Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Barclay, February 16, 1783
Passy, Feb. 16. 1783 Sir The within is a Copy of a Resolution of Congress, which I forward to you, lest you should not have receiv’d it by any direct…
Author
Letters from Benjamin Franklin
B. 1706 · D. 1790
Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath: a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher and political philosopher. Among the most influential intellectuals of his time, Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States; a drafter and signer of the Declaration of Independence; and the first postmaster general.
Source: Wikipedia
1,719 letters
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric Dumas, February 17, 1783
Passy Feb. 17. 1783. Dear Sir It is a long time since I have had the Pleasure of hearing from you. 6 I hope however that you and yours continue…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Caroline (Charlotte)-Bertrande Chapelle de Jumilhac-Cubjac Bertin, March 1, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs Madame Bertine that he has already provided the requested recommendatory letter and passport to the Portuguese Ambassador. He acknowledges receipt of a letter from Baron de Jumilhac and promises to act on it. Franklin expresses his sincere attachment and willingness to assist her friends upon her recommendation.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to George Fox, March 1, 1783
Benjamin Franklin invites George Fox to dine with him on Sunday, March 30, 1783, at his residence in Passy. He requests a response to confirm Fox’s attendance. The letter reflects Franklin’s social engagements during his time in France.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Philip Mazzei, March 2, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs Philip Mazzei that unexpected matters will prevent him from attending a meeting at Versailles on Tuesday. He also notes that the royal court is unlikely to be in session due to Mardi Gras celebrations.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to William Hodgson, March 9, 1783
Benjamin Franklin addresses William Hodgson's complaint about the excessive fee for passports, criticizing government corruption and explaining that existing British and American laws still prohibit trade despite the peace treaty. He advises caution in trading English goods in America until legal repeals or permissions are confirmed to avoid confiscation.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, March 9, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, of a complaint brought by the U.S. Consul general regarding an insult and injury by English merchants in Bourdeaux against the United States Congress. Franklin requests Vergennes' intervention to ensure appropriate measures are taken for redress.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, March 16, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, that American merchants face significant obstacles in trade with France due to internal duties and inspections. He suggests that freer commerce benefits all nations and urges consideration of policies that facilitate trade between America, France, and French Caribbean islands, referencing similar British parliamentary proposals. Franklin expresses strong support for improving commercial relations.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to David Steuart Erskine, Earl of Buchan, March 17, 1783
Benjamin Franklin responds to the Earl of Buchan's inquiry about acquiring land and starting settlements in America, recommending a book by Hector St. John for detailed information. He describes America as offering good climate, fertile soil, and liberty, but emphasizes that land must be purchased and settlements are privately funded, with public support limited to defense and justice. Franklin also expresses skepticism about significant emigration from Scotland due to war losses but praises Scots' qualities that lead to success in America.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to William Jones, March 17, 1783
Benjamin Franklin congratulates William Jones on his upcoming marriage to Anna Maria and expresses pleasure at Jones's appointment to a lucrative position in the Indies. Franklin sends a newly finished engraving of his medal, incorporating Jones's suggested mottos, and hopes Jones will return wealthy and virtuous. He also mentions his recovery from illness and plans to travel to England the following summer.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Jonathan Shipley, March 17, 1783
Benjamin Franklin responds to Jonathan Shipley, expressing concern over opposition in the British Parliament to the peace treaty ending the American Revolutionary War. Franklin argues that the criticism targets the minister rather than the treaty itself and defends the American side for not demanding reparations for British wartime destruction, despite the war being unjust. He anticipates discussing his reasons further upon their reunion.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, March 24, 1783
Benjamin Franklin requests Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, to approve and expedite the printing of a complete French translation of the United States Constitutions, including the treaty with France. He explains arrangements with the printer Mr. Pierres, who requires official permission to begin publication and distribution. Franklin urges prompt authorization to facilitate timely release of the volume.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Michel Guillaume (Hector) St. John (St. Jean) de Crèvecoeur, April 2, 1783
