Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 60: Chevalier Danceny to the Viscount de Valmont explained
In a desperate letter, Chevalier Danceny confides in Viscount de Valmont that all is lost, though he dares not write the cause.
What happens
In a desperate letter, Chevalier Danceny confides in Viscount de Valmont that all is lost, though he dares not write the cause. He seeks a meeting for consolation and advice, expressing his torment over a dearer object and relying on Valmont's friendship and understanding of love.
Themes in this chapter
Love, Virtue, and Corruption
Danceny's anguish over a 'dearer object' reflects the vulnerability and idealism of love, contrasted with the manipulative world he unknowingly addresses.
Epistolary Form and Unreliable Truth
Danceny's letter reveals only partial truth, as he dares not write the cause of his despair, highlighting the limitations and deceptions inherent in the epistolary form.
Characters to notice
- Chevalier Danceny
Writes in desperation, seeking Valmont's counsel and friendship after a calamity he cannot commit to paper.
- Viscount de Valmont
The recipient of Danceny's plea; Danceny trusts him as a friend who understands love.
Key passages
“Ah, Sir! I am in a state of desperation; all is lost.”
I am utterly desperate; everything has fallen apart.
Danceny opens with a dramatic declaration of total ruin.
“I dare not confide to paper the cause of my troubles; but want to pour them forth in the bosom of some faithful friend.”
I cannot write the reason for my distress, but I need to unburden myself to a trusted friend.
Danceny's reluctance to write the cause underscores the secrecy and trust required in their correspondence.
“You are sensible; you know what love is, and you are the only one in whom I can confide: do not refuse me your assistance.”
You are reasonable and understand love; you are my only confidant—please help me.
Danceny appeals to Valmont's reputation as a man of feeling and experience in love.