Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Joseph Banks about recent developments in aerostatic experiments, including a detailed account of a balloon flight observed near his residence. He advises Banks that more comprehensive reports will soon be published and encloses an official record of the experiment, offering additional explanations to clarify any obscurities. Franklin emphasizes that his earlier letters were not intended for publication.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin discusses the examination of an anonymous Brussels letter's handwriting, comparing it to samples from M. de Neufville’s clerk to determine its authenticity. He describes specific handwriting features, such as a long dash over the letter t, and notes correspondence with Henry Laurens and others regarding the letter's origin. Franklin also mentions lending letters to Mr. Ridley for comparison and encloses another anonymous letter.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Count de Vergennes that due to severe bladder pain caused by kidney stones, he can no longer visit Versailles in person and hopes for understanding. He notes he has not yet received a response from Congress regarding his recall and requests that his grandson, serving as secretary of the legation, convey any future communications. Franklin expresses his respect and remains at Vergennes's service despite his health limitations.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs John Adams that a packet intended for him contained only a letter to Hamburg magistrates and a diploma for Reverend Wren, with no commission or mention of it, suggesting it was overlooked. He notes consulting Mr. Grand about financial relief, which proved impossible, and expresses hope that Adams' presence in Holland will be helpful.
Letter
[December 17, 1783] To the Honorable Captain John Paul-Jones Commodore in the service of the United-States of America. In pursuance of a Resolution of Congress of the first of November…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin urges Samuel Cooper to ensure that all states promptly provide funds to pay off the national debt, emphasizing that restoring American credit in Europe depends on demonstrating fiscal responsibility. He criticizes delays and resistance to debt repayment, warning that failure to honor obligations damages the nation's reputation. Franklin uses a Pennsylvania anecdote to illustrate the consequences of refusing to pay interest or principal on debts.
Letter
Passy, Dec. 26. 1783.— Sir, I am desired by the General Post Office of Great Britain to recommend to your Consideration a Sketch of an Advertisement respecting the Packet Boats,…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Mary Stevenson Hewson explaining his decision to keep his grandson with him rather than sending him to England as planned, due to the child's reluctance to leave and another family member's desire to keep him. He sends two French grammars and a book of French synonyms as gifts, allowing her French teacher to choose which to keep. Franklin expresses affection and a desire to reunite, though uncertain when that will occur.
Letter
Passy. Dec 26. 1783. Dear Sister, Our Cousin, Mr. Williams, left London in June last, on his return to Boston. He carried some goods for you. I hope he arrived…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Thomas Mifflin, congratulating him on his presidency of Congress and requesting assistance in securing a response to his repeated petition for recall from his diplomatic post due to age and infirmities. Franklin emphasizes his willingness to serve if needed but seeks resolution to arrange his personal affairs.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Benjamin Rush in 1783 to inform him about a remarkable balloon flight by Messieurs Charles and Robert near Paris, witnessed by thousands. Franklin requests Rush to translate and share the account with their philosophical society and mentions his intention to send the society valuable books, including the French Encyclopédie.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin acknowledges receipt of Elias Boudinot's letters and the intelligence they contain, noting communication with other American commissioners abroad. He congratulates Boudinot on his successful presidency and his honorable retirement into private life, expressing respect for the peace and dignity found in stepping away from public duties.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Mary Stevenson Hewson on January 1, 1784, wishing her and her children health and prosperity. He encloses three small books as gifts and asks her to confirm if she has the complete year of one of the books. The letter conveys Franklin's warm personal regards and thoughtful attention to his friend's family.
Letter
Passy, Jan. 3. 1784. Sir I received the Letter you did me the Honour of writing to me by Capt. Jones, and immediately answer’d it, acquainting you that my Packets…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin invites Daniel Lathrop Coit to dine with him on Sunday, January 18, 1784. He requests a response to confirm attendance. The letter reflects Franklin’s social engagement and polite invitation customs of the period.
Letter
Franklin had been aware of the Society of the Cincinnati since at least mid-December, when Pierre-Charles L’Enfant arrived in Paris to deliver George Washington’s letters and begin the work of…
Letter
Passy, Feb. 5. 1784— Sir, I received the Letter you did me the Honour of writing to me the 24th past. 1 You have had a terrible Passage indeed, taking…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Antoine-Alexis-François Cadet de Vaux that illness and harsh weather prevent him from traveling to Paris but invites him to visit Passy to see a coal-burning stove he has installed. Franklin requests assistance in obtaining coal and sends a sample of bread made partly with Turkish wheat flour, along with a recipe, suggesting it be tested at the baking school.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Jean Baptiste Le Roy enclosing correspondence from Mr. Eckhardt, an inventive mechanic seeking assistance. Franklin requests Le Roy to help Eckhardt if possible and to share Eckhardt's comments on balloons with Mr. Montgolfier. Franklin expresses his eagerness to see Le Roy soon.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin requests that Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, protect Mr. Williams from a few creditors seeking preferential treatment after Williams has amicably settled with most of them. Franklin supports Williams' effort to ensure fair justice for all creditors involved.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin apologizes for missing Marie-Françoise-Dominique Brouttin Mollien de Sombres during her visit and clarifies that he does not have authority to appoint consuls. He suggests that if a consul is named for Dunkirk, it will likely be Mr. Coffyn, who has selflessly aided American prisoners escaping England for seven years without compensation.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin sends Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, the original documents proving financial arrangements with creditors as requested. He expresses gratitude for Vergennes’s attention to the matter and asks that the papers be returned to Mr. Williams after review. Franklin signs the letter with formal respect and humility.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin thanks Jacques Leveux for retrieving goods belonging to John Jay and for caring for escaped American prisoners from England. He requests an account of expenses to reimburse Leveux and approves his refusal to assist certain self-proclaimed Americans. Franklin clarifies that consul appointments are decided by Congress, but suggests Leveux's services may favor his nomination if one is made for the city.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Thomson about delays in sending the ratification of the Definitive Treaty due to unforeseen circumstances and severe winter weather in Europe. He updates on diplomatic exchanges, including ratifications with Sweden and the movements of American commissioners like Jay, Laurens, and Adams. Franklin also notes ongoing European political developments and the interest of Europeans wishing to settle in America.