The manuscript is signed original in Marie François L’Huillier d’Orville de Marigny’s hand. According to T. D. N. Besterman, the folios are numbered 402-403. In the letter, the author politely expresses his discontent and upset over Voltaire’s lack of communication, opting to blame the inefficient postal service of the day rather than Voltaire’s intentional disinterest. Throughout the letter, the correspondent recounts his travels, the times of ill health, and the war of 1744, incessantly praising the virtues of friendship. Marigny ends the letter expressing his gratitude for the portrait gifted to him by Voltaire in 1751, bearing an inscription ‘Amico De Marigny, amicus of Voltaire’. Additionally, the author adds his ode to the portrait – the 8-line verse, with the rhyme scheme ABAB CDCD.

This manuscript is an autograph letter in Claude de Loynes d’Autroche’s hand. The MS1 (ii.31–33) is accompanied by the writer’s fable ‘Le Berger, le chien et les loups’. The MS features the 8-stanza epistle ‘De Gex’ that expresses a sullen discontent over the hurdles of indirect taxation afflicting the country. The body of the letter reflects on the recent unsavoury political events unfolding in France, speculatively having something to do with Jean-Frédéric Phélypeaux, Comte de Maurepas.

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.

Voltaire thanks d’Açarq for the first part of his grammar and apologises that it cost d’Açarq letter postage to know that Voltaire esteems him very much. Voltaire notes that there is much to be learned from d’Açarq’s grammar, and wishes that it were as easy to serve d’Açarq as it was to read his work. He ends the letter by sending his applause.

The poem remarks that Mr. de la Tour du Pin is a joker when he asks the author to write the praises of Voltaire.

This letter is a response to D18234, which was sent by Frederick II of Prussia to Voltaire on 1 March 1773. Voltaire begins by praising his correspondent’s style and philosophical insights, while also mentioning his recent illness. He then discusses the Russo-Turkish War, involving Catherine II of Russia and Mustafa III of the Ottoman Empire, and refers to his book Les Loix de Minos, which his correspondent received by 4 April 1773. According to T. D. N. Besterman, the foliation is 38.

The author praises the King’s latest letter as a remarkable display of wisdom, spirit, taste, and kindness, which deeply moves him. He admires the King’s exceptional achievements and compares them favourably to historical figures, expressing both admiration and affection. The author acknowledges the King’s efforts to protect and support philosophical ideals, and reflects on the impact of the King’s leadership across Europe. He concludes with a request for the King’s continued favour and a final wish for recognition before his death.

The writer expresses deep appreciation for a recent tragedy and letter received from the recipient, commending the dramatic work for its artistic execution and emotional impact. The writer praises the piece, noting that the episode of Idolea surpasses Racine’s Aricie in its emotional depth and that the tragedy succeeds in stirring genuine feelings. Despite his advanced age and failing eyesight, he acknowledges the widespread admiration for the work in Italy and contrasts it with the more modest reception of French tragedies, which often face criticism rather than praise. Furthermore, according to T. D. N. Besterman, the foliation is 87.