The statement was prepared by Voltaire for Vernet to sign. The statement notes that Vernet disapproves of an anonymous brochure titled Guerre Littéraire, copies of which were seized by the Messieurs les Scorlarques. It is added that he is especially very angry to see his name featured in the brochure in several places. The statement concludes with a declaration that the brochure is false as he has never had the slightest problem with Voltaire, his neighbour, for whom he has the greatest respects, and from whom he has received only politeness.

Voltaire opens by stating that tickets are a conversation, asking where Formey got this jeremiad. He adds that he told Formey that he spoke of Louis XIV in an improper manner and that he is wrong, noting that, as he told the King formerly that he was wrong to make a brochure, and wrong to make another. Voltaire then turns to Formey’s enemies, asking who would think of hurting him. He remarks on Formey’s criticism of himself, the King, and deists, adding that none of these would have wished him harm. He concludes by advising Formey to laugh it all off and not to grieve or cry because Madame de Montespan was kind, ending the letter by entreating Formey to be calm.