Julie’s trembling voice confirms what her father already fears — the Pharaon is gone. Morrel’s face collapses under the weight of the words.

Moments later, the room fills with sorrow and salt air. Madame Morrel enters weeping; Emmanuel follows; and behind them stand the Pharaon’s sailors, rough and sunburned, their faces lined with fatigue and loss. The Englishman, startled by their sudden presence, retreats into the shadows of the room.

At Morrel’s bidding, the old sailor Penelon steps forward — a man bronzed by years of sun and sea, his hat crushed in his hands, his manner humble yet familiar.

The old merchant nods, his voice soft but steady. “Then tell me everything, Penelon.”

⸻

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The Countdown of Monte Cristo is a daily podcast reading one page at a time from Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel — every day, for four years. Whether you’re starting from the beginning or joining mid-journey, each episode brings you deeper into the story of The Count of Monte Cristo.