The two coffins were placed on prepared platforms in the right-hand crypt belonging to the Saint-Méran family. Villefort, Franz, and a few close relatives entered the sanctuary alone.
Since the religious ceremonies had been completed at the entrance and there were no speeches scheduled, the crowd dispersed. Château-Renaud, Albert, and Morrel went one direction, while Debray and Beauchamp headed another. Franz stayed with Villefort.
At the cemetery gates, Morrel made an excuse to wait. He watched Franz and Villefort climb into the same funeral coach together, and a sense of dread washed over him. He returned to Paris in the carriage with Château-Renaud and Albert, but didn't hear a word of their conversation.
As Franz prepared to say goodbye to Villefort, the older man asked, "When shall I see you again?"
"Whenever you wish, sir," Franz replied.
"As soon as possible."
"I'm at your service. Should we return together?"
"If you don't mind."
