Two more editions were printed in 1582 and 1587; and during this time the author, while making alterations in the original text, had composed part of the Third Book.

He went to Paris to make arrangements for the publication of his enlarged labours, and a fourth impression in 1588 was the result.

He remained in the capital some time on this occasion, and it was now that he met for the first time Mademoiselle de Gournay.

Gifted with an active and inquiring spirit, and, above all, possessing a sound and healthy tone of mind, Mademoiselle de Gournay had been carried from her childhood with that tide which set in with sixteenth century towards controversy, learning, and knowledge.

She learnt Latin without a master; and when, the age of eighteen, she accidentally became possessor of a copy of the Essays, she was transported with delight and admiration.
She quitted the chateau of Gournay, to come and see him.