# Viscount de Valmont — Dangerous Liaisons character guide > Viscount de Valmont in Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Valmont, M. de Valmont, Viscount Valmont, the Viscount de Valmont **First appearance:** 0002-dangerous-liaisons ## Snapshot A brilliant, idle aristocrat who treats seduction as a campaign and ruin as a trophy, hunting the virtuous to prove nothing is beyond him. ## Who they are Valmont arrives at his aunt's country estate already notorious, a man whose conquests are counted in ruined reputations and who has never met a woman he could not dangle after. His one exception is Merteuil, whose resistance both stings and fascinates him, and their correspondence becomes a duel of vanity dressed as friendship. When a wager draws him toward the devout Madame de Tourvel, his sport turns into the story's central test: whether a man who has made a science of indifference can be caught by the very feeling he mocks. ## Relationships ### [Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/marchioness_de_merteuil) _psychological_ A manipulative and obsessive partnership of mutual exploitation and rivalry, bound by shared schemes and a toxic history. ### [Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/chevalier_danceny) _rivalry_ Initially friendly, they become bitter rivals over Cecilia and later Merteuil, culminating in a duel. ### [Cecilia Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/cecilia_volanges) _psychological_ Valmont seduces and corrupts the innocent Cecilia as part of his game with Merteuil. ### [Count Gercourt](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/count_gercourt) _rivalry_ Rivals in love and social standing, with Valmont actively working to cuckold Gercourt. ### [M. Bertrand](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/m_bertrand) _professional_ Bertrand is Valmont's devoted and long-suffering valet, managing his affairs. ### [Sophia Carnay](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/sophia_carnay) _social_ Casual acquaintances within the aristocratic social network, with no significant personal bond. ### [Prevan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/prevan) _rivalry_ Competing libertines who view each other as rivals in seduction and social games. ### [Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/marchioness_de_merteuil) _psychological_ A manipulative and obsessive partnership of mutual exploitation and rivalry, bound by shared schemes and a toxic history. ## In the story ### [Dangerous Liaisons](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/dangerous-liaisons) Introduced as a master manipulator and seducer, plotting his conquests. ### [Letter 2: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount Valmont, at the Castle of ⸻](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-2-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-valmont-at-the-castle-of) The recipient of the letter; Merteuil commands him to return to Paris and undertake the seduction of Cecilia Volanges as part of her revenge scheme. ### [Letter 4: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-4-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Author of the letter; reveals his plan to seduce Madame de Tourvel, describing his strategic approach and disdain for easy conquests. ### [Letter 5: The Marchioness de Merteuil, to the Viscount Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-5-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-valmont) Recipient of the letter; Merteuil criticizes his obsession with Tourvel and his refusal to obey her plans. ### [Letter 6: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-6-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Defends Tourvel, recounts his seduction strategy, and expresses renewed passion. ### [Letter 8: Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-8-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-volanges) Visiting his aunt, Madame de Rosemonde; Tourvel finds him agreeable and candid, though she doubts his reform will last. ### [Letter 9: Madame de Volanges to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-9-madame-de-volanges-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Described as a false, dangerous, and calculating libertine who targets women. ### [Letter 10: The Marchioness de Merteuil, to Viscount Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-10-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-viscount-valmont) Merteuil's correspondent, accused of being a 'timid slave' to his love for Tourvel and neglecting his usual bold tactics. ### [Letter 11: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-11-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-volanges) Defended by Tourvel as good-natured and respectful, with no amorous advances; his past and friendship with Merteuil are discussed. ### [Letter 15: Viscount Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-15-viscount-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Author of the letter; expresses jealousy and frustration over his lack of progress with Tourvel, and plots to use her surveillance to his advantage. ### [Letter 20: The Marchioness de Merteuil to Viscount Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-20-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-viscount-valmont) Addressed by Merteuil; she demands he seduce Tourvel before she will take him back. ### [Letter 21: From Viscount Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-21-from-viscount-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates his calculated act of charity and his satisfaction with the manipulation. ### [Letter 22: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-22-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-volanges) Performs a charitable act by paying a poor family's taxes and giving them money; denies the deed when questioned. ### [Letter 23: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-23-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates his calculated seduction of Tourvel, revealing his strategic restraint and