Page:Works of Voltaire Volume 16.djvu/328

294 frequently to dine with me, a parcel of contemptible fellows they are, to be sure, but such as, if properly directed, can do a good deal of mischief on occasion: we must make use of every expedient to promote a good cause: away, my friends, recommend yourselves to Ceres, and be ready to cry out when I give you the signal: 'tis the only way for you to live happy here, and gain heaven hereafter.

Most indefatigable Graphius, profound Chomus, and delicate Bertillus, have you finished those little works as I commanded you against the impious Socrates?

My lord, I have labored: he'll never hold up his head again.

I have proved the fact against him; struck him dumb.

I have only mentioned him in my journal, and it has done for him.

Graphius, beware, you know I forbade your prolixity: you are naturally tedious, and that may wear out the patience of the court.