A young Frenchman in Paris conceived the most ardent desire to see and
speak with the celebrated M. Voltaire. Without any friends who knew the
philosopher, he could not hope for an introduction to his person;
resolved however not to be disappointed in his favourite object, he went
to the house and demanded to see the valet, to whom, having disclosed
his unconquerable longing, he presented a few livres, begging to be led
to the chamber door of the great man. The valet complied with his
request, and the youth tremblingly knocked at the door, “Who’s there?”
vociferated a loud voice; he knocked again, “Who disturbs me with such a
noise? Come in,” cried the philosopher, who happened to be in rather a
sullen humour. The young man, hesitatingly opened the door, and with a
faultering step and trembling voice addressed the object he so earnestly
wished to see--“I have long ardently desired to behold and speak with
the very celebrated M. Voltaire; excuse my intrusion.” “For three sous,”
angrily replied the poet, “you may gain admission so see any beast.”
“Here, Sir, are six, for this interview, and six more for another sight
tomorrow,” replied the youth with some presence of mind. The sage was so
struck with his prompt reply, and perhaps his vanity not a little
flattered, that he immediately admitted him into the circle of his most
intimate friends, and continued ever after to shew him particular marks
of friendship and regard.
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