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.
David Hartley introduces Reverend Dr. Scrope, a chaplain in poor health traveling to France for recovery, to Benjamin Franklin. Hartley requests Franklin’s courteous attention to Dr. Scrope, acknowledging Franklin’s reputation for hospitality toward English gentlemen.
Dunkirk the 11 8br 1783 My Lord. For a while past Messieurs Veuve Dque. Morel & Self had the honor of writing to your Highness. 3 Tho’ not honoured with…
Johann Hilmar Adolf Graf von Schönfeld writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783, requesting that Franklin forward an enclosed letter to a Mr. Thieriot in Philadelphia. Schönfeld expresses his respect and offers apologies and thanks to Franklin for his assistance.
Nicolas Albert offers Benjamin Franklin the apartment above his baths in Paris, expressing eagerness to host him whenever convenient. He promises to prepare the space promptly to accommodate Franklin's stay. Albert conveys respectful and humble sentiments in his offer.
Pierre Dessin informs Benjamin Franklin that he has noted the arrival of a pair of carriage wheels from London addressed to Franklin and will send them promptly upon receipt. He expresses gratitude for Franklin's trust and assures his dedicated care in handling the matter. Dessin closes with respectful regards and a commitment to maintain Franklin's confidence.
a Sanois Le 14. 8bre. 1783. J’aprend avec Bien Du Chagrin que Mon Respectable Amy a Eté Malade il Est plus triste Encore D’Estre privée De Le Voir pour une…
John Shaffer defends his honor to Benjamin Franklin, denying accusations of debt fraud and explaining that he unknowingly allowed another to misuse his signature to incur debts in Paris. He requests Franklin's intervention to prove his innocence and secure his release from confinement. Shaffer emphasizes his adherence to principles despite his unfortunate situation.
John Baynes informs Benjamin Franklin of his imminent departure for England and requests any letters or a list of books Franklin might send with his messenger. Baynes mentions sending a poem by Mr. Mason, praising the author’s support for civil and religious liberty. He expresses deep gratitude for Franklin’s kindness and the valuable insights shared despite their differences in age and status.
Marquis de Lafayette invites Benjamin Franklin to an American dinner in Paris, where William Pitt and other notable guests will attend. Lafayette emphasizes Franklin as the central figure of the gathering and expresses hope that Franklin will join without risking his health.
Jonathan & Co Nesbitt informs Benjamin Franklin about insurance arrangements for the ship Nancy, which sailed after the cessation of hostilities, affecting the applicable insurance premium rate. They report a legal dispute in Bordeaux where insurers demand the higher premium despite the ship’s delayed departure, and they seek Franklin’s attention to a letter from Richard Gallwey detailing the case.
Sir Edward Newenham writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing gratitude for their acquaintance and discusses his intention to advocate for including America in the commercial treaty during the upcoming Parliament session. He laments the death of his friend Mr. Baron Burgh, a supporter of free trade, parliamentary reform, and American interests, who had recently died from illness exacerbated by poor weather. Newenham also criticizes the competency of the House of Lords in judging appeals.
Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing sadness about leaving and hopes he might visit her as well. She conveys affection for him and their family, asking Franklin to send news through her grandson and to give greetings to Madame Caillot on her behalf.
Jean Baptiste Le Roy writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing regret at missing him and inquiring whether Franklin still wishes to witness an experiment with the Montgolfier balloon privately. Le Roy requests confirmation of Franklin’s availability, suggesting a meeting the following day near Franklin’s planned dinner location. He also plans to visit Franklin that evening to make up for the lost time.
Geneviève-Elisabeth Belamy Le Veillard invites Benjamin Franklin to join her for tea on the evening of October 22, 1783. She extends a polite and friendly greeting in her brief note. The letter reflects social customs and personal connections during Franklin's time in France.
Wilhelmina von Mosheim, comtesse de Golowkin, writes to Benjamin Franklin from Paris requesting to borrow the latest volume of the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society, specifically containing Sir Hamilton's paper on the Calabria earthquake. She expresses affection and eagerness to visit him soon, while also clarifying a mix-up with the volume previously sent.
Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, informs Benjamin Franklin of a response from Marshal de Castries regarding the seizure of arms and munitions at the Orient by Mr. Pachelberg, whose release is requested by Mr. Barclay. Vergennes asks Franklin to share the documents with Barclay so he can present counterarguments to the refusal of the release. The letter focuses on resolving the dispute over the confiscated military supplies.
David Hartley informs Benjamin Franklin that he has sent the requested scarlet Welsh flannel to ensure Franklin receives it before winter. He mentions John Jay's recovery and upcoming visit to Bath, where they plan to meet. Hartley also sends regards from his family and requests Franklin to convey his compliments to John Adams and other friends.
Princeton 1st. November 1783 Sir My last letters to you, were on the 15th. of August and 9th. of September, 6 on the same subject, enclosing the ratification of the…
Jan Ingenhousz writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 to express deep gratitude and admiration for Franklin's scientific achievements and moral character. He acknowledges Franklin's longstanding support and friendship in his own physical research and dedicates his work under Franklin's auspices as a public tribute. Ingenhousz emphasizes the shared esteem between himself, Franklin's compatriots, and the scientific community.
Paris 3 9bre. 1783. Monsieur J’ai l’honneur de vous adresser les Essais dont je vous ai parlé & que j’avois oublié de vous faire passer par ma derniere Lettre. 8…
Pierre Dessin informs Benjamin Franklin that he has sent a sealed package via a diligence to Paris, including a receipt for customs and an account of expenses totaling twelve francs. He mentions awaiting wheels from England and promises to forward them promptly upon arrival. Dessin expresses his respectful dedication to Franklin throughout the correspondence.
François-Antoine de Flandre de Brunville informs Benjamin Franklin that he received Franklin's request to delay the judgment in the case of Mr. Scheffer, detained at the Chatelet prison, until the return of Mr. Barclay, the U.S. consul. Although the case is fully prepared, Brunville agrees to postpone his conclusions for a few days to accommodate Franklin's wishes.
John Shaffer requests financial assistance from Benjamin Franklin for his subsistence during confinement, promising to repay any advances before leaving France. He seeks justice for the losses totaling £5400 Livre incurred during and after his arrest, expressing hope for fair compensation. Shaffer also acknowledges Franklin's efforts to advocate on his behalf with the King's attorney.
William Alexander informs Benjamin Franklin of his arrival in Nantes and receipt of Franklin's letter and packets for the President of Congress. He mentions letters from a woman claiming to be a widow connected to the Sprowl estate, whom he distrusts, and requests Franklin to mention him to Mr. Morris. Alexander plans to leave Europe soon, hoping his departure benefits his family, and sends regards to Franklin's son.