. Meran is dead and that he has remarried. Don't confound him.

MERCEDES

Yes, sir, I know it.

VILLEFORT

Pardon, general, but it seems to me that I met here one of our old friends from Marseille?

FERNAND

Mr. Morrel?

VILLEFORT

Precisely! Do you have business with him?

FERNAND

I have some funds placed with his firm -- yes. Then Marseille is the relay for Greece, and you know I spent three years waging war in Epirus. You know this Morrel?

VILLEFORT

I knew him when I was living in Marseille.

FERNAND

I think he's good -- like luck?

VILLEFORT

Mr. Morrel?

DANGLARS

(entering)

Morrel? Excellent and I have five hundred thousand francs with him.

FERNAND

Eh! My dear millionaire -- that won't make you much more rich.

DANGLARS

It would make me richer by 500,000 francs, and that's no sum to scorn -- as little as it may be -- in 14 years, my dear, Count, the interest doubles the capital. Countess, you are adorable this evening.

FERNAND

Mr. de Villefort, allow me to present to you my friend, Baron Danglars, one of our boldest speculators whom the Stock Exchange has seen many an Austerlitz and never a Waterloo.

VILLEFORT

My compliments, sir.

DANGLARS

And I accept them, although I cannot give anything for you. You have a fortune, sir, which cannot be enlarged or diminished. Oh, I don't know you, it's true, but I've heard of your income.

(Enter Madam D'Istel.)

MME. D'ISTEL

Come on, are you going to speak about money again? Oh, what an impossible man you are, Mr. Danglars and I wouldn't be your wife for half the world.

DANGLARS

You would be making a good deal, Madam, for if I had the other half, I would give it to you to be your husband.

FERNAND

Come on, not bad for a banker.

VILLEFORT

You are coming without Madam Nargonne.

MME. D'ISTEL

Madam Nargonne couldn't come.

VILLEFORT

Has something happened to her? You are pale?

MME. D'ISTEL

(low)

Do you have your carriage?

VILLEFORT

Yes.

MME. D'ISTEL

(low)

Tell your coachman to wait for you.

MERCEDES

Mr. de Villefort is not leaving so soon, I hope?

MME. D'ISTEL

Pay no attention. Mr. de Villefort has placed himself at my orders and I have need of his company.

(low)

Come away from these gentlemen, dear Mercedes, I need to be alone a moment.

MERCEDES

This salon is yours, my good Clemence, and I am going to shut the door.

MME. D'ISTEL

Thanks!

MERCEDES

Would you give me your arm, Mr. Danglars?

DANGLARS

Like this, Madam -- !

MERCEDES

(from the neighboring salon)

Mr. de Morcerf, I think only 25 Louis are needed for cards.

(She goes out with Danglars and Fernand.)

MME. D'ISTEL

Are you here, sir? Come quickly. Do you have your carriage?

VILLEFORT

My coachman is gone. I told him to return at two in the morning.

MME. D'ISTEL

Oh, My God.

VILLEFORT

But there's a kind of cab near the door and I retained him.

MME. D'ISTEL

That's better.

VILLEFORT

Now, tell me -- what has happened?

MME. D'ISTEL

Don't you understand?

VILLEFORT

Mme de Nargonne is hurt?

MME. D'ISTEL

Madam de Nargonne is at your little house in Auteuil.

VILLEFORT

But I thought she couldn't leave at the moment?

MME. D'ISTEL

The moment has come -- in an hour, Mme. de Nargonne will be a mother.

VILLEFORT

What! Mme. de Nargonne, you say --

MME. D'ISTEL

Mme. de Nargonne told me you were her confidant and that you put her in the position in which she finds herself. That with the delicacy of a man of the world and the devotion of a friend, that you had offered this little house in Auteuil that you inherited from Mademoiselle de St. Meran, which is kept by an old concierge. That's what Mme. de Nargonne told me -- nothing else. Rest easy, sir, between us, there's nothing compromising. Now, Mme. de Nargonne, claims in the name of friendship, the promise that you made not to abandon her; she charged me to inform you that she is waiting for you -- is she waiting uselessly? Answer Mr. de Villefort?

VILLEFORT

Oh! No, no! I am going -- I am leaving -- but you -- ?

MME. D'ISTEL

I am staying. You understand? I have to explain her absence.

VILLEFORT

And I, I will run to Auteuil.