Benjamin Franklin advises Michel Guillaume St. John de Crèvecoeur on improving transatlantic packet boat service between England and America, emphasizing the need for a fifth packet to maintain regular dispatches despite weather delays. He suggests coordinating French packet schedules to provide merchants with biweekly communication opportunities, enhancing commerce and postal revenue.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, April 10, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs John Adams that he has received a letter from Mr. Lawrens, including a copy of a postscript referenced in Adams’s earlier correspondence. Franklin provides this information to keep Adams updated on communications during their diplomatic efforts in 1783.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Robert R Livingston, April 27, 1783
Benjamin Franklin introduces Count Del Verme, an Italian nobleman and traveler, to Robert R. Livingston, requesting that Livingston extend hospitality and guidance to the Count during his visit to America. Franklin emphasizes the Count's distinguished character and the purpose of his journey to observe the country and its notable figures.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, May 4, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, that he considers the proposal to cede military stores left by Rochambeau at Baltimore potentially acceptable to the Congress or individual states. However, Franklin lacks authority and specific knowledge of Congress's needs to finalize any agreement. He suggests granting power to the ambassador or consul to negotiate the disposition of these stores.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, May 5, 1783
Benjamin Franklin explains to Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, that he missed recent court visits due to a misunderstanding about holiday schedules and his poor health, including gout and weakness in his legs. He expresses regret for any perceived disrespect and assures his continued respect and dedication. Franklin also mentions the ill health of colleagues Mr. Laurens and Mr. Jay.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, May 23, 1783
Benjamin Franklin requests Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, to consider a petition from Mr. Price, an American who served the Continental Army in Canada and is respected by Congress. Franklin asks Vergennes to grant Price the order he seeks. The letter reflects Franklin's effort to support an American ally through French diplomatic channels in 1783.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Jan Ingenhousz, June 1, 1783
Benjamin Franklin introduces his young friend Mr. S. Vaughan to Jan Ingenhousz, seeking his guidance and advice in mineralogy. Franklin requests that Ingenhousz extend kindness and support to Vaughan during his travels. He expresses personal regard for Vaughan and appreciation for Ingenhousz’s hospitality toward worthy strangers.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Eric Magnus, Baron de Staël de Holstein, June 16, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs Baron de Staël de Holstein that he awaits the U.S. Congress's ratification of a treaty with Sweden, after which they can proceed with reciprocal exchanges. He expresses honor at Sweden's desire to have a U.S. representative and pledges to present this to Congress, confident they will support actions pleasing to the Swedish sovereign who first offered friendship to the United States.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Franklin Bache, June 23, 1783
Benjamin Franklin writes to his grandson Benjamin Franklin Bache in 1783, praising his progress in writing and drawing. He requests permission for Bache to visit him during school vacation to improve his health and well-being. Franklin also sends affectionate regards from family members.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Farmers General, July 1, 1783
Benjamin Franklin recommends that the Farmers General write to Robert Morris, Superintendent of Finance, to request payment of the debt owed by the states and to ask for a cargo of tobacco purchased on their behalf. Franklin expresses full confidence in Morris's skill and integrity and suggests this transaction serve as a trial to determine if future debt payments should continue in this form. The Farmers General ultimately decide to address the letter to Franklin instead.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Le Couteulx & Cie, July 2, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs Messrs Le Couteulx that Robert Morris has overdrawn on funds beyond what Franklin can supply, risking protest of bills by Mr. Grand. He urges them to honor Morris's drafts or provide funds to prevent financial embarrassment and protect the interests of the United States. Franklin requests their assistance in managing these payments promptly.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to John Jay, July 3, 1783
Benjamin Franklin advises John Jay to postpone justifying their signing of the preliminary peace agreement, arguing that the issue is currently quiet and publicizing their defense could provoke offense and harm relations with foreign ministers. Franklin notes that Congress has not demanded an explanation or censured them, suggesting restraint to maintain good diplomatic relations.