Dangerous Liaisons, Letter 140 summary

What happens

1. Valmont complains that Merteuil’s expected reply is three days overdue, while reporting that a reconciliation brings renewed tenderness.
2. He explains that he gives little Volanges more attention while Mme de Tourvel is out of his thoughts.
3. An unsecured bedroom door opens unexpectedly, and Valmont searches with his sword but finds nobody.
4. He finds little Volanges unconscious beside the bed; her injuries and symptoms reveal a pregnancy she does not know about.
5. Valmont alerts the doctor and surgeon, while little Volanges is to summon help without waking her mother.
6. The surgeon reports that concealment seems possible, and Valmont again questions whether Merteuil still shares his interests.

In this letter

What to notice

The question shifts attention from the concealed crisis to Valmont’s relationship with Merteuil. His report also tests whether their partnership remains intact.

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