manipulative confession. ### [Letter 24: Viscount Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-24-viscount-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Author of the letter; expresses despair and love, manipulates Tourvel with emotional pleas. ### [Letter 25: Viscount Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-25-viscount-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates his visit to Tourvel, describing his manipulative tactics and frustration at her resistance. ### [Letter 26: The Presidente de Tourvel to Viscount Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-26-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-viscount-valmont) Recipient of the letter; accused of insulting Tourvel with his declarations. ### [Letter 32: Madame de Volanges to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-32-madame-de-volanges-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Subject of Volanges' criticism; she describes him as a dangerous seducer who uses praise and ridicule to manipulate society. ### [Letter 33: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-33-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; Merteuil criticizes his letter-writing approach and urges him to change tactics. ### [Letter 34: Viscount Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-34-viscount-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates his ongoing seduction campaign, detailing his cunning methods to deliver letters to Tourvel despite her resistance. ### [Letter 35: Viscount Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-35-viscount-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Writes a letter of submission and defiance to Tourvel, professing his love while demanding to know his accusers. ### [Letter 36: Viscount Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-36-viscount-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Author of the letter; employs elaborate rhetoric to portray himself as a sincere, suffering lover while manipulating Tourvel. ### [Letter 37: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-37-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-volanges) Discussed as the subject of concern; Tourvel hopes to persuade him to leave the chateau. ### [Letter 38: The Marchioness de Merteuil to Viscount Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-38-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-viscount-valmont) Recipient of Merteuil's letter; she urges him to hasten his seduction of Tourvel and to help manage Danceny. ### [Letter 40: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-40-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates his calculated compliance with Tourvel's demands, setting conditions to maintain leverage in the seduction. ### [Letter 41: The Presidente de Tourvel to Viscount Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-41-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-viscount-valmont) The recipient of the letter; Tourvel accuses him of obstinately pursuing her and using her candor against her. ### [Letter 42: Viscount de Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-42-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Writes a letter of feigned obedience and suffering, manipulating Tourvel with requests for an interview and the names of his accusers. ### [Sequel to the Fortieth Letter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/sequel-to-the-fortieth-letter) Valmont writes to Merteuil, detailing his manipulative plans and his failed attempt to search Tourvel's bureau for letters. ### [Letter 43: The Presidente de Tourvel to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-43-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Addressee of the letter; Tourvel accuses him of bargaining for her gratitude and of breaking his promise to announce his departure. ### [Letter 44: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-44-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Exults in his discovery of Tourvel's love, but rages against Madame de Volanges's interference and plots revenge. ### [Letter 45: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-45-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-volanges) Has left the chateau, causing Madame de Rosemonde's grief and Tourvel's unease. ### [Letter 47: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-47-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates his debauchery with Emily and the Dutchman, and his plan to visit Merteuil. ### [Letter 48: The Viscount de Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-48-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Writes a highly emotional letter to Tourvel, describing his sleepless night and passionate agitation, and declaring his love while lamenting his exile. ### [Letter 50: The Presidente de Tourvel to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-50-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Addressee of the letter; his passionate letter is criticized and his motives questioned. ### [Letter 51: The Marchioness de Merteuil to Viscount Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-51-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-viscount-valmont) Merteuil's correspondent; she scolds him for being late and asks him to coach Danceny. ### [Letter 52: Viscount de Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-52-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Author of the letter; employs rhetorical and emotional manipulation to persuade Tourvel of his sincere love and to justify his past behavior. ### [Letter 53: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-53-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Reports on his manipulation of Danceny and plans to extract confessions. ### [Letter 56: The Presidente de Tourvel to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-56-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) The recipient of the letter; Tourvel accuses him of persistent and manipulative pursuit. ### [Letter 