Progress of Cavalcanti the Younger — The Count of Monte Cristo

Andrea Cavalcanti has spent two weeks becoming what Paris wants. He has fake papers, cash, diamonds, and a story about his father's rich quarries at Saravezza. Meanwhile the elder Cavalcanti has already gambled away his journey money at the gaming tables in Lucca.

One evening Monte Cristo visits the Danglars house. The baroness receives him while Eugénie and Andrea sit with drawings and music. Eugénie escapes to her study with her singing teacher Louise d'Armilly. Andrea listens at the door he dares not enter. Monte Cristo watches everything.

Danglars returns and opens the study to Andrea. The young man sings at the piano while the banker keeps the door partly closed. Madame Danglars brags about her husband staying calm after losing hundreds of thousands in Milan. Monte Cristo notices how Danglars now hides losses that he used to talk about openly.

Talk turns to the Villefort family. Monte Cristo learns that Franz has broken off his engagement to Valentine. Danglars is pleased. He praises Prince Cavalcanti and treats Albert Morcerf like a rival who does not matter. When Albert arrives, Danglars keeps him waiting in the drawing room while Andrea stays at the piano with Eugénie.

Albert acts calm and polite, but Monte Cristo sees the strain. Danglars asks Monte Cristo to push Morcerf for a firm answer or a quarrel. Then a servant whispers to the banker. A courier has arrived from Greece with news about Fernand and Yanina. Danglars tells Monte Cristo the advice was excellent and begs him to take Albert away. Andrea stays behind, alone with Eugénie.