Dangerous Liaisons, Letter 78 summary

What happens

1. Tourvel agrees to explain her conduct, despite claiming that Valmont’s refusal has driven her into indifference.
2. She recalls distrusting his reputation and overcoming her displeasure at his arrival out of friendship for Mme de Rosemonde.
3. She accuses him of exploiting her permission to write, ignoring its conditions, and rejecting friendship in favor of pleasure.
4. She describes his unexpected return, unwanted closeness at dinner, and persistent attention in company.
5. She threatens to leave unless he stops and declares her determination to protect her existing ties.

In this letter

What to notice

Tourvel frames his pursuit as selfish harm rather than affection. The accusation explains why she rejects his complaints and demands distance.

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