(aside)

Oh, what an imprudence to confide in this woman.

(Mme D'Istel goes out. Then Bertuccio comes to the doorway.)

VILLEFORT

Pardon, my friend.

BERTUCCIO

Pardon, Mr. Villefort.

VILLEFORT

Who are you?

BERTUCCIO

I am Gaetano Bertuccio brother, of Luigi Bertuccio whom you condemned to death.

VILLEFORT

That I condemned to death?

BERTUCCIO

Yes. You've forgotten. But I remember.

VILLEFORT

Well -- what do you want of me?

BERTUCCIO

I want to tell you that you killed my brother.

VILLEFORT

Not I, the law.

BERTUCCIO

A distinction without a difference.

VILLEFORT

Your brother was guilty.

BERTUCCIO

My brother wasn't guilty. The vendetta had been openly declared. It was up to his enemy to protect himself.

VILLEFORT

Come along, my friend, you are insane.

BERTUCCIO

I am not insane. I am Corsican.

VILLEFORT

Well -- what do you want from me?

BERTUCCIO

You recall that during the trial, our cousin, Israel Bertuccio went to find you?

VILLEFORT

Yes.

BERTUCCIO

You recall that he told you that the man whose head you were demanding had a brother?

VILLEFORT

Yes.

BERTUCCIO

You recall he told you that if this head fell --

VILLEFORT

Oh - -threats?

BERTUCCIO

I am this brother. Here I am, returning after two years of absence. I have reclaimed my right to vengeance and I come to tell you Gerard de Villefort -- you condemned my brother, Luigi Bertuccio to the penalty of death. The vendetta is declared between us -- take care of yourself.

VILLEFORT

Wretch!

BERTUCCIO

Wherever I find you, Gerard de Villefort, be it day, be it night, be it near, be it far -- that's where I will strike you. Take care of yourself for after crossing the sill of this door -- now you've been warned; now the vendetta is declared -- you belong to me!

(He escapes by the ground floor window.)

MME. D'ISTEL

Well, Mr. Villefort, still here?

VILLEFORT

I am going, Madam, I am going.

(curtain)

Scene ix

The Garden of Auteuil. A wall in the background, a wood to the right.

BERTUCCIO

(on the wall)

They came in here. Fine -- the key is in the lock -- nothing prevents my flight. Two o'clock. Let's look the place over. Darkness everywhere except in the chamber. You couldn't say that you could hear anything except whining. No, I made a mistake. I've heard it said that he who holds a dagger in his hand at night, always thinks he hears screams in the air. No, I made a mistake -- it's nothing. Ah -- what's that? Someone is coming. It's a man's footstep. What's he got in his hand, a spade? What's he going to do? To bury some treasure, perhaps -- let's wait.

(Villefort enters, throws his cloak down, breaks the ground, puts a box in the ditch, and buries it.)

BERTUCCIO

I wasn't mistaken.

(aloud)

Gerard de Villefort, I am Gaetano Bertuccio who declared the vendetta this evening -- so! Death for my brother -- your treasure for his widow. So!

(he strikes Villefort. Villefort falls, letting out a scream -- opening the box)

A child -- my God, a child!

(He flees taking the box with him.)

VILLEFORT

(trying to get up)

Help -- help!

(He falls back.)

(curtain)

Act V

Scene x

The two cells at the Chateau D'if which the prisoners have cut through. At rise, the two are engaged in excavating the wall. Above a gallery on which a sentinel patrols.

FARIA

Well?

EDMOND

We have no more than the thickness of the flagstone. I can hear the soldier pacing back and forth over my head.

FARIA

Thus removing yet one or two stones.

EDMOND

The flagstone will fall and the man with it.

FARIA

Dantes, my child, if you cannot kill this man, don't kill him.

EDMOND

You know -- what is agreed will be done. The man falls -- we throw ourselves on him -- we gag him. We strangle him -- then both of us leave through the opening -- we will hurl ourselves in the sea and we will reach the coast at the beach -- what time is it?

FARIA

Past midnight. Do we have time to make it tonight?

EDMOND

Without doubt.

FARIA

If we were to wait until tomorrow night?

EDMOND

No, no, not an hour, not a second more in this odious cell! Think of it, 14 years of captivity 14 years!

FARIA

That's right. Remove the last stone.

EDMOND

And you, prepare the ropes and the gag.

FARIA

I am going to do it.

