“If he does not understand it, then he is a blockhead....”
“But if he does, you may expect a declaration of war.”
“China against Voltaire!”
“What would you do then?”
“I would beat them, as you do, with my troops, of course.”
“But if the Emperor has more troops than you?”
“Then I should flee, of course, like you do, sire, or I let myself be put to flight, and so save my honour as a soldier.”
The King was accustomed to Voltaire’s impertinences, and he pardoned them for the moment, but stored them in his memory.
“But now, don’t stick poking about in your room, Monsieur. Come out for a walk with me. We will philosophise in the cool of the evening. I have so much to say, and must put my thoughts in order for the great work.”
“Sire, I will come immediately.”