Author

Letters from William Temple Franklin

B. 1760 · D. 1823

William Temple Franklin, known as Temple Franklin, was an American diplomat and real estate speculator who is best known for his involvement with the American diplomatic mission in France during the American Revolutionary War. Beginning at the age of 16, he served as secretary to his grandfather Benjamin Franklin, who negotiated and agreed to the Franco-American Alliance.

Source: Wikipedia
18 letters
Also see 22 letters received by William Temple Franklin →
Letter

William Temple Franklin to Benjamin Franklin, August 25, 1784

From William Temple Franklin
To Benjamin Franklin
August 25, 1784

William Temple Franklin reports his difficult journey to Calais, marked by a broken carriage wheel and delays, and arranges for repairs at Mr. Dessein’s expense. He plans to return to Paris in a different carriage and seeks to secure English newspapers for Benjamin Franklin at a lower cost. Franklin also mentions settling financial advances with Mr. Le Veux on Benjamin’s account.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

William Temple Franklin to Benjamin Franklin, September 7, 1784

From William Temple Franklin
To Benjamin Franklin
September 7, 1784

William Temple Franklin informs his grandfather Benjamin Franklin that he has recovered from a severe fever and ague thanks to medical treatment and care. He explains his weakened state due to illness and sea sickness and requests permission to extend his stay in London to compensate for lost time. Franklin also mentions his father's postponed plans to visit the seaside because of these events.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

William Temple Franklin to Benjamin Franklin, October 5, 1784

From William Temple Franklin
To Benjamin Franklin
October 5, 1784

William Temple Franklin writes to Benjamin Franklin from London in 1784, updating him on efforts to arrange financial matters through Mr. J. Alexander and expressing relief at his recovery from fever. He apologizes for brief correspondence due to social obligations and regrets missing visits with important friends, including the Bishop and Lord Shelburne, before his planned departure.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

William Temple Franklin to Benjamin Franklin, October 22, 1784

From William Temple Franklin
To Benjamin Franklin
October 22, 1784

William Temple Franklin writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing concern over Mrs. Hewson's indecision about accepting an invitation and updates him on his travel plans, intending to depart shortly after Thursday unless instructed otherwise. He also informs Benjamin that the printing of a work Moore prepared is complete and will be sent as directed.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

William Temple Franklin to Benjamin Franklin, October 26, 1784

From William Temple Franklin
To Benjamin Franklin
October 26, 1784

William Temple Franklin informs Benjamin Franklin of his travel plans to visit a respected family near Chilbolton, explaining a delay that extends his stay into the next month. He mentions coordinating with the Bishop and possibly traveling with Abbe Morellet, expressing a desire to leave England soon for a milder climate.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

William Temple Franklin to Benjamin Franklin, November 9, 1784

From William Temple Franklin
To Benjamin Franklin
November 9, 1784

William Temple Franklin informs Benjamin Franklin about Mrs. Hewson's indecision regarding travel plans, noting she initially intended to leave but then changed her mind again. He arranges transportation to Paris to accommodate her and expresses eagerness to depart London, delayed only by his father's wish for him to sit for a portrait by the American artist Stewart.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience