Maximum-assistance view: every word above everyday vocabulary is explained at every appearance; each name is introduced at its first appearance in the chapter.

Chapter 5. The Marriage Feast (a rich festive meal)

The morning’s sun rose clear and resplendent (shining; splendid), touching (touching: concerning — the old sense here) the foamy (like foam) waves into a network of ruby-tinted (touched with deep red) light.

The feast (a rich festive meal) had been made ready on the second floor at La Réserve (a tavern near Marseilles), with whose arbor (arbors: shaded garden walks) the reader (one who reads) is already familiar. The apartment destined (fixed by fate) for the purpose was spacious (with wide room) and lighted by a number of windows, over each of which was written in golden letters for some inexplicable (impossible to explain) reason the name of one of the principal cities of France; beneath (under) these windows a wooden (made of wood) balcony (a railed platform on a building) extended the entire length of the house. And although the entertainment was fixed for twelve (twelve) o’clock (the time-keeping machine), an hour previous to that time the balcony (a railed platform on a building) was filled with impatient (restlessly eager) and expectant (waiting in hope) guests, consisting (to be made of) of the favored (shown kindness or preference) part of the crew of the Pharaon (the name of Morrel's ship), and other personal friends of the bridegroom (a man on his wedding day), the whole of whom had arrayed (an ordered display) themselves in their choicest (finest) costumes (dress; an outfit), in order to do greater honor to the occasion (a particular time; cause).

Various rumors (an unproved passing report) were afloat (floating) to the effect that the owners of the Pharaon had promised to attend the nuptial (of a wedding) feast (a rich festive meal); but all seemed unanimous (agreed by all) in doubting that an act of such rare and exceeding (to go beyond) condescension (gracious stooping to lesser people) could possibly be intended.

Danglars (the shipowner's clerk, later a rich banker), however, who now made his appearance, accompanied (to go along with) by Caderousse (a tailor of Marseilles, neighbour to the Dantès family), effectually (with real effect) confirmed the report, stating (state: ceremony; pomp — the old sense here) that he had recently conversed (to talk together) with M. Morrel (the shipowner of Marseilles who employs Dantès), who had himself assured (to promise; make sure) him of his intention (what one means to do) to dine (to eat dinner) at La Réserve.

In fact, a moment later M. Morrel appeared and was saluted (the soldier's formal greeting) with an enthusiastic (burning with eagerness) burst (to break open suddenly) of applause (clapping approval) from the crew of the Pharaon, who hailed (frozen rain; to call out to) the visit of the shipowner (a man who owns ships) as a sure indication (a pointing sign) that the man whose wedding feast (a rich festive meal) he thus delighted (great pleasure) to honor would ere (before — an old word) long be first in command of the ship; and as Dantès (the young sailor this story follows) was universally (by everyone) beloved (dearly loved) on board his vessel (a container; a ship), the sailors (a man who works a ship) put no restraint (holding back) on their tumultuous (full of wild noise) joy at finding that the opinion and choice of their superiors (higher; one above) so exactly coincided (to fall together) with their own.

With the entrance (the way in) of M. Morrel, Danglars and Caderousse were despatched (to send off; an official message) in search of the bridegroom (a man on his wedding day) to convey (to carry; make known) to him the intelligence of the arrival (a coming) of the important personage (a person of importance) whose coming had created such a lively (full of life) sensation (a feeling; a public stir), and to beseech (to beg earnestly) him to make haste (hurry).

Danglars and Caderousse set off upon their errand (a short task one is sent on) at full speed; but ere (before — an old word) they had gone many steps they perceived (to see and grasp) a group advancing towards them, composed (to put together; to calm) of the betrothed (the one promised in marriage) pair, a party of young girls in attendance (being present to serve) on the bride (a woman on her wedding day), by whose side walked Dantès’ father; the whole brought up by Fernand (the Catalan fisherman who loves Mercédès), whose lips (the mouth's edge) wore their usual sinister (threatening evil) smile.

Neither Mercédès (the Catalan girl Dantès is to marry) nor Edmond (the first name of the young sailor this story follows) observed (to watch; to remark) the strange expression of his countenance (the face; composure); they were so happy that they were conscious (aware) only of the sunshine (the sun's warm light) and the presence of each other.

Having acquitted (to clear of a charge) themselves of their errand (a short task one is sent on), and exchanged a hearty (warm and vigorous) shake (to move quickly to and fro) of the hand with Edmond, Danglars and Caderousse took their places beside (at the side of) Fernand and old Dantès,—the latter of whom attracted (to draw toward) universal (of all) notice.

The old man was attired (clothing) in a suit of glistening (to shine wetly) watered silk (the fine soft thread of the East), trimmed (neat; to make neat) with steel buttons, beautifully (finely) cut and polished (to rub bright). His thin (of little thickness) but wiry (stiff like wire) legs were arrayed (an ordered display) in a pair of richly (with richness) embroidered (decorated with needlework) clocked (marked with a pattern at the ankle) stockings (a knitted leg covering), evidently (as plainly appears) of English manufacture (making), while from his three-cornered (with three corners) hat depended (to rest upon) a long streaming (flowing in streams) knot (a tied fastening; a tight cluster) of white and blue ribbons (a narrow band of silk). Thus he came along, supporting himself on a curiously (with curiosity; strangely) carved (to cut into shape) stick, his aged countenance (the face; composure) lit up with happiness (the state of joy), looking for all the world like one of the aged dandies (a man vain of his dress) of 1796, parading (a formal muster of troops) the newly (recently) opened gardens of the Luxembourg (a Paris palace and garden) and Tuileries (a royal palace and garden in Paris).

