In "A Place of Greater Safety" by Hilary Mantel, Camille reflects on a letter from his cousin, Fouquier-Tinville. The correspondence reveals a tone of excessive flattery and subservience, indicating a relationship built on hierarchy and admiration. Camille notices the ornate handwriting, which suggests an effort to impress him, yet he perceives the insincerity behind it as it emphasizes his cousin's desire for recognition and connection with the Patriot Ministers. As Camille reads, he senses the underlying desperation in the cousin's words—an eagerness to align with those in power while acknowledging his lack of direct familiarity with them. This dynamic highlights the political environment of the time, where individuals sought validation and influence through connections. The letter serves as a reminder of the complex social relationships and the lengths people might go to gain favor in a tumultuous society.