Letter
Henry Laurens reports to Benjamin Franklin from London in 1783 that British government negotiations remain unstable, with key political figures resisting coalition formation and delaying progress on a definitive peace treaty. He expresses frustration over the lack of advancement toward treaty ratification and insists that no commercial relations should begin until the treaty is finalized and British troops fully withdraw from American territory.
Letter
Jean Baptiste Le Roy requests Benjamin Franklin's support for a candidate seeking to become the American consul in Bayonne, emphasizing the recommendation from Count d’Ornano. He also mentions sending a memorandum on trade from the port of Sette, translated into English, and asks Franklin to forward a letter to America. Le Roy expresses regret for missing a planned meeting and affirms his lasting respect and attachment to Franklin.
Letter
Jonathan Jr. Williams writes to Benjamin Franklin explaining a delayed response due to business and informs him that a minister denies an exception requested through Mr. de Fleury. He clarifies that a packet sent by the admiralty was done without his knowledge and offers to credit Franklin for postage costs. Williams also addresses confusion over cheeses sent to Orleans, advising Franklin to consume them and settle ownership later to avoid spoilage.
Letter
Louis-Alexandre, duc de La Rochefoucauld, sends Benjamin Franklin a draft letter agreed upon the previous day, asking Franklin to review and possibly correct its form. He advises Franklin to deliver or discuss the letter with Count de Vergennes to expedite its processing. Additionally, the duke includes a recommendation for the position of U.S. Consul at Fécamp.
Letter
Herman Heyman’s Sons express gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for his support in establishing their business in North America and for providing letters of introduction to Boston and Philadelphia. They inform Franklin of their vessel Batavia’s upcoming voyage to Charlestown to purchase rice and offer to carry any items he wishes to send. The letter emphasizes their reliance on Franklin’s influence and coordination for successful trade operations.
Letter
John Penn informs Benjamin Franklin that he has sent his servant to collect the letters Franklin promised him. He also indicates his intention to leave Paris once the servant returns. The letter serves as a brief update on Penn's immediate plans and correspondence.
Letter
Jean-Jacques Caffiéri writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 expressing his interest in being commissioned to create a statue honoring King Louis XVI, reportedly planned by the United States. He requests Franklin to remember him for this or any other artistic opportunity, emphasizing his dedication and gratitude.
Letter
Marie-Jean-Antoine-Nicolas Caritat, marquis de Condorcet, writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 to recommend a memorandum concerning a consular position for the United States at the port of Cette. He seeks Franklin's assistance in supporting merchants who are old friends of the Americans. Condorcet expresses his respect and attachment to Franklin throughout the letter.
Letter
Peter Paul, Baron von Giusti, expresses deep admiration and gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for his foundational role in the American Revolution, praising its significance for the welfare of nations. He recalls their personal acquaintance in Paris and conveys his unwavering dedication and respect. Giusti requests Franklin to continue their friendly correspondence, affirming his sincere esteem.
Letter
William Hodgson informs Benjamin Franklin about the challenges faced in passing a British bill to open trade with America, noting significant opposition and alterations to its original form. He outlines key provisions allowing Americans freer trade with the islands and equal footing in European commerce while maintaining navigation restrictions. Hodgson requests Franklin’s detailed plan for regulating commercial relations between the two countries amid uncertain British leadership.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin Bache writes to his grandfather, Benjamin Franklin, requesting updates on his health and asking for three medals commemorating American liberty to gift to friends. He mentions beginning to paint and seeks approval for a gold watch he previously requested. Bache also inquires about the status of English books Franklin had sent, noting he has only received a few.
Letter
Giuseppe Bartoli sends Benjamin Franklin a more accurate English translation of his Italian verses predicting the success of the American War of Independence, along with a French translation by Mlle Leclerc. He entrusts M. L’Heritier, a multilingual lawyer, to deliver these documents in person and express Bartoli’s deep respect for Franklin. Bartoli acknowledges Franklin as a great philosopher and admired minister.
