# Letter 123: Father Anselmus to the Viscount de Valmont explained — Dangerous Liaisons

> Chapter companion for Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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 Remember, whoever is silent to the calls of divine grace, exposes himself to have it withdrawn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._

## Links

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