In 1758, Rousseau settles in a small, dilapidated apartment in Montmorency. He is very sick, suffering from kidney pain and urine retention. After attaching herself to one of Rousseau’s estranged friends, Madame d’Épinay softens when learning that he left the Hermitage and sends a letter offering peace. Rousseau refuses to respond. He believes his former friends conspired against him and are spreading false rumors about him across Paris. His other friends also treat him coolly, which he believes to be evidence of the influence of Diderot and others. Madame d’Houderot writes to tell him that she is devastated to report that their relationship is the fodder of gossip that nearly destroyed her husband.

Rousseau eventually accepts an invitation to dine with Madame d’Épinay and other friends, whom he is eager to see again. Everyone at the dinner is friendly, and he is glad to be back in their good graces. He publishes a letter defending himself against the rumors about him. When it is well received, he feels that his reputation has regained traction. During this time, he writes and publishes many works, including Julie, Émile, and The Social Contract. He wants to write his memoirs, so he prepares to retire to focus on this work.