Letter
Benjamin Franklin communicates Congress's resolution requesting assistance from King Louis XVI, emphasizing its importance for the United States' welfare and expressing confidence in the Congress's efforts to secure necessary funds. He references prior ratifications and diplomatic efforts to reinforce the request's legitimacy and urgency. Franklin appeals to Vergennes's understanding and support despite the difficulty of the matter.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin introduces M. Thieriot, a Saxon commerce commissioner, who travels to Philadelphia to establish beneficial correspondence between Saxony and the United States. Franklin requests Robert R. Livingston to extend support and hospitality to Thieriot, emphasizing his potential official role and the friendship between their nations.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin provides letters requested by Johann von Schönfeld for Mr. Thieriot, intended to secure him proper reception and respect due to his sovereign and merit. Franklin expresses confidence these letters will achieve their purpose and conveys his sincere attachment and respect to Schönfeld.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin sends Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, a copy of the United States Constitution in 1783, requesting that he accept it. Franklin also includes copies intended for the King and the Royal Family and asks Vergennes to ensure their delivery in an appropriate manner.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin reports that Captain Landais unlawfully seized the American ship Alliance and obtained provisions without proper authorization, leading to a dispute over payment. A local agent, Puchelberg, retaliates by seizing U.S. property in France, causing diplomatic tension. Franklin warns that allowing private individuals to detain American assets could disrupt critical government operations and harm U.S. interests abroad.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin advises Giuseppe Doria Pamphili that the American Congress should not intervene in ecclesiastical matters, as each state independently manages religious affairs without federal involvement. He suggests the Roman Curia coordinate directly with U.S. ministers to appoint clergy for American Catholics, respecting constitutional boundaries and the political separation resulting from the American Revolution.
Letter
Passy, July 29. 1783— Dr Franklin presents his Compliments to Dr Blagden, requests his Care of the enclos’d, and wishes him a good Journey with a happy Sight of his…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs William Strahan that he has recommended Miss Beckwith to his children in Philadelphia, following Strahan's earlier suggestion. He encloses information about her current situation and expresses hope that Strahan and his family are well. Franklin also conveys a sense of finality, anticipating they may never meet again.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Ann Hudson de Lavau that he has received seventy-two dollars from bills sent by Mr. Beall and authorizes her to draw three hundred and sixty livres tournois on him to cover the amount. He expresses regret over her delayed journey to America and hopes the funds and Mr. Beall’s letter will help her secure passage home safely.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin advises Samuel Cooper Johonnot to follow the guidance of his friends, expressing regret that Johonnot missed the Boston vessel due to his own delay. Franklin emphasizes the unnecessary expense caused by this decision and encourages Johonnot to be more receptive to advice until he gains more experience.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Henry Laurens that no letters from him have been received and updates him on the peace negotiations with British ministers. The ministers insist on signing the Preliminary Articles as the Definitive Treaty without changes, except for a preamble and concluding paragraph confirming the agreement. Franklin anticipates the treaty will soon be finalized.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Jan Ingenhousz about recent public interest in balloons and suggests Ingenhousz create one filled with inflammable air that could be ignited by electricity to mimic thunder. Franklin also mentions the upcoming signing of the Definitive Treaty, which establishes peace between Europe and America. He expresses hope for a lasting peace.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Henry Laurens that the Definitive Treaty of Peace between England and the United States is signed on September 3, 1783, in Paris. He mentions that other related treaties are expected to be signed simultaneously at Versailles. Franklin promises to provide a more detailed account soon.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin expresses gratitude to Charles James Fox for sending Mr. Hartley, whose conciliatory and sincere approach greatly aided negotiations. Franklin congratulates Fox on the peace between their countries and pledges to support measures promoting common welfare. He closes with respectful esteem and a commitment to continued cooperation in public affairs.
Letter
Passy Sept. 6. 1783 My dear friend, Inclosed is my Letter to Mr. Fox. 7 I beg you would assure him, that my Expressions of Esteem for him are not…
Letter
Passy, Sept. 10. 1783. Sir, I have received a Letter from a very respectable Person in America, 3 containing the following Words, Viz “It is confidently reported, propagated, and believed…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin thanks Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier for his invitation and confirms he will attend the scheduled demonstration. The letter reflects Franklin’s interest in Montgolfier’s balloon experiments during 1783.
Letter
Passy, Sept. 11. 1783.— My dear Friend, Mr Storer told me not long since that you complain’d of my not writing to you. 6 You had reason; for I find…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Octavie Guichard Durey de Meinières expressing his intention to dine with her and her family despite health advice against it. He hopes her rheumatism has improved to allow her more comfort and looks forward to seeing her husband, conveying respect and affection for both. Franklin also compliments her English and modestly remarks on his own French skills.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to his son Richard Bache in 1783, recommending Mr. Du Trône, a well-regarded physician traveling to America with other intentions. Franklin requests that Bache introduce Du Trône to his friends and extend every possible courtesy. He also sends his love to Bache's wife Sally and their children.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Sir Edward Newenham expressing joy over his safe return and election success, while reflecting on the progress of liberty and the decline of arbitrary governments. He discusses the potential for a trade agreement between Ireland and America, noting ongoing negotiations and the need for clear terms to prevent future misunderstandings. Franklin emphasizes the role of printing in spreading enlightenment and weakening despotism.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin praises Thomas Hollis as a remarkable benefactor to America and a model of public service, contrasting his impactful life with the trivial pursuits of many wealthy gentlemen. Franklin acknowledges Hollis's efforts in promoting important English writings that benefit society broadly and across generations. He also notes their limited personal acquaintance despite occasional meetings in learned societies.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin responds to David Hartley’s letter regarding a proposed temporary convention, expressing confidence that American unity will endure despite concerns of division. He notes that reports of American discord are exaggerated and promises to consider the proposal once his colleagues return to London. Franklin also sends regards to Hartley’s family.
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Benjamin Franklin thanks Philippe-Denis Pierres for sharing his essays and acknowledges Pierres' progress in a different, possibly superior, approach. Franklin expresses a desire to meet when Pierres has time to finalize their account. He closes with respectful regard.