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.
John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin of two enclosed letters from Edward Browne of Ostend and Mr. De Berdt, whom Adams met in London and considers knowledgeable about local language, laws, and commerce. Adams requests Franklin to forward these letters to Congress for their consideration. The correspondence aims to provide Congress with valuable information regarding Ostend's commercial and legal environment.
The Hague March 27. 1784 Sir I have received the Letter you did me the Honour to write me the 15th with the Letters Packet and Copy inclosed. I think…
Matthew Ridley thanks Benjamin Franklin for sending the final volumes of the Encyclopédie, completing his collection of 39 volumes. Ridley mentions the value of the shipment and requests Franklin to provide the subscription title if he has it. The letter is dated April 1, 1784, from Paris.
[before April 17, 1784] Believing the passing of the stone to be impossible, the extraction of it unadvisable, and that no known medicine can dissolve it, I shall turn my…
John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin that the King of Prussia agrees to model a treaty after the one with Sweden and requests a copy of that treaty for reference. Adams also discusses a petition from Boston regarding British condemnation of vessels taken after an armistice began, suggesting that Franklin and Jay clarify the legal interpretation to Congress to help affected parties seek redress in England.
Mary Stevenson Hewson writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 expressing disappointment at his apparent plans to return to America without visiting England. She thanks him for his frequent letters and the educational books he sent, noting the positive impact on her children's learning. Hewson also mentions social visits and conveys warm regards from her family.
Pisa 3d April 1784. My Dear Sir, After I had given Mr. Partridge a letter for you, 8 it occurred to me that we are famous at this Place for…
Jean-Antoine de Rubigny de Berteval expresses deep gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for responding to his previous letter and affirms his satisfaction with Franklin's reply. He intends to visit Franklin at the earliest opportunity to pay his respects. The letter conveys formal respect and appreciation.
Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy thanks Benjamin Franklin for his letter and requests he include advice for those wishing to travel to America. She expresses concern for her husband's gout, hoping his recovery will restore their freedom, and asks Franklin to pray for him despite religious differences. She conveys deep affection and sends regards from her family, mentioning a playful grievance toward Franklin's son and a neighbor.
Charlotte de Cheminot informs Benjamin Franklin that she will visit him for lunch on April 5, 1784, with his permission. She plans to bring guests named Messieurs Le Roy, Gudin, and Quintin, who appreciate Franklin's kindness in allowing the meeting.
Jonathan Trumbull introduces Gerrey and Buckingham to Benjamin Franklin, seeking his advice on recovering money lost due to prematurely accepted French Bills of Exchange. He emphasizes their good reputations and requests Franklin's assistance in asserting their rights if their evidence is sufficient. Trumbull expresses gratitude in advance for Franklin's help.
Joseph Dupas de Iden de Valnais informs Benjamin Franklin of the birth of his son on April 5, 1784. He conveys that both mother and child are in good health. The letter serves as a personal announcement to Franklin.
Richard Price writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing pleasure at receiving his letter and discusses recent scientific developments, including the invention of air balloons in France. He reports on internal conflicts within the Royal Society, where opposition to the President has caused heated debates and the resignation of the Secretary, Mr. Maty. Price also acknowledges Franklin's possible plans to visit London.
Henry Laurens informs Benjamin Franklin that he has received Franklin's correspondence and will send an open letter to Charles Thompson by the next mail. Laurens mentions coordinating with Mr. Hartley regarding the ratification process and offers to assist with any necessary exchanges in America. Despite poor health, Laurens remains mentally sound and sends newspapers for Franklin's review of recent elections.
Edward Nathaniel Bancroft writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784, updating him on family health and recent correspondence, including the death of a young sibling from smallpox and the inoculation of others. He mentions his father's imminent voyage to South Carolina and expected return to England. Bancroft conveys warm regards from his family and acquaintances to Franklin and his grandson.
Louis de Boislandry, representing an established commercial firm, writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 seeking assistance in promoting direct trade between European producers and American merchants. He requests Franklin's recommendation to reliable American trading houses to facilitate this exchange. The letter reflects ongoing European interest in expanding commerce with the newly independent United States.
Henry Laurens informs Benjamin Franklin about the King's order to send Mr. Hartley to Paris for exchanging ratifications related to American affairs and expresses skepticism about the British administration's willingness to enact favorable policies on American commerce. Laurens notes internal political resistance, particularly against Pitt, and believes that current difficulties will ultimately strengthen American resolve and prompt necessary actions. He also mentions his plans to leave London despite poor health.
Jean Baptiste Le Roy writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 apologizing for missing a visit due to fever and reminding him of a dinner the next day with the Commissioners at his home. He expresses hope that Franklin and his grandson will attend and assures Franklin of warm hospitality. Le Roy closes with affectionate regards and lifelong friendship.
Charles Thomson informs Benjamin Franklin about his inquiries into Mr. Marggrander and others, sharing a response from Reuben Haines. He requests Franklin to assist Isaac Norris, a young man traveling in Europe, by providing guidance and introductions to help him gain useful experience for the benefit of his country. Thomson emphasizes Norris's need for advice and Franklin's influential role in mentoring him.
The Hague April 20. 1784 Gentlemen I have just now received the Letter which D r Franklin did me the Honour to write me on the 16 th. with the…
Donatien-Marie-Joseph de Vimeur, vicomte de Rochambeau, sends Benjamin Franklin the first part of the second volume of his treatise on woods, following the previous year's delivery of the first volume. He requests Franklin to forward a copy to Passy. Rochambeau expresses his continued respect and unwavering attachment to Franklin.
London May [ blank ] 1784 Sir, I am oblig’d for your kind Letter, 5 & the present accompanying it, which I think of great Moment to my future Patent.—…
Samuel Vaughan urges Benjamin Franklin to support a petition for planting shady tree avenues in Philadelphia, arguing the project would enhance public health, pleasure, and scientific knowledge. He notes opposition has delayed the initiative and believes Franklin's endorsement could influence the Assembly before its next session. Vaughan acknowledges Franklin's greater responsibilities but emphasizes the local benefits of the proposed improvements.
John Gardner writes to Benjamin Franklin explaining a discrepancy in the reported weight of tobacco aboard his ship Amity, which arrived from Charleston with a rice cargo. Gardner details how a misunderstanding about weight conversions and an additional 23 pounds of tobacco found by customs, partly taken from his crew, led to an erroneous report. He seeks to clarify the situation to protect his honor and interests.