Letter
Barthélemy Faujas de Saint-Fond invites Benjamin Franklin to witness a mechanical invention by a modest compatriot, Mr. Mical, featuring two golden speaking heads that articulate phrases about peace and the king. Faujas de Saint-Fond praises the device's advanced mechanics and clarity of speech, especially its handling of difficult diphthongs. He requests Franklin attend a demonstration and dinner on June 18, 1783, alongside other academicians.
Letter
Marquis de Lafayette informs Benjamin Franklin and John Jay that he has received letters from America up to May 1 and refers them to their correspondence for detailed information. He plans to meet them the following morning to share any new intelligence he has obtained. Lafayette also notes that Count de Vergennes inquires about the satisfaction of Mr. Hartley’s recent dispatches.
Letter
Elias Boudinot informs the American Peace Commissioners that following the resignation of Minister Livingston, he must now deliver Congress's resolutions regarding their mission. He encloses recent resolutions to keep them informed during critical negotiations and expresses surprise at the lack of communication since the cessation of hostilities.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Baron de Staël de Holstein that he awaits the U.S. Congress's ratification of a treaty with Sweden, after which they can proceed with reciprocal exchanges. He expresses honor at Sweden's desire to have a U.S. representative and pledges to present this to Congress, confident they will support actions pleasing to the Swedish sovereign who first offered friendship to the United States.
Letter
Pierre Dessin informs Benjamin Franklin that four boxes sent from London have arrived, but one is severely damaged and held at customs for inspection. Dessin requests Franklin's instructions on whether to repair and forward the damaged box or return it to England, while confirming that the other three boxes are in good condition and have been sent on to Paris. He offers his continued services to Franklin.
Letter
Samuel Vaughan expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for his kind attention to Vaughan's sons during their time in America. Vaughan announces his imminent departure for Philadelphia with his family and looks forward to renewing their friendship and association in the new world. He conveys deep respect and affection for Franklin throughout the letter.
Letter
Haller & Cie Girardot introduce Monsieur Volmers, a partner in the prominent Bremen firm Pundsack & Volmers, to Benjamin Franklin in 1783. They recommend Volmers as a trustworthy representative for American interests in Paris and request Franklin to receive him kindly. The letter emphasizes both the firm's reliability and the sincerity of their recommendation.
Letter
David Hartley communicates terms allowing American citizens to import and export goods in American ships to British territories under the same duties as before the Revolutionary War, while prohibiting direct trade between the United States and the British West Indies. He also ensures British subjects receive reciprocal trading rights in American ports under equivalent conditions. This arrangement aims to normalize commercial relations following the conflict.
Letter
Henry Laurens informs fellow American peace commissioners of a newly arrived proclamation that appears to relate to a commercial treaty. He anticipates seeing a mutual acquaintance, D. H., in London soon and plans to lodge there that night. Laurens expresses his continued support and service to the commissioners.
Letter
Edward Bridgen writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 to acknowledge receipt of Franklin's payment of arrears to the Society of Antiquaries, affirming Franklin's honor despite some doubts. Bridgen offers to send Franklin several prints and volumes of the Archiologia and mentions a payment received from Mr. Hodgson. He also sends kind regards to Mr. Laurens and expresses wishes for Franklin's health and comfort in old age.
Letter
Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’Houdetot, invites Benjamin Franklin to visit her estate in Sanois, offering him hospitality and expressing admiration for his achievements. She requests a prompt response, hoping Franklin and his grandson will accept her invitation to enjoy the beauty of her garden and countryside retreat.
Letter
William James writes to Benjamin Franklin from Paris, describing his extended stay due to the city's agreeable atmosphere and his active engagement in surveying and improving urban infrastructure. He compares French cities unfavorably to English ones, noting deficiencies in city planning, transportation, and sanitation despite advancements in arts and architecture. James expresses a desire to secure a professional position in France or America before returning to England.
Letter
Joseph Salvador informs Benjamin Franklin of his plan to travel to America soon, arranging passage with Captain Cunningham to Philadelphia. He requests that any correspondence be sent to Mr. Dobree in Nantes for forwarding. Salvador expresses his respect and well wishes to Franklin.
Letter
Philippe-Denis Pierres sends Benjamin Franklin a complete copy of all printed American constitutions and requests Franklin's final decision regarding them. He also inquires whether Franklin has written to the French Keeper of the Seals and asks for an order specifying the number of bound or unbound copies desired. Pierres conveys his respectful regards to Franklin.
Letter
William James writes to Benjamin Franklin seeking assistance in promoting urban improvements he has long advocated, such as better roads, pavements, and street designs. He laments that many agreed-upon reforms in Paris remain unimplemented, causing the city to lag behind London. James requests Franklin's influence to advance these public infrastructure projects.
Letter
Gauthier informs Benjamin Franklin that volumes 26 and 27 are missing from his set of the Dictionnaire des Sciences Morale, Politique, and requests their completion. He notes that Franklin last received volumes 24 and 25. Gauthier signs respectfully as Franklin's humble and obedient servant.
Letter
Nathaniel Falconer writes to Benjamin Franklin from London in 1783, reporting news from Philadelphia and his plans to buy a ship and sail there in mid-July. He offers to assist Franklin with any requests while in London and shares conversations with mutual acquaintances who express skepticism about reports of conflict between the French and American armies. Falconer sends his regards to Franklin’s family and friends.
Letter
Sarah Franklin Bache updates Benjamin Franklin on family news, mentioning visits from Mr. Oster and Betsy's promising situation with Miss Beckwith. She shares hopes that Franklin will soon return home and sends affectionate regards to his family. Bache expresses her deep desire to see him again.
Letter
David Hartley urges the American Peace Commissioners to seriously consider a proposal for unlimited commercial reciprocity between Great Britain and the United States, emphasizing its importance not only for trade but as a political guarantee supporting the new American constitutions. He argues that such an alliance would benefit both nations more than alliances with other countries like France, due to their unique compatibility and mutual interests.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin introduces his young friend Mr. S. Vaughan to Jan Ingenhousz, seeking his guidance and advice in mineralogy. Franklin requests that Ingenhousz extend kindness and support to Vaughan during his travels. He expresses personal regard for Vaughan and appreciation for Ingenhousz’s hospitality toward worthy strangers.