Monsieur de Beaufort

Also known as: Duc de Beaufort / M. de Beaufort / M. le Duc de Beaufort / M. le duc / monseigneur / the Duc de Beaufort / the duke / the prince · Family: Royal court · Role: duke · First appears: Chapter 3

In chapter 3, Monsieur de Beaufort is named among the distinguished clients whose dresses Percerin has made. By chapter 26, Athos is welcomed as a friend, and in chapter 27 the duke renews his friendship with Grimaud, his former protégé and respectful servant. He also offers to take Raoul with him to Africa as his aide-de-camp and son, declaring, “The king is sending me to make conquests among the Arabs.”

During the preparations, Monsieur de Beaufort announces his departure for Toulon, while Raoul confirms that he will leave France with him. In Paris, the duke distributes his valuables to raise funds, gives Raoul his commission, sends him ahead to Antibes, and orders the escort and provisions prepared for embarkation. He later invites Athos and his son to dine, then, at Toulon, takes Raoul in his arms and places him in the boat, separating him from Athos.

In Africa, Monsieur de Beaufort commands the attack while Raoul serves as his aide-de-camp. After Raoul is killed, the forces are victorious and the duke orders the white flag raised; the village and surrounding neighborhood prepare for Raoul’s funeral. Athos encounters the expedition’s aftermath, including the duke’s ruined white horse, and later looks for a soldier to guide him to Monsieur de Beaufort. Through the loss, the duke and Raoul remain bound as friends: “I lose a friend. You lose M. de Bragelonne.”