You surely remember, My dear Master, the fine Physics and Chemistry experiments you saw performed by M. Brongniard: his dextrous handling, his clarity in presentation, his wisdom in explaining what is explainable, and in rejecting vain hypotheses to which so much importance has been attached. If you have been as satisfied with him as you seemed to me to be then, here is an occasion to do him a favor in helping to procure him a position, where he will certainly bring more enthusiasm than anyone else, and where he can bring honor to himself and endear himself to the public. The position is that of Demonstrator of Chemistry at the King's Garden, left vacant by the death of M. Rouelle who was buried yesterday, an excellent Chemist and a very mediocre Orator. Such a position depends almost entirely upon M. de Buffon, who already knows of M. Brongniard's merits, and to whom the latter has already been particularly recommended. But you understand that M. Brongniard has competitors, some of whom, while quite adept at solicitation, will perhaps be all the less zealous in filling the position once they have obtained it. This is what makes M. Brongniard desire the support of a voice such as yours, which would certainly carry much weight with M. de Buffon, who will listen to everyone but who knows how to balance out the authorities. I therefore pray you to write him what you think of a candidate whom you have seen at work. He is, I must add, a perfect gentleman, and one of my best and trustworthy friends, to whom for many years I have devoted a constant and faithful attachment. I would have accompanied him myself if pressing affairs did not keep me here, but I hope to come the day after tomorrow to reiterate my recommendation, and discuss with you at leisure a number of other subjects which I have let accumulate for a month, being constantly obliged to put off my trip to Passy from one day to the next. But I am going to change my lodging next week and bring myself closer to you by a good third of the route.

I have the honor of being, with a tender and inviolable attachment, Monsieur and dear Friend, Your very humble and obedient servant