Twenty Years After · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Twenty Years After by Alexandre Dumas.
Chapter 1
The Ghost of Cardinal Richelieu
Cardinal Mazarin, alone in the Palais Royal, reflects on the growing discontent among the French people and the magistrates, who are enraged by his taxes and the sale of appointments. He fears the mob and the parliament, but resolves to manipulate the factions. He summons D'Artagnan, disguises himself as a musketeer, and sets out to inspect the outposts, confident in his ability to navigate the crisis.
Chapter 2
A Nightly Patrol
Mazarin and his party patrol the agitated streets of Paris, observing the growing unrest and the birth of the 'Fronde' movement. D'Artagnan leads the escort with stoic professionalism. Mazarin questions Guitant about d'Artagnan's past and seeks information on Rochefort. The chapter ends with Mazarin giving d'Artagnan a sealed order for the Bastille.
Chapter 3
Dead Animosities
D'Artagnan escorts Rochefort from the Bastille to meet Cardinal Mazarin. Rochefort and d'Artagnan renew their old friendship and make a pact to help each other. Mazarin questions Rochefort about his imprisonment and seeks his loyalty, but Rochefort refuses to guard the Duc de Beaufort, claiming friendship with him. Rochefort then tells the story of the diamond studs to pique Mazarin's interest in d'Artagnan and his former comrades.
Chapter 4
Anne of Austria at the Age of Forty-Six
Mazarin visits Queen Anne in her private chambers, seeking to uncover her past allies and press her into political action. Through a tense exchange, Anne defends her honor by revealing relics from her relationship with Buckingham, including letters and the knife used in his assassination. Mazarin, aiming to consolidate power against the nobility, urges her to recall the loyal servants who once aided her against Richelieu, specifically naming d'Artagnan. The chapter also introduces the young Louis XIV, who shows early signs of defiance toward Mazarin.
Chapter 5
The Gascon and the Italian
Cardinal Mazarin, seeking to employ d'Artagnan for a secret mission, recalls the musketeer's past service to the queen and offers him money to reunite his old friends Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. D'Artagnan, suspicious of Mazarin's frugality, accepts the commission but is disappointed to find the advance payment is only silver crowns.
Chapter 6
VI: D'Artagnan in His Fortieth Year
D'Artagnan reflects on his life since the events of The Three Musketeers, feeling lonely and adrift after his friends Athos, Porthos, and Aramis have left him. He has become a typical soldier, finding comfort in a relationship with a Flemish innkeeper in the Rue Tiquetonne. After being wounded in the Franche-Comté expedition and presumed dead, he returns to Paris to find the innkeeper's husband has reappeared. D'Artagnan confronts the husband, a Swiss man, and asserts his claim. Later, his former servant Planchet arrives through the window, seeking his help.
Chapter 7
VII: Touches Upon the Strange Effects a Half-Pistole May Have Upon a Beadle and a Chorister
D'Artagnan, seeking news of his old friend Aramis, tracks down Bazin, now a beadle at Notre Dame. Bazin rebuffs him, claiming ignorance of Aramis's whereabouts. D'Artagnan then encounters Rochefort, recently freed, who hints at plots against Mazarin. Using a half-pistole, D'Artagnan bribes a boy named Friquet to discover that Bazin regularly travels to Noisy, likely to visit a Jesuit convent where Aramis may be hiding.
Chapter 8
How d'Artagnan, on Going to a Distance to Discover Aramis, Discovers His Old Friend on Horseback Behind His Own Planchet
D'Artagnan, accompanied by his servant Planchet, sets out for Noisy to find Aramis. Along the way, they encounter a band of armed men lying in ambush, who mistake d'Artagnan for someone else. After a tense confrontation, the leader recognizes d'Artagnan's Gascon accent and withdraws his men. D'Artagnan and Planchet continue to the Jesuits' convent, where they unexpectedly find Aramis, who leaps onto Planchet's horse, leading to a dramatic reunion.
Chapter 9
The Abbé d’Herblay
D'Artagnan visits Aramis, now an abbé living in a Jesuit convent, and they discuss the political turmoil in France. Aramis criticizes Mazarin as an upstart and reveals his connections with the Fronde, while d'Artagnan remains cautious. They reminisce about their past adventures, fence with words about loyalty and ambition, and part as friends, each uncertain of the other's true allegiance.
Chapter 10
X: Monsieur Porthos du Vallon de Bracieux de Pierrefonds
D'Artagnan, guided by information from Aramis, sets out to find Porthos, now styling himself Du Vallon de Bracieux de Pierrefonds after acquiring the estates of Bracieux and Pierrefonds. Traveling with Planchet, he journeys through the countryside, eventually locating Porthos's château near Pierrefonds. Upon arrival, he is greeted by a prosperous and rotund Mousqueton, who joyfully announces his master's good fortune. D'Artagnan reflects on the contrast between Porthos's apparent happiness and his own disillusioned state, fearing that his mission to recruit Porthos for political intrigue will fail.
