# A Lover and His Mistress explained — The Vicomte de Bragelonne

> Chapter companion for The Vicomte de Bragelonne by Alexandre Dumas.

## What happens

In the wake of Gaston d'Orléans's death, Malicorne and Montalais engage in a playful yet tense negotiation over a commission of lady of honor for Montalais. Their banter reveals a complex relationship of mutual need and manipulation, culminating in a kiss interrupted by Madame de Saint-Remy.

## Themes in this chapter

### Court Intrigue and Deception

Malicorne and Montalais's relationship is built on manipulation and hidden agendas, reflecting the deceptive nature of court life.

### Class and Social Mobility

Montalais's pursuit of a lady of honor commission highlights the importance of social advancement through court positions.

## Character check-ins

### Malicorne

A cunning clerk who uses his influence to secure a commission for Montalais, revealing his manipulative yet affectionate nature.

### Mademoiselle de Montalais

A proud and coquettish young woman who desires a court position and engages in a power struggle with Malicorne.

### Madame de Chevreuse

Mentioned indirectly as Madame de Saint-Remy, who interrupts the lovers' embrace.

## Key lines

> Your father has not twenty thousand livres a year for nothing, M. Malicorne.

Montalais implies that Malicorne's family wealth gives him influence.

_Highlights the theme of class and social mobility._

> I have given you a commission of lady of honor which you wished for; you will give me, presently, something I wish for.

Malicorne reminds Montalais of their reciprocal arrangement.

_Illustrates the transactional nature of their relationship._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_vicomte_de_bragelonne_se/chapters/77-a-lover-and-his-mistress
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_vicomte_de_bragelonne_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_vicomte_de_bragelonne_se/chapters