Dangerous Liaisons, Letter 103 summary

What happens

1. Madame de Rosemonde explains that she already understands Tourvel’s feelings, although Tourvel’s letter never names the man she loves.
2. She approves of Tourvel’s departure but fears that the strength of her attachment makes continued separation difficult.
3. She urges Tourvel to keep resisting and to seek encouragement in the possibility of divine help.
4. She offers to share Tourvel’s grief and receive confidences that Tourvel might otherwise address to the man.
5. She reports his distress at Tourvel’s departure, ends because writing is physically difficult, and embraces Tourvel as a daughter.

In this letter

What to notice

Rosemonde defines her help as companionship rather than a cure. Her offer gives Tourvel someone to confide in without approaching the man she loves.

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