Chapter 11
XI: How d'Artagnan, in Discovering the Retreat of Porthos, Perceives That Wealth Does Not Necessarily Produce Happiness
D'Artagnan visits Porthos at his château Bracieux, finding him wealthy but unhappy. Porthos, now a widower with forty thousand francs a year, laments his solitary life and lack of adventure. D'Artagnan recruits him for the cardinal's service, promising a barony, and Porthos agrees, eager for action.
Chapter 12
In Which It Is Shown That if Porthos Was Discontented with His Condition, Mousqueton Was Completely Satisfied with His
D'Artagnan reflects on human discontent while visiting Porthos, who is unhappy despite his wealth and desires a barony. In contrast, Mousqueton is perfectly content and only wishes to be called 'Mouston' for dignity. D'Artagnan feels remorse for involving them in a new campaign, but Porthos eagerly prepares for adventure, while Mousqueton is dismayed at leaving his peaceful life.
Chapter 13
Two Angelic Faces
D'Artagnan and Planchet travel to Blois to visit Athos, fearing he has become a broken, drunken man. Upon arrival, they find Athos remarkably well-preserved, dignified, and living in a comfortable château. Athos introduces d'Artagnan to his guests and to Raoul, a young man he has raised. Raoul returns from an accident involving Mademoiselle de la Vallière, who has sprained her ankle. The chapter ends with the guests departing and Athos gently scolding Raoul.
Chapter 14
The Castle of Bragelonne
D'Artagnan visits Athos at his estate, Bragelonne, and is astonished by the change in his friend. Athos explains that he has inherited the property and devoted himself to raising the orphan Raoul, which has reformed his character. They discuss their past, including the execution of Milady, and the fates of their former comrades. Raoul returns from an accident, and the chapter ends with a supper where old memories are shared.
Chapter 15
XV: Athos as a Diplomatist
D'Artagnan spends a sleepless night reflecting on his reunion with Athos, noting his friend's intelligence and moral strength but also feeling unease about Athos's secrecy regarding the youth Raoul and the absence of Grimaud. The next morning, he observes Raoul sneaking out to visit a young neighbor, Mademoiselle de la Vallière, and overhears Athos discussing the boy's infatuation. D'Artagnan then attempts to recruit Athos for Mazarin's cause, but Athos vehemently rejects the Italian cardinal, praising the late Cardinal Richelieu instead. The conversation is interrupted by Raoul's return, and later d'Artagnan receives a letter from Mazarin ordering him back to Paris with a postscript to collect two hundred pistoles from the king's treasurer at Blois.
Chapter 16
The Duc de Beaufort
Mazarin, haunted by the fear of the Duc de Beaufort's escape, overhears a prophecy from his guards that the duke will escape before Whitsuntide. His superstitious nature is stirred, and he questions La Ramée, the officer in charge of Beaufort, about the security measures. La Ramée reassures him with details of the strong walls and guards, but Mazarin remains uneasy. He learns that a man named Grimaud has been placed as a deputy guard, and though he seems severe, Mazarin is not fully convinced. The chapter ends with Mazarin writing to d'Artagnan to hasten his return to Paris, reflecting the cardinal's persistent anxiety.
Chapter 17
Describes How the Duc de Beaufort Amused His Leisure Hours in the Donjon of Vincennes
The Duc de Beaufort, imprisoned in Vincennes, passes his time by drawing caricatures of Cardinal Mazarin and training his dog Pistache to perform satirical tricks that mock the cardinal and the court. Despite strict surveillance by Governor Chavigny and keeper La Ramée, Beaufort's rebellious spirit remains unbroken, and his entertainments serve as acts of defiance.
Chapter 18
Grimaud Begins His Functions
Grimaud, sent by Athos, presents himself at Vincennes and is hired as a keeper for the Duke de Beaufort. He immediately begins his duties by confiscating a leaden comb from the duke, earning the duke's hatred. Later, Grimaud reveals his true purpose: he delivers a secret note from Madame de Montbazon, promising escape. Grimaud and the duke plan a ruse involving tennis balls to signal a helper in the moat. The duke agrees to trust Grimaud and continue feigning animosity to avoid suspicion.
Chapter 19
In Which the Contents of the Pâtés Made by the Successor of Father Marteau Are Described
The Duc de Beaufort, imprisoned at Vincennes, receives a secret message from Rochefort hidden in a tennis ball, informing him that his deliverance is near. He arranges with La Ramée to have a pâté supplied by a new confectioner (actually his former maître d'hôtel, Noirmont) for a private supper on Pentecost. Grimaud, acting as an intermediary, dictates a note to Beaufort and reveals that the pâté will contain two poniards, a knotted rope, and a poire d'angoisse for their escape.
Chapter 20
One of Marie Michon's Adventures
Athos brings Raoul to Paris and presents him to the Duchess de Chevreuse, revealing that Raoul is the son of Marie Michon (the duchess herself). The duchess agrees to help advance Raoul's military career, while Athos prepares to leave for his own dangerous political ventures.
