Voltaire begins by saying that he is staying at Condrieux. He flatters Servan and asks after his health, before going on to complain about his exile from Paris. Voltaire then asks Servan for advice on which books to read to gain an understanding of the laws of modern governments such as Denmark and Sweden, rather than those of past governments such as Rome and Sparta.

The letter seems to have originally accompanied a ‘tabatière’ sent on the orders of the queen, containing two portraits of unidentified subjects. Jordan asks that in return for the portraits, Voltaire send him one of his tragedies titled Zulime. He then thanks Voltaire for a ring that he had sent him and adds that he will wear it forever. He concludes by asking Voltaire where he is living. In the catalogue entry for this letter in McGill University Library, this letter has been misattributed to Voltaire.

Voltaire begins by discussing the work of Alexis Clairaut in the context of Leibniz, Émilie du Châtelet, and Sir Isaac Newton. He concludes by mentioning his prior corresponsance with Clairaut [D8455]. The copyist states that the recipient of the letter is ‘Mr. de Varennes, Receveur des Tailles de Montargin’. Besterman, however, instead notes that the recipient is Philibert Charles Marie Varenne de Fénille.

Voltaire thanks Panckoucke for a translation of his poem titled ‘Lucretia’, and for a delivery of books which included a five-volume set of works by Buffon. Voltaire remarks upon the difficulties of transporting items to Geneva from Lyon, and reminisces about a previous visit Panckoucke paid to Ferney.

Voltaire discusses plans for the building of a new town. He discusses his hopes that the wealthy would invest in it, and assures Jaucourt that he has put in a good word with Madame de Choiseul for Jaucourt’s son-in-law, whom he hopes will become a captain in Voltaire’s regiment.

The poem concerns the castration of young singers, and Pope Clement XIV’s attitudes towards this practice. The poem may have been written by Charles Bordes (1711-1781).

Voltaire thanks Villette for publically acknowledging their friendship. He then praises Jean-François de La Harpe and his wife who are living with him at Ferney, noting that they are talented individuals.

Charles-Emmanuel de Crussol, duc d’Uzès offers his thoughts on Voltaire’s works. The letter is incomplete.