Beside (at the side of) him glided (to move smoothly) Caderousse, whose desire to partake (to take a share in) of the good things provided for the wedding party had induced (to lead into; bring about) him to become reconciled (to bring back to friendship) to the Dantès, father and son, although there still lingered (to stay on slowly) in his mind a faint (weak and dim; to fall senseless) and unperfect (not finished or not faultless) recollection (a memory) of the events of the preceding (to come before) night; just as the brain retains (to keep) on waking in the morning the dim (faint; not bright) and misty (veiled in mist) outline (the bounding line) of a dream.

0065m

As Danglars approached the disappointed (let down) lover (one who loves), he cast on him a look of deep meaning, while Fernand, as he slowly paced (a step's length; speed) behind the happy pair, who seemed, in their own unmixed (pure) content, to have entirely forgotten that such a being as himself existed, was pale (light in color; whitish) and abstracted (apart from real things); occasionally (now and then), however, a deep flush (a rush of blood to the face) would overspread (spread over) his countenance (the face; composure), and a nervous (easily shaken) contraction (a shortened form) distort (to twist out of true shape) his features, while, with an agitated (stirred up; troubled) and restless (unable to rest) gaze (a long steady look), he would glance (a quick look) in the direction of Marseilles, like one who either anticipated (to expect beforehand) or foresaw (saw beforehand) some great and important event.

Dantès himself was simply, but becomingly (in a becoming way), clad (to dress) in the dress peculiar (peculiar: its own; particular — the old sense here) to the merchant (a trader) service—a costume (dress; an outfit) somewhat between a military and a civil garb (clothing); and with his fine countenance (the face; composure), radiant (shining with light) with joy and happiness (the state of joy), a more perfect specimen (a sample; example) of manly (like a man) beauty could scarcely (hardly) be imagined.

Lovely as the Greek girls of Cyprus (an island of the eastern Mediterranean, and a wine from it) or Chios (a Greek island), Mercédès boasted (to praise oneself) the same bright flashing (a sudden burst of light) eyes of jet (a leaping stream of light or water; the deep black stone), and ripe (ready for harvest), round, coral (the sea-stone of pink branches) lips (the mouth's edge). She moved with the light, free step of an Arlesienne (a woman of Arles in southern France) or an Andalusian (of Andalusia in southern Spain). One more practiced in the arts of great cities would have hid her blushes (to redden with shame) beneath (under) a veil (a thin covering cloth), or, at least, have cast down her thickly (densely) fringed (the hanging threaded edge of cloth) lashes (a whip stroke; an eyelash), so as to have concealed (to hide) the liquid (a flowing substance) lustre (a soft shine) of her animated (full of life; lively) eyes; but, on the contrary (opposite), the delighted (great pleasure) girl looked around her with a smile that seemed to say: “If you are my friends, rejoice (to be glad) with me, for I am very happy.”

As soon as the bridal (of a bride) party came in sight of La Réserve, M. Morrel descended (to go down) and came forth (forward; out) to meet it, followed by the soldiers and sailors (a man who works a ship) there assembled (to gather together), to whom he had repeated (to say or do again) the promise already given, that Dantès should be the successor (one who follows in office) to the late Captain Leclere (the captain of the Pharaon at the start of this story). Edmond, at the approach of his patron (a protector and supporter), respectfully (with respect) placed the arm of his affianced (promised in marriage) bride (a woman on her wedding day) within that of M. Morrel, who, forthwith (at once) conducting her up the flight of wooden (made of wood) steps leading to the chamber (a room) in which the feast (a rich festive meal) was prepared, was gayly (merrily) followed by the guests, beneath (under) whose heavy tread (to step; a step's sound) the slight (small; to treat as of no account) structure creaked (to make a dry rubbing sound) and groaned (to give a deep pained cry) for the space of several minutes.

“Father,” said Mercédès, stopping when she had reached the centre of the table, “sit, I pray (to speak to God) you, on my right hand; on my left I will place him who has ever been as a brother to me,” pointing with a soft and gentle (mild and kind) smile to Fernand; but her words and look seemed to inflict (to lay a blow or hurt upon) the direst (dreadful) torture (torment inflicted) on him, for his lips (the mouth's edge) became ghastly (horrible; deathly pale) pale (light in color; whitish), and even beneath (under) the dark hue (a colour; shade) of his complexion (the color of the face) the blood might be seen retreating (a falling back) as though some sudden (without warning) pang (a sharp stab of pain) drove it back to the heart.

During this time, Dantès, at the opposite side of the table, had been occupied (to hold; to fill) in similarly (in like manner) placing his most honored (given honor) guests. M. Morrel was seated at his right hand, Danglars at his left; while, at a sign from Edmond, the rest of the company ranged themselves as they found it most agreeable (pleasant).

Then they began to pass around the dusky (dark; dark-skinned), piquant (sharply interesting), Arlesian (of Arles in southern France) sausages (chopped meat in a skin), and lobsters (the clawed shellfish) in their dazzling (blinded by brightness) red cuirasses (a breastplate), prawns (a small shellfish eaten as food) of large size and brilliant color, the echinus (a sea urchin; also a moulding on a column) with its prickly (thorny) outside and dainty (fine and small) morsel (a small tasty piece) within, the clovis (an early king of the Franks), esteemed (high regard) by the epicures (a lover of fine things) of the South as more than rivalling (one striving for the same prize) the exquisite (perfectly fine and delicate) flavor (taste) of the oyster (the shellfish eaten from its shell), North. All the delicacies (a choice fine food; fine sensitivity), in fact, that are cast up by the wash (to clean with water) of waters on the sandy (covered with sand) beach, and styled by the grateful (full of thanks) fishermen (one who fishes) “fruits of the sea.”

