The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
M. Malicorne the Keeper of the Records of France explained
Two masked women, one of whom is Madame Henrietta, visit the wounded Comte de Guiche.
What happens
Two masked women, one of whom is Madame Henrietta, visit the wounded Comte de Guiche. Madame reveals herself and kisses his hand, then flees. Montalais, the other woman, keeps Madame's blood-stained mask as a keepsake and writes a report to Malicorne.
Themes in this chapter
Court Intrigue and Deception
Madame's secret visit, the use of masks, and Montalais's covert letter all exemplify the deceptions of court life.
Love and Sacrifice
Madame risks scandal to visit the wounded de Guiche, and her tears and kiss reveal deep affection.
Characters to notice
- De Guiche
Lying wounded in bed, feverish and delirious, visited by Madame Henrietta.
- Henrietta of England
Visits de Guiche in disguise, removes her mask, kisses his hand, and leaves in distress.
- Mademoiselle de Montalais
Accompanies Madame, writes a letter to Malicorne, and keeps the blood-stained mask as a memento.
- Manicamp
Leads the two women to de Guiche's room and then withdraws.
- Malicorne
Referenced as the intended recipient of Montalais's letter and as the future keeper of records.
Key passages
“Beautiful mask, stained with the blood of that brave knight, you shall go and join that collection of wonders, La Vallière’s and Raoul’s letters, that loving collection, indeed, which will some day or other form part of the history of France, of European royalty.”
Montalais decides to keep the blood-stained mask as a treasured artifact, alongside the letters of La Vallière and Raoul, foreseeing its historical significance.
Montalais's playful yet ambitious plan to preserve court memorabilia.
“This evening Madame has been to see M. de Guiche. Everything is going well on this side. See that your news is equally exemplary, and do not forget to burn this paper.”
Montalais writes a brief report to Malicorne informing him of Madame's visit and instructing him to destroy the note after reading.
A secret communication between Montalais and Malicorne about court events.