Chapter 21
The Abbé Scarron
Athos and Raoul attend a gathering at the home of the disabled poet Abbé Scarron, where the salon is filled with nobles and literati. The conversation turns to Scarron's loss of his pension due to Cardinal Mazarin's displeasure. Amid the social maneuvering, Aramis (the Abbé d'Herblay) and the coadjutor Gondy exchange secret words, while Madame de Chevreuse arrives and gives Athos a letter promising good reception for Raoul. Raoul is kissed by the duchess and later learns he will depart for the army of Monsieur le Prince. The chapter closes with Scarron observing the hidden plots and retiring for the night.
Chapter 22
Saint Denis
Athos prepares Raoul for his departure, giving him a sword and offering paternal advice. They visit the cathedral of Saint Denis, where Athos reflects on the legacy of King Louis XIII and Cardinal Richelieu, teaching Raoul to distinguish between the king and royalty. After an emotional farewell, Raoul departs while Athos prays in the cathedral.
Chapter 23
One of the Forty Methods of Escape of the Duc de Beaufort
The Duc de Beaufort, imprisoned at Vincennes, eagerly anticipates his escape, which he has been planning with the help of Grimaud. During a supper with his keeper La Ramée, Beaufort distracts him with talk of escape methods while Grimaud gags and binds La Ramée. They flee to the ramparts, where a silk cord is used to descend; the cord breaks, injuring Grimaud, but Beaufort successfully climbs down and meets Rochefort and other allies, escaping to freedom.
Chapter 24
The Timely Arrival of d’Artagnan in Paris
D'Artagnan arrives in Paris and meets Porthos at the Hôtel de la Chevrette. They visit Cardinal Mazarin, who offers them rewards for their service. News arrives that the Duc de Beaufort has escaped from Vincennes, and Mazarin orders d'Artagnan and Porthos to pursue him, promising a barony for Porthos and a captaincy for d'Artagnan.
Chapter 25
An Adventure on the High Road
D'Artagnan, Porthos, and Mousqueton pursue the escaped Duc de Beaufort, commandeering horses from Monsieur de Montbazon's stable and following the trail through the night, despite their own mounts collapsing from exhaustion.
Chapter 26
XXVI: The Rencontre
D'Artagnan and Porthos, pursuing the Duc de Beaufort on behalf of Cardinal Mazarin, encounter a series of ambushes. They fight fiercely, but are ultimately surrounded by Beaufort's men. Athos and Aramis reveal themselves as allies of the duke, leading to a tense standoff. The four former friends agree to a conference at the Place Royale to decide their future relations. Beaufort departs, and D'Artagnan and Porthos return to Paris, learning that one of their victims was Councillor Broussel.
Chapter 27
The Four Old Friends Prepare to Meet Again
D'Artagnan and Porthos discuss their recent meeting with Cardinal Mazarin, who compensated them for their lost horses but did not mention Porthos's barony. They prepare to meet Athos and Aramis at the Place Royale, though d'Artagnan is wary of their former friends' motives. Meanwhile, Athos and Aramis enter Paris, with Aramis urging caution and suggesting they go armed, while Athos laments the loss of their old friendship. They ultimately meet at the designated spot.
Chapter 28
XXVIII: The Place Royale
The four former musketeers meet at the Place Royale to reconcile after their recent conflicts. Athos mediates a tense confrontation, leading to a solemn oath of eternal friendship sworn on a diamond cross, despite their political divisions.
Chapter 29
The Ferry Across the Oise
Raoul, traveling toward Flanders, writes a letter to Athos expressing his loneliness and affection, then continues his journey. At the Oise ferry, he witnesses a young man and his horse drowning after the ferryboat breaks loose. Raoul heroically dives in to rescue them, successfully bringing the young count and his horse to shore, aided by the tutor d'Arminges.
Chapter 30
XXX: Skirmishing
Raoul and the Count de Guiche travel toward the front lines of the war, sharing stories of court and adventure. After a brief halt at Noyon and a night in Arras, they set out on a crossroad toward Bethune. Their tutor, Monsieur d'Arminges, urges caution, but the young men charge into a wood when they hear shots. They find Spanish soldiers attacking travelers, and in the ensuing skirmish Raoul is wounded and pinned under his horse, but de Guiche saves him. They capture one Spaniard and examine the victims.
Chapter 31
XXXI: The Monk
De Guiche and Raoul encounter a wounded man who begs for a priest before he dies. They ride to find one and meet a suspicious monk with a sinister appearance. Despite their misgivings, they compel him to attend the dying man.
Chapter 32
The Absolution
The executioner of Bethune, dying, confesses to a young monk that he was the instrument of a private vengeance, having killed a woman named Anne de Bueil. The monk, who is actually John Francis de Winter, reveals that the woman was his mother and, refusing absolution, stabs the executioner to death before fleeing.
Chapter 33
Grimaud Speaks
Grimaud is left alone with the dying executioner of Bethune, who reveals that the monk who stabbed him is the son of Milady. The executioner confesses that he revealed the secret of Milady's death in confession to the monk, who now seeks revenge against those involved. Grimaud, realizing the danger to his master Athos, rushes to warn him. He briefly meets Raoul and the Count de Guiche, urging them to destroy the monk if they ever encounter him again, then continues his urgent journey to Paris.
