Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 123: Father Anselmus to the Viscount de Valmont explained
Father Anselmus writes to Valmont acknowledging his request to visit Madame de Tourvel.
What happens
Father Anselmus writes to Valmont acknowledging his request to visit Madame de Tourvel. He explains that despite her initial resolve, she has agreed to receive Valmont one last time on Thursday the 28th, on the condition that it is the final visit. Anselmus urges Valmont to embrace his conversion without delay, warning of divine justice, and offers his continued spiritual guidance.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
Valmont's purported conversion is a strategic pretense to gain access to Tourvel, highlighting the gap between religious appearance and manipulative intent.
Seduction and Manipulation
Valmont uses the guise of spiritual reform to orchestrate a final meeting with Tourvel, continuing his calculated seduction under the cover of piety.
Characters to notice
- Father Anselmus
Writes to Valmont, having interceded with Madame de Tourvel on his behalf; arranges a final visit and urges spiritual commitment.
- Madame de Tourvel
The person mentioned; initially determined in her resolution but consents to receive Valmont one last time after Anselmus's remonstrances.
- Viscount de Valmont
Recipient of the letter; his request for a visit is granted on condition it is the last; urged to pursue conversion.
Key passages
“I laid before her the motives and intentions that induced you to this measure.”
I explained to her the reasons and purposes behind your request.
Anselmus acts as an intermediary, presenting Valmont's supposed conversion to Tourvel.
“she consented to receive your visit, on condition nevertheless, it shall be the last”
She agreed to see you, but only if it is the final time.
Tourvel sets a firm boundary, though Valmont's intentions are far from sincere.
“Remember, whoever is silent to the calls of divine grace, exposes himself to have it withdrawn”
Remember, ignoring divine grace risks losing it entirely.
Anselmus warns Valmont of the spiritual consequences of delay, unaware of Valmont's duplicity.