The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
The Cabaret of the Image-de-Notre-Dame explained
D'Artagnan plans his departure from Paris, allocating time for farewells, errands, and rest.
What happens
D'Artagnan plans his departure from Paris, allocating time for farewells, errands, and rest. He visits Athos to say goodbye, then takes Raoul to collect rent at the Image-de-Notre-Dame cabaret. Amidst preparations for a public execution, d'Artagnan notices suspicious activity at the cabaret, including a man haranguing patrons and a fire being lit, hinting at a conspiracy.
Themes in this chapter
Class and Social Mobility
D'Artagnan's careful budgeting and collection of rent highlight his financial prudence and social standing as a former musketeer turned royal agent.
Court Intrigue and Deception
The suspicious activities at the cabaret, including secretive meetings and a fire, suggest a hidden plot or conspiracy.
Characters to notice
- D'Artagnan
Plans his departure, visits Athos, and goes to collect rent at the cabaret, observing suspicious behavior.
- Athos
Bids farewell to d'Artagnan, offering discreet support and advice.
- Raoul de Bragelonne
Accompanies d'Artagnan to the cabaret, expressing reluctance to witness the execution.
- Planchet
Mentioned as one of d'Artagnan's few remaining friends to whom he says goodbye.
Key passages
“My departure is to be at break of day, three o'clock in the morning; I have then fifteen hours before me. Take from them the six hours of sleep which are indispensable for me—six; one hour for repasts—seven; one hour for a farewell visit to Athos—eight; two hours for chance circumstances—total, ten. There are then five hours left.”
D'Artagnan calculates his remaining time before departure, allocating hours for sleep, meals, visiting Athos, and unexpected delays.
Shows d'Artagnan's methodical planning and discipline.
“I will go to the Image-de-Notre-Dame, and drink a glass of Spanish wine with my tenant, which he cannot fail to offer me.”
D'Artagnan plans to visit his tenant at the cabaret to collect rent and enjoy a drink.
Highlights d'Artagnan's anticipation of a simple pleasure amidst his busy schedule.