“A pretty silence (the absence of sound) truly!” said the old father of the bridegroom (a man on his wedding day), as he carried to his lips (the mouth's edge) a glass of wine of the hue (a colour; shade) and brightness (shining light) of the topaz (a yellow gem), and which had just been placed before Mercédès herself. “Now, would anybody think that this room contained a happy, merry (full of cheer) party, who desire nothing better than to laugh and dance the hours away?”

“Ah,” sighed (a long sad breath) Caderousse, “a man cannot always feel happy because he is about to be married.”

“The truth is,” replied Dantès, “that I am too happy for noisy (full of noise) mirth (laughter and good cheer); if that is what you meant by your observation (careful watching; a remark), my worthy (deserving) friend, you are right; joy takes a strange effect at times, it seems to oppress (weighed down) us almost the same as sorrow (deep sadness).”

Danglars looked towards Fernand, whose excitable (quick to be stirred up) nature received and betrayed (to give up to an enemy; to be false to) each fresh impression (a mark on the mind).

“Why, what ails (to be sick) you?” asked he of Edmond. “Do you fear any approaching evil? I should say that you were the happiest man alive at this instant (a moment; immediate).”

“And that is the very thing that alarms (sudden fear; a warning) me,” returned Dantès. “Man does not appear to me to be intended to enjoy felicity (happiness) so unmixed (pure); happiness (the state of joy) is like the enchanted (delighted as by magic) palaces (the house of a king) we read of in our childhood, where fierce (savagely violent), fiery (like fire) dragons (the fabled fire serpent) defend (to guard against attack) the entrance (the way in) and approach; and monsters (a dreadful unnatural creature) of all shapes and kinds, requiring to be overcome (to conquer; overpowered) ere (before — an old word) victory is ours (belonging to us). I own that I am lost in wonder to find myself promoted to an honor of which I feel myself unworthy (not worthy)—that of being the husband of Mercédès.”

“Nay (no, in old speech), nay (no, in old speech)!” cried Caderousse, smiling, “you have not attained (to reach; achieve) that honor yet. Mercédès is not yet your wife. Just assume the tone (a sound's quality; a manner) and manner of a husband, and see how she will remind (to bring back to mind) you that your hour is not yet come!”

The bride (a woman on her wedding day) blushed (to redden with shame), while Fernand, restless (unable to rest) and uneasy (uncomfortable and anxious), seemed to start at every fresh sound, and from time to time wiped (to rub clean) away the large drops of perspiration (sweat) that gathered (to bring together) on his brow (the forehead).

“Well, never mind that, neighbor (one who lives near) Caderousse; it is not worthwhile (worth the trouble) to contradict (to say the opposite) me for such a trifle (a thing of no importance) as that. ’Tis (it is) true that Mercédès is not actually my wife; but,” added he, drawing out his watch, “in an hour and a half she will be.”

A general exclamation (a cry of surprise or feeling) of surprise ran round the table, with the exception (a case left out) of the elder (the eldest) Dantès, whose laugh displayed the still perfect beauty of his large white teeth. Mercédès looked pleased (made glad) and gratified (to please; satisfy), while Fernand grasped (to seize; to understand) the handle of his knife (the cutting blade) with a convulsive (violently shaking) clutch (to grip hard).

“In an hour?” inquired (to ask) Danglars, turning pale (light in color; whitish). “How is that, my friend?”

“Why, thus it is,” replied Dantès. “Thanks to the influence of M. Morrel, to whom, next to my father, I owe (to be in debt for) every blessing (God's favor called down) I enjoy, every difficulty (hardness; trouble) has been removed. We have purchased permission to waive (waived: set aside) the usual delay (to put off); and at half-past (thirty minutes after the hour) two o’clock (the time-keeping machine) the Mayor of Marseilles will be waiting for us at the city hall. Now, as a quarter-past (fifteen minutes after) one has already struck, I do not consider I have asserted (to state firmly) too much in saying, that, in another hour and thirty (thirty) minutes Mercédès will have become Madame Dantès.”

0069m

Fernand closed his eyes, a burning sensation (a feeling; a public stir) passed across his brow (the forehead), and he was compelled (to force) to support himself by the table to prevent his falling from his chair; but in spite (ill will) of all his efforts, he could not refrain (to hold back from) from uttering (complete; to speak) a deep groan (to give a deep pained cry), which, however, was lost amid (in the middle of) the noisy (full of noise) felicitations (congratulations) of the company.

“Upon my word,” cried the old man, “you make short work of this kind of affair (a matter or piece of business). Arrived here only yesterday morning, and married today at three o’clock (the time-keeping machine)! Commend (to praise; entrust) me to a sailor (a man who works a ship) for going the quick way to work!”

“But,” asked Danglars, in a timid (shy and fearful) tone (a sound's quality; a manner), “how did you manage about the other formalities (strict formal order)—the contract—the settlement (a fixed agreement; a dwelling place)?”

“The contract,” answered Dantès, laughingly (with laughter), “it didn (did — didn't: did not)’t take long to fix that. Mercédès has no fortune (wealth; luck); I have none to settle (to fix in place; to bring to rest) on her. So, you see, our papers were quickly written out, and certainly do not come very expensive.” This joke elicited (to draw out) a fresh burst (to break open suddenly) of applause (clapping approval).