(he goes back to his cell)

My God! My God!

EDMOND

(aloud)

I am waiting.

FARIA

Dantes! Dantes! Quickly, quickly, come to me.

EDMOND

What's wrong?

FARIA

Help me, Dantes, help me!

EDMOND

(going into Faria's cell)

What's wrong -- my God, what's wrong with you?

FARIA

I am lost.

EDMOND

You?

FARIA

Yes, yes! Listen! I feel it, I feel it.

EDMOND

What?

FARIA

A terrible pain, perhaps mortal, an illness which I had already a year before my incarceration. The end has come. I feel it, I feel it!

EDMOND

What to do? What do you direct?

FARIA

One remedy -- only one! Raise the foot of my bed -- the foot is hollow. You will find a little crystal bottle, half filled with a little red liquid -- take it -- take it --

EDMOND

I've got it.

FARIA

Listen, listen to each word, and if I cannot finish -- try to intuit. Here's the illness which is coming. I am going to fall into a catalepsy. Perhaps, I will appear dead and not utter a complaint, perhaps I will twist myself, screaming and foaming at the mouth. In this case, try to prevent anyone form hearing my shrieks -- if necessary suffocate me.

EDMOND

Finish! Finish!

FARIA

When you see me unconscious, open my lips and separate my jaw with a knife and through the opening let eight or ten drops of this liquor run into my throat, and then, perhaps I will survive.

EDMOND

Perhaps, you say? Oh, my God!

FARIA

Oh! Oh! Help, help! I am dying. Ah!

(He falls.)

EDMOND

Lord! Lord! Have pity on us, my God. His pulse is not beating, his heart is weak. What did he tell me? My head is gone. Ah, yes, this bottle, the knife, his teeth. Oh -- tight, tight as if he's dead. Faria, my father, oh, come back to yourself, come back. It's your child who calls you, the one who owes you more than life, my master, my beloved friend. Oh, nothing, nothing! My God, my God, a miracle. I have suffered enough and suffered innocently to ask a miracle of you? Oh, my God, my God, give him his life, I beg of you. Oh, my God! Oh! Oh! I am not mistaken. The pulse is beginning to beat. The heart -- it's beating, it's beating, too. Faria! Faria! My father. Open your eyes -- look at me! He's looking at me! Oh! Saved, saved!

FARIA

Dantes.

EDMOND

Yes, yes, Dantes -- Edmond, your friend.

FARIA

Near me.

EDMOND

Without a doubt.

FARIA

Oh! I thought I'd never see you again.

EDMOND

You thought you were dying?

FARIA

I thought that you were in such a rush to flee at this hour that while I was in a faint --

EDMOND

Be quiet, be quiet.

FARIA

I was mistaken, I see it indeed. Oh! I am very weak, quite annihilated.

EDMOND

Courage, your strength will come back.

FARIA

No -- the last time the crisis lasted only several seconds. See, I cannot move my left leg or my left arm. This arm is paralyzed, raise it and you will see it is heavy.

EDMOND

Well, we will wait a week, a month, two months, if necessary. In this interval you will regain your strength everything is prepared for our flight. We have the liberty to choose the time and the moment. The day you feel strength enough to swim, well that's the day we will put our project into execution - -and if need be, I'll put you on my back and carry you while swimming.

FARIA

Child! Bearing such a weight you, wouldn't get fifty strokes in the sea. No, no, don't abuse yourself with chimeras Edmond, I will stay here until the hour of my deliverance -- and my deliverance is death.

EDMOND

Oh! My God!

FARIA

But that shouldn't stop you, Edmond. Flee. You are strong, young, and agile. Edmond, my child, flee -- I free you of your oath.

EDMOND

That's all right. I will stay, too then.

FARIA

Edmond, you are mad.

EDMOND

By the blood of our Savior, Jesus Christ, I swear not to leave you until your death.

GOVERNOR

Well, I accept. Thanks, my son. Your devotion won't last too long, I hope -- and perhaps it will be rewarded.

EDMOND

What do you mean?

FARIA

Look, Dantes.

EDMOND

What's this?

FARIA

Look carefully.

EDMOND

I am looking very carefully and I only see a half burned paper on which gothic characters are written in a strange ink.

FARIA

This paper, my friend -- and now I can tell you everything, since I have tested you. This paper is my treasure, which from today belongs to you.

EDMOND

Your treasure?

FARIA

Yes.

