Benjamin Franklin to Charles Thomson, January 5, 1769
London, Jan 5. 1769 Gentlemen, I received yours with two Bills of Exchange enclos’d, for £150 Sterling, with a Catalogue of Books to be procur’d for the Library Company, which…
Charles Thomson was an Irish-born Founding Father of the United States and secretary of the Continental Congress (1774-1789) throughout its existence. As secretary, Thomson prepared the Journals of the Continental Congress, and his and John Hancock's names were the only two to appear on the first printing of the United States Declaration of Independence.
London, Jan 5. 1769 Gentlemen, I received yours with two Bills of Exchange enclos’d, for £150 Sterling, with a Catalogue of Books to be procur’d for the Library Company, which…
London, Jan. 27. 1769. Gentlemen, Enclos’d is Bill of Lading and Invoice of the Books you order’d, which I wish safe to hand, and am, Gentlemen Yours and the Company’s…
Morristown [ New Jersey ] May 24, 1777. Encloses copy of plan for establishing a cavalry force.
Middlebrook [ New Jersey ] June 13, 1777. Encloses copy of a plan for the establishment of a cavalry force.
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Thomson about delays in sending the ratification of the Definitive Treaty due to unforeseen circumstances and severe winter weather in Europe. He updates on diplomatic exchanges, including ratifications with Sweden and the movements of American commissioners like Jay, Laurens, and Adams. Franklin also notes ongoing European political developments and the interest of Europeans wishing to settle in America.
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Thomson that the ratification of the Definitive Treaty has been exchanged, marking the successful end of the American Revolutionary War. He urges vigilance in maintaining national unity, fiscal responsibility, and military preparedness to safeguard the young nation's reputation and security against future British threats. Franklin emphasizes the importance of fidelity in treaties and warns against complacency and internal divisions.
Benjamin Franklin expresses bitterness and disappointment to Charles Thomson over Congress's refusal to grant a personal favor, specifically the appointment of his grandson Temple to a diplomatic position, which instead goes to David Humphreys. Franklin's notes reveal a rare moment of melancholy and a sense of feeling unappreciated in late 1784. The letter responds point-by-point to Thomson's earlier correspondence, reflecting Franklin's frustration with political decisions.
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Thomson about correspondence related to the Longchamps affair and diplomatic instructions he followed concerning negotiations with the Emperor. He mentions sending formal communications to Count Vergennes and awaiting satisfaction for Mr. Marbois. Franklin promises a more detailed letter in the future while enclosing relevant papers and letters exchanged with European officials.