57: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-57-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Author of the letter; reflects on his manipulation of Danceny and criticizes Merteuil's approach, while also flirting with her. ### [Letter 58: Viscount de Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-58-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Author of the letter; employs rhetorical manipulation to portray himself as a devoted, suffering lover. ### [Letter 59: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-59-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Valmont writes to Merteuil, annoyed by Danceny's romantic woes and seeking direction. ### [Letter 60: Chevalier Danceny to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-60-chevalier-danceny-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) The recipient of Danceny's plea; Danceny trusts him as a friend who understands love. ### [Letter 63: Marchioness de Merteuil to Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-63-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; instructed to act as confidant to Danceny and Cecilia and to facilitate their secret correspondence. ### [Letter 65: Chevalier Danceny to Cecilia Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-65-chevalier-danceny-to-cecilia-volanges) Proposed as the intermediary and friend who will help Danceny and Cecilia continue their affair. ### [Letter 66: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-66-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Reports to Merteuil on his manipulation of Danceny and Cecilia, criticizes Danceny's scruples, and outlines contingency plans. ### [Letter 67: The Presidente de Tourvel to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-67-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; Tourvel demands he renounce his passion and accept friendship. ### [Letter 68: Viscount de Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-68-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Writes a passionate letter rejecting Tourvel's offer of friendship and reaffirming his eternal love. ### [Letter 69: Cecilia Volanges to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-69-cecilia-volanges-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Mentioned by Cecilia as someone she did not previously like but will now try to love because Danceny considers him a friend. ### [Letter 70: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-70-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Writes to Merteuil, reporting Prevan's challenge and outlining his calculated seduction of Tourvel, refusing her offer of friendship. ### [Letter 71: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-71-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates the letter, boasting of his seduction of the Viscountess de M⸺ and his clever ruse to save her from discovery. ### [Letter 72: Chevalier Danceny to Cecilia Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-72-chevalier-danceny-to-cecilia-volanges) Mentioned as the friend who will deliver the letter and help reunite the lovers. ### [Letter 73: Viscount de Valmont to Cecilia Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-73-viscount-de-valmont-to-cecilia-volanges) Writes to Cecilia, arranging secret correspondence and advising her on behavior to avoid detection. ### [Letter 74: Marchioness de Merteuil to Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-74-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; Merteuil chides him for his jealousy and reminds him of her past assistance with Tourvel and Madame de Volanges. ### [Letter 75: Cecilia Volanges to Sophia Carnay](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-75-cecilia-volanges-to-sophia-carnay) Praised by Cecilia as a very extraordinary and artful man who secretly delivers Danceny's letters and plans to arrange a meeting. ### [Letter 76: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-76-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrator; strategizes seduction of Tourvel and manipulation of Cecilia; delivers Danceny's letter to Cecilia. ### [Letter 77: Viscount de Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-77-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Author of the letter; expresses frustration and confusion at Tourvel's avoidance, defends his sincerity, and pleads for her to prescribe how he should behave. ### [Letter 78: The Presidente de Tourvel to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-78-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; accused of breaking promises, pursuing Tourvel relentlessly, and causing her public embarrassment. ### [Letter 79: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-79-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates the story of Prevan's adventure to Merteuil, expressing concern over her interest in Prevan and advising caution. ### [Letter 80: Chevalier Danceny to Cecilia Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-80-chevalier-danceny-to-cecilia-volanges) Mentioned as a friend who promised help but has become neglectful and silent, absorbed in his own love affair. ### [Letter 81: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-81-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) The recipient of Merteuil's letter; she criticizes his pride, awkwardness, and lack of strategic depth, contrasting his actions with her own. ### [Letter 82: Cecilia Volanges to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-82-cecilia-volanges-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Mentioned as the intermediary who facilitates their secret correspondence, though he has not written to Danceny as requested. ### [Letter 83: Viscount de Valmont, to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-83-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Author of the letter; employs seductive rhetoric to convince Tourvel of his virtuous intentions and to arrange a meeting. ### [Letter 84: Viscount de Valmont to Cecilia Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-84-viscount-de-valmont-to-cecilia-volanges) Author