This work was dedicated to the
republic; but as the publication might be unpleasing to the council, I
wished to wait until it had taken its effect at Geneva before I
returned thither. This effect was not favorable to me; and the
dedication, which the most pure patriotism had dictated, created me
enemies in the council, and inspired even many of the burgesses with
jealousy. M. Chouet, at that time first syndic, wrote me a polite
but very cold letter, which will be found amongst my papers. I
received from private persons, amongst others from De Luc and De
Jalabert, a few compliments, and these were all. I did not perceive
that a single Genevese was pleased with the hearty zeal found in the
work. This indifference shocked all those by whom it was remarked. I
remember that dining one day at Clichy, at Madam Dupin's, with
Crommelin, resident from the republic, and M. de Mairan, the latter
openly declared the council owed me a present and public honors for
the work, and that it would dishonor itself if it failed in either.
Crommelin, who was a black and mischievous little man, dared not reply
in my presence, but he made a frightful grimace, which however
forced a smile from Madam Dupin. The only advantage this work procured
me, besides that resulting from the satisfaction of my own heart,
was the title of citizen given me by my friends, afterwards by the
public after their example, and which I afterwards lost by having
too well merited.
This ill success would not, however, have prevented my retiring to
Geneva, had not more powerful motives tended to the same effect.
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