PASSION

So here am I, for the last four days victim of a powerful passion. You know how keen my desire is, how I thrive on obstacles; but what you do not know is how greatly solitude adds to the ardour of desire. I have now but one thought. I think about it by day; I dream of it by night. I really need to have this woman, to save me from the stupidity of being in love with her. For where does frustrated desire lead a man? O delicious pleasure! Come to me, I implore you, make me a happy man and above all bring me peace. How fortunate we are that women defend themselves so badly, or we should be nothing but their timid slaves. At this moment I have feelings of gratitude towards women of easy virtue, which brings me naturally to your feet.

(Letter IV, The Vicomte de Valmont to the Marquise de Merteuil)