Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 65: Chevalier Danceny to Cecilia Volanges explained
Danceny writes to Cecilia in distress after discovering that their correspondence has been discovered by Madame de Volanges.
What happens
Danceny writes to Cecilia in distress after discovering that their correspondence has been discovered by Madame de Volanges. He expresses confusion and seeks to understand how they were betrayed. He proposes using the Viscount de Valmont as an intermediary to continue their communication and possibly arrange a meeting, urging Cecilia to trust Valmont as their 'guardian angel.'
Themes in this chapter
Seduction and Manipulation
Valmont is positioned as a 'guardian angel' who will manipulate the situation to allow the lovers to meet, highlighting his role as a master manipulator.
Epistolary Form and Unreliable Truth
The letter reveals Danceny's limited knowledge and reliance on Valmont's advice, underscoring the unreliable nature of correspondence as a source of truth.
Characters to notice
- Chevalier Danceny
Writes in a state of distraction and love, seeking to re-establish contact with Cecilia.
- Cecilia Volanges
The recipient of the letter; Danceny worries about her grief and seeks her approval of his plans.
- Madame de Volanges
Mentioned as the one who discovered the correspondence and wrote a letter to Danceny.
- Viscount de Valmont
Proposed as the intermediary and friend who will help Danceny and Cecilia continue their affair.
- Marchioness de Merteuil
Mentioned as the person through whom Valmont initially planned to deliver a letter.
Key passages
“Ah, my Cecilia! what will become of us? What will save us from the miseries that hang over us? Love, at least, can give us resolution to support them.”
Danceny expresses despair at their situation but believes their love will give them strength to endure.
Highlights the theme of love as a source of resilience in the face of adversity.
“I am indebted for them to the anxiety of a worthy friend; and I only ask that you will permit my friend to be also yours.”
Danceny credits Valmont for the plan and asks Cecilia to trust him as well.
Shows Danceny's naivety in trusting Valmont, who has ulterior motives.
“He will make use of this pretence to go there at the same time that you do; and we can carry on our correspondence through him.”
Valmont plans to visit the same country house as Cecilia under the guise of family connection to facilitate their secret correspondence.
Illustrates Valmont's strategic manipulation of social conventions.