Letter
Wilhem and Jan Willink inform Benjamin Franklin that the stocks he holds cannot provide sufficient funds to cover drafts issued by Robert Morris, and they foresee difficulty in meeting payment obligations when the bills mature. They also note the absence of an account summary from Mr. Grand and report that he is unable to assist financially due to his own constraints. The merchants express concern about the potential protest of unpaid bills.
Letter
Antoine-Alexis-François Cadet de Vaux writes to Benjamin Franklin in December 1783 to convey respectful greetings and to forward a letter from the Lieutenant General of Police along with two notes from Messrs. Le Grand and Molinos. The letter serves as a formal introduction and delivery of these documents for Franklin's acceptance.
Letter
Félix Nogaret addresses Benjamin Franklin with admiration for his diplomatic achievements in securing peace and acknowledges the public's desire to see him celebrated in Paris. He expresses concern over Franklin's absence, attributing it to illness, and emphasizes the high regard in which Franklin is held as a powerful and revered figure. Nogaret urges Franklin to reveal himself to the public despite his current condition.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Count de Vergennes that due to severe bladder pain caused by kidney stones, he can no longer visit Versailles in person and hopes for understanding. He notes he has not yet received a response from Congress regarding his recall and requests that his grandson, serving as secretary of the legation, convey any future communications. Franklin expresses his respect and remains at Vergennes's service despite his health limitations.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin discusses the examination of an anonymous Brussels letter's handwriting, comparing it to samples from M. de Neufville’s clerk to determine its authenticity. He describes specific handwriting features, such as a long dash over the letter t, and notes correspondence with Henry Laurens and others regarding the letter's origin. Franklin also mentions lending letters to Mr. Ridley for comparison and encloses another anonymous letter.
Letter
François-Pierre de Séqueville informs Benjamin Franklin about the French court entering mourning on December 9, 1783, due to the death of Mademoiselle. He notes that the king will observe the mourning period for 21 days. The letter also references Séqueville's official role as secretary to the king and his involvement with the ambassadors.
Letter
John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin of newly arrived dispatches from Philadelphia, including letters and instructions related to peace negotiations and potential commerce treaties with Great Britain. He requests early intelligence on any commission granted to Franklin for trade discussions, as Parliamentary actions on trade depend on such authority. Adams also mentions financial difficulties reported by Willink & Co and considers relocating to the Hague if no commission includes him.
Letter
Sir Edward Newenham informs Benjamin Franklin about the political unrest in Ireland, focusing on the Volunteers' efforts to secure parliamentary reform and greater representation. He describes a recent parliamentary defeat of their reform bill and details the disciplined and spirited conduct of the Volunteers during their meetings. Newenham emphasizes the growing momentum for change despite government resistance.
Letter
Geore Street No 3 Adelphi London Novr 28th 1783 May it Please your Excellency To accept my unbounded thanks for the Honor you did my freind Miss Maxwell when in…
Letter
Joseph Banks writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing gratitude for a report on the Montgolfier brothers' balloon experiment, noting the significant progress from trivial soap-bubble-like balloons to manned flights covering over five miles. He also describes a recent local experiment with a small taffeta balloon filled with inflammable air, which traveled about 48 miles before landing. Banks speculates that Franklin may have influenced these advancements in aeronautics.
Letter
Jean Rousseau proposes to Benjamin Franklin that the American Congress should not have a fixed seat but instead rotate its meetings among the thirteen united provinces to reduce jealousy and promote unity and equality. He believes this approach could help maintain harmony among the states. Rousseau shares this idea after discussing with North American gentlemen and reflects on its importance despite his personal uncertainties.
Letter
Sir Edward Newenham informs Benjamin Franklin about the contentious debates in the Grand National Convention and expresses hope for a fair reform through a place bill. He seeks Franklin's advice and assistance in negotiating a separate treaty between Britain and the United States to foster friendship and commerce. Newenham criticizes the British Parliament's corruption and mismanagement, warning that public unrest is growing due to the government's selfish policies.
Letter
Armand-Benoît-Joseph Guffroy petitions Benjamin Franklin on behalf of Captain Jean Charles Igonnem, Chevalier de Richebourg, seeking justice and payment for his naval service under Commodore Paul Jones in 1779. The letter details Richebourg's efforts to claim his rightful share of prize money, including correspondence with Mr. Ray de Chaumont and delays caused by legal disputes over a privateer vessel. Guffroy emphasizes Richebourg's continued pursuit of compensation despite obstacles.
Letter
Giacomo Francisco Crocco informs Benjamin Franklin of his diplomatic mission to secure a Treaty of Peace and Commerce between Morocco and the United States, following instructions from the Emperor of Morocco. He requests financial support of fifteen hundred dollars for his travel expenses and mentions the customary allowances given to ministers by European courts. Crocco emphasizes the Emperor's willingness to grant the treaty promptly, unlike other European powers.
Letter
Au Musée de Paris Rue Dauphine 25. Nov. 83 Monsieur J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer quelques billets pour la seance du Musée du 4 Decembre: Toute notre Societé serait très…
Letter
Jean-Baptiste-César du Buc, chevalier de Saint-Olympe, expresses deep respect and gratitude to Benjamin Franklin as he prepares to leave France in 1783. He requests permission for Franklin’s son to visit Madame de Saint-Olympe during his absence and promises to personally pay his respects upon his return. The letter conveys ongoing loyalty and esteem toward Franklin.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Joseph Banks about recent developments in aerostatic experiments, including a detailed account of a balloon flight observed near his residence. He advises Banks that more comprehensive reports will soon be published and encloses an official record of the experiment, offering additional explanations to clarify any obscurities. Franklin emphasizes that his earlier letters were not intended for publication.
Letter
Ignaz Edler von Born requests Benjamin Franklin to deliver a letter and further instructions to his student, Professor Märter, during his stay in Philadelphia, emphasizing Märter’s scientific mission in America. Born expresses admiration for Franklin’s contributions to science and politics and hopes Franklin will accept this favor. He also mentions Mr. Stratmann, an imperial envoy, who will present Franklin with respects while acquiring books for the Emperor.
Letter
Baron Otto von Blome informs Benjamin Franklin that the Danish ship Providentia, seized by an American privateer despite flying a Danish flag, was only partially compensated after a Boston maritime court ruled in 1782. The Danish envoy asserts the ship's owners have the right to full restitution and damages for the unlawful seizure and confiscation of cargo claimed as British property.
Letter
[ c. November 7, 1783] Monsieur Des faits vrais, et simplement exposés dans cette brochure, offriront les procédes de l’art de guerir en opposition aux effets de L’Empirisme. 2 Je…