Dangerous Liaisons, Letter 61 summary
Letter 61 of 177 · 3 min to read the letter
In Letter 61, Cécile Volanges tells Sophie Carnay that her mother discovers and takes Danceny’s letters, leaving Cécile frightened and convinced she cannot see him again. She seeks comfort and help from Mrs. de Merteuil, plans to send more letters, and prepares to avoid her mother by claiming illness.
What happens
- Cécile talks happily about Danceny with Mrs. de Merteuil while her mother finishes a card game.
- Her mother enters her room, dismisses the maid, and demands the key to her writing desk.
- Cécile faints when her mother reads a letter; her mother takes all Danceny’s letters and orders her to bed.
- At daybreak, Cécile writes to Sophie and seeks a way to contact Mrs. de Merteuil.
- She plans letters to Mrs. de Merteuil and Danceny, then intends to stay in bed to avoid her mother.
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In this letter
What to notice
The confiscation ends Cécile’s private possession of the correspondence. It prompts her search for trusted intermediaries and her fear of separation.
Quick check
Whom does Cécile hope can carry a letter to Danceny?
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