Voltaire discusses the article ‘Mânne’ for the Encyclopédie. He notes that the article seems quite good to him, and that the philosophs and the curious can be happy with it. Voltaire notes, however, that a good apothecary would have said more and demonstrated the superiority of ‘mânne grasse’ over ‘mânne maigre’.

He then goes on to say that he is very happy to be in Lausanne when d’Alemberts theologian is in Geneva. He remarks upon d’Alembert’s saying that he might see the lake again this winter, noting that he should come and bring Diderot with him so that they may play his Les Fils naturel.

Voltaire ends by asking d’Alembert to tell Madame Du Deffand that he is thinking of her even though he does not write, and to pass on his compliments to President Henault.

Collini writes that Dupont’s provost gives him work, and that many letters on this subject have been dictated to him so far, adding that dictated letters have never given him so much pleasure. He notes that he is really interested in Dupont and would like him to succeed in this matter, stating his belief (which he asks to remain private) that a charming epistle in verse if being prepared for d’Argenson. Collini concludes by sating that Dupont’s philosopher has taken the matter to heart, and that he has never seen him act with as much warmth as he does for his provost.

Voltaire writes that he is at the Château de Prangins with his niece and would come to visit the recipient immediately if her were not suffering from rheumatism and gout. He notes his intention to take the baths of Aix en Savoye and writes that he hopes to then be able to see the recipient after such a long time. He then remarks on the fact that Alaman has not been sold, before claiming that he is looking for philosophers rather than the view of Lake Lauzanne and would prefer the recipient’s company to that of all the big trouts.

Marie-Anne de Vichy-Chamrond, marquise Du Deffand begins the letter by stating that she has neither Voltaire’s erudition, nor his clarity, but that her opinions are nevertheless in line with his. She then discusses shared public opinions, and states that if common prejudices were taken from people, they would have nothing left. The Marquise then turns to the question of faith, and states that faith is firmly believing in what you do not understand. She notes that for Voltaire the search for truth is a universal medicine, as it is for her, but that they differ in that Voltaire believes he has found it and she believes it cannot be found. Speaking of modern philosophers, the Marquise remarks that they have never been less philosophical or tolerant men who would crush all who do not bow before them. She concludes by turning to her correspondence with Voltaire, saying that his letters honour her infinitely but that she does not have the vanity to make them a trophy. She notes that she had once read a letter, which was then memorised and printed without her consent and so now keeps her letters from Voltaire private. She additionally remarks on the letter Voltaire sent to the president, which she says he was very happy with.