# Letter 167: Anonymous to the Chevalier Danceny explained — Dangerous Liaisons

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

## What happens

An anonymous writer warns Chevalier Danceny that his duel with Viscount de Valmont is being discussed among the King's counsel and that a public prosecution may be initiated. The writer advises Danceny to keep a low profile and suggests he might need to appeal to Madame de Rosemonde, Valmont's aunt, who is reportedly planning to prosecute him.

## Themes in this chapter

### Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality

The anonymous letter highlights the tension between public tolerance of duels and the formal legal consequences, as well as the writer's hidden identity and motives.

### Revenge and Cruelty

Madame de Rosemonde's reported intention to prosecute Danceny suggests a desire for legal revenge following Valmont's death in the duel.

## Character check-ins

### Chevalier Danceny

Recipient of the anonymous warning about potential legal consequences of his duel with Valmont.

### Viscount de Valmont

Mentioned as the other party in the duel that is now under scrutiny by the King's counsel.

### Madame de Rosemonde

Identified as Valmont's aunt who is reportedly intending to prosecute Danceny.

## Key lines

> I have the honour to inform you, your late affair with M. the Viscount de Valmont was this morning much talked of among the King’s counsel within the bar, and that it is much to be feared the public officers will commence a prosecution.

I am writing to let you know that your recent duel with Viscount de Valmont was discussed this morning among the King's legal advisors, and there is a serious risk that public prosecutors will bring charges.

_The anonymous writer warns Danceny that the duel has come to official attention and legal action is likely._

> I recollect a Madame de Rosemonde, who, I am told, is M. de Valmont’s aunt, intended to prosecute you; if so, the courts could not refuse her petition

I recall that Madame de Rosemonde, Valmont's aunt, is reportedly planning to sue you, and if she does, the court would have to accept her case.

_The writer suggests that Valmont's aunt may pursue a private prosecution, which would compel the court to act._

## Links

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