The manuscript is an epistle praising Voltaire’s literary prowess, likening him to Sophocles and Homer, amongst other great authors, and recognizing how his exceptional talent benefits the public. The epistle is also featured in D5480, an autograph letter from Sébastien Dupont to Voltaire, dated 15 August 1753.

The manuscript is a lettre en vers featuring four poems. The author profusely apologises for his lack of aptitude in accomplishing such an aesthetic feat (i.e. creation of lettre en vers), reflects on the subpar poetry authored by mediocre poets, and mentions his s encounter with Madame du Chatelet in Paris. Additionally, according to Besterman, ‘ED1 proposes tentatively November/December 1738, but the reference to a meeting with mme Du Châtelet in Paris some time since is the only clue.’