Voltaire thanks Guazzesi for sending him a book [Guazzesi’s translation of Alzire, published together with Racine’s Iphigenie in 1762], adding that he is too ill to thank him in his own hand, the letter instead being written by his secretary. Voltaire goes on to say that Iphigenie was worthy of being translated by Guazzesi, but that the translator does others [Voltaire] too much honour. He then turns to Guazzesi’s poetry, remarking that his compositions are instructive and agreeable, before speaking of the ancient Romans, noting that they had an unrefined sense of humour. He adds that he can see the mountains that were crossed by Hannibal through his windows.

Horace’s poems from Odes Book III: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, explore themes such as Virtue (Ode 2), Integrity and perseverance (Ode 3), Wise Counsel and Clemency (Ode 4), Virtue and Fortitude, dedicated to Augustus (Ode 5), and Constancy (Ode 7). The first six odes, written in the Alcaic metre, and are often considered an independent group within the larger collection and are commonly referred to as ‘The Roman Odes’.

This text discusses America, Egypt, Ancient Greece, and India, as well as topics such as idolatry, miracles, temples, magic, Jews, and Ancient Romans. In the preface, it is said that the MS was offered by the author’s nephew to Catherine II of Russia. The manuscript is either unfinished or incomplete.

The letter discusses Verona, commenting on its climate, situation, fine arts, and theatres. Bettinelli adds that he will send some information for the history.