SINS

You will find my conduct is explained by a character which is unfortunately too easy-going. Surrounded by immoral people, I copied their vices; perhaps in my pride I have even tried to outdo them. In the same way, here, won over by the example of your virtue, though without any hope of achieving it, I have at least attempted to emulate it. So perhaps the action which you praise me for today would lose all value in your eyes, were you to learn the true motive!’ (See, my dearest, how close to the truth I was!) ‘It is not to me,’ I continued, ‘that these poor people owe the help I gave them. What you see as a praiseworthy action was for me simply a means of pleasing you. I was only, I have to confess, the humble agent of the goddess I adore.’ (Here she tried to interrupt me, but I did not give her time.) ‘At this very moment,’ I added, ‘my secret is out only because I am so weak.’

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