This copy of the poem is given an alternative title: ‘A Mr le Prince et Mme la Pcesse de Craon qui l’invitaient à venir chez eux.’

In the letter, Voltaire notes that as soon as Émilie du Châtelet has finished her great business, he will have no more pressing matters than to take advantage of the kindnesses of the Prince and Princess. He ends by asking them to accept his deepest respects. The letter is dated 15 August 1749.

The poem preceding the letter was written by Voltaire whilst in Lorraine, likely between February and December 1748. In it, he praises Lunéville and the pleasures he experienced there amongst the wise. The final lines of the poem have been heavily corrected. Besterman suggests that they may have been transcribed from the autograph original (CMV34556) which is similarly revised.

Voltaire writes that he has received Walther’s letters which crossed the last one he sent to Walther in Lunéville. He apologises for the haste he has had in presenting to Walther the engagements he is disposed to fulfill with ‘such exactness and asks Walther to forgive a man who lpves peace and fears his work being destroyed. Voltaire adds that he counts on Walther’s word and, even if he can only give half the stipulated sum at Easter, he will find with the contractors all the facilities that his probity and sincere desire to acquit himself deserves. He notes that he has no doubt that the second half will follow swiftly and claims that he hopes to give it all away at Easter so as to get rid of ‘this unfortunate affair which so cruelly troubled two respectable houses. Voltaire says that Walther can send him any papers, bills of exchange, or powers of attorney that he thinks necessary and Voltaire will put them in order and send valid receipts and discharges. For security purposes, Voltaire asks that Walther addresses his post for Voltaire to Mr. de La Reinière, fermier général des Postes de France à Paris. He adds that for the same reason, he will address his post for Walther to the intendant of their army in Flanders.