Chapter 34
On the Eve of Battle
Raoul and the Count de Guiche encounter the Spanish army near Lens and report to the Prince de Condé. The prince interrogates a multilingual prisoner with Raoul's help, then devises a battle plan to retake Lens and defeat the enemy.
Chapter 35
A Dinner in the Old Style
The four former musketeers reunite for a dinner at the Hermitage, where they gradually shed their initial formality through champagne and shared memories. They discuss Mazarin's corruption, the search for those who aided Beaufort's escape, and reflect on their past, particularly the execution of Milady at Armentières.
Chapter 36
A Letter from Charles the First
Queen Henrietta Maria and her daughter, Princess Henrietta, are in prayer at the Carmelite Convent in Paris, living in poverty and despair. Lord de Winter arrives from England with a letter from King Charles I, who is about to face a decisive battle at Naseby. The queen expresses her hopelessness and the dire state of the royal family, while de Winter seeks allies in France to support the king.
Chapter 37
Cromwell's Letter
Cardinal Mazarin receives a confidential letter from Oliver Cromwell, delivered by the enigmatic Mordaunt, in which Cromwell outlines the political situation in England and requests France's neutrality in the conflict against King Charles I. Mazarin, uneasy about the letter's implications and the arrival of Queen Henrietta Maria, agrees to send a reply but insists on secrecy. Mordaunt reveals his tragic personal history—his mother was assassinated, his fortune stolen, and his nobility stripped by King Charles I—fueling his hatred for the king and his service to Cromwell.
Chapter 38
Henrietta Maria and Mazarin
Queen Henrietta Maria of England petitions Cardinal Mazarin for aid for her husband, King Charles I, who is on the verge of a decisive battle against his rebellious subjects. Mazarin, though outwardly respectful, evades her requests, offering only hypocritical counsel and refusing to commit to sending men, money, or hospitality. The queen leaves in indignation, while Mordaunt, having observed Lord de Winter from a distance, waits outside to follow the queen's carriage.
Chapter 39
How, Sometimes, the Unhappy Mistake Chance for Providence
Queen Henrietta Maria, in distress over the plight of her husband King Charles I, meets with Lord de Winter to discuss finding the four former musketeers to aid the king. The young Viscount de Bragelonne arrives with a letter from the Count de Guiche announcing the French victory at Lens. Through Raoul, de Winter and the queen discover that the Comte de la Fère is Athos, one of the men they seek, and de Winter resolves to visit him immediately.
Chapter 40
XL: Uncle and Nephew
Lord de Winter is confronted by his nephew Mordaunt, who demands to know the truth about his mother, Milady. Mordaunt reveals that he has learned from the executioner of Bethune that de Winter and his accomplices murdered her. De Winter defends the execution, detailing Milady's crimes—poisoning his brother, attempting to assassinate him, orchestrating Buckingham's stabbing, and poisoning a young woman. Mordaunt, consumed by grief and rage, vows to hold de Winter and all involved accountable, declaring he has already killed the executioner. He leaves, leaving de Winter shaken but relieved that Mordaunt does not yet know the full extent of the conspiracy.
Chapter 41
Paternal Affection
Athos listens with paternal joy to Raoul's account of the battle and his service under the Prince de Condé. Their reunion is interrupted by Lord de Winter, who arrives deeply troubled after a visit from Mordaunt, Milady's son. De Winter reveals Mordaunt's Puritan allegiance and his role as Cromwell's envoy, and the two friends discuss their political alignment against Mazarin. They agree to meet the next day to visit Queen Henrietta of England.
Chapter 42
XLII: Another Queen in Want of Help
Athos and Aramis prepare to depart on a secret mission, exchanging letters and funds with d'Artagnan and Porthos. They meet Lord de Winter and visit the impoverished Queen Henrietta of England at the Louvre, where she seeks their aid.
Chapter 43
In Which It Is Proved That First Impulses Are Oftentimes the Best
Athos and Aramis travel to Boulogne with Lord de Winter, intending to sail to England. On the jetty, they encounter a mysterious young man who questions them about Cardinal Mazarin and later seems to follow them. Athos recognizes a resemblance to Milady in the young man, and de Winter appears agitated. Despite their unease, they board the sloop for Hastings, but the young man's final threat echoes after them.
Chapter 44
Te Deum for the Victory of Lens
The chapter describes the public celebration of the victory of Lens, with a Te Deum sung at Notre Dame. Amid the festivities, the political tension between the court and the parliament simmers. D'Artagnan and Porthos encounter Raoul, who is caught up in the turmoil surrounding the arrest of Broussel. D'Artagnan instructs Raoul to become a Frondist and acts as his guardian in Athos's absence. The chapter also follows Friquet's antics and the chaotic rescue attempts for Broussel, culminating in a confrontation where D'Artagnan spares Broussel's son, Louvières.
Chapter 45
The Beggar of St. Eustache
D'Artagnan and Porthos are received by Mazarin and then by Queen Anne of Austria, who thanks them for their service. Meanwhile, the coadjutor Gondy, after being slighted at court, begins to organize a rebellion, meeting with Louvières and later with curates who offer him key allies: Planchet, Rochefort, and a mysterious beggar named Maillard.