EDMOND

(aside)

Oh, my God! His madness has returned to him.

FARIA

Dantes -- you are a noble soul and I understand, from your pallor and your shivering what's going on inside you, at this moment. No, no, my friend, rest easy. I am not mad. No. This treasure exists, Dantes and if I cannot have it, you shall. Nobody would listen to me or believe me because they thought I was mad. But you ought to know better than anyone and then you will believe me -- but first, read, my friend, read.

EDMOND

I only see symbols broken off, some words which do not follow, some shapes which are interrupted by the fire's action and which remain unintelligible.

FARIA

For you, my friend, who are reading them for the first time, but not for me who has poured over them for many nights, who has reconstructed each phrase, completed each thought. Listen -- I told you once, speaking about Rome, the story of Alexander VI and Caesar Borgia?

EDMOND

Yes.

FARIA

I told you of these strange poisonings which aided them to inherit from the Cardinals who died around them. Well, one day, they decided to inherit from Cardinal Spada, one of the richest Cardinals in Rome. They sent a messenger to invite him to dine in their vineyard. It was one of those invitations such as Nero sent by a Praetorian. There was no way to refuse it. The Cardinal replied that he accepted and asked only permission to go to his room to obtain his breviary. Ten minutes later, he left, his breviary under his arm. At three o'clock in the afternoon, he died in the arms of one of the Pope's doctors having had time only to say these words to his valet, "Take this breviary to my nephew". When the valet returned to the nephew with the breviary he found the nephew dying. The Borgias did things up grandly. Now, under the Pope's orders, they vainly sought in the palace, the cellars, in the vineyards of Cardinal Spada - -but they found nothing except a few thousand shillings, except some mediocre priced jewels -- no trace of the immense fortune which everyone knew the deceased possessed -- as the Cardinal had no other heir except his nephew, all was sold at auction, the breviary like the rest. I was a great collector of books, you know, my dear Edmond. I learned that this historic breviary, which for three hundred years had voyaged from library to library was to be sold and I bought it.

EDMOND

My God, my God -- you are getting pale.

FARIA

Give me the rest of the bottle.

EDMOND

Faria, my father.

FARIA

One day I was tired, I slept in my office towards four and awoke around midnight. It was too dark for me to continue to write without light. There was still some fire in the fireplace. I had a candle with me. I took some paper to light my candle, and afraid of using an important paper, I recalled I had seen in the famous breviary an old paper all yellow -- which had the appearance of a signet and which had traversed the centuries protected by the veneration or carelessness of the buyers. I looked around, fumbling for this worthless paper. I found it. I twisted it and presenting to the dying flame, I lit it. But under my fingers, as if by magic, as the fire grew, I saw yellowish character, leap from the blank paper and appear on the sheet. I understood there was some mystery hidden on it. I put out the flame. I lit the candle directly from the first. I reopened with an unspeakable emotion this crumpled letter. I realized that a sympathetic ink had traced these letters, apparent only after contact with heat. A little more, than a third, had been consumed by the flames, I read what remained, and I was convinced by one thing. After 3 centuries, I had just found the true, the only, the unique testament of Cardinal Spada.

EDMOND

Great God! But unreadable, but useless, incomplete since there are only half lines.

FARIA

Yes, yes, but through patient work, I recomposed what was missing. See, see, put this paper beside the other. They fit together -- read -- and read, Dantes!

EDMOND

This 25th day of April, 1498 having been invited by Alexander, and fearing that not content with having made me pay, they wished to inherit from me and reserved for me the fate of Cardinals Caprara and Bentivoglio, killed, poisoned, I declare to my nephew, Guido Spada that I have hidden in a corner which he knows of having visited me, in the grotto of the little Island of Monte Cristo all that I possess of ingots of gold, stones, money, jewels, which I alone know, the existence of this treasure which amounts to five million Roman shillings and which he will find after raising the twentieth rock on the little creek in the west, in a straight line, which treasure I bequeath to him as my sole heir. Spada.

My God! My God! Can this be true? But why haven't you taken it for yourself?

FARIA

I went to embark from Livorno for the Island of Monte Cristo when I was arrested as the author of a great work on the royalty in Italy, conducted to Fenestrella and from Fenestrella to the Chateau D'if. So be confident, Dantes, for a voice tells me what I cannot do, you will do. Truly, as I am going to die, truly I am dying. Goodbye, Dantes.

