VOLTAIRE (1694-1778). L.A.S., Fontainebleau 27 October [1746], to maréchal de Belle-Isle 1 page in-4 (engraved portrait enclosed). "Permit my lord that a man charged with writing the history of his time thanks you for the happy subjects you provide him with. Whenever fortune seconds your skill and value, it does me a favour. It is not that I need success to be the most constant of your admirers. But it is necessary for you and for the public, who judge by events. For a long time I have regarded you as a very great man, and I put my glory in repaying what I owe to yours. Kindly receive the testimonies of a very pure zeal. I ask you not to waste such precious time honouring me with a word. Your victories are your answer. Correspondence (Pléiade), t. II,