Cousin Pons offers a poignant tale of ambition, greed, and the bonds of friendship tested by the lure of wealth. At its heart, the story follows the life of Sylvain Pons, a man led by simple joys and deep artistic passion, whose existence becomes embroiled in the darker side of human nature. As he navigates social rejection and betrayal, his steadfast friendship with Schmucke stands as a testament to true loyalty amidst corruption.

The Life and Pleasures of Sylvain Pons

Living a modest life, Sylvain Pons is an unattractive man with one notable relative—his cousin, Monsieur de Marville, a notable figure in government. This familial tie affords Pons, often dubbed "Cousin Pons" by the de Marvilles, the rare privilege of dining at opulent homes weekly, fulfilling his refined taste for sumptuous meals. His role as an orchestra conductor and music tutor provides enough income to sustain his second passion: curating a collection of exquisite art.

An Unexpected Fortune

By his sixties, Pons inadvertently accumulates an art collection valued over a million francs, unbeknownst to him or others. His sole companion is Schmucke, a fellow musician, who shares Pons's apartment, brimming with priceless pieces. Their life, albeit simple, is enriched by the care of Madame Cibot, the portress, who attends to their culinary and cleaning needs. Schmucke's only lament is Pons's penchant for dining out, a practice that soon faces disruption.

Social Exile and Failed Reconciliation

Madame de Marville eventually becomes weary of Pons's presence at their dinners, prompting his retreat to home meals with Schmucke. The absence of social dining leaves Pons discontent, prompting a reconciliation attempt via matchmaking for Cécile, the de Marvilles' daughter. When this effort fails miserably, doors close on Pons, isolating him from both family and their acquaintances.

The Plunge into Illness

The realization that he has become an outcast devastates Pons, leading to a severe illness resistant to medical intervention. Schmucke, ever loyal, strives to manage their affairs with Madame Cibot's assistance, serving as both aide and caretaker. However, the portress's discovery of the art's value seeds a greed-driven plot, changing everything for the two old friends.

Avarice Unleashed

Madame Cibot, initially aspiring only for a modest bequest, soon conspires with a bric-a-brac dealer, Remonencq, and the art-obsessed Elie Magus. Magus, upon assessing the collection, agrees to pay Madame Cibot handsomely if she can coax Schmucke into selling four paintings to cover Pons's medical expenses. Unaware of their worth, Schmucke consents, replacing them with lesser art, unwittingly furthering Madame Cibot's schemes.

Legal Machinations and Betrayal

With newfound ambition, Madame Cibot enlists Fraisier, a cunning attorney, and a doctor, to secure the entire fortune. Fraisier warns of the de Marvilles' power, suggesting they could legally thwart her unless she aligns with them. With avaricious Madame de Marville now in the loop about Pons's wealth, she and her husband agree to Fraisier's plan, promising lucrative positions to the conspirators in return.

The Breaking Point

Pons, suspicious of Madame Cibot, confirms his fears when he finds Magus scrutinizing his collection. Rallying his waning strength, Pons spots his missing paintings and realizes Schmucke's unwitting role in the theft. Forgiving Schmucke's innocence, Pons orchestrates a plan to mislead the schemers by drafting a deceptive will naming Madame Cibot as an heir.

A Final Act of Defiance

To thwart the plot, Pons secretly changes his will, bequeathing his fortune to the crown with a provision for Schmucke’s lifelong annuity. Upon his death, the unworldly Schmucke becomes vulnerable without Pons's guidance, while the plotters prepare to seize the estate. The de Marvilles pursue legal action, gambling on Schmucke’s amenability to settle for...