The Count of Monte Cristo, Chapter 95 summary

What happens

1. Eugénie summons her father to the drawing room, where she hopes family portraits counteract the influence of his business interests.
2. She refuses Andrea Cavalcanti because she wants independence, not a husband, and feels no love for anyone.
3. Danglars reveals his threatened ruin, but Eugénie says her artistic talents and love of freedom can sustain her.
4. He explains that Cavalcanti’s three million livres, or the expectation of receiving them, can restore his credit and support a railway investment.
5. Eugénie accepts after asking him to avoid using Cavalcanti’s money and securing complete freedom, but refuses to reveal her plans.
6. She agrees to sign within three days, sings with Mademoiselle d’Armilly, and prepares to make formal visits with her mother.

In this chapter

What to notice

Eugénie identifies freedom as her central aim. Her acceptance of the match does not include surrendering control over her actions.

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