Chapter 46
The Tower of St. Jacques de la Boucherie
Gondy meets with Planchet, who offers his services to the Fronde, and then with Rochefort to coordinate the rebellion. Later, in the tower, a mendicant reveals he has mobilized ten thousand men for the uprising and signals the start of the barricades. The mendicant, a former Bastille prisoner, seeks Gondy's blessing and hints at a hidden past.
Chapter 47
The Riot
Gondy observes the nocturnal preparations for revolt in Paris, including barricades and arms distribution. The next morning, the city is in full rebellion. The Maréchal de la Meilleraie attempts to suppress the uprising but is surrounded and forced to retreat. Gondy intervenes, securing a promise from the marshal to demand Broussel's release. Meanwhile, Mazarin, alarmed, summons d'Artagnan and Porthos, who report the intensity of the revolt.
Chapter 48
XLVIII: The Riot Becomes a Revolution
The queen, Anne of Austria, faces a full-blown revolution as the Parisian mob demands the release of Councillor Broussel. Despite her fierce resistance, she is forced to sign the order after the palace gates are breached, with Mazarin and Gondy pressuring her to yield.
Chapter 49
XLIX: Misfortune Refreshes the Memory
Anne of Austria, furious over the people's uprising for Broussel, plots with Mazarin and the Prince de Condé to escape Paris with the king, intending to besiege the city. Mazarin warns of the dangers of civil war, but Anne is determined. Meanwhile, the Frondeurs, including Gondy and Rochefort, anticipate further conflict as Condé's return stirs unrest. D'Artagnan sends Raoul away to the army, and the queen, recalling d'Artagnan's past service, decides to write to him for help.
Chapter 50
The Interview
D'Artagnan receives simultaneous summons from Queen Anne of Austria and Cardinal Mazarin. He first visits the queen, who reminds him of past service and asks for his loyalty, then meets with Mazarin, who attempts to send him on a mission. Both appointments converge at five o'clock, and d'Artagnan suspects a shared purpose.
Chapter 51
The Flight
D'Artagnan orchestrates the escape of Cardinal Mazarin from Paris amidst political unrest. After a grand banquet at the Palais Royal, Mazarin entrusts d'Artagnan with the mission to escort the queen and king to Saint Germain. Disguised as an officer, Mazarin joins d'Artagnan and Porthos in a carriage. They encounter three patrols: the first laughs off d'Artagnan's jest, the second (led by Planchet) is deceived by a story of Porthos's injury, and the third, a menacing group, threatens to stop them. D'Artagnan prepares to force their way through.
Chapter 52
The Carriage of Monsieur le Coadjuteur
D'Artagnan, needing to spirit the queen and king out of Paris, commandeers the carriage of the Coadjuteur (Gondy) by impersonating him. He seizes the coachman, dons his cloak and hat, and drives the royal family past the guards, who mistake the carriage for Gondy's. The queen, king, and his brother escape to safety.
Chapter 53
How d’Artagnan and Porthos Earned by Selling Straw, the One Two Hundred and Nineteen, and the Other Two Hundred and Fifteen Louis d’Or
The queen and court flee Paris for Saint Germain in the middle of the night, with d'Artagnan and Porthos riding ahead to secure lodgings. Upon arrival, d'Artagnan cleverly profits by selling straw for beds at inflated prices, netting 219 louis while Porthos earns 215. Later, Cardinal Mazarin summons d'Artagnan and sends him and Porthos on a secret mission to England, promising d'Artagnan a captaincy and Porthos a barony.
Chapter 54
In Which We Hear Tidings of Aramis
D'Artagnan and Porthos visit Raoul at the camp near Saint Omer, comforting him with a fabricated story about Athos and Aramis being in Constantinople. They then travel to Boulogne, where they meet Mordaunt, who escorts them on a mission to deliver a letter to Oliver Cromwell. After a brief return to Paris, they witness the city's rebellious mood and receive a troubling letter from Athos.
Chapter 55
LV: The Scotchman
Athos and Aramis arrive at the royalist camp near Newcastle to warn King Charles I that Cromwell has arrived and that the Scottish army, led by Lord Leven, has betrayed him by agreeing to sell him to the English Parliament for two hundred thousand pounds. Despite the king's initial despair, Athos persuades him to attempt an escape across the Tyne into Scotland. However, as they prepare to flee, they discover the enemy has surrounded the camp, and the king's Highlanders appear to have turned against him.
Chapter 56
The Avenger
King Charles I, betrayed by the Scots, is surrounded by Cromwell's forces. Athos, Aramis, Lord Winter, and the disguised king prepare a desperate escape plan. Winter is killed by his nephew Mordaunt, who reveals himself as Milady's avenger. D'Artagnan and Porthos, having infiltrated the enemy ranks, capture Athos and Aramis to save them. The king is taken prisoner and led to Holdenby Castle.
