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., the creation of a lettre en vers), reflects on the subpar poetry produced by mediocre poets, and recounts his encounter with Madame du Châtelet in Paris. Additionally, according to T. D. N. 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.’