of the letter; presents himself as a helpful friend to Danceny and Cecilia while orchestrating a scheme to gain access to Cecilia's room. ### [Letter 85: Marchioness de Merteuil to Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-85-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-viscount-de-valmont) The recipient of the letter; Merteuil addresses him as her ally and expects gratitude for removing Prevan as a rival. ### [Letter 88: Cecilia Volanges to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-88-cecilia-volanges-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; proposed the scheme for a duplicate key to facilitate Cecilia's secret correspondence with Danceny. ### [Letter 89: The Viscount de Valmont to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-89-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Writes to Danceny, feigning concern and offering advice while manipulating the situation to his own advantage. ### [Letter 90: The Presidente de Tourvel to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-90-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) The recipient of the letter; Tourvel appeals to his supposed tender heart and friendship to grant her request. ### [Letter 91: Viscount de Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-91-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Writes a manipulative and passionate letter to Tourvel, pleading for a meeting and denying any danger he poses. ### [Letter 92: Chevalier Danceny to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-92-chevalier-danceny-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Addressed as the recipient; Danceny thanks him for his friendship and asks for further details about his suspicions. ### [Letter 93: Chevalier Danceny to Cecilia Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-93-chevalier-danceny-to-cecilia-volanges) Mentioned as Danceny's friend and the only person who can facilitate a meeting between Danceny and Cecilia. ### [Letter 94: Cecilia Volanges to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-94-cecilia-volanges-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Mentioned as the one who proposed the key and as Danceny's friend, whom Cecilia resents for being favored over her. ### [Letter 95: Cecilia Volanges to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-95-cecilia-volanges-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of Cecilia's letter; she asks him to return the key and to reassure Danceny. ### [Letter 96: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-96-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates the letter; boasts of his seduction of Cecilia and his enjoyment of Tourvel's resistance. ### [Letter 97: Cecilia Volanges to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-97-cecilia-volanges-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Exploits the key to Cecilia's chamber to sexually assault her, manipulating her into silence and a promise of further visits. ### [Letter 99: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-99-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrator of the letter; describes his strategic patience with Tourvel and his irritation with Cecilia's resistance. ### [Letter 100: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-100-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Furious and humiliated by Tourvel's departure; vows revenge and plots to regain power over her. ### [Letter 101: The Viscount de Valmont to Azolan, His Huntsman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-101-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-azolan-his-huntsman) Issues detailed surveillance orders to his servant, demonstrating his manipulative and controlling nature. ### [Letter 102: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-102-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-rosemonde) The object of Tourvel's love; she credits his generosity for sparing her from complete ruin. ### [Letter 103: Madame de Rosemonde to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-103-madame-de-rosemonde-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Referred to indirectly as the unnamed object of Tourvel's love; Rosemonde notes he was greatly affected by Tourvel's departure. ### [Letter 105: The Marchioness de Merteuil to Cecilia Volanges](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-105-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-cecilia-volanges) Referenced as the seducer of Cecilia; Merteuil advises Cecilia to reconcile with him and deliver the letter to him. ### [Letter 106: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-106-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Criticized for his lack of skill in seduction; tasked with executing Merteuil's plan for Cecilia. ### [Letter 107: Azolan to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-107-azolan-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of Azolan's report; Azolan follows his orders and seeks his approval. ### [Letter 108: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-108-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-rosemonde) The object of Tourvel's love and torment; she mentions his letter and his apparent distress at her departure. ### [Letter 109: Cecilia Volanges to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-109-cecilia-volanges-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Cecilia's seducer; he visits her at night, tells her comical stories about her mother, and proposes they meet in his chamber to avoid discovery. ### [Letter 110: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-110-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrator of the letter; describes his dual state of happiness and misery, his frustration with Tourvel's resistance, and his successful seduction of Cecilia. ### [Letter 112: Madame de Rosemonde to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-112-madame-de-rosemonde-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Slightly indisposed; his retreat and altered temper are noted