EPISTLE.

in these States; a new People, and judging that the Sciences could soften its manners, he felt the advantage of maintaining a close Correspondence with You, especially when, struck by your example, he perceived that they were as fit for forming the heart as for enlightening the mind. Bélidor is completing the thought from the previous page: Peter the Great sought to "civilize" Russia by introducing Western sciences and arts, viewing the French Academy as the gold standard for both intellectual and moral development.

Indeed, GENTLEMEN, it is through the candor that animates your actions that you inspire a taste for fine knowledge, while the nobility and energy that reign in your Writings encourage one to cultivate them. The satisfaction of seeing the truth there in all its light, the hope of acquiring there a greater breadth of genius, more penetration, and more precision, are attractions too powerful not to aspire to follow in your footsteps.

However, although an inclination of this character seems very disinterested, would one vainly wish to insinuate that in seeking to imitate you, GENTLEMEN, one has no other views than public utility? public utilityThe 18th-century concept of "utilité publique" refers to work that benefits the state and its citizens, a primary justification for scientific and engineering projects. There are always some personal motives difficult to disguise; mine, I confess, is confined to the desire to please you; it is a sentiment that has not ceased to excite my emulation, and which you yourself brought forth through the approba-