(He falls down.)

EDMOND

My father, my father. Oh -- nothing more in this flesh. Faria! My father -- oh help! Help!

FARIA

(recovering his strength)

Silence!

(He dies.)

EDMOND

Oh, it's true! My God. Could they have heard! They are coming! These papers!

(Edmond hides.)

JAILOR

I was right. It's the old one who called. Hey, friend, what are you doing there on the ground? Dead.

(calling)

Baptiste! Baptiste!

2ND JAILOR

What?

1ST JAILOR

Come here.

2ND JAILOR

What! It seems to me I heard him call, too.

1ST JAILOR

For help, right?

2ND JAILOR

Yes.

1ST JAILOR

It's a stroke-of apoplexy. Let's put him on his bed.

2ND JAILOR

The madman has rejoined his treasures. Bon voyage.

1ST JAILOR

Poor devil! With all his millions, he won't have enough to pay for his shroud.

2ND JAILOR

Oh -- shrouds don't cost much at the Chateau D'if.

1ST JAILOR

You don't know, as he was a wise man, perhaps they will pay expenses for him.

2ND JAILOR

Then he'll have the honors of the sack.

1ST JAILOR

Come on, come on, it's not a question of that. It's a question of informing the Governor.

2ND JAILOR

Let's go in that case. Oh, no need to close the door -- he won't escape.

1ST JAILOR

Eh, who knows? These devilish prisoners are such troublemakers. They don't even die properly.

2ND JAILOR

You are right. Close it.

(The jailers go out.)

EDMOND

If only they had left it open then! But no, no, locked. Let's see, I have more than one resource. The gallery. Sleep in peace, holy victim of the cruelty of men! Now I am going to try to do by myself alone what we should have done together. Goodbye, Faria. Goodbye, my father.

(He goes back in the tunnel.)

SENTINEL

Who goes there?

GOVERNOR

(entering with doctor, jailers)

Making the rounds.

SENTINEL

Pardon, Governor.

GOVERNOR

What's wrong, my friend.

SENTINEL

A word, if you please?

GOVERNOR

Go with the jailers, doctor. I will rejoin you.

(They go.)

GOVERNOR

(to Sentinel)

What's wrong, my friend?

SENTINEL

Pardon, sir, but we are on guard for the entire 24 hours, as you know.

GOVERNOR

Yes.

SENTINEL

Well, for 24 hours, I've mounted my post in the same place.

GOVERNOR

Fine.

SENTINEL

I march as I am marching, but yesterday, yesterday, you see, I couldn't hear the flagstone under my feet.

GOVERNOR

Where's that?

SENTINEL

Here -- see!

(He strikes the flagstone with the butt of his musket.)

EDMOND

Oh, my God, my God -- my last hope.

GOVERNOR

Humm.

SENTINEL

So you understand?

GOVERNOR

Perfectly.

SENTINEL

Is there an opening below?

GOVERNOR

No -- only some cells. Is your musket loaded?

SENTINEL

Yes, my commandant.

GOVERNOR

I am going to send two more men to you and come dawn, we will see.

EDMOND

I am cursed.

(The two jailers enter with the doctor.)

DOCTOR

Ah, it's the possessed madman?

2ND JAILOR

Possessed madman? Oh, no, doctor. For that I can answer. I always found this man the nicest fellow on earth. He often told me stories. And one day my wife fell ill and he cured her.

DOCTOR

I was unaware I had a colleague. I hope, Warden, you will treat him accordingly.

GOVERNOR

Oh -- rest easy. Is he dead?

DOCTOR

Of an apoplexy.

GOVERNOR

(to the jailor)

I told you to bring a sack?

JAILOR

And I have carried out our orders, Warden. Here it is.

GOVERNOR

Do it quickly.

DOCTOR

You are in a great hurry to get rid of this poor man, Warden?

GOVERNOR

Not precisely that -- it's that the sentinel who is walking on the gallery over our heads has made an observation that I wish to verify and for that reason this cell needs to be empty. You are sure he's really dead, right?

DOCTOR

Very sure.

GOVERNOR

Then, a little sooner, a little later.

DOCTOR

True.

GOVERNOR

Let it be done in a quarter of an hour.

(to jailors)

You hear?

EDMOND

Yes, in passing by my cell, they intend to open it.

(He returns hurriedly to his cell.)

JAILOR

(in Faria's cell)

Do you have a rope?