by Rosemonde. ### [Letter 113: Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-113-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Criticized for his absence and romantic pursuit of Tourvel; Merteuil mocks his lack of invention and urges him to return. ### [Letter 114: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-114-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Subject of Tourvel's worry; his sudden apathy and lack of correspondence alarm her. ### [Letter 115: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-115-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Author of the letter; boasts of his seductions and plans to abandon Tourvel. ### [Letter 117: Cecilia Volanges to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-117-cecilia-volanges-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Dictates the letter to Cecilia, manipulating her correspondence to serve his own ends. ### [Letter 119: Madame de Rosemonde to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-119-madame-de-rosemonde-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Described as misanthropic, attending mass regularly, and appearing altered. ### [Letter 120: Viscount de Valmont to Father Anselmus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-120-viscount-de-valmont-to-father-anselmus) Writes to Father Anselmus, feigning repentance and requesting an interview with Madame de Tourvel to return papers and apologize. ### [Letter 122: Madame de Rosemonde to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-122-madame-de-rosemonde-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Rosemonde's nephew, found writing, pale and dejected, speaking of a great affair and seeking forgiveness in a manner that deeply disturbs his aunt. ### [Letter 123: Father Anselmus to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-123-father-anselmus-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; his request for a visit is granted on condition it is the last; urged to pursue conversion. ### [Letter 124: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-124-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Reported to have reformed; plans to return Tourvel's letters. ### [Letter 125: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-125-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates his successful seduction of Tourvel, analyzing his tactics and his own unexpected feelings. ### [Letter 126: Madame de Rosemonde to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-126-madame-de-rosemonde-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Discussed as the object of Tourvel's passion; Rosemonde suggests he may be reformed by her example. ### [Letter 127: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-127-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of Merteuil's letter; his proposition is harshly criticized and dismissed. ### [Letter 128: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-128-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Central to Tourvel's confession; she has devoted herself entirely to him and his happiness. ### [Letter 129: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-129-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Author of the letter; defends his actions and reaffirms his devotion to Merteuil. ### [Letter 131: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-131-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; Merteuil addresses his proposal and criticizes him for not sending Tourvel's letter as agreed. ### [Letter 132: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-132-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Defended by Tourvel as a man of delicacy and genuine love, contrasting with the negative impressions others have given. ### [Letter 133: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-133-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Defends his obsession with Tourvel as a scientific study of rare sensibility, not love; boasts of his control over the Volanges affair and his loyalty to Merteuil. ### [Letter 134: Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-134-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; Merteuil accuses him of being in love with Madame de Tourvel and critiques his proposed scheme. ### [Letter 135: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-135-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Accused of betrayal and deception; seen by Tourvel with a courtesan at the opera. ### [Letter 136: The Presidente de Tourvel to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-136-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) The recipient of the letter, accused of destroying her sentiment and exposing her to insult. ### [Letter 137: Viscount de Valmont to the Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-137-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Writes a defensive and manipulative letter to Tourvel, denying any insult and pleading for her forgiveness. ### [Letter 138: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-138-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates the letter; defends his lack of love for Tourvel by recounting his night with Emily and his plan to reconcile with Tourvel. ### [Letter 139: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-139-the-presidente-de-tourvel-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Defended by Tourvel as innocent and loving, with his infidelity dismissed as a trivial error. ### [Letter 140: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-140-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Narrates the letter, expressing frustration at Merteuil's silence and detailing the accident with Cecilia. ### [Letter 141: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-141-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Merteuil criticizes his obstinacy and his contradictory behavior toward Tourvel, and warns him that his preference for her may cost him their alliance. ### [Letter 142: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-142-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Author