# Letter 135: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde explained — Dangerous Liaisons

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

## What happens

Madame de Tourvel writes in despair to Madame de Rosemonde, revealing that she has seen Valmont with a courtesan and believes he no longer loves her. She recounts the painful sighting at the opera, her subsequent attempts to contact him, and her decision to request the return of her letters and end their relationship.

## Themes in this chapter

### Seduction and Manipulation

Valmont's calculated seduction of Tourvel is revealed as a cruel game, culminating in his public humiliation of her.

### Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality

Tourvel's initial belief in Valmont's love contrasts sharply with the reality of his betrayal, highlighting the gap between appearance and truth.

## Character check-ins

### Madame de Tourvel

Writes in a state of overwhelming despair and humiliation after witnessing Valmont with a courtesan.

### Madame de Rosemonde

The recipient of the letter, addressed as a dear friend and confidante.

### Viscount de Valmont

Accused of betrayal and deception; seen by Tourvel with a courtesan at the opera.

### Emily

The courtesan seen with Valmont in his carriage, who laughs at Tourvel.

## Key lines

> Valmont—Valmont no longer loves me! He never loved me! Love does not depart thus. He deceived me, he betrayed me, he insults me!

Tourvel declares that Valmont's love was never real, and his sudden change proves he has deceived and betrayed her.

_This outburst captures the moment of Tourvel's realization of Valmont's treachery._

> I perceived at a little distance before mine, and the range next to me, Valmont’s carriage: my heart instantly palpitated, but not with fear; and my only wish was, that my carriage should get forward: instead of which, his was obliged to back close to mine. I immediately looked out; but what was my astonishment to see beside him a well-known courtesan!

Tourvel describes the shock of seeing Valmont in his carriage with a courtesan at the opera, a sight that shatters her trust.

_This vivid scene is the turning point where Tourvel's suspicions are confirmed._

## Links

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