"I have just received extreme unction; that is, the state, reverend father, when I am preparing to appear before God, in which I pray you with instance to represent to the king my true sentiments.

I have never felt anything but docility towards the church and horror at the innovations which have been imputed to me.

I accepted the condemnation of my book in the most absolute simplicity.

I have never been a single moment in my life without feeling towards the king personally the most lively gratitude, the most genuine zeal, the most profound respect, and the most inviolable attachment.

I take the liberty of asking of his Majesty two favors, which do not concern either my own person or anybody belonging to me.