Autograph letter from Voltaire to Louise Honorine Crozat du Châtel Choiseul, written from château de Ferney and dated 18 September 1769.
Detailed Summary:
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.
Fernand Caussy, Inventaire des manuscrits de la bibliothèque de Voltaire conservée à la bibliothèque impériale publique de Saint-Pétersbourg (Geneva, Slatkine reprints, 1970)