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All Letters

Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.

46,149 letters
Letter

Benjamin Franklin to David Hartley, April 17, 1784

From Benjamin Franklin
To David Hartley
April 17, 1784

Benjamin Franklin writes to David Hartley expressing anticipation for his return to Paris and a desire to discuss an idea in person that could enhance friendly relations between America and Britain. Franklin introduces Colonel Harmar, an American visiting England, and requests Hartley to extend hospitality to him. The letter emphasizes Franklin's esteem and hopes for improved diplomatic ties.

Letter

Henry Laurens to Benjamin Franklin, April 7, 1784

From Henry Laurens
To Benjamin Franklin
April 7, 1784

Henry Laurens informs Benjamin Franklin that he has received Franklin's correspondence and will send an open letter to Charles Thompson by the next mail. Laurens mentions coordinating with Mr. Hartley regarding the ratification process and offers to assist with any necessary exchanges in America. Despite poor health, Laurens remains mentally sound and sends newspapers for Franklin's review of recent elections.

Letter

Richard Price to Benjamin Franklin, April 6, 1784

From Richard Price
To Benjamin Franklin
April 6, 1784

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.

Letter

Jonathan Trumbull to Benjamin Franklin, April 5, 1784

From Jonathan Trumbull
To Benjamin Franklin
April 5, 1784

Jonathan Trumbull introduces Gerrey and Buckingham to Benjamin Franklin, seeking his advice on recovering money lost due to prematurely accepted French Bills of Exchange. He emphasizes their good reputations and requests Franklin's assistance in asserting their rights if their evidence is sufficient. Trumbull expresses gratitude in advance for Franklin's help.

Letter

Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy to Benjamin Franklin, April 4, 1784

From Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy
To Benjamin Franklin
April 4, 1784

Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy thanks Benjamin Franklin for his letter and requests he include advice for those wishing to travel to America. She expresses concern for her husband's gout, hoping his recovery will restore their freedom, and asks Franklin to pray for him despite religious differences. She conveys deep affection and sends regards from her family, mentioning a playful grievance toward Franklin's son and a neighbor.

Letter

Jean-Antoine de Rubigny de Berteval to Benjamin Franklin, April 3, 1784

From Jean-Antoine de Rubigny de Berteval
To Benjamin Franklin
April 3, 1784

Jean-Antoine de Rubigny de Berteval expresses deep gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for responding to his previous letter and affirms his satisfaction with Franklin's reply. He intends to visit Franklin at the earliest opportunity to pay his respects. The letter conveys formal respect and appreciation.

Letter

Mary (Polly) Stevenson Hewson to Benjamin Franklin, April 2, 1784

From Mary (Polly) Stevenson Hewson
To Benjamin Franklin
April 2, 1784

Mary Stevenson Hewson writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 expressing disappointment at his apparent plans to return to America without visiting England. She thanks him for his frequent letters and the educational books he sent, noting the positive impact on her children's learning. Hewson also mentions social visits and conveys warm regards from her family.

Letter

John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, April 2, 1784

From John Adams
To Benjamin Franklin
April 2, 1784

John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin that the King of Prussia agrees to model a treaty after the one with Sweden and requests a copy of that treaty for reference. Adams also discusses a petition from Boston regarding British condemnation of vessels taken after an armistice began, suggesting that Franklin and Jay clarify the legal interpretation to Congress to help affected parties seek redress in England.

Letter

John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, March 27, 1784

From John Adams
To Benjamin Franklin
March 27, 1784

John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin of two enclosed letters from Edward Browne of Ostend and Mr. De Berdt, whom Adams met in London and considers knowledgeable about local language, laws, and commerce. Adams requests Franklin to forward these letters to Congress for their consideration. The correspondence aims to provide Congress with valuable information regarding Ostend's commercial and legal environment.

Letter

David Hartley to Benjamin Franklin, March 26, 1784

From David Hartley
To Benjamin Franklin
March 26, 1784

David Hartley informs Benjamin Franklin that Great Britain does not find it necessary to formalize an extension for exchanging ratifications of the treaty with the United States, attributing delays to seasonal weather conditions in America. He assures prompt ratification upon receiving the American response and expresses eagerness to reunite with Franklin. Hartley also sends regards to John Adams, John Jay, and their associates.

Letter

Benjamin Franklin to Edward Nathaniel Bancroft, March 26, 1784

From Benjamin Franklin
To Edward Nathaniel Bancroft
March 26, 1784

Benjamin Franklin advises Edward Nathaniel Bancroft to continue diligent study under the guidance of his respected teacher, Mr. Rose, and to cultivate good character by being dutiful and affectionate to his mother during his father's absence. Franklin emphasizes the importance of education and moral conduct for future honor and respect. He also sends respectful regards to Bancroft’s family.

Letter

Benjamin Franklin to John Paul Jones, March 25, 1784

From Benjamin Franklin
To John Paul Jones
March 25, 1784

Benjamin Franklin addresses John Paul Jones regarding the financial charges related to the ships Serapis and Countess of Scarborough, clarifying that he never received authorization to settle these expenses on behalf of the captors. Franklin objects to charging American captors for the costs of maintaining prisoners in Holland, especially since prisoner exchanges did not occur as expected. He returns the documents Jones provided and expresses his respect.