“So that what we presumed (to take for granted) to be merely (only) the betrothal (a promise of marriage) feast (a rich festive meal) turns out to be the actual wedding dinner!” said Danglars.

“No, no,” answered Dantès; “don’t imagine I am going to put you off in that shabby (worn and poor-looking) manner. Tomorrow morning I start for Paris; four days to go, and the same to return, with one day to discharge (to fire off; to release) the commission entrusted (to give into another's care) to me, is all the time I shall be absent (away; not present). I shall be back here by the first of March, and on the second I give my real marriage feast (a rich festive meal).”

This prospect (the view ahead) of fresh festivity (joyful celebration) redoubled (to double again; redoubling: greatly increasing) the hilarity (loud laughing fun) of the guests to such a degree, that the elder (the eldest) Dantès, who, at the commencement (a beginning) of the repast (a meal), had commented upon the silence (the absence of sound) that prevailed (to win through; be widespread), now found it difficult, amid (in the middle of) the general din (a loud continued noise) of voices, to obtain (to get) a moment’s tranquillity (untroubled calm) in which to drink to the health and prosperity (thriving fortune) of the bride (a woman on her wedding day) and bridegroom (a man on his wedding day).

Dantès, perceiving (to see and grasp) the affectionate (full of warm love) eagerness (keen desire) of his father, responded by a look of grateful (full of thanks) pleasure; while Mercédès glanced (a quick look) at the clock (the time-keeping machine) and made an expressive (showing feeling) gesture (a meaning movement) to Edmond.

Around the table reigned (the rule of a king) that noisy (full of noise) hilarity (loud laughing fun) which usually prevails (to win through; be widespread) at such a time among people sufficiently (enough) free from the demands of social position not to feel the trammels (held back; tied down) of etiquette (the rules of polite conduct). Such as at the commencement (a beginning) of the repast (a meal) had not been able to seat themselves according to their inclination (a leaning toward; liking) rose unceremoniously (without ceremony), and sought out more agreeable (pleasant) companions (one who keeps company). Everybody talked at once, without waiting for a reply and each one seemed to be contented with expressing his or her own thoughts.

Fernand’s paleness (want of colour) appeared to have communicated (to make known to) itself to Danglars. As for Fernand himself, he seemed to be enduring (to bear; to last) the tortures (torment inflicted) of the damned (condemned; cursed); unable to rest, he was among the first to quit the table, and, as though seeking to avoid the hilarious (causing loud laughter) mirth (laughter and good cheer) that rose in such deafening (loud enough to deafen) sounds, he continued, in utter (complete; to speak) silence (the absence of sound), to pace (a step's length; speed) the farther (farther) end of the salon (a drawing room, in French; also the Paris art show).

Caderousse approached him just as Danglars, whom Fernand seemed most anxious (full of worry) to avoid, had joined him in a corner of the room.

“Upon my word,” said Caderousse, from whose mind the friendly treatment of Dantès, united with the effect of the excellent wine he had partaken (to take a share in) of, had effaced (to wipe away) every feeling of envy (pain at another's good) or jealousy (envious fear of a rival) at Dantès’ good fortune (wealth; luck),—“upon my word, Dantès is a downright (plain and complete) good fellow, and when I see him sitting there beside (at the side of) his pretty wife that is so soon to be. I cannot help thinking it would have been a great pity (sorrow for another's pain) to have served him that trick (a deceiving act) you were planning yesterday.”

“Oh, there was no harm (hurt; damage) meant,” answered Danglars; “at first I certainly did feel somewhat uneasy (uncomfortable and anxious) as to what Fernand might be tempted (to try to lead into wrong) to do; but when I saw how completely he had mastered his feelings, even so far as to become one of his rival (one striving for the same prize)’s attendants (a serving companion), I knew there was no further cause for apprehension (fear of what may come; understanding).” Caderousse looked full at Fernand—he was ghastly (horrible; deathly pale) pale (light in color; whitish).

“Certainly,” continued Danglars, “the sacrifice (an offering given up) was no trifling (of no importance) one, when the beauty of the bride (a woman on her wedding day) is concerned. Upon my soul, that future captain of mine is a lucky dog! Gad! I only wish he would let me take his place.”

“Shall we not set forth (forward; out)?” asked the sweet, silvery (like silver) voice of Mercédès; “two o’clock (the time-keeping machine) has just struck, and you know we are expected in a quarter of an hour.”

0071m

“To be sure!—to be sure!” cried Dantès, eagerly (with eager keenness) quitting the table; “let us go directly!”

His words were re-echoed (echoed back again) by the whole party, with vociferous (loud and insistent) cheers (a shout of joy; good spirits).

At this moment Danglars, who had been incessantly (without stopping) observing (to watch; to remark) every change in Fernand’s look and manner, saw him stagger (to walk unsteadily) and fall back, with an almost convulsive (violently shaking) spasm (a sudden fit), against a seat placed near one of the open windows. At the same instant (a moment; immediate) his ear (the organ of hearing) caught a sort of indistinct (not clear) sound on the stairs (a step of a flight), followed by the measured (in careful measure) tread (to step; a step's sound) of soldiery (soldiers taken together), with the clanking (a harsh metallic rattle) of swords (the long blade weapon) and military accoutrements (outfit; dress and gear); then came a hum (to make a low steady sound) and buzz (the hum of insects) as of many voices, so as to deaden (to dull) even the noisy (full of noise) mirth (laughter and good cheer) of the bridal (of a bride) party, among whom a vague (unclear; dim) feeling of curiosity (eagerness to know) and apprehension (fear of what may come; understanding) quelled (put down; crushed) every disposition (temper of mind; battle arrangement) to talk, and almost instantaneously (in an instant) the most deathlike (like death) stillness (quiet; no movement) prevailed (to win through; be widespread).

