The Marquise Du Deffand begins by saying that Voltaire misread her last letter, confirming that she was not in contact with Madame de Pompadour, but was only concerned for the illness of the president out of obligation. She notes some of the individuals that visited the president during his sickness, including Archbishop Dalby and the mesdes. de Mirepoix, de Gramont, and Degvilly. She then turns to a second misunderstanding, restating that she believes that being born is the greatest misfortune of all, as those who do not love life do not fear its end, and those who are happy fear the loss of life above all. The Marquise makes mention of a man currently staying with Voltaire, noting Voltaire’ attention toward him. She then references her blindness and old age, adding that just one thing would make her happy: to read Voltaire. She notes that if she were with him, she would have the audacity to give him some reflections on his criticisms of Corneille, which she notes are almost all very judicious. However, she cannot subscribe to one of Voltaire’ criticisms of the Horaces.