Chapter 57
Oliver Cromwell
Mordaunt reports to Cromwell after the battle, revealing that he killed his uncle Lord Winter. He requests the two French prisoners (d'Artagnan and Porthos) as his reward, which Cromwell grants. Cromwell reflects on the nature of his servants and his isolation.
Chapter 58
LVIII: Jésus Seigneur
D'Artagnan and Porthos confront Mordaunt, who claims authority from Cromwell to take their prisoners (Athos and Aramis). D'Artagnan feigns compliance, requesting a written order, then orchestrates a clever escape. He signals Athos and Aramis with the cry 'Jésus Seigneur,' and the four friends flee together, leaving Mordaunt in despair.
Chapter 59
In Which It Is Shown That Under the Most Trying Circumstances Noble Natures Never Lose Their Courage, nor Good Stomachs Their Appetites
After escaping from the battle, the four musketeers regroup in a wood. D'Artagnan and Porthos urge a return to France, but Athos and Aramis resolve to stay in England to save King Charles I, having pledged their word to Queen Henrietta. Despite d'Artagnan's protests and practical arguments, Athos's noble resolve prevails, and the friends decide to remain together, with Porthos eventually agreeing. The chapter ends with them seeking dinner from a nearby house, blending high courage with earthly appetite.
Chapter 60
LX: Respect to Fallen Majesty
The four friends, having joined King Charles I's escort under Colonel Harrison, dine with the Puritan officers. D'Artagnan cleverly informs the king that the wounded man from the ambush is still alive, lifting Charles's spirits. Athos proposes a toast to the king, disguised as a toast to Harrison. After the meal, Athos reveals his intention to rescue the king before reaching London, though d'Artagnan considers the plan mad.
Chapter 61
LXI: D’Artagnan Hits on a Plan
D'Artagnan devises a plan to rescue King Charles I by befriending Captain Groslow, a conceited and stupid officer guarding the king. He arranges a card game in the king's room, using the game as a distraction to draw the guards away from their posts. The four friends position themselves strategically, and as the game progresses, they prepare to act.
Chapter 62
London
The four musketeers arrive in London, disguise themselves as Puritans, and witness the political turmoil surrounding King Charles I's capture and impending trial. They discuss the hopelessness of the royal cause, the role of Colonel Bridge in purging Parliament, and their shared desire for revenge against Mordaunt.
Chapter 63
LXIII: The Trial
King Charles I is brought before the high court in London, where a reduced number of judges preside. The four French musketeers—Athos, D'Artagnan, Porthos, and Aramis—attend the trial, witnessing the king's dignified defiance and the insults hurled at him. Athos publicly denounces the accuser, prompting a violent response from Mordaunt, but the friends escape. After the trial, they follow and execute a butcher who spat on the king, with d'Artagnan asserting his commitment to the king's cause.
Chapter 64
LXIV: Whitehall
Charles I is condemned to death. The four musketeers devise a plan to rescue him: D'Artagnan aims to eliminate the executioner, Aramis disguises himself as Bishop Juxon to enter the prison and inform the king, and Athos secures a boat for escape. Aramis successfully meets Charles, reassures him of the rescue attempt, and warns him to be alert. Meanwhile, the scaffold is being built outside the window. The chapter ends with the friends regrouping at the hotel.
Chapter 65
LXV: The Workmen
As the scaffold is built outside the king's window, Parry discovers that the workmen are actually Athos and Porthos, who are creating a trapdoor for the king's escape. Aramis, disguised as a deacon, gains entry with Bishop Juxon and informs the king that the London executioner has vanished and Athos is below preparing a way. However, a parliamentary officer arrives to read the death sentence, announcing that a substitute executioner has been found. The king prepares for death, while Aramis and Athos have coordinated a desperate plan involving a hidden passage and a fight to save the king.
Chapter 66
Remember!
King Charles I is executed on the scaffold. Athos, hidden beneath the planks, hears the king's final words and catches his blood. The king speaks to his children, prays, and gives the signal 'Remember!' before the masked executioner strikes.
Chapter 67
The Man in the Mask
After King Charles I's execution, the four musketeers reunite. Athos is distraught, having witnessed the king's death from under the scaffold. D'Artagnan reveals he followed the masked executioner to a house and set a watch on him. The friends resolve to hunt down the mysterious executioner, suspecting he may be a gentleman. They gather at the house, where Grimaud reports that a second man has entered, and they prepare to confront the occupants.
Chapter 68
Cromwell's House
Mordaunt meets with Cromwell in a secret London retreat, discussing the execution of Charles I and a failed rescue plot. Cromwell reveals he knew of the conspiracy and allowed it to proceed, having taken precautions. He grants Mordaunt permission to pursue the four Frenchmen. Later, d'Artagnan, Porthos, Athos, and Aramis corner Mordaunt in the same room, confronting him.
Chapter 69
Conversational
Mordaunt is confronted by the four musketeers in a tense standoff. After verbal sparring, Mordaunt chooses Athos as his opponent, but Athos refuses to duel him. Instead, lots are drawn and d'Artagnan is selected to fight Mordaunt. The duel begins but is interrupted by a sudden collapse of the ceiling, forcing the musketeers to flee.
