Letter
Jacques-Joseph Ducarne de Blangy to Benjamin Franklin, October 3, 1783
Jacques-Joseph Ducarne de Blangy criticizes Benjamin Franklin's dismissive response to the significance of the Montgolfier brothers' balloon invention, arguing it holds great potential for military use, electricity research, and understanding lightning. He expresses surprise that more attention has not been given to the discovery since its successful demonstration. Ducarne de Blangy predicts the balloon will prove highly useful within a year or two.