The sounds drew nearer (closer). Three blows were struck upon the panel of the door. The company looked at each other in consternation (shocked dismay).

“I demand admittance (leave to enter),” said a loud voice outside the room, “in the name of the law!” As no attempt was made to prevent it, the door was opened, and a magistrate (a local judge), wearing his official scarf (a neck cloth), presented himself, followed by four soldiers and a corporal (of the body; the lowest army rank). Uneasiness (uncomfortable worry) now yielded (to give way; to give forth) to the most extreme dread (deep fear) on the part of those present.

“May I venture (a risky undertaking) to inquire (to ask) the reason of this unexpected (not looked for) visit?” said M. Morrel, addressing the magistrate (a local judge), whom he evidently (as plainly appears) knew; “there is doubtless (without doubt) some mistake easily explained.”

“If it be so,” replied the magistrate (a local judge), “rely (to depend on) upon every reparation (making amends) being made; meanwhile (in the time between), I am the bearer (one who carries) of an order of arrest, and although I most reluctantly (unwillingly) perform the task assigned (to give out to someone) me, it must, nevertheless (even so), be fulfilled (to carry out fully). Who among the persons here assembled (to gather together) answers to the name of Edmond Dantès (the young sailor this story begins with)?”

Every eye was turned towards the young man who, spite (ill will) of the agitation (troubled excitement) he could not but feel, advanced with dignity (noble worth), and said, in a firm voice:

“I am he; what is your pleasure with me?”

“Edmond Dantès,” replied the magistrate (a local judge), “I arrest you in the name of the law!”

“Me!” repeated (to say or do again) Edmond, slightly changing color, “and wherefore (why — old form), I pray (to speak to God)?”

“I cannot inform (to give knowledge to) you, but you will be duly (as is proper) acquainted (to make known to) with the reasons that have rendered (to give; to make) such a step necessary at the preliminary (coming before the main matter) examination (a close questioning).”

M. Morrel felt that further resistance or remonstrance (a protest) was useless (of no use). He saw before him an officer delegated (one sent to speak for others) to enforce (to compel by power) the law, and perfectly well knew that it would be as unavailing (unavailing: useless; helping nothing) to seek pity (sorrow for another's pain) from a magistrate (a local judge) decked (a ship's floor) with his official scarf (a neck cloth), as to address a petition (a written asking) to some cold marble (fine white stone) effigy (an image of a person). Old Dantès, however, sprang forward. There are situations which the heart of a father or a mother cannot be made to understand. He prayed (to speak to God) and supplicated (supplicated: begged humbly) in terms so moving, that even the officer was touched, and, although firm in his duty, he kindly (kind; gently) said, “My worthy (deserving) friend, let me beg (to ask humbly) of you to calm your apprehensions (fear of what may come; understanding). Your son has probably neglected (to leave uncared for) some prescribed (to order as treatment) form or attention in registering his cargo (the goods a ship carries), and it is more than probable (likely) he will be set at liberty (freedom) directly he has given the information required, whether touching (touching: concerning — the old sense here) the health of his crew, or the value of his freight (a load of goods).”

“What is the meaning of all this?” inquired (to ask) Caderousse, frowningly (with a frown), of Danglars, who had assumed an air of utter (complete; to speak) surprise.

0073m

“How can I tell you?” replied he; “I am, like yourself, utterly (completely) bewildered (to confuse utterly) at all that is going on, and cannot in the least make out what it is about.” Caderousse then looked around for Fernand, but he had disappeared (to vanish).

The scene of the previous night now came back to his mind with startling (giving a sudden shock) clearness (clarity). The painful (full of pain) catastrophe (a sudden great disaster) he had just witnessed (witness: consider as proof — the old sense here) appeared effectually (with real effect) to have rent away the veil (a thin covering cloth) which the intoxication (drunkenness; carried-away joy) of the evening before had raised between himself and his memory.

“So, so,” said he, in a hoarse (rough and husky of voice) and choking (to stop the breath) voice, to Danglars, “this, then, I suppose, is a part of the trick (a deceiving act) you were concerting yesterday? All I can say is, that if it be so, ’tis (it is) an ill turn, and well deserves to bring double evil on those who have projected it.”

“Nonsense (words with no sense in them),” returned Danglars, “I tell you again I have nothing whatever to do with it; besides, you know very well that I tore (a drop of weeping; to rip) the paper to pieces.”

“No, you did not!” answered Caderousse, “you merely (only) threw it by—I saw it lying in a corner.”

“Hold your tongue (the mouth's organ; a language), you fool (one without sense)!—what should you know about it?—why, you were drunk!”

“Where is Fernand?” inquired (to ask) Caderousse.

“How do I know?” replied Danglars; “gone, as every prudent (careful and wise) man ought (should) to be, to look after his own affairs (a matter or piece of business), most likely. Never mind where he is, let you and I go and see what is to be done for our poor friends.”

During this conversation, Dantès, after having exchanged a cheerful (full of cheer) shake (to move quickly to and fro) of the hand with all his sympathizing (to share another's feeling) friends, had surrendered (to give up) himself to the officer sent to arrest him, merely (only) saying, “Make yourselves quite easy, my good fellows, there is some little mistake to clear up, that’s all, depend (to rest upon) upon it; and very likely I may not have to go so far as the prison to effect that.”

0075m

“Oh, to be sure!” responded Danglars, who had now approached the group, “nothing more than a mistake, I feel quite certain.”

