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.
Benjamin Franklin requests John Paul Jones to send a copy of a letter from Mr. de Sartine concerning the settlement of charges incurred in Holland. Franklin promises to provide a clear response upon reviewing the document. The correspondence reflects ongoing financial and administrative matters following the American Revolutionary War.
Benjamin Franklin addresses John Paul Jones regarding the financial charges related to the ships Serapis and Countess of Scarborough, clarifying that he never received authorization to settle these expenses on behalf of the captors. Franklin objects to charging American captors for the costs of maintaining prisoners in Holland, especially since prisoner exchanges did not occur as expected. He returns the documents Jones provided and expresses his respect.
Benjamin Franklin advises Edward Nathaniel Bancroft to continue diligent study under the guidance of his respected teacher, Mr. Rose, and to cultivate good character by being dutiful and affectionate to his mother during his father's absence. Franklin emphasizes the importance of education and moral conduct for future honor and respect. He also sends respectful regards to Bancroft’s family.
Passy, April 5. 1784. Revd Sir, I have received the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 27th past. It would be a pleasure to me…
Passy, April 16. 1784— Sir, We duly receiv’d (M r Jay & me) the Letters you did us the honour of writing to us the 27th of March 1 &…
Benjamin Franklin writes to David Hartley expressing anticipation for his return to Paris and a desire to discuss an idea in person that could enhance friendly relations between America and Britain. Franklin introduces Colonel Harmar, an American visiting England, and requests Hartley to extend hospitality to him. The letter emphasizes Franklin's esteem and hopes for improved diplomatic ties.
Passy, April 17. 1784. Dear Sir, I have received your Favours of March 28. and April 7.— I am glad that Mr Hartley’s being luckily at Bath, sav’d you the…
Benjamin Franklin writes to Benjamin Vaughan expressing relief over a satisfactory response from Dr. Withering and concern for Vaughan's recovery from a horse fall. Franklin requests clarification on a point about the Subscription of the 39 Articles and advises against a new edition until he can provide additional materials from America. He also inquires whether Governor Franklin can supply more resources.
Benjamin Franklin discusses a book on logography sent by John Walter, expressing interest in its method of reducing word pieces through roots and terminations. He shares his own invention for casting letters quickly and offers to teach it to Mr. Johnson, while noting an overlooked Parisian printing improvement from 1776. Franklin critiques the omission and references a pamphlet that claims to halve printing labor and costs across Europe.
Benjamin Franklin writes to Mary Stevenson Hewson acknowledging receipt of wheels delayed by ice and expresses satisfaction with them. He promises to inform Mr. Viney of their arrival and encloses a sample of a new work by the author of L’Ami des Enfans, offering to send more if she desires. Franklin closes with warm regards.
Passy, April 29. 1784. Dear Sir, I received your Favour by Mr Bourdieu, and yesterday another of the 18th. per Mr Hartley, 4 who also gave me the Gazette with…
Benjamin Franklin writes to Benjamin Vaughan discussing his theory that fire is a subtle fluid present everywhere, responsible for sensations of heat and cold and the vibrations of light. He explains that this fluid is attracted to living organisms and various substances, particularly water, which carries it away through evaporation. Franklin shares his philosophical reflections on the nature of fire and heat.
Benjamin Franklin addresses the unresolved financial dispute with Jacques Donatien Leray de Chaumont regarding accounts of debts and credits between Chaumont and the Continental Congress. Franklin explains the failed arbitration attempts and Chaumont’s claim for seventy thousand livres worth of supplies sent to the Continental Army, which Franklin was unaware of. The letter marks the resumption of negotiations following congressional acknowledgment of Chaumont’s claim.
Benjamin Franklin writes to Henry Laurens expressing regret over recent disappointments and updates him on the exchange of ratifications for the definitive Treaty, while noting uncertainty about a Treaty of Commerce. Franklin requests Laurens' thoughts on such a treaty and asks for assistance in securing his dismissal from his current post so he can return home. He also seeks Laurens' recommendation of his grandson as a potential successor or interim secretary, citing the grandson's experience and qualifications.
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Thomson that the ratification of the Definitive Treaty has been exchanged, marking the successful end of the American Revolutionary War. He urges vigilance in maintaining national unity, fiscal responsibility, and military preparedness to safeguard the young nation's reputation and security against future British threats. Franklin emphasizes the importance of fidelity in treaties and warns against complacency and internal divisions.
Benjamin Franklin addresses David Hartley's concerns about the phrasing and formality in the U.S. ratification of the Treaty of Paris, arguing that while the treaty itself follows the custom of naming the crowned head before the republic, the separate ratification acts are independently controlled by each party. Franklin asserts that the United States properly adheres to established diplomatic customs in the treaty text, and the ratification confirms all treaty articles.
Benjamin Franklin informs Thomas Mifflin that the ratifications of the Definitive Treaty have been exchanged and that British instructions on American trade negotiations are delayed due to parliamentary matters. He warns of lingering British resentment and advises vigilance in anticipating changes in European affairs that could impact American interests. Franklin refers to Mr. Jay and Mr. Laurens for more detailed updates from London.
Passy, June 17. 1784. Dear Sister, It is long since I have had the Pleasure of hearing from you, 7 but am glad to hear by Cousin Williams that you…
Benjamin Franklin explains to Félix Frecon that the United States uses a mix of foreign gold and silver coins as real money, with Spanish dollars being most common, while paper currency varies in value across states. He describes the use of bills of exchange drawn on Europe and details Virginia's system of tobacco inspection and payment. Franklin also notes that weights and measures follow British standards uniformly across the states.
Passy, July 4. 1784 Sir, I have received the Letter your Excelly. did me the Honour of writing to me the 29th past. The Annunciation directed by the Instruction you…
Benjamin Franklin advises Mason Locke Weems on the difficulties of obtaining ordination without swearing allegiance to the Archbishop of Paris or converting to Catholicism. He suggests exploring ordination through the Church of Ireland or other Protestant churches, noting the limited options if British and Irish bishops refuse. Franklin also mentions the possibility of following the example of early American Episcopalian clergy as an alternative.
Passy, Aug. 6. 1784. Sir, Mr Bingham sent me last Night from Paris, your Excellency’s Letter of the 27th past, inclosing a Copy of one from Mr Jefferson. I had…
Benjamin Franklin declines the Regents of the University of the State of New York's request to solicit donations in Europe, citing concerns that appeals for funds could damage the young nation's credit and diplomatic standing. He emphasizes the importance of appearing financially independent and mentions his efforts to collect French books to support American education.
Benjamin Franklin thanks Joseph Banks and the Royal Society for awarding him a gold medal honoring Captain Cook and expresses gratitude for receiving a copy of Cook’s voyage, despite a volume being mistakenly omitted. He recommends his grandson to Banks’s kindness and notes the ongoing experiments with balloons in England, emphasizing the need for continued trials to improve their practical use.