Letter
David Hartley discusses a Supplemental Treaty related to American negotiations and expresses support for a principle proposed in Parliament in 1778 that he believes aligns with the Declaration of Independence and the Treaty with France. He hopes this principle will remain intact after the war and extend to all nations, emphasizing goodwill between Britain and America. Hartley also mentions sharing related parliamentary sentiments from his brother.
Letter
Abbé Morellet explains the symbolism on a medal related to Benjamin Franklin, clarifying that the medal depicts specific events rather than announcing Franklin's full political freedom. He requests Franklin to mention his interest to Mr. de Vergennes through Mr. de Reyneval and expresses warm personal regards.
Letter
The Burgomasters and Senators of Hamburg congratulate Benjamin Franklin on securing American independence through the treaty with Britain. They request Franklin's assistance in gaining the favor of the Continental Congress to establish beneficial trade relations between Hamburg merchants and the United States. They express deep respect for Franklin's wisdom and political influence in facilitating this commercial cooperation.
Letter
François-Félix Nogaret requests Benjamin Franklin to provide him with one of his ingenious medals and to write a brief letter endorsing Nogaret's advancement to M. Le Mis. de Serrent, who remembers Franklin's previous recommendation. Nogaret expresses gratitude for Franklin's past support and regrets missing the chance to meet him due to ill health.
Letter
Jean-Antoine Salva warns Benjamin Franklin of the imminent danger faced by American ships departing Marseille due to secret enemies and Algerian corsairs disrupting commerce under European political complicity. He recounts his involvement in exposing attacks on imperial vessels and urges Franklin to keep this intelligence confidential while exercising prudence.
Letter
Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde urges Benjamin Franklin to respond promptly to an inquiry from Monsieur de Crevecœur regarding a matter involving Monsieur de Castries. She emphasizes the importance of this reply for Crevecœur's upcoming meeting and expresses her personal interest in facilitating the communication. Additionally, she requests Franklin to send back a muff she left at his residence.
Letter
Abbé Jean-Louis Giraud Soulavie thanks Benjamin Franklin for honoring his modest works and for agreeing to place a copy in the Philadelphia library, which owes its existence to Franklin and the local academy. Soulavie expresses gratitude for Franklin's protection with the Philadelphia society, despite feeling unworthy of association. He closes with deep respect and humility.
Letter
Jonathan Jr Williams informs Benjamin Franklin about a financial dispute involving Mr. A. J. Alexander and requests Franklin's understanding of his refusal to intervene, citing potential negative consequences. He also discusses reports that the French government plans to make Port Louis a free trade port, expressing concerns about the significant changes needed to transform it from a military garrison to a commercial hub. Williams advocates for free trade with America to extend beyond a single port.
Letter
William Mackinnen Jr. writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783, expressing his admiration and regret at missing him during a brief stay in Paris. He informs Franklin that he has sent two large books of charts of the Northern American coasts, intended for Mr. Adams, and requests Franklin to notify Adams if he has received them. Mackinnen hopes for a future opportunity to meet Franklin in person.
Letter
Mattheus Lestevenon van Berkenrode, Dutch ambassador, expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for his kind attention and assures him of his sincere attachment. The letter conveys diplomatic courtesy and goodwill between the Netherlands and Franklin.
Letter
Giuseppe Bartoli expresses deep gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for a medal he received, praising its design and craftsmanship. He acknowledges Franklin’s kindness in sending it ahead of the official distribution and shares a poetic description he composed in honor of the medal. Bartoli conveys his profound respect and esteem for Franklin throughout the letter.
Letter
Francis Coffyn informs Benjamin Franklin of his efforts to assist American prisoners recently arrived from England by securing their passage home and providing financial aid. He requests Franklin to honor drafts totaling £894.8 drawn on him to cover these expenses. Coffyn also reports dispatching vessels to North American ports, promoting trade through Dunkerque and supporting Franklin's recommended merchants in Philadelphia.