Dantès descended (to go down) the staircase (a flight of stairs), preceded (to come before) by the magistrate (a local judge), and followed by the soldiers. A carriage (a wheeled passenger vehicle; bearing) awaited (to wait for) him at the door; he got in, followed by two soldiers and the magistrate (a local judge), and the vehicle drove off towards Marseilles.

“Adieu (goodbye, in French), adieu (goodbye, in French), dearest Edmond!” cried Mercédès, stretching (to draw out) out her arms to him from the balcony (a railed platform on a building).

The prisoner (one held captive) heard the cry, which sounded like the sob (to weep in catching breaths) of a broken heart, and leaning (to tilt against; thin) from the coach he called out, “Good-bye, Mercédès—we shall soon meet again!” Then the vehicle disappeared (to vanish) round one of the turnings of Fort Saint Nicholas (a man's name; also a Russian emperor).

“Wait for me here, all of you!” cried M. Morrel; “I will take the first conveyance (a means of transport) I find, and hurry (to move with haste) to Marseilles, whence (from where) I will bring you word how all is going on.”

“That’s right!” exclaimed (to cry out) a multitude (a great crowd) of voices, “go, and return as quickly as you can!”

This second departure (the going away) was followed by a long and fearful (full of fear; dreadful) state (state: ceremony; pomp — the old sense here) of terrified (filled with terror) silence (the absence of sound) on the part of those who were left behind. The old father and Mercédès remained for some time apart, each absorbed (to soak up; take in wholly) in grief (deep sorrow); but at length the two poor victims of the same blow raised their eyes, and with a simultaneous (at the same time) burst (to break open suddenly) of feeling rushed (to move with violent haste) into each other’s arms.

Meanwhile (in the time between) Fernand made his appearance, poured (to flow in a stream) out for himself a glass of water with a trembling (shaking finely) hand; then hastily (in a hurry) swallowing (to take down the throat; the swift bird) it, went to sit down at the first vacant (empty) place, and this was, by mere (nothing more than) chance, placed next to the seat on which poor Mercédès had fallen half fainting (falling senseless), when released from the warm and affectionate (full of warm love) embrace (to hold in the arms) of old Dantès. Instinctively (by inborn instinct) Fernand drew back his chair.

“He is the cause of all this misery (deep unhappiness)—I am quite sure of it,” whispered (a soft hushed voice) Caderousse, who had never taken his eyes off Fernand, to Danglars.

“I don’t think so,” answered the other; “he’s too stupid to imagine such a scheme. I only hope the mischief (playful trouble; harm) will fall upon the head of whoever (any person who) wrought it.”

“You don’t mention those who aided and abetted (abetting: helping in a crime) the deed (an act done),” said Caderousse.

“Surely,” answered Danglars, “one cannot be held responsible for every chance arrow (the bow's shaft) shot into the air.”

“You can, indeed, when the arrow (the bow's shaft) lights point downward (toward below) on somebody’s head.”

Meantime (the time between) the subject of the arrest was being canvassed (canvassed: discussed thoroughly) in every different form.

“What think you, Danglars,” said one of the party, turning towards him, “of this event?”

“Why,” replied he, “I think it just possible Dantès may have been detected (to find out) with some trifling (of no importance) article on board ship considered here as contraband (goods brought in against the law).”

“But how could he have done so without your knowledge, Danglars, since you are the ship’s supercargo (an officer in charge of a ship's cargo)?”

“Why, as for that, I could only know what I was told respecting the merchandise (goods for sale) with which the vessel (a container; a ship) was laden (loaded). I know she was loaded with cotton (the soft plant fiber), and that she took in her freight (a load of goods) at Alexandria (a great port of Egypt) from Pastret (a French family name)’s warehouse (a storehouse of goods), and at Smyrna from Pascal (a French thinker who wrote on faith and doubt)’s; that is all I was obliged (to compel; bind by duty) to know, and I beg (to ask humbly) I may not be asked for any further particulars.”

“Now I recollect (to call back to mind),” said the afflicted (to strike with suffering) old father; “my poor boy told me yesterday he had got a small case of coffee, and another of tobacco (the smoking leaf) for me!”

“There, you see,” exclaimed (to cry out) Danglars. “Now the mischief (playful trouble; harm) is out; depend (to rest upon) upon it the custom-house (the office where duties on goods are collected) people went rummaging (to search by turning things over) about the ship in our absence (being away), and discovered poor Dantès’ hidden treasures (stored riches).”

Mercédès, however, paid no heed (to pay attention to) to this explanation (a making clear) of her lover (one who loves)’s arrest. Her grief (deep sorrow), which she had hitherto (up to now) tried to restrain (to hold back), now burst (to break open suddenly) out in a violent (acting with great force) fit of hysterical (in wild uncontrolled fits) sobbing (weeping in catching breaths).

“Come, come,” said the old man, “be comforted (ease; consolation), my poor child; there is still hope!”

“Hope!” repeated (to say or do again) Danglars.

“Hope!” faintly (weakly and dimly) murmured (to speak in a low soft flow) Fernand, but the word seemed to die away on his pale (light in color; whitish) agitated (stirred up; troubled) lips (the mouth's edge), and a convulsive (violently shaking) spasm (a sudden fit) passed over his countenance (the face; composure).

“Good news! good news!” shouted (a loud cry) forth (forward; out) one of the party stationed in the balcony (a railed platform on a building) on the lookout (a watch kept; a watcher). “Here comes M. Morrel back. No doubt, now, we shall hear that our friend is released!”

