Mary

“My thoughts were my own, and I was exasperated to have them either surprised or drawn from me against my will.”
― Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, Dangerous Liaisons

“There isn't a woman who doesn't love the Perfect Man; In their wild dreams they see nothing but charms and virtues and gleefully deck out the men of their choice in all these qualities; but these glittering robes fit for a God often drape an abject model; but whatever he is, no sooner have they dressed him up than, dazzled by their own handiwork, they prostrate themselves to adore him.”
― Laclos, Pierre Choderlos de, Les Liaisons dangereuses

“Now I mention neglect, you resemble those who send regularly to inquire of the state of health of their sick friends, and who never concern themselves about the answer.”
― Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, Dangerous Liaisons

“You must observe, when you write to any one, it is for them, and not for yourself: you must endeavour, then, to write to please them, and not give them your thoughts.”
― Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, Dangerous Liaisons