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.
Gabriel Johonnot requests Benjamin Franklin's assistance in arranging passage for his son from Geneva to Boston, entrusting him to a reliable guardian. He explains delays caused by peace negotiations and assures Franklin of prompt payment for any funds drawn. Johonnot expresses gratitude and hopes for future opportunities to show his appreciation.
Benjamin Franklin Bache writes to his grandfather, Benjamin Franklin, acknowledging receipt of a letter, a medal, and Mme Montgomery’s note. He mentions his desire for a watch, noting that peers his age possess gold or silver ones, but accepts Franklin’s refusal to send one. Bache also explains his brief letter due to illness and sends regards from acquaintances.
Robert Morris responds to Benjamin Franklin's announcement of his resignation, expressing personal regret and concern for the United States. Morris acknowledges Franklin's desire for peace and happiness outside public life but refuses to support efforts to hasten his departure, citing potential harm to the public interest. He affirms his continued respect and esteem for Franklin regardless of his future role.
Richard Bache informs Benjamin Franklin about delays in state legislation to fund interest payments on the national debt, causing uncertainty about future payments. He updates Franklin on family health, including Mrs. Mecom's recovery and his children's wellbeing, and encloses a letter for Franklin's son. Bache expresses affection and assures prompt remittance of any received interest funds.
Bache and Shee inform Benjamin Franklin that the brig Franklin, carrying goods for Torris & Wante’s house of Dunkirk, has arrived safely in Philadelphia despite a saturated market. They express gratitude for Franklin’s recommendation and assure him of their commitment to support the interests of the Dunkirk house.
William Barton introduces his brother Matthias Barton to Benjamin Franklin, emphasizing Matthias's respectable character and business experience in L’Orient. He seeks Franklin's favorable consideration of Matthias as an American merchant. Barton also notes his own recognition among Americans in Paris to support the introduction.
Robert R. Livingston updates Benjamin Franklin on the resolution of a legal matter involving the ship Nostra Signora da Soledade and the Portuguese crown, while noting that Franklin's resignation has not yet been accepted. He urges Franklin to address unresolved issues concerning the Alliance and the Bon Homme Richard ships, as well as the restitution of vessels detained by Denmark. Livingston also reports slow progress in evacuating New York and requests additional financial support for the army.
Jonathan Jr Williams requests Benjamin Franklin to forward a memorandum to the Marquis de Castries, seeking official captain's papers for a ship's commander, a common and necessary formality in France. He emphasizes the respectability of the ship's owner, Mr. de la Ville, and believes Franklin's endorsement will ensure the favor is granted.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.