of the letter; he has copied and sent Merteuil's model to Tourvel and awaits her reply. ### [Letter 144: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-144-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Valmont writes to Merteuil, gloating over Tourvel's retreat to a convent and planning further manipulations. ### [Letter 145: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-145-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; Merteuil accuses him of still loving Tourvel and of being driven by vanity. ### [Letter 146: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-146-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Mentioned as someone Merteuil intends to keep her arrival secret from. ### [Letter 149: Madame de Volanges to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-149-madame-de-volanges-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Implied as the sender of the letter that triggers Tourvel's relapse. ### [Letter 151: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-151-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Accuses Merteuil of deceit and demands an end to her affair with Danceny. ### [Letter 152: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-152-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient; accused of being jealous and less charming than before. ### [Letter 153: Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-153-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Writes an ultimatum to Merteuil, demanding she choose between love and enmity. ### [Letter 154: Madame de Volanges to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-154-madame-de-volanges-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Wrote to Madame de Volanges asking her to act as mediator with Tourvel; his sincerity is doubted by Madame de Volanges. ### [Letter 155: The Viscount de Valmont to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-155-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Writes to Danceny, revealing his knowledge of Danceny's affairs and manipulating his choices. ### [Letter 156: Cecilia Volanges to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-156-cecilia-volanges-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Mentioned as the friend who will deliver Cecilia's letter to Danceny. ### [Letter 157: The Chevalier Danceny to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-157-the-chevalier-danceny-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient of the letter; Danceny thanks him for guidance and inquires about his pursuit of Tourvel. ### [Letter 158: The Viscount de Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-158-the-viscount-de-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil) Author of the letter; boasts of manipulating Danceny and Cecilia for Merteuil's benefit. ### [Letter 159: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-159-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) Recipient; criticized for his jesting and overconfidence. ### [Letter 160: Madame de Volanges to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-160-madame-de-volanges-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Implied as the intended recipient of Tourvel's letter, though it was never addressed. ### [Letter 161: The Presidente de Tourvel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-161-the-presidente-de-tourvel) Addressed throughout as the 'cruel and mischievous being' who has tormented and ruined her; appears in her hallucination both as a monster and as a lover. ### [Letter 162: Chevalier Danceny to the Viscount de Valmont](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-162-chevalier-danceny-to-the-viscount-de-valmont) The recipient of the challenge; Danceny accuses him of basely sporting with him and bragging of his treachery. ### [Letter 163: M. Bertrand to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-163-m-bertrand-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Killed in a duel with Chevalier Danceny; died after receiving extreme unction. ### [Letter 164: Madame de Rosemonde to M. Bertrand](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-164-madame-de-rosemonde-to-m-bertrand) Deceased nephew; his death is the subject of the letter, and his memory is to be avenged. ### [Letter 165: Madame de Volanges to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-165-madame-de-volanges-to-madame-de-rosemonde) His death is mentioned as the cause of Tourvel's final anguish; she prays for God's mercy upon him. ### [Letter 166: M. Bertrand to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-166-m-bertrand-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Deceased; his honor would be tainted if the prosecution proceeds. ### [Letter 167: Anonymous to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-167-anonymous-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Mentioned as the other party in the duel that is now under scrutiny by the King's counsel. ### [Letter 168: Madame de Volanges to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-168-madame-de-volanges-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Deceased; rumored to have left letters exposing Merteuil's conduct. ### [Letter 169: The Chevalier Danceny to Madame de Rosemonde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-169-the-chevalier-danceny-to-madame-de-rosemonde) Deceased; Danceny references their duel and Valmont's role in providing the correspondence. ### [Letter 171: Madame de Rosemonde to the Chevalier Danceny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-171-madame-de-rosemonde-to-the-chevalier-danceny) Madame de Rosemonde's deceased nephew, whose loss she mourns despite acknowledging his faults. ### [Endnotes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/endnotes) Referenced in notes regarding his past with Merteuil and Gercourt, and his profligate nature. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters/viscount_de_valmont - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/characters