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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Benjamin Franklin Bache informs his grandfather, Benjamin Franklin, that he has recovered from an illness and is now well enough to travel to Passy during his school vacation to visit him. He expresses gratitude for the invitation and mentions the kindness of Mr. Pigott, who helped him regain his health. Bache also sends regards to his cousin and awaits an opportunity to make the journey.
Fabre Dubosquet informs Benjamin Franklin about the perfected metal sheathing and varnished iron nails designed for ship hulls, originally discussed with Commodore Paul Jones. He invites Franklin to visit him in Paris to examine the samples and discuss the innovation in detail. Dubosquet also encloses letters patent and observations to support the application of this new sheathing.
Le Couteulx & Cie respond to Benjamin Franklin, explaining their inability to release unpaid drafts issued by Mr. Morris on Mr. Grand without proper authorization, as they hold the funds at Morris's direction. They express willingness to pay protested drafts upon presentation if Morris's instructions allow, emphasizing their commitment to honor Morris's financial arrangements for the United States.
Charles-Henri Titius writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 expressing deep gratitude for Franklin's friendship and kindness during his stay in Paris. He requests Franklin's recommendations for a merchant named Thieriot traveling to America and offers his own services in return. Additionally, Titius seeks Franklin's support regarding a local physician Oehme's medical inventions, which have been effective for over fifty years.
Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, thanks Benjamin Franklin for his recent letter and the accompanying packages. He expresses sincere gratitude and reaffirms his loyal and unwavering commitment to their alliance. The correspondence reflects ongoing diplomatic cooperation between France and the United States in 1783.
[July 5, 1783] J’ai reçu, Messieurs, la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire le 29 du Mois dernier 3 et par laquelle vous demandez, au Nom des Etats…
Giacomo Francisco Crocco informs Benjamin Franklin that the Emperor of Morocco is willing to sign a Treaty of Peace and Commerce with the United States and has ordered his naval captains not to harass American vessels. Crocco requests financial support for the Moroccan ambassador's travel expenses to Europe, which the U.S. must cover, and plans to discuss the negotiations further upon arriving in Paris.
John Coakley Lettsom informs Benjamin Franklin that his friend John Lister, a Quaker, is traveling to Paris and can carry any messages or items Franklin wishes to send to England. Lettsom acknowledges receiving Franklin's letter and one from Dr. Fothergill, which he returns. He briefly mentions his political ideas and hopes Franklin approves of his use of the letter.
a Paris Le 15 Juillet 1783 Monsieur Mr. De marbois Secretaire de L’ambassade de france en Amerique, me mande que mr Le cher. de La Luzerne désire des Graines potageres…