THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO - CHAPTERS 89-91

THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO - CHAPTERS 89-91

I am chomping at the bit to finish this book! While there has been nonstop action things are wrapping up and I want to know what happens!!

The count returns home from the theater (where Albert has challenged him to a duel) to prepare for the next morning. A veiled lady waits in the shadows, and we all hold our breath. There is no longer any pretending. Who we now behold are Edmond and Mercedes. She has come to plead for her son's life, but also to state the simple fact that she never stopped loving Edmond and that she knew him immediately. Edmond gives her the letter that clears his name and condemns Fernand. Everything becomes clear. Edmond grants her wish, but in doing so believes that he has willingly sentenced himself to death. Honor is at stake. Mercedes knows differently, because she knows her son. Albert does appear the next morning and calls the whole thing off. He thanks the count for his revenge on his father without doing more. His quote referring to the greatest virtue being the ability to admit being wrong is fantastic. He states that it is impossible for them to be friends but they can respect each other. The count ends the chapter convinced that he is an "emissary from God."

The last thing to go over is the buried iron box - a symbol of new starts. Initially it was for the start of Edmond and Mercedes' new life that Edmond had earned himself. Buried, left behind - now to be used for the purpose of new life for Mercedes as she plans to enter a convent.