Mercédès and the old man rushed (to move with violent haste) to meet the shipowner (a man who owns ships) and greeted (to welcome) him at the door. He was very pale (light in color; whitish).

“What news?” exclaimed (to cry out) a general burst (to break open suddenly) of voices.

“Alas (a word said in sorrow), my friends,” replied M. Morrel, with a mournful (full of mourning) shake (to move quickly to and fro) of his head, “the thing has assumed a more serious aspect (aspect: look; appearance — the old sense here) than I expected.”

“Oh, indeed—indeed, sir, he is innocent (free of guilt)!” sobbed (to weep in catching breaths) forth (forward; out) Mercédès.

“That I believe!” answered M. Morrel; “but still he is charged——”

“With what?” inquired (to ask) the elder (the eldest) Dantès.

“With being an agent of the Bonapartist (a supporter of Napoleon) faction (a party or group within a larger body)!” Many of our readers (one who reads) may be able to recollect (to call back to mind) how formidable (fearfully strong) such an accusation (a charge brought against someone) became in the period at which our story is dated.

A despairing (without hope) cry escaped the pale (light in color; whitish) lips (the mouth's edge) of Mercédès; the old man sank (to go down) into a chair.

“Ah, Danglars!” whispered (a soft hushed voice) Caderousse, “you have deceived (to trick; to mislead) me—the trick (a deceiving act) you spoke of last night has been played; but I cannot suffer (to bear pain or loss) a poor old man or an innocent (free of guilt) girl to die of grief (deep sorrow) through your fault. I am determined to tell them all about it.”

“Be silent (making no sound), you simpleton (a foolish simple person)!” cried Danglars, grasping (to seize; to understand) him by the arm, “or I will not answer even for your own safety. Who can tell whether Dantès be innocent (free of guilt) or guilty? The vessel (a container; a ship) did touch at Elba (the island where Napoleon was first sent), where he quitted it, and passed a whole day in the island. Now, should any letters or other documents of a compromising (a middle agreement) character be found upon him, will it not be taken for granted that all who uphold (to support) him are his accomplices (a partner in crime)?”

With the rapid (fast) instinct (inborn prompting) of selfishness (care only for oneself), Caderousse readily (willingly; easily) perceived (to see and grasp) the solidity (solid strength) of this mode of reasoning (the chain of thought); he gazed (a long steady look), doubtfully (with doubt), wistfully (with sad longing), on Danglars, and then caution (care against danger) supplanted (to take the place of) generosity (open-handed giving).

“Suppose we wait a while, and see what comes of it,” said he, casting a bewildered (to confuse utterly) look on his companion (one who keeps company).

“To be sure!” answered Danglars. “Let us wait, by all means. If he be innocent (free of guilt), of course he will be set at liberty (freedom); if guilty, why, it is no use (use: habit; custom — the old sense here) involving (to draw in) ourselves in a conspiracy (a secret plot).”

“Let us go, then. I cannot stay here any longer.”

“With all my heart!” replied Danglars, pleased (made glad) to find the other so tractable (easily managed). “Let us take ourselves out of the way, and leave things for the present to take their course.”

After their departure (the going away), Fernand, who had now again become the friend and protector (a defender) of Mercédès, led the girl to her home, while some friends of Dantès conducted his father, nearly lifeless (without life), to the Allées (walks, in French) de Meilhan (a street of Marseilles).

The rumor (an unproved passing report) of Edmond’s arrest as a Bonapartist agent was not slow in circulating (passed around) throughout the city.

“Could you ever have credited such a thing, my dear Danglars?” asked M. Morrel, as, on his return to the port for the purpose of gleaning (to gather bit by bit) fresh tidings (news) of Dantès, from M. de Villefort (the deputy prosecutor of Marseilles), the assistant procureur (the public prosecutor, in French), he overtook (to catch up with) his supercargo (an officer in charge of a ship's cargo) and Caderousse. “Could you have believed such a thing possible?”

“Why, you know I told you,” replied Danglars, “that I considered the circumstance (a fact or condition bearing on a matter) of his having anchored (the iron that holds a ship in place) at the Island of Elba as a very suspicious (full of distrust) circumstance (a fact or condition bearing on a matter).”

“And did you mention these suspicions (distrustful doubt) to any person beside (at the side of) myself?”

0079m

“Certainly not!” returned Danglars. Then added in a low whisper (a soft hushed voice), “You understand that, on account of your uncle (a parent's brother), M. Policar (a French family name) Morrel, who served under the other government, and who does not altogether (wholly) conceal (to hide) what he thinks on the subject, you are strongly (with strength) suspected of regretting (sorrow over what is done) the abdication (the giving up of a throne) of Napoleon (the French emperor and general). I should have feared to injure (to harm) both Edmond and yourself, had I divulged (divulged: made known) my own apprehensions (fear of what may come; understanding) to a soul. I am too well aware that though a subordinate (one under another's command), like myself, is bound (to tie fast) to acquaint (to make known to) the shipowner (a man who owns ships) with everything that occurs (to happen), there are many things he ought (should) most carefully (with care) to conceal (to hide) from all else.”

“’Tis (it is) well, Danglars—’tis (it is) well!” replied M. Morrel. “You are a worthy (deserving) fellow; and I had already thought of your interests (interest: the spectacle that draws a crowd — the old sense here) in the event of poor Edmond having become captain of the Pharaon.”

“Is it possible you were so kind?”

“Yes, indeed; I had previously inquired (to ask) of Dantès what was his opinion of you, and if he should have any reluctance (unwillingness) to continue you in your post, for somehow I have perceived (to see and grasp) a sort of coolness (calm lack of feeling) between you.”

