Richard Price to Benjamin Franklin, April 3, 1769
Newington-Green, April 3, 1769. Dear Sir, I beg leave to submit to your perusal the following observations. If you think them of any importance, I shall be obliged to you…
Richard Price was a British moral philosopher, Nonconformist minister and mathematician. He was also a political reformer and pamphleteer, active in radical, republican, and liberal causes such as the French and American Revolutions. He was well-connected and fostered communication between many people, including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, George Washington, Mirabeau and the Marquis de Condorcet. According to the historian John Davies, Price was "the greatest Welsh thinker of all time".
Newington-Green, April 3, 1769. Dear Sir, I beg leave to submit to your perusal the following observations. If you think them of any importance, I shall be obliged to you…
May 10th [1778] Dr. P. is very Sorry the bearer of this has any reason for giving Dr. Franklin any farther trouble; but he doubts not but Dr. F—— will…
Decr. 22 1780 Dear Sir I have received with particular pleasure your letter by Dr H—— 2 and I cannot help returning by him a few lines to thank you…
Newington-Green Nov: 18th: 1782 My Dear Friend I have for Some time been intending and wishing to write to you; and I now embrace with great pleasure the opportunity of…
Richard Price introduces Mr. Redford to Benjamin Franklin, requesting Franklin's assistance as Redford plans to settle in the United States with part of his fortune. Price emphasizes Redford's commitment to liberty, his preference for agricultural pursuits over commerce, and his desire to contribute positively to the new nation. He asks Franklin to provide any support or information that might help Redford establish himself.
Richard Price writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing pleasure at receiving his letter and discusses recent scientific developments, including the invention of air balloons in France. He reports on internal conflicts within the Royal Society, where opposition to the President has caused heated debates and the resignation of the Secretary, Mr. Maty. Price also acknowledges Franklin's possible plans to visit London.
Richard Price introduces Mr. Lewis, a supporter of the American cause, to Benjamin Franklin and requests that Franklin extend him courtesy during his travels. Price also mentions a previous letter sent via Lord Fitzmaurice concerning a subject involving Mr. Turgot, seeking Franklin's opinion on the matter.
Richard Price writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing admiration for the King of France’s new Sinking Fund edict, praising its wisdom and potential to resolve France’s debt issues through compound interest. He laments that Britain has failed to adopt similar fiscal measures despite his recommendations. Price acknowledges his limited understanding of France’s public debt details but recognizes the plan’s promise to free significant revenue within two years.
Newington: Green Feb: 8 th: 1787 1 Dear Sir When I writ to you last week to return you my thanks for the instruction and pleasure given me by your…
Hackney Ap: 4 th: 1788 My dear Friend I have just received the favour of your letter, and feel an impatience to thank you for it. Your recommendation of M…
Hackney March 5th: 1789 Dear Sir Having been very happy in your friendship, and much honoured by it while you resided in this country, I cannot avoid taking the opportunity…