“I don't think you can hope for any actual pleasure.” – Marquise de Merteuil, Dangerous Liaisons ... Movie Quotes Database

Marquise de Merteuil

[after learning about Valmont's plan to seduce Madame de Tourvel]

I don't think you can hope for any actual pleasure.

Vicomte de Valmont

Oh, yes. You see, I have no intention of breaking down her prejudices. I want her to believe in God and virtue and the sanctity of marriage, and still not be able to stop herself. I want the excitement of watching her betray everything that's is most important to her. Surely you understand that. I thought betrayal was your favorite word.

Marquise de Merteuil

No, no. "Cruelty". I always think that has a nobler ring to it.

In this scene

Marquise de Merteuil Glenn Close More Marquise de Merteuil quotes →

Vicomte de Valmont John Malkovich More Vicomte de Valmont quotes →

More from Dangerous Liaisons

Vicomte de Valmont Why do you suppose we only feel compelled to chase the ones who run away? Marquise de Merteuil Immaturity? Vicomte de Valmont Now, yes or no? It is up to you, of course. I will merely confine myself to remarking that a "no" will be regarded as a declaration of war. A single word is all that is required. Marquise de Merteuil All right: war! Vicomte de Valmont I ended by falling on my knees and pledging her eternal love. And do you know that, at that time, and for several hours afterwards, I actually meant it.