When he died, the man of letters was the most conspicuous personage in France.

But when Diderot first began to roam about the streets of Paris, this enormous change was not yet complete.
For some ten years (1734-1744) Diderot's history is the old tale of hardship and chance; of fine constancy and excellent faith, not wholly free from an occasional stroke of rascality.

For a time he earned a little money by teaching.

If the pupil happened to be quick and docile, he grudged no labour, and was content with any fee or none.

If the pupil happened to be dull, Diderot never came again, and preferred going supperless to bed.