THE VICOMTE DE VALMONT TO THE MARQUISE DE MERTEUIL
I HAVE SEEN DANCENY, but only obtained his half confidence; he insists especially on suppressing the name of the little Volanges, of whom he only spoke to me as a woman of great virtue, even somewhat a devote: apart from that, he gave me a fairly veracious account of his adventure, particularly the last incident. I excited him as best I could, I bantered him greatly upon his delicacy and scruples ; but it seems that he clings to them, and I cannot answer for him: for the rest, I shall be able to tell you more after tomorrow. I am taking him tomorrow to Versailles,3 and I will occupy myself by studying him on the road. The interview which is to take place today also gives me some hope: everything may have happened to our satisfaction; and perhaps there is nothing left for us at present but to obtain a confession and collect the proofs. This task will be easier for you than for me: for the little person is more confiding or, what comes to the same thing, more talkative than her discreet lover. However, I will do my utmost.
Adieu, my lovely friend; I am in a mighty hurry; I shall not see you this evening, nor tomorrow: if you, on your side, know anything, write me a word on my return. I shall certainly come back to sleep in Paris.
AT … , 3RD SEPTEMBER, IN THE EVENING.