Author

Letters from Benjamin Vaughan

Benjamin Vaughan MD FRSE LLD was a British political radical. He was a commissioner in the negotiations between Britain and the United States at the drafting of the Treaty of Paris.

Source: Wikipedia
23 letters
Also see 10 letters received by Benjamin Vaughan →
Letter

Benjamin Vaughan to Benjamin Franklin, March 15, 1783

From Benjamin Vaughan
To Benjamin Franklin
March 15, 1783

Benjamin Vaughan introduces Mr. Mackinnen Jr., a young planter from Antigua traveling for his health, to Benjamin Franklin, requesting Franklin to extend his courtesy to the young man. Vaughan emphasizes the esteem and goodwill of his father-in-law, Mr. Manning, towards Franklin, hoping this connection will be mutually beneficial.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Benjamin Vaughan to Benjamin Franklin, June 16, 1783

From Benjamin Vaughan
To Benjamin Franklin
June 16, 1783

Benjamin Vaughan introduces Lord Daer, son of the Earl of Selkirk, to Benjamin Franklin, describing him as a valuable and philosophically minded acquaintance with political views favorable to American interests. Vaughan expresses confidence in Lord Daer's future significance and hopes he will become a companion to Franklin and his son during his stay in Paris.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Benjamin Vaughan to Benjamin Franklin, June 24, 1783

From Benjamin Vaughan
To Benjamin Franklin
June 24, 1783

Benjamin Vaughan advises Benjamin Franklin to maintain firmness and good humor in negotiations with Britain, cautioning against pushing too hard despite current political tensions. He notes that the king may favor American interests more than the current ministry, which is losing credibility. Vaughan suggests that reasonableness and kindness will yield better outcomes than confrontation.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Benjamin Vaughan to Benjamin Franklin, August 8, 1783

From Benjamin Vaughan
To Benjamin Franklin
August 8, 1783

Benjamin Vaughan introduces Dugald Stewart to Benjamin Franklin, praising Stewart as a leading Scottish mathematician and moral philosopher who has excelled in public lectures. Vaughan requests Franklin to extend his attention to Stewart and Lord Ancram, highlighting Stewart's potential to provide valuable insights into Scottish literary figures and intellectual pursuits. Vaughan notes Stewart's humility and reluctance to engage in mathematics discussions beyond his expertise.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Benjamin Vaughan to Benjamin Franklin, August 9, 1783

From Benjamin Vaughan
To Benjamin Franklin
August 9, 1783

Benjamin Vaughan writes to Benjamin Franklin to clarify that General Gray actively sought clear instructions and resources for evacuating British troops from New York, countering claims that Lord Shelburne acted deceitfully. Vaughan emphasizes logistical challenges such as lack of transports, harsh weather, and naval threats that delayed the evacuation, supporting the argument with detailed evidence from official correspondence.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Benjamin Vaughan to Benjamin Franklin, November 21, 1784

From Benjamin Vaughan
To Benjamin Franklin
November 21, 1784

Benjamin Vaughan writes to Benjamin Franklin about Franklin's grandson's recent visit to London, noting his respected presence and active engagement despite unfavorable timing for political and social gatherings. Vaughan mentions sending Franklin philosophical books and an extract from Dr. Priestley’s letter, and reports efforts to assist Count Mirabeau through Franklin's recommendation. He anticipates the grandson will likely return when conditions are more favorable.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience