Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 163: M. Bertrand to Madame de Rosemonde explained
M.
What happens
M. Bertrand writes to Madame de Rosemonde to inform her of the tragic death of her nephew, the Viscount de Valmont, who was killed in a duel with the Chevalier Danceny. He describes Valmont's final moments, his magnanimous behavior toward Danceny, and the arrangements being made for the body.
Themes in this chapter
Revenge and Cruelty
The duel represents the culmination of revenge and cruelty between Valmont and Danceny, leading to Valmont's death.
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
Valmont's final act of embracing Danceny and calling him friend contrasts with the violent enmity that led to the duel, highlighting the gap between public appearance and private reality.
Characters to notice
- Viscount de Valmont
Killed in a duel with Chevalier Danceny; died after receiving extreme unction.
- Chevalier Danceny
Valmont's opponent in the duel; wept afterward and was forgiven by Valmont.
- Madame de Rosemonde
Recipient of the letter; Valmont's aunt, now bereaved.
- M. Bertrand
The writer; Valmont's steward, who witnessed the aftermath and arranged for spiritual aid.
Key passages
“M. your nephew had the misfortune to fall this morning in a duel he fought with M. the Chevalier Danceny.”
Your nephew died this morning in a duel against Chevalier Danceny.
Bertrand delivers the news of Valmont's death.
“He had two thrusts of a sword in his body, and was very weak.”
He suffered two sword wounds and was extremely weak.
Description of Valmont's fatal injuries.
“he even took his murderer by the hand, called him his friend, embraced him before us three, and said to us, 'I command you to have for this gentleman all the respect that is due to a brave and gallant man.'”
He took his killer's hand, called him friend, embraced him, and ordered us to treat him with respect.
Valmont's magnanimous gesture toward Danceny before dying.