Philosophical Dictionary (Vol. 2)

“That to have fifty thousand soldiers, one must levy one hundred thousand.” This testament throws money out the window.

“That when a new tax is established, one should increase the soldiers' pay.” Something that has never happened in France or anywhere else.

“That one must make the parliaments and other superior courts pay the taille land tax.” An infallible way to win their hearts and to make the magistracy respectable.

“That one must force the nobility to serve and enroll them in the cavalry.” To better preserve all their privileges.

“That of thirty million to be suppressed, there are nearly seven for which, the reimbursement being made only at the rate of one-fifth original: "au denier cinq", the suppression will be accomplished in seven and a half years of enjoyment.” Thus, according to this calculation, five percent in seven and a half years would make one hundred francs, whereas they only make thirty-seven and a half: and if one understands by “one-fifth” the fifth part of the capital, the one hundred francs will be reimbursed in exactly five years. The calculation does not add up; the testator calculates rather poorly.

“That Genoa was the richest city in Italy.” Which I wish for it.

“That one must be very chaste.” The testator resembled certain preachers. Do what they say, and not what they do.

“That one must give an abbey to the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris.” An important thing in the crisis in which Europe was then, and which he does not mention.

“That Pope Benedict XI troubled the