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Du Châtelet begins telling d’Argental of a letter in which it was stated that Voltaire would have been arrested a long time ago had it not been for her family’s good reputation. She notes that her protection of him is not infallible and discusses her concerns that it was a member of her family who informed the ministry, likely the Marquis de Breteuil. She questions whether or not she should move to Paris, and asks for d’Argental’s advice.
The writer addresses Madame to apologise for any misunderstandings and to firmly defend himself against false accusations, including being wrongly linked to controversial writings and remarks. He denounces the petty intrigues and malicious gossip that plague the literary and courtly worlds, particularly false claims about royal pensions following Damiens’ trial. He denies authorship of the satirical works attributed to him — some of which targeted the King and the court — and explains that such slanders ultimately drove him to leave France. Despite his hardships, he expresses deep admiration for Madame’s generosity, especially in aiding a physician he had quietly recommended. The letter closes with a light, gallant compliment on her grace and a respectful farewell.
The writer laments the persistent envy tarnishing their reputation, responding to a false rumour about their final illness and a supposed romantic encounter. They recount a recent experience of illness, where a beautiful young woman offered them comfort, though they were too fearful to enjoy it. The writer expresses their reverence and admiration for the recipient, mentioning their intention to send a revised version of Sophonisbe and seeking guidance on how to send it. Despite their declining health and concerns about their work’s reception, they remain devoted and respectful towards the recipient.
In this letter Frederick talks about how he lives in a province where people value the physical (such as cultivating fields, building houses, and having children) above the metaphysical. Later in the letter he discusses the fact that the “sparks of religious hatred” which were present before the war are now extinct and tolerance wins in the thought of the people. Finally, Frederick mentions that Voltaire’s works are in the hands of everyone; thereis no portion of society where his name is not known or where his reputation does not shine.
Prault introduces himself as the son of a man who has printed some of Voltaire’s work, claiming that he has now established a business separate from his father, after his father gave him all of Voltaire’s writings that he had. Prault claims that he is ready to publish a volume titled Receuil D1 which would contain various historical pieces by Voltaire. He writes that he sent a copy of the Receuil to the printers without reading it and, before sending it out into the public, thought to check a copy. He found a libellous work that he has attached for Voltaire to view, stating he is happy to cut this out to save Voltaire’s reputation. He concludes by saying that Voltaire should not worry about this work getting out into the public as he will burn every copy to protect him.
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