Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersJames Erwin informs Benjamin Franklin that his vessel was seized by Moroccan forces and he is being held in Tangier despite Morocco's peaceful stance with the United States. He urges Congress to appoint an ambassador to negotiate his release and prevent similar incidents against American sailors. Erwin appeals for Franklin's intervention to resolve the matter and protect American maritime interests.
Beyer informs Benjamin Franklin that the academy has invited him to present the instrument he invented at their upcoming meeting. He anticipates Franklin’s interest in the academy’s judgment of his invention and requests continued support and protection. Beyer expresses deep respect and gratitude toward Franklin.
André de Tronquoy informs Benjamin Franklin that he has written to Bordeaux on Franklin’s behalf and includes copies of his correspondence and the reply received. He promises to send the requested remedy and accompanying instructions as soon as he obtains them, emphasizing his eagerness to assist Franklin promptly.
Armand-Charles Tuffin, marquis de La Rouërie, expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for America's reliable commitment to France and seeks Franklin's approval to publish a paper praising this alliance. He hopes the publication will inspire similar sentiments of respect and gratitude among the French people. La Rouërie requests Franklin to return the approved document.
Fortunato Bartolomeo de Felice critiques Abbé de Mably's observations on American constitutions, arguing they fail to address the serious issues threatening the young republic. He offers to send Benjamin Franklin a copy of his own written remarks, which openly challenge de Mably's views, and mentions ongoing work on a related publication.
Jan Ingenhousz writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing concern that political duties continue to occupy Franklin, preventing him from pursuing scientific interests as he had hoped. Ingenhousz requests confirmation that letters sent to associates like Mr. Wharton have been received and forwarded, emphasizing his personal and scientific investment in these matters. He also expresses a strong desire to hear directly from Franklin about his health and well-being.
Chevalière d’Eon introduces Mr. Falconnet, a reputable lawyer and personal friend, to Benjamin Franklin, requesting Franklin to trust and receive him with distinguished courtesy regarding a matter concerning the interests of the United States. D’Eon expresses deep respect and hopes to meet Franklin in person soon to reaffirm sincere attachment.
Joseph-Bernard, marquis de Chabert, requests an appointment with Benjamin Franklin to read a paper related to a subject of mutual interest before its publication in the 1783 Academy of Sciences history volume. He proposes meeting on January 17 or another convenient day and mentions that President Täscher, his brother-in-law, will accompany him. Chabert asks for a prompt reply.
Office for Foreign Affairs New York 14th. January 1785 Gentlemen, On the 21st. Ultimo I accepted the Place of Secretary for foreign Affairs. All the foreign letters which had been…
Joseph Moore informs Benjamin Franklin that he has sent a printing press to Monsieur le Chevr Holker aboard the ship Adventure, captained by John Damon. Moore explains the delay was due to the unavailability of a ship and notes that Franklin owes seven shillings for customs expenses.
Samuel Huntington appeals to Benjamin Franklin for financial assistance to help Andrew Huntington recover funds he advanced to aid French troops in distress, following a request from the French consul, Mr. Holker. He emphasizes Andrew Huntington's good reputation and the significant personal loss he faces. Samuel Huntington trusts Franklin's sense of justice to provide support within his means.
Orleans 24th Decr. 1784 Sir I take the opportunity by the first post after having presented the letter of recommendation you were so good as to procure me for this…
André de Tronquoy, Treasurer of France, requests Benjamin Franklin, U.S. Minister to France, to specify a convenient time for a personal meeting. Tronquoy expresses his respect and hopes for favorable outcomes for Franklin. The letter reflects diplomatic courtesy and a desire for direct communication on matters concerning Franklin.
Alexander John Alexander informs Benjamin Franklin of his efforts to negotiate peace with his adversaries but reveals that Mr. Walpole is attempting to arrest him based on old French legal disputes. He plans to flee France using an alias and requests Franklin to send a passport under the name John Brown to facilitate his escape to Holland.
Vicente, conde de Sousa Coutinho acknowledges receipt of a letter and a proposed treaty plan from the American Commissioners. He commits to forwarding these documents to the Portuguese court in Lisbon for consideration. The communication reflects early diplomatic exchanges between Portugal and the United States after the American Revolution.
Paris le 19 Xbre 1784 Monsieur et trés cher frère, La faveur que j’ai d’etre membre comme vous de la loge des neuf sœurs m’enhardit a vous demander une grace.…
Jean-François-Paul Grand conveys his father's regret for being unable to visit Benjamin Franklin due to a severe illness. He thanks Franklin for his concern during his wife's childbirth, noting both mother and child are doing well. He also extends warm regards to Franklin's sons.
Jonathan Nesbitt informs Benjamin Franklin that he has received letters intended for America and will send them via the first packet boat as instructed. He suggests using direct routes from L’Orient to Philadelphia to save postage costs on some letters, requesting Franklin's permission to forward mail this way. Nesbitt asks Franklin to ensure the enclosed letter reaches Mr. Williams.
Jonathan Jackson and his associates request Benjamin Franklin, then U.S. Minister in Paris, to provide passports or necessary documents allowing them and their servants to leave France freely. They express regret for not applying in person sooner and indicate their intention to depart Paris the following day.
Versailles le 17. Xbre. 1784./. Monsieur. Je n’ai point l’honneur d’être connu particulieremt. de Vre. Exce. Je n’ai d’autre titre auprès d’Elle que celui de frere et de membre de…