EPISTLE.

...even more marked kindnesses! I believe I can best deserve them by continuing to act in the same spirit, regarding as a favor the liberty you grant me to present to you from time to time the fruit of my late-night labors original: "fruit de mes veilles." This phrase was common in 18th-century literature to describe the results of intensive study and writing conducted during the quiet hours of the night., and to renew to you the assurances of the profound respect with which I have the honor of being,

MY LORD, original: "MONSEIGNEUR." A title of high honor used for princes, bishops, and high-ranking noblemen like the Count d'Argenson.

Epistle, My Lord, Belidor, dedication