Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersParis le 27e. fevrier 1784. Monsieur Permettez moi de me rapeller au Souvenir de votre excellence en lui envoyant un mémoire sur une matiere très importante, et qui ne vous…
Daniel Roberdeau thanks Benjamin Franklin for his assistance to Mr. Vanderhorst and his daughter and for supporting his son's training in refining near Paris. He requests more information about the new refining methods at Bercy and inquires about the possibility of his son working there temporarily. Roberdeau also informs Franklin of his departure from Gravesend and extends good wishes.
Ginet and Meirieu inform Benjamin Franklin of a bill of exchange for 670 livres drawn by Jean Bonfield and payable to Jean David, which is approaching its due date. They request Franklin to accept and honor the bill to ensure payment, as Monsieur Grand refuses to pay without Franklin’s endorsement. The letter also conveys their respectful regards.
Benjamin Franklin requests that Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, protect Mr. Williams from a few creditors seeking preferential treatment after Williams has amicably settled with most of them. Franklin supports Williams' effort to ensure fair justice for all creditors involved.
Félix Vicq d’Azyr invites Benjamin Franklin and his grandson to attend the upcoming public session of the Royal Society of Medicine on March 2, 1784, expressing regret over Franklin’s absence at the previous meeting. Vicq d’Azyr plans to deliver eulogies for Guillaume Hunter and Sanchez and seeks Franklin’s presence as a source of encouragement.
John Trumbull informs Benjamin Franklin of the confirmed death of Dr. Cooper of Boston, a respected figure Franklin valued deeply. Trumbull expresses shared sorrow and refrains from offering consolation, acknowledging the loss of an eminent American character.
Antonin-Victor-Augustin Auberjon, comte de Murinais, requests Benjamin Franklin to confirm the existence and good reputation of a Polish nobleman named Kosciuszko who served in the American troops. He explains that this attestation is necessary for the peace and well-being of Kosciuszko's family and offers to facilitate further communication if Franklin needs to verify details in America.
a aix en provence Le 25 fevrier 1784. Monsieur Venant d’etre informé par Les papiers publics des marques de decoration de l’ordre de cincinatus qui ont été accordées a quelques…
Benjamin Franklin writes to Jean Baptiste Le Roy enclosing correspondence from Mr. Eckhardt, an inventive mechanic seeking assistance. Franklin requests Le Roy to help Eckhardt if possible and to share Eckhardt's comments on balloons with Mr. Montgolfier. Franklin expresses his eagerness to see Le Roy soon.
London, Feb. 23, 1784. My dear Friend, I have met with a report from America, that congress has come to some resolution respecting the commerce with Great Britain, which is…
John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin about a visit from the Prussian envoy, who conveys King Frederick's interest in establishing a trade arrangement between Prussia and the United States involving tobacco and Silesian linens. Adams expresses his respect but clarifies he lacks authority to negotiate alone, emphasizing that any discussions must involve Franklin and official congressional approval.
John MacMahon writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 to express regret for being unable to accept Franklin's invitation due to a prior commitment. He conveys his respectful regards while declining the proposed meeting.
A proofreader from Lyon offers his services to Benjamin Franklin, seeking employment in American printing or Latin instruction to escape his harmful climate and support his family. He emphasizes his dedication, zeal, and desire to serve a scholar while contributing through his skills and education. The writer appeals to Franklin's benevolence to provide him with an opportunity to work and improve his circumstances.
John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin of difficulties securing funds for American loans in Europe, noting widespread skepticism among lenders and the scarcity of money. He decides to remain in The Hague rather than Paris to better serve American interests and continues to seek new loan arrangements despite slim prospects. Adams expresses concern that unfavorable terms may force rejection of the bills.
Jan Ingenhousz writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 to introduce Abbé Nekrep, a respected scholar visiting Paris, and to explain the abandonment of a balloon project due to lack of funding and anticipated difficulties. He requests Franklin to assist Nekrep and send any correspondence or materials through him. Ingenhousz also expresses concern for Franklin's health regarding a bladder stone.
John Church invites Benjamin Franklin to dine with Mr. and Mrs. Carter on the upcoming Saturday. The letter requests a response to confirm Franklin's attendance. The invitation reflects social customs and personal connections in post-Revolutionary America.
Beaumont informs Benjamin Franklin that they have arranged for a $60 draft to be sent to verify Franklin's signature. He urges Franklin to promptly confirm the signature's validity to Lieutenant Schaffer, who needs the funds to secure a parliamentary decree allowing his return home. Beaumont expresses hope that with Franklin's support, Schaffer's compatriots will assist in facilitating his swift return.
[before February 9, 1784] 3 Made. la Comtesse de Chinon prie Monsieur franklin ministre des Etats unis de vouloir bien lui faire l’honneur de venir au Bal que lui donneront…
A Paris ce 8. fevrier 1784. Monsieur, Je regrette infiniment que la saison rigoureuse ou nous sommes me prive d’aller moi même vous prier d’agréer les assurances de ma reconnoissance.…
Thomas Mifflin writes to Benjamin Franklin to recommend Lieutenant Colonel Murnan for military opportunities. Mifflin cites positive certificates from General Washington, General Howe, and other officers, affirming Murnan's commendable conduct during the recent war. He requests Franklin's support for Murnan's pursuits.