The writer expresses deep gratitude to the King for his guidance and support in his later years. He criticises the value of metaphysical and theological debates, asserting that true distinction comes from meaningful contributions like those of Archimedes and Newton, rather than from the mundane tasks of lesser scholars. He acknowledges that while literature and style hold real merit, history often falls short in accuracy. Finally, he reflects on his own financial dealings, praises the King’s example of humanity, and offers his humble thanks and admiration.

The writer expresses profound gratitude for the monarch’s kindness and joins others in wishing for the monarch’s well-being and happiness. Despite feeling that his voice may seem insignificant, he assures that his sentiments are heartfelt and sincere. He asserts that true virtue and goodness ultimately prevail, and he offers his most sincere wishes for the monarch’s continued happiness and success.

In this letter, the writer reports that the King of Prussia is inviting eighteen families of watchmakers from Geneva to relocate, providing them with free accommodation and apprenticeships. The writer laments that these families, mostly of French origin, are leaving their homeland, but expresses hope that their new colony will thrive. They also express disbelief at rumours about a recent naval battle and provide an account of a visit from serfs under the clergy of St Claude, who are reportedly mistreated. The letter concludes with the writer, an ailing hermit, expressing deep gratitude and respect towards the recipient.

In this letter, the writer expresses profound gratitude and humility for the kind words received from Monsieur, emphasising the value of such sincere expressions of friendship. They also voice disdain for the contemporary literary scene and its lack of appreciation for true talent, lamenting that only superficial works seem to gain favour. Additionally, the writer reflects on the unfortunate circumstances of Mr de Laharpe and others in their time, while noting their relief at the dismissal of a deceitful legal case. The letter concludes with a request to retain Monsieur’s favour, which the writer finds deeply comforting.

The writer feels unworthy of the kindness extended by the recipient and their grandmother, expressing deep gratitude despite their own perceived inadequacies. They mention ongoing snow and their inability to enjoy the daylight, illustrating their discomfort. The writer reflects on their previous actions in aiding a group of impoverished noble children against the Jesuits and their current inability to ask for further favours from the recipient’s grandmother due to their sense of guilt. They conclude by acknowledging their indebtedness to the recipient for introducing them to their grandmother and express a desire to send more engaging literary pieces in the future.

The writer expresses long-overdue gratitude to the recipient, delayed by a prolonged illness. They commend the recipient’s translation work, particularly of German poets, and humourously lament the extended life of biblical figures, suggesting a preference for more enjoyable translations. The writer also encourages the recipient to focus on their own writing rather than translating tragedies and extends compliments to the recipient and their pupil, expressing regret at the departure of Madame Dalbertas from their region.

Voltaire opens by saying that the recipients would not believe how impressed he was at the letter they were willing to write to him dated 2nd December [D20936], adding that they restored his life. Voltaire presents his gratitude to His Serene Highness as well as the council and notes that he is counting on their kindness for the few days that remain of his life.  He concludes by saying that he will live and die filled with the deepest gratitude for them.

Voltaire begins by saying that there are two people in the world that he has never had the pleasure of seeing, but to whom he has the greatest obligations: Jean-Joseph de Laborde himself and Etienne-François de Choiseul. He then remarks upon his age and illness, and says that if he is damned upon his death it will not be for the sin of ingratitude, adding that ingratitude should be considered the eighth mortal sin. Voltaire then references a recent event which he claims does irreparable harm to his colony, before wishing the recipient and his family all the prosperity that they deserve.