Richis's Failed Protection of Laure
PerfumeAntoine Richis's desperate attempts to save his daughter from the murderer, culminating in her death and his strange adoption of Grenouille.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
Bearing strength in each eventdecreasingGrowing Fear
Growing Fear
The Murders Continue
Richis, the second consul, watched the murders with increasing dread. He realized his daughter Laure was the ultimate target.
Analytical Reasoning
He deduced the murderer was a collector of beauty, and Laure was the keystone. He decided to act.
Nightmare
He dreamed of Laure's murder and woke in terror. He resolved to flee.
The Escape Plan
The Escape Plan
Deceptive Departure
Richis staged a public departure for Grenoble, but secretly turned south toward the coast.
Destination: Monastery
He planned to ferry Laure to the Monastery of Saint-Honorat on the Îles de Lérins, a safe fortress.
Marriage Contract
He also arranged a quick marriage to the Baron de Bouyon's son, hoping a deflowered woman would be worthless to the murderer.
Night in La Napoule
Night in La Napoule
Arrival at the Inn
Richis and Laure stayed at an inn in La Napoule. He felt safe, not knowing Grenouille had followed.
Inspection of the Tanner
Richis checked the stable and saw a sleeping journeyman tanner (Grenouille). He dismissed him as harmless.
Peaceful Sleep
For the first time in months, Richis slept deeply, confident in his plan.
Discovery of the Murder
Discovery of the Murder
Morning Horror
Richis found Laure dead, naked, and shorn. The scene matched his nightmare exactly.
Grief and Rage
He was devastated. He identified her clothes and hair, then retreated to her room, unable to weep.
Determination for Revenge
He vowed to watch the murderer's execution and pour his disgust into the killer's eyes.
Adoption of the Murderer
Adoption of the Murderer
The Execution Scene
At the execution, Richis was overcome by Grenouille's perfume. Instead of hatred, he felt love.
Embracing Grenouille
He ran to Grenouille, calling him 'my son.' He adopted him as his heir.
Aftermath
Grenouille left the next morning. Richis was left with a hollow victory, his daughter's murderer gone.
autumn 1765
March 1766
night of March 1766
dawn, next day
15 April 1766
