Robert Morris introduces John Rucker to Benjamin Franklin, requesting Franklin's support and assistance for Rucker in his commercial endeavors. Morris emphasizes Rucker's role as a partner in a new New York business. He seeks Franklin's goodwill to help advance this enterprise.
James McHenry informs Benjamin Franklin of the warm reception Marquis de Lafayette receives during his American visit, expressing gratitude from the citizens. He also reports the near collapse of the congressional committee of the States due to members' departures, signaling a lack of effective government and uncertain communication until John Jay possibly assumes the foreign affairs role.
Nicolas-Louis-Guillaume Lacoudrais writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784, proposing himself for the position of American consul in Honfleur, Normandy, citing his experience as a merchant and former Swedish consul. The letter is part of a series of unsolicited requests for favors and positions that Franklin receives during this period. Lacoudrais seeks official recognition to represent American interests in the region.
Jacques Donatien Leray de Chaumont asks Benjamin Franklin to request from his grandson detailed information about the best cotton spinning machinery used in England and how it is applied. He also instructs Franklin to have his grandson bring samples of spun yarns and fabrics produced with these machines.
Passy, Augt. 22. 1784 Dear Friend, When I am long without hearing from you, I please my self with re-perusing some of your former Letters. In your last of April…
Benjamin Franklin writes to George Whatley expressing regret for his delayed reply and praising Whatley's book The Principles of Trade, requesting a copy to translate and distribute in America to improve economic understanding. Franklin laments the death of Whatley's namesake Maddeson and comments on the challenges Whatley faces with his charity admitting only 60 children yearly, noting the difficulties of child placement in England and the concerns about emigration.
Benjamin Franklin writes to John Calder expressing gratitude for introducing him to General Melvill and discussing Calder's potential move to Philadelphia. Franklin agrees with Calder's views on the Old Testament and explains his opposition to a constitutional clause requiring assembly members to affirm its divine inspiration, noting he helped add a provision preventing further religious tests. He also remarks on the impossibility of some parts of the Old Testament being divinely inspired.
Benjamin Franklin thanks Joseph Banks and the Royal Society for awarding him a gold medal honoring Captain Cook and expresses gratitude for receiving a copy of Cook’s voyage, despite a volume being mistakenly omitted. He recommends his grandson to Banks’s kindness and notes the ongoing experiments with balloons in England, emphasizing the need for continued trials to improve their practical use.
Joseph Banks informs Benjamin Franklin that the Royal Society awards him a gold medal honoring Captain Cook, recognizing Franklin's directive to American cruisers to avoid interfering with Cook's voyages. Banks also congratulates Franklin on receiving a copy of Cook's voyage from the British Crown, acknowledging the respect and liberal conduct Franklin has shown.
Lahaie 12e. Aout 1784 Monsieur, Dans l’espérance que ma derniere, avec les incluses, est bien parvenue, voici No. 44 pour le Congrès, qu’il trouvera sans doute tres interessante. 3 Je…