# Letter 8: Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Volanges explained — Dangerous Liaisons

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

## What happens

Madame de Tourvel writes to Madame de Volanges, expressing her support for the proposed marriage between Cecilia Volanges and Count Gercourt. She praises Madame de Volanges's maternal prudence and shares her own happiness from a similar match. Tourvel mentions she is staying in the country with Madame de Rosemonde and notes that Valmont, her nephew, is also visiting. She admits she previously had a poor opinion of Valmont but now finds him agreeable and candid, though she doubts his reform will last once he returns to Paris.

## Themes in this chapter

### Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality

Tourvel initially judges Valmont by his reputation but finds him agreeable in person, highlighting the gap between public character and private behavior.

### Class and Social Standing

The letter emphasizes the importance of social connections and maternal authority in arranging advantageous marriages among the aristocracy.

## Character check-ins

### Madame de Tourvel

Writes to Madame de Volanges, expressing support for Cecilia's marriage and describing her country stay with Madame de Rosemonde and Valmont.

### Madame de Volanges

Recipient of the letter; praised for her maternal prudence and choice of Count Gercourt as a match for Cecilia.

### Cecilia Volanges

Mentioned as the subject of the proposed marriage to Count Gercourt; Tourvel hopes to form a sisterly friendship with her.

### Count Gercourt

Mentioned as the chosen husband for Cecilia, though Tourvel does not know him personally.

### Madame de Rosemonde

Tourvel's host in the country; described as delightful, with a youthful mind despite her age.

### Viscount de Valmont

Visiting his aunt, Madame de Rosemonde; Tourvel finds him agreeable and candid, though she doubts his reform will last.

## Key lines

> I only knew him by character, which gave me an unfavourable opinion of him, that now I don’t think he deserves.

I had only heard of him by reputation, which made me think poorly of him, but now I see he does not deserve that bad opinion.

_Tourvel revises her initial judgment of Valmont after meeting him in person._

> I am afraid, notwithstanding all his promises, eight days in Paris will destroy all my labours; however, his residence here will be so much gained from his general course of life, and I am clear, that the best thing he can do will be to remain in inactivity.

I fear that despite his promises, a week back in Paris will undo all my efforts; but at least his time here is a break from his usual lifestyle, and I believe idleness is the best thing for him.

_Tourvel expresses skepticism about Valmont's reformation and suggests that staying away from Paris is beneficial for him._

## Links

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