Chapter 70
The Skiff Lightning
Mordaunt, having escaped the musketeers, rushes to Greenwich to board the Lightning, a felucca commanded by Captain Groslow under Cromwell's orders, intending to ambush and kill the four friends. Meanwhile, d'Artagnan, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis arrive at the port and board the same vessel. D'Artagnan, suspicious, conducts a thorough search of the ship, finding barrels of port wine and the crew's quarters, but fails to discover Mordaunt hidden in a temporary cabin. Exhausted, the friends settle in for the night, unaware of the danger lurking aboard.
Chapter 71
LXXI: Port Wine
The servants Blaisois, Mousqueton, and Grimaud discuss their thirst and devise a plan to steal port wine from the English. Grimaud enters the hold through a hole in the partition, but instead of wine, he discovers gunpowder and overhears Mordaunt and Groslow plotting to blow up the ship at a quarter past midnight.
Chapter 72
End of the Port Wine Mystery
Grimaud reveals that the casks aboard the felucca contain gunpowder, not port wine. D'Artagnan wakes his friends and explains that Captain Groslow and his lieutenant Mordaunt plan to destroy them. The four musketeers and their servants escape through a small window into the sea, cutting the longboat loose as the felucca sails away.
Chapter 73
LXXIII: Fatality
The four friends witness the explosion of the felucca after Mordaunt sets it on fire. Mordaunt survives and swims toward their boat, begging for mercy. Despite Athos's pleas to save him, the others refuse. Mordaunt grabs Athos and drags him underwater, but Athos resurfaces alone; Mordaunt's body floats dead with a dagger in its chest.
Chapter 74
How Mousqueton, After Being Very Nearly Roasted, Had a Narrow Escape of Being Eaten
After the harrowing scene at sea, the group finds a supply of food and wine on their boat, restoring their spirits. They are rescued by a Dunkirk craft and land in France. D'Artagnan and Porthos decide to separate from Athos and Aramis to avoid compromising them, as they are at greater risk for having betrayed Mazarin's mission. The friends part emotionally, with D'Artagnan and Porthos heading toward Paris.
Chapter 75
The Return
Athos and Aramis return to Paris after their mission in England, only to find the city in a state of civil war. They are detained at the gate by the Parisian militia but are recognized and assisted by Planchet, who has become a lieutenant in the civic guard. Planchet provides news of Raoul de Bragelonne and the political situation, while Aramis briefly suspects he sees Mazarin disguised among other travelers.
Chapter 76
The Ambassadors
Athos and Aramis return to Paris and go to the Louvre to report to Queen Henrietta about King Charles I's fate. They find the queen already receiving news from other ambassadors, the Duc de Châtillon and Monsieur de Flamarens, who falsely claim the king has been saved. Athos and Aramis expose the lie, leading to a tense confrontation and a duel arranged for the next day. Afterwards, they discuss their next moves, including the possibility of arresting Mazarin, and decide to seek allies among the Frondeurs.
Chapter 77
The Three Lieutenants of the Generalissimo
Athos and Aramis navigate the political and military tensions of Paris, visiting key figures like the Duc de Bouillon and the Duc de Beaufort, observing the Fronde's internal divisions and the looming battle at Charenton.
Chapter 78
The Battle of Charenton
Athos and Aramis arrive near the battlefield of Charenton, where a truce and conference are underway between the royalist and Frondeur leaders. They learn from the Duc de Châtillon that d'Artagnan has not been seen for six weeks and is believed to be on a mission to England. The truce breaks, and a fierce battle ensues. Athos and Aramis charge with their squadrons; Aramis fights with ferocity, while Athos remains calm. Aramis engages the Duc de Châtillon in single combat, narrowly avoiding a pistol shot and preparing to return fire.
Chapter 79
The Road to Picardy
Athos and Aramis leave Paris, which is in chaos from famine and factional strife, to search for d'Artagnan and Porthos. They follow a trail of clues left by their friends—carved messages on a table, a drawing on a wall, a barricading stone, a broken rapier blade, and a scratched name on a pewter plate—that leads them from Montreuil to Abbeville, Péronne, Compiègne, Louvres, and finally to Rueil, where they believe their friends are held. Despite the danger, they resolve to continue, with Athos considering a direct appeal to the queen.
Chapter 80
LXXX: The Gratitude of Anne of Austria
Athos obtains an audience with Anne of Austria at Saint Germain to plead for the release of his friends d'Artagnan and Porthos, who have disappeared after returning from England. Despite the queen's initial haughtiness and Mazarin's interference, Athos's dignified insistence and veiled references to past services force Anne to promise action. However, as soon as Athos leaves, the queen orders his arrest. Athos is taken by Comminges, but not before calling out to Aramis, who acknowledges the arrest calmly.
Chapter 81
Cardinal Mazarin as King
Mazarin manipulates Anne of Austria, refusing to abdicate despite the deputies' demands, and asserts his quasi-royal power. Anne reflects on past humiliations and the imprisonment of Athos, Porthos, and Aramis, while Mazarin plans to temporize and keep them confined.
