In this letter, Louis La Valliere tells Voltaire that he has received the sermon which Voltaire sent, and says that the sermon inspired more respect for the author than for the "sound philosophy which reigns there". La Valliere then asks Voltaire for "the most meager friendship which you can give me." He compliments Voltaire on the fact that he has the "greatest genius and the most harmonious head." La Valliere tells Voltaire about his own career, which he began in order to care for his 15 year old son. Part of a wax seal is still on the letter.