Dangerous Liaisons, Letter 169 summary

What happens

1. Danceny expresses regret for Rosemonde’s suffering and asks her to hear his defense before judging him.
2. He argues that legal proceedings against him would also implicate Valmont, and asks her to preserve silence.
3. He submits correspondence from Valmont as evidence that betrayal justifies his revenge.
4. He explains that he publishes two letters to expose Merteuil and clear Prévan.
5. He entrusts the papers to Rosemonde and identifies a larger collection among Valmont’s sealed possessions.
6. In a postscript, he gives Rosemonde a confidential address after warnings and friendly advice prompt his departure from Paris.

In this letter

What to notice

Danceny distinguishes legal retaliation from personal judgment. He wants Rosemonde to assess his evidence without prosecuting him.

Quick check