Chapter 82
Precautions
Cardinal Mazarin travels to Rueil with Athos as his prisoner, ordering him to be lodged in the pavilion of the orangery. Comminges conveys Mazarin's refusal to place Athos with d'Artagnan, but agrees to pass a message. Athos learns that d'Artagnan and Porthos are also imprisoned nearby, and he exchanges a subtle signal with Aramis before parting.
Chapter 83
LXXXIII: Strength and Sagacity
D'Artagnan and Porthos are imprisoned in a pavilion at Rueil. D'Artagnan paces restlessly while Porthos sleeps after a heavy meal. D'Artagnan reflects on their 83 hours of captivity and rejects Porthos's simple escape plan, arguing that without arms or a password they would be caught. He insists on a more cunning approach, recalling their past defeat by Mordaunt and the need to preserve their reputation. Comminges visits, revealing that Athos is also a prisoner nearby. D'Artagnan feigns humility and resignation, asking Comminges to request an audience with Mazarin for himself and to convey his respects to Athos. After Comminges leaves, D'Artagnan joyfully tells Porthos they are saved, hinting at a plan for the night.
Chapter 84
Strength and Sagacity—Continued
D'Artagnan and Porthos, imprisoned in the orangery, devise a clever escape plan. D'Artagnan directs Porthos to use his immense strength to bend an iron bar from the window, then they lure two Swiss guards one by one, overpower them, and steal their uniforms and swords. After disguising themselves, they follow a mysterious cavalier who provides them with a password, allowing them to proceed deeper into the palace.
Chapter 85
LXXXV: The Oubliettes of Cardinal Mazarin
D'Artagnan and Porthos follow Cardinal Mazarin through the orangery of the castle of Rueil, discovering a hidden staircase leading to his treasury. They confront Mazarin, who initially offers them liberty, but d'Artagnan declares that they have their liberty and that the cardinal must buy back his own. They demand to see the Comte de la Fère (Athos) to settle terms.
Chapter 86
LXXXVI: Conferences
Mazarin, now a prisoner of Athos, d'Artagnan, and Porthos, attempts to negotiate his freedom by offering them a key to escape through the park. The three friends, suspicious but willing, accept the offer and force Mazarin to guide them to the wall. After climbing over, they discover Grimaud and a group of sixty men led by Aramis, who has been lying in wait. D'Artagnan reveals his knowledge of Mazarin's hidden treasure, further tightening their grip on the cardinal.
Chapter 87
In Which We Begin to Think That Porthos Will Be at Last a Baron, and d’Artagnan a Captain
The four musketeers, having freed Mazarin, transport him to Porthos's château at Pierrefonds. They plan to hold him there while negotiating terms. Aramis intercepts Mazarin's couriers and joins them. Raoul arrives, reuniting with Athos. Mazarin, realizing his predicament, agrees to hear their demands: Aramis seeks Normandy for Madame de Longueville and a papal exile for Mazarin; d'Artagnan wants a captaincy in the Musketeers; Porthos desires a barony. Mazarin negotiates, and the chapter ends with the friends pressing their conditions.
Chapter 88
LXXXVIII: Shows How with Threat and Pen More Is Effected Than by the Sword
D'Artagnan, having secured the capture of Cardinal Mazarin, prepares to travel to Saint Germain to negotiate with Queen Anne of Austria. He first secures the loyalty of Aramis, Porthos, and Athos, ensuring they will not release Mazarin. Arriving at Saint Germain, he presents himself to the queen, delivering Mazarin's letter and explaining the situation. He then boldly threatens the queen, arguing for the recognition and reward of himself and his friends, and presents a treaty that addresses the demands of the Fronde leaders but not their own, leaving their personal rewards to be negotiated orally.
Chapter 89
In Which It Is Shown That It Is Sometimes More Difficult for Kings to Return to the Capitals of Their Kingdoms, Than to Make an Exit
Athos and Aramis return to Paris to persuade the duchesses de Longueville and de Chevreuse to accept the peace treaty. Aramis convinces Madame de Longueville by promising her the viceroyalty of Normandy and other rewards, while Athos gently persuades Madame de Chevreuse, who eventually agrees. Meanwhile, d'Artagnan and Porthos escort the cardinal to Saint Germain. The royal procession returns to Paris amid a tumultuous crowd, and d'Artagnan defends the king and cardinal against an organized attack, killing one of the insurgent leaders.
Chapter 90
Conclusion
The four friends part ways after the Fronde ends, with Athos returning to Bragelonne, Aramis visiting Normandy, Porthos heading to his barony, and d'Artagnan preparing for the campaign in Flanders. Porthos reveals that the man he killed was Bonacieux, and d'Artagnan takes a new apartment while keeping his old room.
Chapter 91
Endnotes
The chapter consists of endnotes providing historical and explanatory references for the main text, including a note on Mazarin's secret marriage to Anne of Austria, a reference to The Three Musketeers, a mention of a secret passage in the Palais Royal, a definition of a sacerdotal officer, a description of the poire d'angoisse gag, and an explanation of the sandy hills near Dunkirk.
