Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath: a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher and political philosopher. Among the most influential intellectuals of his time, Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States; a drafter and signer of the Declaration of Independence; and the first postmaster general.
Guillaume Grivel informs Benjamin Franklin that an unexpected illness prevents M. Canolle from retrieving a promised letter for London and requests Franklin to send it to him via local post in Paris. Grivel expresses hope for Canolle’s recovery and conveys respectful regards to Franklin.
Jean-Omer Joly de Fleury, former French finance minister, expresses sincere gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for sending him a medal. He acknowledges the gesture with appreciation and conveys his thanks to Franklin, then the United States' plenipotentiary minister in Passy.
C. Barthélémy reports to Benjamin Franklin that the last Anglo-American ship, the Hawke, recently departed Marseille with a tobacco cargo, while French expeditions to Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore, and Philadelphia are ongoing. He notes the Congress appointed Monsieur Cathalan Fils as consul in Marseille and questions whether Franklin will allow him to remind that the Congress trusts French nationals. Barthélémy also informs Franklin of an English ship for sale in port, suitable for transatlantic voyages.
Philippe-Henri, marquis de Ségur, acknowledges receipt of a medal sent by Benjamin Franklin on April 11, 1783. He expresses his gratitude to Franklin for this honor. The letter serves as a formal thank-you for the gift.
Louis-Alexandre, duc de La Rochefoucauld requests Benjamin Franklin to send the treaty with Sweden or inform him of his intentions regarding it, so the printer can complete the publication of the treaties with France and Holland. He also seeks guidance on the preface and plans to visit Franklin soon.
Jonathan Sr Williams informs Benjamin Franklin that he has obtained a new edition of the Common Prayer Book and is sending it via a bearer. He mentions London's resemblance to home and expresses reluctance to travel to France due to the difficulty of the journey, but would consider going if accompanying Franklin. Williams also conveys greetings to Franklin’s son and anticipates Franklin’s visit to London in the summer.
Comte de Beaujeu thanks Benjamin Franklin for sending him a medal symbolizing American glory and European interest. He expresses regret at being unable to respond to Franklin's letter due to his lack of English comprehension. Beaujeu conveys sincere wishes for Franklin's continued prosperity and success.
William Hodgson informs Benjamin Franklin that the British Parliament has repealed the prohibitory acts against America and is preparing further legislation to ease restrictions on American ships. He expresses hope that these measures will restore trade and mentions the anticipated visit of Mr. Hartley to negotiate a commercial treaty. Hodgson also notes a financial balance owed to Franklin related to prisoners and offers to provide details upon request.
Agathon Guynement, chevalier de Kéralio, expresses deep gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for sending a commemorative medal honoring Franklin’s achievements and the glory of his country. He pledges unwavering loyalty and respect, even offering to sacrifice his life in defense of Franklin’s legacy. The letter conveys heartfelt admiration and enduring friendship.
Daniel Duchemin requests Benjamin Franklin to continue his support by helping him obtain the Hôtel des Invalides through a recommendation to Mr. de Ségur. He appeals to Franklin’s generosity toward French veterans who fought for America, hoping for relief from his financial hardship.
Charles James Fox introduces Mr. Hartley as a trusted envoy of the British government to Benjamin Franklin, expressing hope for a genuine reconciliation between Britain and America. Fox emphasizes his personal investment in fostering lasting friendship between the two nations.
Elkanah Watson Jr. writes from London to Benjamin Franklin in April 1783, offering his respectful compliments and sending Franklin several papers. The letter serves as a brief formal communication accompanying the enclosed documents.
Marie-Anne-Henriette Payan de l’Estaing, baronne de Bourdic, writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing her eagerness to correspond with him and apologizing for the slow and difficult translation of a four-page letter he entrusted to her. She requests a brief note from Franklin to confirm that her work meets his approval before she returns to her province. The baronne values the opportunity to engage with a man she admires for his virtues and genius.
Luigi Pio expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for the generous gift of a medal received in Paris on April 20, 1783. He conveys his sincere thanks and recognition for Franklin's kindness.
Mary Ann Davies expresses deep gratitude and respect toward Benjamin Franklin, acknowledging his recent political success and offering heartfelt congratulations despite her personal suffering. She admits limited knowledge of politics but trusts Franklin’s greatness to appreciate her sincere sentiments. Davies requests a personal reply to learn more about his health beyond public reports.
Agathon Guynement, chevalier de Kéralio, reminds Benjamin Franklin of a previous mention of Burgundy wine offered by the head of a military school in Auxerre. He acknowledges the preference for Bordeaux wine in Franklin’s homeland and asks Franklin to kindly accept the wine and respectful regards sent with the letter.
Marianne Camasse, comtesse de Forbach Deux-Ponts, expresses regret to Benjamin Franklin for being unable to host him for tea due to her social engagements. She requests a day the following week for Franklin to join her, the prince de Deux-Ponts, and French Americans for dinner. The comtesse also sends warm regards from her intimate secretary to Franklin and his grandson.
John Adams and John Jay inform Benjamin Franklin that they have arranged a meeting with Henry Laurens and invite Franklin and his son to attend the gathering the following day. The meeting aims to coordinate efforts among the American ministers.
Elias Boudinot recommends Colonel Ogdin, a distinguished and brave officer of the New Jersey Line, to Benjamin Franklin for protection during his authorized voyage to France. He encloses a letter from the Commander in Chief and expresses anticipation for the definitive peace treaty, noting concerns about unresolved issues like English debts and the economic hardships faced by American citizens due to depreciated currency and stalled trade.
Claude-Gabriel de Choisy and de Béville visit Benjamin Franklin on April 28, 1783, to express their gratitude for the medal he sent them. They personally convey their thanks to Franklin, acknowledging his gesture.
Marquis de Lafayette invites Benjamin Franklin to dine with him at his home on Rue de Bourbon in Paris on Thursday, May 3, 1783. The letter serves as a polite social invitation during the concluding period of the American Revolutionary War. Lafayette expresses respect and cordiality toward Franklin.
Madlin, a saddler in Paris, informs Benjamin Franklin of a small debt owed by Franklin’s son for repairs and supplies totaling 106 livres. Madlin requests Franklin’s attention to this matter, explaining he is not a regular supplier and offers to provide a detailed account if needed. He awaits a favorable response while expressing respectful submission.
Patience Wright informs Benjamin Franklin that she has spoken with his son and observes that British Parliament remains divided over Loyalist claims to the King, with political factions deceiving each other to delay justice. She notes the King fears accountability, causing delays in policy decisions, and emphasizes that nothing will be settled until Franklin visits. Wright expresses support for Loyalists’ claims and hopes for fair treatment amid ongoing political uncertainty.
Guy Claude, Comte de Sarsfield, requests Benjamin Franklin to send letters of recommendation for Jacques-Jean-Patient Mazurié, who plans to establish a commercial house in Philadelphia. He also apologizes for a previous indiscretion regarding a medal for Franklin's academy and informs him that French naval officers involved in the Chesapeake Bay campaign intend to request medals, offering to intervene if Franklin prefers.