2ND JAILOR

No.

1ST JAILOR

Well, I am going to find a rope. Go prepare the cannon ball.

2ND JAILOR

Let's go.

GOVERNOR

(at Edmond's cell door)

Are you sleeping?

EDMOND

What do you want from me?

GOVERNOR

Nothing, to tell you only that your neighbor is dead. You asked once for a change of cell. Perhaps you can have what you want.

EDMOND

Thanks! They are going -- no one on this side.

(he returns to the cell of Faria and looks at the dead man)

Left alone. I am returned alone -- alone in the face of nothingness, not even the sight, not even the voice of the only human being who attached me to the earth. If I could die, I would go where he goes -- and find him again. But how to die? It's really very easy. I have only to stay here. I will throw myself on the first to enter and strangle him and they will guillotine me. That's what I had better do, since all escape is impossible now.

Oh, no -- having struggled, I will go on to the end. No, I intend to live, I intend to struggle, I intend to leave here one day -- even if it takes ten years. I have my executioners to punish, perhaps, also my friends to compensate. But they are going to forget me here and I will only leave my cell like Faria! Oh! What sent me that thought. Was it you, my God? Since only the dead who leave freely from here, let's take the place of the dead. Yes, yes, that's a heavenly inspiration. This knife -- fine -- if the jailors realize they are carrying someone alive and not a corpse, I will open the sack and profiting from their terror, I will escape. If they try to stop me, I have this knife. If they put me in a cemetery and leave me in a ditch, I will let them cover me with earth and dig my way out of this fresh earth and I will flee. If I am deceived, if the earth is too heavy, I will die of suffocation. So much the better. All is finished.

(He puts Faria in his bed.)

EDMOND

If they come in here, they will believe that it is I who sleep. They are coming -- do I have time?

1ST JAILOR

(in Edmond's cell)

Wait, since you are awake, and so as not to disturb you, we'll bring you your lunch right away.

2ND JAILOR

Well, he doesn't reply, your prisoner.

1ST JAILOR

Don't speak to me of him. He's a man. He sleeps 3 quarters of the time.

2ND JAILOR

He who sleeps, eats. Come on, let's go.

1ST JAILOR

Wait -- lend me your lantern. Oh -- he's sleeping, he has nothing to say.

(Meanwhile, Edmond has hidden in the sack.)

EDMOND

Protect me, God!

1ST JAILOR

(in Faria's cell)

Wait.

(He ties the sack.)

2ND JAILOR

He's awfully heavy for a thin old man.

1ST JAILOR

Damn, you might say each year he added a half a pound.

2ND JAILOR

He seems bigger to me than when he was living.

1ST JAILOR

You know they enlarge after death.

2ND JAILOR

Do you have your knot?

1ST JAILOR

Yes -- and you?

2ND JAILOR

It was very stupid to tell us to put on such a useless weight. I will put the thing up here.

1ST JAILOR

Are you ready?

2ND JAILOR

Yes.

(They carry the sack out.)

(curtain)

Scene xi

The top of the wall of the Chateau D'if. In the background, rocks and the sea. The night is dark. The two jailors enter, carrying the sack containing Edmond.

1ST JAILOR

Let's go.

(They cross the gallery and climb slowly the rocks.)

2ND JAILOR

Wait. It's here.

1ST JAILOR

What's here?

2ND JAILOR

Here I put the cannon ball.

1ST JAILOR

Do you have it?

2ND JAILOR

Yes.

1ST JAILOR

Fine.

2ND JAILOR

Is it ready?

1ST JAILOR

There's no reason to wait. A 36 pound cannon ball like a captain.

2ND JAILOR

In that case, en route!

1ST JAILOR

Poor weather! He won't do well in the sea, tonight.

2ND JAILOR

Yes, the poor old boy runs a great risk of getting wet.

1ST JAILOR

Good! It will happen to us --

2ND JAILOR

Later, much later, you know quite well that the last one got stuck and broken on the rocks -- and that the Governor told us last time we were idlers.

1ST JAILOR

Here is good?

2ND JAILOR

Yes.

1ST JAILOR

(balancing the corpse)

One!

2ND JAILOR

Two!

TOGETHER

Three.

(They throw the body which disappears. One hears a great shout which suffocates the wind and the noise of the waves.)

EDMOND

(appearing on a rock)

Saved, my God! Saved!

(curtain)