The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
Remember! explained
Athos reveals to Charles II the secret of a million in gold buried by Charles I before his execution, entrusted to Athos for the benefit of his eldest son.
What happens
Athos reveals to Charles II the secret of a million in gold buried by Charles I before his execution, entrusted to Athos for the benefit of his eldest son. The king, initially despairing of his fortunes, is moved to hope as Athos recounts the final moments of Charles I and the word 'Remember!' that sealed his mission.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Loyalty
Athos's unwavering loyalty to the Stuart cause, keeping the secret of the buried million for over a decade.
Fate and Tragedy
The tragic fate of Charles I and the burden of his legacy on Charles II, now offered a chance at restoration.
Friendship and Betrayal
Athos's selfless friendship to the fallen king and his son, contrasted with the betrayal that led to Charles I's execution.
Characters to notice
- Athos
Reveals the secret of the buried million and recounts the final moments of Charles I.
- Charles II
Despairing king who learns of the hidden fortune and is moved by Athos's account.
- Parry
Mentioned as the aged servant accompanying Charles II.
- Grimaud
Leads Athos's horses, ready for the journey.
- Raoul de Bragelonne
Recipient of a letter left by Athos.
- The Blaisois
Entrusted with the house and the letter for Raoul.
Key passages
“Sire, I have still a few rolls of gold and some family diamonds left. Your Majesty will, I hope, deign to share with a devoted servant.”
Athos offers his remaining wealth to Charles II, calling himself a devoted servant.
Athos's initial gesture of support before revealing the hidden fortune.
“I am suffering at this moment something strange, and that is, the satisfaction of despair.”
Charles II expresses a grim contentment in knowing all is lost.
Charles's despair before Athos's revelation.
“I have always seen that it was in desperate positions that suddenly the great turns of fortune have taken place.”
Athos encourages Charles that great reversals often come from desperate circumstances.
Athos's hopeful counsel to the despondent king.
“The king knelt down on one knee: 'Comte de la Fère,' said he, 'are you there?' 'Yes, sire,' replied I.”
Athos recounts Charles I's final words to him through the scaffold floor.
The pivotal moment of the secret transmission.
“I have still a million in gold. I buried it in the vaults of the castle of Newcastle, a moment before I left that city.”
Charles I reveals the location of a hidden million in gold to Athos.
The secret that Athos now shares with Charles II.
“You see, sire, that I have remembered.”
Athos confirms he has kept his promise to Charles I.
The fulfillment of the 'Remember!' command.
