Lord Hervey begins by thanking Voltaire for the copy of d’Alzire that he had sent him, noting that he very much approves of the preface, found ‘l’Epitre à madame de Chatelet’ incomparable, and the tragedy itself the most beautiful of all Voltaire’s works. He writes that the subject is new and without the slightest absurdity, noting that there is a lot in the characters that an audience is unaccustomed to yet nothing that shocks. He then discusses Mr. Algarotti, who has been tasked with sending the letter to Voltaire, praising his vivacity, good taste, and accuracy of mind. Lord Hervey then returns to d’Alzire, noting that the Queen had read the tragedy before Voltaire had sent him a copy, but that her edition lacked the Epitre. He adds that the Queen approved of the play but felt herself deserving of the praises given to Madame du Chatelet. He then writes that he is glad to hear that Voltaire has obtained permission to return to Paris, but warns him against doing anything that would attract a third exile.