“And what was his reply?”

“That he certainly did think he had given you offence (a wrong done; hurt feelings) in an affair (a matter or piece of business) which he merely (only) referred to without entering into particulars, but that whoever (any person who) possessed (to own; to hold) the good opinion and confidence of the ship’s owners would have his preference (a liking for one above another) also.”

“The hypocrite (one who pretends virtue)!” murmured (to speak in a low soft flow) Danglars.

“Poor Dantès!” said Caderousse. “No one can deny (to say no; refuse) his being a noble-hearted (high minded and generous) young fellow.”

“But meanwhile (in the time between),” continued M. Morrel, “here is the Pharaon without a captain.”

“Oh,” replied Danglars, “since we cannot leave this port for the next three months, let us hope that ere (before — an old word) the expiration (a breathing out) of that period Dantès will be set at liberty (freedom).”

“No doubt; but in the meantime (the time between)?”

“I am entirely at your service, M. Morrel,” answered Danglars. “You know that I am as capable of managing a ship as the most experienced captain in the service; and it will be so far advantageous (bringing gain) to you to accept my services, that upon Edmond’s release from prison no further change will be requisite (required) on board the Pharaon than for Dantès and myself each to resume (to take up again) our respective (belonging to each) posts.”

“Thanks, Danglars—that will smooth (even; without roughness) over all difficulties (hardness; trouble). I fully authorize (to give power to) you at once to assume the command of the Pharaon, and look carefully (with care) to the unloading (taking off a load) of her freight (a load of goods). Private misfortunes (bad fortune) must never be allowed to interfere (to meddle) with business.”

“Be easy on that score, M. Morrel; but do you think we shall be permitted (to allow) to see our poor Edmond?”

“I will let you know that directly I have seen M. de Villefort, whom I shall endeavor (an earnest attempt) to interest (interest: the spectacle that draws a crowd — the old sense here) in Edmond’s favor. I am aware he is a furious (raging) royalist (a supporter of the king); but, in spite (ill will) of that, and of his being king’s attorney, he is a man like ourselves, and I fancy (the imagination; a liking) not a bad sort of one.”

“Perhaps not,” replied Danglars; “but I hear that he is ambitious (hungry for greatness), and that’s rather against him.”

“Well, well,” returned M. Morrel, “we shall see. But now hasten (to hurry) on board, I will join you there ere (before — an old word) long.”

So saying, the worthy (deserving) shipowner (a man who owns ships) quitted the two allies (a joined friend in war), and proceeded (to go on) in the direction of the Palais de Justice (the courts of law in Paris).

0081m

“You see,” said Danglars, addressing Caderousse, “the turn things have taken. Do you still feel any desire to stand up in his defence?”

“Not the slightest (small; to treat as of no account), but yet it seems to me a shocking (causing horror) thing that a mere (nothing more than) joke should lead to such consequences (what follows).”

“But who perpetrated (to commit a wrong) that joke, let me ask? neither you nor myself, but Fernand; you knew very well that I threw the paper into a corner of the room—indeed, I fancied (the imagination; a liking) I had destroyed it.”

“Oh, no,” replied Caderousse, “that I can answer for, you did not. I only wish I could see it now as plainly (clearly and simply) as I saw it lying all crushed (to press to pieces) and crumpled (crushed into wrinkles) in a corner of the arbor (arbors: shaded garden walks).”

“Well, then, if you did, depend (to rest upon) upon it, Fernand picked it up, and either copied it or caused it to be copied; perhaps, even, he did not take the trouble of recopying (to copy again) it. And now I think of it, by Heavens, he may have sent the letter itself! Fortunately (by good luck), for me, the handwriting (writing by hand) was disguised (a hiding change of appearance).”

“Then you were aware of Dantès being engaged in a conspiracy (a secret plot)?”

“Not I. As I before said, I thought the whole thing was a joke, nothing more. It seems, however, that I have unconsciously (without knowing it) stumbled (to trip in walking) upon the truth.”

“Still,” argued (to reason against) Caderousse, “I would give a great deal if nothing of the kind had happened; or, at least, that I had had no hand in it. You will see, Danglars, that it will turn out an unlucky (without luck) job for both of us.”

“Nonsense (words with no sense in them)! If any harm (hurt; damage) come of it, it should fall on the guilty person; and that, you know, is Fernand. How can we be implicated (implicated: mixed up in) in any way? All we have got to do is, to keep our own counsel (counsel: the lawyer who speaks in court — the old sense here), and remain perfectly quiet, not breathing (to draw air) a word to any living soul; and you will see that the storm will pass away without in the least affecting us.”

“Amen!” responded Caderousse, waving his hand in token (a sign; a keepsake) of adieu (goodbye, in French) to Danglars, and bending (to curve; to bow) his steps towards the Allées de Meilhan, moving his head to and fro (to and fro: back and forth), and muttering (to speak low in the throat) as he went, after the manner of one whose mind was overcharged (overcharged: charged too much) with one absorbing (taking all one's attention) idea.

“So far, then,” said Danglars, mentally (in the mind), “all has gone as I would have it. I am, temporarily (for a time), commander of the Pharaon, with the certainty (sure knowledge) of being permanently (for good) so, if that fool (one without sense) of a Caderousse can be persuaded (to win over by words) to hold his tongue (the mouth's organ; a language). My only fear is the chance of Dantès being released. But, there, he is in the hands of Justice; and,” added he with a smile, “she will take her own.” So saying, he leaped (to jump) into a boat, desiring to be rowed on board the Pharaon, where M. Morrel had agreed to meet him.