Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Jane Mecom, December 26, 1783
Passy. Dec 26. 1783. Dear Sister, Our Cousin, Mr. Williams, left London in June last, on his return to Boston. He carried some goods for you. I hope he arrived…
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Benjamin Franklin to Mary (Polly) Stevenson Hewson, December 26, 1783
Benjamin Franklin writes to Mary Stevenson Hewson explaining his decision to keep his grandson with him rather than sending him to England as planned, due to the child's reluctance to leave and another family member's desire to keep him. He sends two French grammars and a book of French synonyms as gifts, allowing her French teacher to choose which to keep. Franklin expresses affection and a desire to reunite, though uncertain when that will occur.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Ebenezer Hazard, December 26, 1783
Passy, Dec. 26. 1783.— Sir, I am desired by the General Post Office of Great Britain to recommend to your Consideration a Sketch of an Advertisement respecting the Packet Boats,…
Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Samuel Cooper, December 26, 1783
Benjamin Franklin urges Samuel Cooper to ensure that all states promptly provide funds to pay off the national debt, emphasizing that restoring American credit in Europe depends on demonstrating fiscal responsibility. He criticizes delays and resistance to debt repayment, warning that failure to honor obligations damages the nation's reputation. Franklin uses a Pennsylvania anecdote to illustrate the consequences of refusing to pay interest or principal on debts.
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David Hartley to Benjamin Franklin, December 25, 1783
David Hartley informs Benjamin Franklin of a recent change in the British government and requests immediate notification upon the ratification of the peace treaty from America. He emphasizes the importance of promptly finalizing the treaty to conclude the conflict. Hartley expresses his anticipation of further instructions in his diplomatic role.
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Jonathan Sr Williams to Benjamin Franklin, December 20, 1783
Jonathan Sr Williams informs Benjamin Franklin about difficulties in collecting a bill for expenses related to Franklin's grandson's education, as Dr. Cooper is critically ill and the father is unreliable. He explains the financial arrangements made with family members and mentions a property near Cambridge that might interest Franklin for residence.
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John Paul Jones to Benjamin Franklin, December 20, 1783
John Paul Jones acknowledges Benjamin Franklin's invitation and confirms his attendance at a dinner on December 25, 1783, in Paris. The letter reflects the cordial relationship between the American naval hero and the diplomat during the post-Revolutionary War period.
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Samuel Chase to Benjamin Franklin, December 20, 1783
Samuel Chase writes to Benjamin Franklin seeking confirmation that his previous letters, which included requests for advice on a lost ship incident and a personal matter involving a young woman from Annapolis, have been received safely. He updates Franklin on the recent political changes in Britain, noting the dismissal of the former ministry and the appointment of Mr. Pitt as prime minister. Chase expresses his respect and hopes for Franklin's well-being.
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Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de Vaudreuil to Benjamin Franklin, December 19, 1783
Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de Vaudreuil, recommends M. Pacaud for the position of United States Consul in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, emphasizing Pacaud's valuable assistance to American merchants during the recent war. He urges Benjamin Franklin to forward the recommendation to the Continental Congress. Vaudreuil expresses personal support and gratitude for any assistance Franklin can provide.
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John Sargent to Benjamin Franklin, December 19, 1783
London 19th Decem 1783 Ormond Street Mr. & Mrs. Sargent present Their most affectionate Compliments to Dr. Franklin, & being acquainted by Monsr. Charettier, 7 the Gentleman Mr. S. introduced…
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Joseph-Jérôme Le Français de Lalande Lalande to Benjamin Franklin, December 19, 1783
Joseph-Jérôme Le Français de Lalande thanks Benjamin Franklin for sharing his observations of a new comet and promises to present them to the academy. Lalande expresses personal gratitude for Franklin’s recognition and friendship, praising Franklin’s contributions to humanity.
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Anna Barbara Krystyna Estkowa to Benjamin Franklin, December 19, 1783
Anna Barbara Krystyna Estkowa appeals to Benjamin Franklin to verify the existence of her brother, Thaddeus Kosciuszko, who served the United States and has been absent without news, to prevent creditors from seizing his lands in Lithuania. She requests an official certificate confirming his status to protect his estate from wrongful claims. The letter includes a supporting excerpt from a Paris correspondence affirming Kosciuszko's existence.
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Jean-Baptiste Bonnefoy to Benjamin Franklin, December 19, 1783
Jean-Baptiste Bonnefoy writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 praising his invention of the lightning rod and expressing hope for America's future prosperity and freedom. Bonnefoy, a member of the Lyon College of Surgery, proposes a plan to advance American surgical practice to near perfection within twelve years. He seeks Franklin's support for this medical initiative in the newly independent United States.
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Joshua Barney to Benjamin Franklin, December 19, 1783
Joshua Barney informs Benjamin Franklin that he has shipped three barrels and a box of seeds to Rouen and expresses gratitude for Franklin's offer of assistance, which he declines due to his limited time and responsibilities with his ship. He also mentions lacking the nuts Franklin referred to but offers to bring some on his next voyage. Barney closes with respectful regards.
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Guillaume-Pierre-François Delamardelle to Benjamin Franklin, December 17, 1783
Paris ce 17 Xbre. 1783 Monsieur Comme je Crois que vous pouvez Etre instruit de La demeure de Mr. Barclay, Et que je desirerois de Le voir; ozeroisje vous prier…
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Benjamin Franklin to John Paul Jones, December 17, 1783
[December 17, 1783] To the Honorable Captain John Paul-Jones Commodore in the service of the United-States of America. In pursuance of a Resolution of Congress of the first of November…
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Thomas Barclay to Benjamin Franklin, December 16, 1783
Thomas Barclay addresses Benjamin Franklin regarding claims by Messrs. Forsters and Puchelberg on U.S. property, emphasizing adherence to established international customs rather than treating the matter as a private dispute. He clarifies that previous examinations of the debt do not confirm its validity and offers to settle and certify the account when requested. Barclay also disputes reports that he defended the case in the Court at L’Orient, attributing any defense there to another party.
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Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, December 10, 1783
Benjamin Franklin informs John Adams that a packet intended for him contained only a letter to Hamburg magistrates and a diploma for Reverend Wren, with no commission or mention of it, suggesting it was overlooked. He notes consulting Mr. Grand about financial relief, which proved impossible, and expresses hope that Adams' presence in Holland will be helpful.
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George Washington to Benjamin Franklin, December 9, 1783
George Washington writes to Benjamin Franklin recommending Dr. Witherspoon, who plans to travel to Great Britain and possibly France on business. Washington requests Franklin to extend civility and attention to Witherspoon during his travels.
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Joseph Banks to Benjamin Franklin, December 9, 1783
Joseph Banks thanks Benjamin Franklin for promptly sharing news about advancements in flying technology in America and expresses admiration for Charles's successful experiment. Banks acknowledges American progress in practical flight but asserts British claim to theoretical flight, referencing Bishop Wilkins and Mr. Cavendish's earlier ideas. He anticipates future scientific endeavors that will combine theory and celestial observations to advance knowledge.