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 sends Jacques Brillon de Jouy compliments and fulfills a promise by forwarding an excerpt of a letter from Mr. Bache along with its translation. He requests Brillon to deliver these documents to Mr. Thomas. The letter reflects Franklin’s ongoing correspondence and diplomatic exchanges in 1785.
Benjamin Franklin requests James Partridge to deliver an enclosed letter to Governor Pownall in Marseilles concerning Mrs. Barry's affairs. Franklin also takes the opportunity to send a packet for Mrs. Barry through Partridge's care and wishes him and Miss Partridge a successful journey.
Benjamin Franklin writes to William Strahan seeking his opinion to resolve a disagreement over the value of a copyright in an established newspaper with a large circulation. Franklin mentions his delayed return to England and the need to settle accounts with the family of their late mutual friend Hall. He expresses confidence that Strahan’s judgment will satisfactorily resolve the matter.
Benjamin Franklin thanks Benjamin Vaughan for sending books and pamphlets, including Thoughts on Executive Justice, which inspires Franklin to consider related ideas. He describes a new wax candle design by Mr. Williams that produces bright light but smokes, and expresses gratitude for castor oil that has helped him. Franklin also mentions curiosity about a passage from Kæmpfer and speculates on his son's absence due to involvement with Royalist affairs.
M r Franklin presents his Respects to M r Adams, & acquaints him, that a New York Gentleman, Paul Randal Esq r. is just arriv’d at Paris, and has Letters…
Passy June 15. 1785. Sir Among the instructions given to the Ministers of the United states for treating with foreign powers, was one of the 11 th. of May 1784.…
Passy July 8 th 1785 Sir We duly received your letter of the 20 th of June, and now in consequence thereof send you a draught of a treaty which…
Philad a. May 18. 1787. Sir, I received by D r White the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 27th of January, together with two…
Philadelphia Feb y 9 th: 1790 Sir, At the Request of the Pennsylvania Society for the Abolition of Slavery, I have the Honour of presenting to your Excellency the enclosed…