In this letter, the writer conveys admiration for Monsieur’s extensive and intricate work in astronomy, particularly in the study of comets and their interactions with planetary bodies. They contrast Monsieur’s impressive achievements with their own less successful attempts at scientific and literary pursuits, expressing frustration at past injustices and current trivialities in the literary world. Despite these challenges, the writer finds solace in practical work on their estate, highlighting a preference for the tangible results of agriculture over the often unrewarding efforts in literature. The letter concludes with a respectful acknowledgment of Monsieur’s contributions and a personal reflection on the rewards of practical endeavour over intellectual ambition. According to T. D. N. Besterman, ‘Caussy, p. 33, is mistaken when he says that MS1 is dated ’27 avril 1759”.

Frederick begins by saying that he would like Voltaire’s wandering star to settle because he no longer knows where to find him, adding that he would use all the secrets of astronomy to stop its course, and even draw upon astrology, take up the grimoire, or make invocations to all the gods and devils so that Voltaire could settle close to him. Frederick then compares Voltaire to Ulise, and says that Voltaire is being drawn back to the beautiful Émilie du Châtelet. He then discusses Machiavelli, stating that young people are too old-fashioned in their minds to know everything that has been written about Machiavelli. Frederick then turns to the Henriade, saying that he has not yet had a reply from England but that Voltaire should be assured that this is a resolved matter and that it will be engraved. He adds that he hopes to send further news upon his return from Prussia around 15th August. Frederick states that he does not wish to be an idle prince, and goes on to praise Voltaire’s writing, saying that his writings against Machiavelli have provided him with a lightning bolt with which he can strike down Cesare Borgia. Frederick concludes the letter with a section of verse.

Jean le Rond d’Alembert writes that in 1746 or 1747 he gave to the Académie royale des sciences two or three mémoireson the orbit of the moon. He notes that he has not printed these as he has since producedsomething better on the same subject but that he would like either the original memoirs or copies of them returned to him along with the precise dates of when they were discussed. He apologises for the trouble this may cause the General Secretary, but asks that the mémoiresare sent as soon as possible via the post, adding that the General Secretary needs not worry about the postage price that Jean le Rond d’Alembert will pay. He adds that he thinks it would be good for at least one copy of the mémoires to remain in the Académie’s archives.