Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersLouis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de Cambray-Digny informs Benjamin Franklin that he is leaving Paris for the countryside and cannot visit him in person. He sends letters for America with Franklin, thanking him for granting permission. He also requests that any letters from America addressed to him be sent to his residence on rue St. Pierre in Montmartre.
Paris 30 July 1783 Dear Sir Our friend W ——, 4 has taken his measures & has Already agreed wt most of his people at 6, 12, 18 Months &…
Jonathan Jr Williams informs Benjamin Franklin that he has successfully negotiated a favorable repayment plan with his creditors in Nantes, securing a two-year extension with quarterly payments. He reports that his reputation remains intact and that his creditors recommend renewing his letters of sûreté to prevent preferential claims against him. Williams expresses hope that the Count de Vergennes will support his renewed application as before.
Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, informs Benjamin Franklin that the French King has lifted the seizure of funds owed to the American frigate Alliance at Franklin’s request. He urges Franklin to ensure the American Congress promptly compensates the Forsters brothers for the wrongful capture of their ship, the Trois-Amis, to prevent financial ruin. Vergennes emphasizes the fairness of their claim and the necessity of swift payment.
Jean-Charles-Pierre Lenoir grants Benjamin Franklin permission to withdraw a package of books from customs in Strasbourg. Lenoir addresses Franklin respectfully, acknowledging his role as the United States' minister plenipotentiary. The letter facilitates Franklin's receipt of materials during his diplomatic mission in 1783.
Benjamin Franklin informs William Strahan that he has recommended Miss Beckwith to his children in Philadelphia, following Strahan's earlier suggestion. He encloses information about her current situation and expresses hope that Strahan and his family are well. Franklin also conveys a sense of finality, anticipating they may never meet again.
Passy, July 29. 1783— Dr Franklin presents his Compliments to Dr Blagden, requests his Care of the enclos’d, and wishes him a good Journey with a happy Sight of his…
Isabella Strange writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 requesting assistance in delivering a letter to her friend Mr. Hunter, as she has no other means of communication with him. She mentions that her previous letters to Mr. Hunter have been strictly business-related. Isabella and Mr. Strange both send their respectful regards to Franklin.
Ce 28. Juillet 1783. M. Le Nonce Apostolique a l’honneur d’envoyer à Monsieur Franklin la note ci-jointe. Il le prie de vouloir bien la faire passer au Congrès des Etats…
Gian Francesco Cigna writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 to inform him of his honorary appointment to the Academy of Sciences in Turin, granted by the sovereign as recognition of Franklin's contributions to politics and philosophy. Cigna expresses admiration for Franklin's achievements and conveys the Academy's esteem and gratitude for his impact on science and humanity.
Benjamin Franklin reports that Captain Landais unlawfully seized the American ship Alliance and obtained provisions without proper authorization, leading to a dispute over payment. A local agent, Puchelberg, retaliates by seizing U.S. property in France, causing diplomatic tension. Franklin warns that allowing private individuals to detain American assets could disrupt critical government operations and harm U.S. interests abroad.
Friedrich Melchior, Baron von Grimm, expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for a generous gift received in 1783. He conveys his respectful regards and appreciation in a formal tone. The letter reflects the courteous exchange between two prominent Enlightenment figures.
Mattheus Lestevenon van Berkenrode, Dutch ambassador in Paris, expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for sending him the Constitutions of the thirteen United States of America. He conveys his humble respects and appreciation for Franklin’s gift. The letter reflects diplomatic courtesy and interest in the new American political framework in 1783.
Jean Le Rond d’Alembert expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for a generous gift he received. He conveys respectful attachment and admiration toward Franklin, acknowledging their shared intellectual connection. The letter reflects the esteem between two prominent Enlightenment figures in 1783.
Luigi Pio informs Benjamin Franklin that he has received three copies of the United States Constitution, intended for the King of Sicily, Mr. Filangieri, and himself. He expresses gratitude for Franklin's personal gesture and promises to deliver the Constitution to the Sicilian monarch, assuring Franklin that he will share any official response from the Sicilian court and from Mr. Filangieri in due course.
Marie-Charlotte-Hippolyte de Campet de Saujon, comtesse de Boufflers, expresses deep gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for a valuable gift he sent. She acknowledges Franklin's esteemed reputation and admits that, despite initial restraint, she now fully embraces the widespread admiration he has inspired. The letter conveys her sincere respect and admiration for Franklin's achievements.
Charles-Augustin Ferriol, comte d’Argental, acknowledges receipt of a communication from Benjamin Franklin with gratitude and satisfaction. He informs Franklin that he will send the item intended for the Infant to its destination. Argental praises Franklin’s wisdom, intelligence, and excellent administrative vision expressed in his letter.
Benjamin Franklin sends Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, a copy of the United States Constitution in 1783, requesting that he accept it. Franklin also includes copies intended for the King and the Royal Family and asks Vergennes to ensure their delivery in an appropriate manner.
Armand-Thomas Hué de Miromesnil thanks Benjamin Franklin for sending the United States Constitution in 1783. He expresses deep appreciation and intends to study the document carefully, recognizing it as an important work of public law and a testament to Franklin's virtue and patriotism.
Benjamin Franklin provides letters requested by Johann von Schönfeld for Mr. Thieriot, intended to secure him proper reception and respect due to his sovereign and merit. Franklin expresses confidence these letters will achieve their purpose and conveys his sincere attachment and respect to Schönfeld.