Voltaire - Autograph Letter Signed To The Mayor Of Gex - 1770

Autograph letter signed by Voltaire (François-Marie Arouet, dit, 1694-1778), addressed to M. Fabri, Mayor of Gex. Signed "V - - - -".

[Circa 1770], "Dimanche matin".

One page on a double leaf in-4. Autograph address on verso of second leaf. Traces of stamp opening without harm to the text. Size: 20×16 cm (20 x 32 cm leaves unfolded).

Precious and rare letter entirely in Voltaire's hand. The vast majority of Voltairean manuscripts at this time being in the hand of his faithful secretary Jean-Louis Wagnière.

In our letter, Voltaire consoles and reassures with great benevolence the mayor of Gex discouraged by the obstacles placed in his way in the project to settle and develop the Versoix region located on the Swiss border. Voltaire settled nearby, buying his Fernay home in 1758. This Versoix project, supported by the King of Sardinia Charles-Emmanuel III, aimed to establish a new town opposite Geneva, which Voltaire actively supported by playing an unofficial role as diplomat, town planner and advisor, mobilizing his network in favor of regional development.

"Allez, allez, mon cher Monsieur, ne soyez pas inconsolable.

It was to me that it had been mandated that two articles and among others that of education might keep the new settlers away.

It was to me that it has since been written that there would be no question of education.

It is to me that it is written by a third letter of the 14th (arrived only today by Mr. Henin) that the port will be guarded by invalids.

So you are only responsible for the good you do every day to the country.

We know your merit and your services and you must console yourself.

It's clear that another edict will be needed if the town is to be inhabited.

In such cases, it's up to those you want to attract to give the law; you treat your subjects as you like, but you have to deal with those you want to acquire.

A thousand very tender respects. V--

Sunday morning"