That it is not so
I give thanks to Providence.
"M. the duc d'Aiguillon did not deceive you when he told you
that I fed on your sublime poetry. I am in literature a perfect
novice, and yet am sensible of the true beauties which abound
in your works. I am to be included amongst the stones which
were animated by Amphion: this is one of your triumphs; but to
this you must be accustomed.
"Believe also that all your friends are not in the enemy's camp.
There are those about me who love you sincerely, M. de Chauvelin,
for instance, MM. de Richelieu and d'Aiguillon: this latter eulogizes
you incessantly; and if all the world thought as he does, you would
be here in your place. But there are terrible prejudices which my
candor will not allow me to dissemble, which you have to overcome.
There is
who complains of you, and this one must be won over
to your interests. He wishes you to testify more veneration for
what he venerates himself; that your attacks should not be so
vehement nor so constant. Is it then impossible for you to comply
his wishes in this particular? Be sure that you only, in setting no
bounds in your attacks on religion, do yourself a vast mischief with
the person in question.
"It will appear strange that I should hold such language to you:
I only do it to serve you: do not take my statements unkindly. I
have now a favor to ask of you; which is, to include me in the list
of those to whom you send the first fruits of the brilliant
productions of your pen.
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