Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersAmerican Peace Commissioners John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and John Jay formally request a meeting with Russian Minister Plenipotentiary Ivan Sergeevich Bariatinskii to discuss matters related to peace. The letter serves as an official introduction and invitation for diplomatic engagement in 1783.
Philip Schuyler introduces his son-in-law John Carter and Colonel Wadsworth to Benjamin Franklin, requesting Franklin's assistance in securing payment from France for their services supplying French troops during the American Revolution. Schuyler conveys gratitude for Franklin’s efforts toward peace and American independence.
Andrew Limozin informs Benjamin Franklin of the safe arrival of the Continental Frigate General Washington, commanded by Captain Barney, at the port of Havre de Grace. Limozin, appointed as the United States agent for the port, encloses several letters for Franklin and notes that Captain Barney is departing with dispatches for the French court.
Marianne Camasse, comtesse de Forbach Deux-Ponts, writes to Benjamin Franklin requesting permission for her two French-American acquaintances, including the Comte de Fersen, to visit Franklin for dinner on Thursday or Friday before they return to Versailles on Saturday. She expresses affection and eagerness to see Franklin and hopes he will grant this favor.
John Hancock introduces Mr. DeValnais, former French Consul in Boston, to Benjamin Franklin and requests Franklin's support and influence with the French court to assist DeValnais in his mission. Hancock also congratulates Franklin on the recent peace settlement and expresses personal regard despite his ailment.
Benjamin Vaughan advises Benjamin Franklin to maintain firmness and good humor in negotiations with Britain, cautioning against pushing too hard despite current political tensions. He notes that the king may favor American interests more than the current ministry, which is losing credibility. Vaughan suggests that reasonableness and kindness will yield better outcomes than confrontation.
The Commandeurs du Temple Masonic Lodge in Carcassonne enthusiastically welcomes Benjamin Franklin as a new member, celebrating his admission with great joy and applause. They postpone the formal ceremony to Saint John’s Day out of respect for his busy schedule and include a detailed account of their activities along with a miniature portrait of Franklin painted by an Italian Masonic artist.
William Hodgson introduces Seward and Graves, two gentlemen of wealth and education traveling to France for leisure, to Benjamin Franklin. He requests Franklin to extend his hospitality to them, noting Seward's connection to their mutual acquaintances. Hodgson emphasizes that such kindness would please their shared friends in London.
Nathaniel Falconer informs Benjamin Franklin that both the ship Washington and Captain Barney have safely arrived with their funds in the bank. He requests Franklin to contact Mr. Morris to confirm whether any letters were sent by a certain gentleman, expressing concern about possible foul play. Falconer also mentions sending pamphlets and newspapers and extends his compliments to Franklin's grandson and Mr. Hartley.
Michel Guillaume St. John de Crèvecoeur writes to Benjamin Franklin requesting information on where to obtain two of Franklin's medals, which he promised to deliver in Normandy. He expresses urgency in acquiring the medals before leaving Paris on Saturday. The letter conveys respect and a sense of obligation to fulfill his promise.
Baron de Borde Duchatelet writes to Benjamin Franklin explaining his decision to leave his ungrateful homeland due to personal misfortunes and seek a new life in America. He expresses his desire to apply his agricultural knowledge to cultivate land and contribute positively in a country free from corruption. He requests Franklin's support in establishing himself in the United States, emphasizing equality and his commitment to honest labor.
José de Arriaga Brum da Silveyra offers his son, José de Arriaga, as a candidate for the position of Consul General in the Azores to Benjamin Franklin, aiming to revive trade between the islands and America. He expresses gratitude for the favorable reception of Sieur Dupont and pledges to support his son in fulfilling the duties with zeal and honor. The letter conveys respect and a desire to contribute to the American Republic's success.
Jan Ingenhousz writes to Benjamin Franklin to introduce Mr. Donath, an agent traveling to American cities with various European goods, requesting Franklin's assistance. He mentions not yet receiving Franklin's original letter, a medal, or the Philadelphia Almanac, and describes the process of finishing a plaster cast of his profile. Ingenhousz also acknowledges Franklin's advice on statuary and shares progress on his book printing in Paris.
Nathaniel Falconer writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing surprise that Franklin has received no recent letters or dispatches, mentioning a Mr. Vaughan who claimed to have messages for him. Falconer reports that the preliminary articles of peace were publicly announced promptly and shares political updates, including General Mifflin’s support for Franklin and resistance in Congress to factional attempts against Franklin and Robert Morris.
Thomas Barclay and his wife send their compliments to Benjamin Franklin and inform him of their intention to join him for dinner on the upcoming Thursday. The letter serves as a polite social invitation and confirmation of plans.
Benjamin Franklin writes to his grandson Benjamin Franklin Bache in 1783, praising his progress in writing and drawing. He requests permission for Bache to visit him during school vacation to improve his health and well-being. Franklin also sends affectionate regards from family members.
Henri-François, comte de Ségur visits Benjamin Franklin to deliver two letters, one from Madame Green and another from Dr. Cooper, which respond to Franklin's earlier recommendations. Ségur explains his delayed visit due to military duties but expresses a strong desire to discuss America, a land he finds deeply moving and difficult to leave.
Henry Laurens reports to the American Peace Commissioners in 1783 about his meeting with British Secretary Fox, who reveals Britain's firm stance on the Navigation Act and evolving views on reciprocity favoring British advantages. Laurens contemplates a brief visit to Bath, suggesting delays or uncertainties in finalizing the commercial agreement in Paris.
Benjamin Vaughan introduces Lord Daer, son of the Earl of Selkirk, to Benjamin Franklin, describing him as a valuable and philosophically minded acquaintance with political views favorable to American interests. Vaughan expresses confidence in Lord Daer's future significance and hopes he will become a companion to Franklin and his son during his stay in Paris.
Armand-Thomas Hué de Miromesnil informs Benjamin Franklin that the permission granted on May 11 remains valid and that nothing opposes its continuation. He advises Franklin to appoint someone to oversee its implementation. Miromesnil expresses sincere regards in his communication from Versailles on June 16, 1783.