Autograph letter from Voltaire to Frederick II of Prussia, dated 2 January 1774 [D19277].
Identifiers
CMV:
CMV36690
Repository:
Shelfmark:
5-240 (VII, f.46), ‘Au roi de Prusse, 2 janvier 1774 (M. 9283)’
Title:
Autograph letter from Voltaire to Frederick II of Prussia, dated 2 January 1774 [D19277].
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Content
People:
Incipit Diplomatic:
Sire, je mets aux pieds de votre majesté pour ses étrennes un plan de citadelle inventé et dessiné par Détalonde Morival qui n’avait jamais su dessiner lorsqu’il vint chez moy.
Incipit Modernised:
Seigneur, je mets aux pieds de votre majesté pour ses étrennes un plan de citadelle inventé et dessiné par Détalonde Morival qui n’avait jamais su dessiner lorsqu’il vint chez moi.
Language(s):
In Voltaire’s Hand:
Yes
Brief Summary:
Autograph letter from Voltaire to Frederick II of Prussia, dated 2 January 1774.
Detailed Summary:
The letter presents a plan for a citadel designed by Détalonde Morival, whose rapid progress in mathematics and engineering is described as extraordinary. The author criticises complex mathematical pursuits as unnecessary, emphasising the practical value of a good engineer over abstract calculations. The letter advocates for Morival, a noble and capable soldier, to be employed in the service of the sovereign, highlighting his skills, dedication, and loyalty. The author, nearing the end of his life, seeks comfort in the sovereign’s continued support for Morival, asserting that such support would be a just response to the injustices Morival has faced. Additionally, according to T. D. N. Besterman, the letter is certainly dated 2 January 1775.
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Physical Description
Material(s):
Extent:
1 f.
Format:
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Hands:
1
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Binding:
The manuscript is bound with other documents in contemporary red morocco.
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History
Date:
2 January 1775
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Bibliography
Bibliography:
Fernand Caussy, Inventaire des manuscrits de la bibliothèque de Voltaire conservée à la bibliothèque impériale publique de Saint-Pétersbourg (Geneva, Slatkine reprints, 1970)
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