Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersEdward Nathaniel Bancroft writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing concern for his health and requests that Franklin convey his respectful greetings to Bancroft's father, Mr. Bache, Mr. and Mrs. Jay, and other mutual acquaintances. Bancroft also sends compliments from Dr. Rose and expresses a desire to hear from Mr. Bache.
⟨Passy, December 9, 1784: We received your letter of November 16, informing us that His Royal Highness the Grand Duke of Tuscany would receive with pleasure our propositions for a…
American Commissioners respond to the Duke of Dorset's letter, expressing satisfaction with his ministers' assurances and clarifying their authority to negotiate. They state that if the proposal involves appointing a U.S. minister to reside at the British court, they must refer the matter to Congress, but if negotiations are to occur in London, they have full powers to proceed. They agree to meet in London despite inconvenience and await further instructions.
Thomas Tabb Bolling informs Benjamin Franklin that he cannot meet him before Franklin departs Paris on Friday. He requests Franklin to send a promised letter of recommendation for Orleans through the bearer. Bolling expresses regret for the missed opportunity to meet in person.
Jean-Sylvain Bailly sends Benjamin Franklin a register requiring his signature, noting Franklin has already reviewed most of it except the last few articles. Bailly also conveys medical faculty representative M. Majault's gift of three copies of a decree and a small work dedicated to Franklin. Bailly requests Franklin return the register by December 12 if he needs to keep it longer.
Baron de Feriet informs Benjamin Franklin that he has identified a desirable house near Mr. de Reyneval and has negotiated with the current occupant about leasing it. He requests confirmation from Franklin or his grandson regarding their interest, as property owners await a decision. The baron apologizes for delays caused by personal matters and asks for a prompt reply to finalize arrangements.
A Kehl ce 5 Xbre. 1784. Monsieur, Depuis que la crainte de vous fatiguer par mes Lettres m’a empêché de continuer à vous écrire, j’ai pris le parti de me…
Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, appeals to Benjamin Franklin on behalf of Jean Jacques Delvard, a crew member of the privateer cutter La Revanche, who has not received wages or shares from captured prizes during his six months of service in 1777. Vergennes requests Franklin's assistance in securing justice for Delvard, emphasizing that he was left disabled by injuries sustained while serving.
Jonathan Jr Williams writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 describing a versatile carriage suitable for both travel and city use, including detailed sketches and suggestions for adjustable seating and a suspended bed to improve comfort. He seeks Franklin's approval of the design and shares insights from a coachmaker who endorses the proposed features.
Andrew Limozin informs Benjamin Franklin of the arrival of a packet sent via the American ship Friendship from Alexandria, consigned to him. He encloses the packet and expresses his respect and obedience to Franklin. The letter serves as a formal notification of the delivery.
John Frederick Sackville, third Duke of Dorset, informs the American Commissioners that British ministers are open to proposals for a mutually beneficial agreement but insist that negotiations occur in London with an authorized U.S. commissioner. He notes that discussions on specific articles of the 1783 peace preliminaries with France will be addressed by the British Court to seek a fair resolution.
Benjamin Franklin advises Jean-Anne Lafont against undertaking a costly and uncertain journey to a foreign country where he lacks language skills and connections. Franklin suggests Lafont consider French islands instead, where he might find better opportunities to practice medicine. He declines to provide a recommendation due to unfamiliarity with Lafont.
Benjamin Franklin responds to J.-B. Marioge, clarifying that he has no authority to facilitate passage to America for establishing manufacturing. He advises caution given Marioge's family responsibilities and age, and notes that America is open to all without special incentives from Congress. Franklin encloses information on potential risks and opportunities related to Marioge's plan to emigrate.
Benjamin Franklin discusses the common practice of seeking influence or protection to secure payment of debts, noting that creditors often petition officials before formally presenting their claims. He requests Thomas Jefferson's advice on a specific case enclosed with the letter to provide guidance to the creditor involved. Franklin aims to clarify proper procedures for debt collection and offers assistance through Jefferson's counsel.
Passy ce 23 Nov[re 1784] Je n’ai point reçu, Monsieur, le Projet dont vous faitez mention dans la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 15 du mois…
The marquis d’Auzoüer writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 expressing regret for not spending more time with Mrs. Adams and another American lady during his brief stay in Paris. He requests Franklin to convey his apologies and sentiments to them. The marquis also mentions his and his husband's recent illnesses and expresses gratitude for Franklin's kindness toward Mr. Carroll.
Benjamin Franklin writes to Monsieur Bra to distance himself from any disputes regarding Mesmerism, stating he does not want his name associated with the controversy except as part of the official report by the royal commissioners. He emphasizes his role as a humble and obedient servant, appointed by His Majesty to the commission.
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.
William Strahan writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing admiration for Franklin’s enduring mental and physical vigor despite Strahan’s own declining health. He urges Franklin to visit London, suggesting the journey by water from Passy is feasible and promising important reasons for the invitation. Strahan regrets being unable to travel to Passy himself due to his frailty.
A French correspondent, identifying himself as a protégé of the French consul in Boston, writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 to challenge the credibility of Franz Mesmer and his magnetic theories. He claims to have authored anonymous pamphlets criticizing Mesmer's practices and seeks Franklin's attention to expose further deception in Mesmer's work. The writer expresses frustration at Mesmer's continued influence despite these critiques.