Letter
Elias Boudinot recommends Colonel Ogdin, a distinguished and brave officer of the New Jersey Line, to Benjamin Franklin for protection during his authorized voyage to France. He encloses a letter from the Commander in Chief and expresses anticipation for the definitive peace treaty, noting concerns about unresolved issues like English debts and the economic hardships faced by American citizens due to depreciated currency and stalled trade.
Letter
John Adams and John Jay inform Benjamin Franklin that they have arranged a meeting with Henry Laurens and invite Franklin and his son to attend the gathering the following day. The meeting aims to coordinate efforts among the American ministers.
Letter
Marianne Camasse, comtesse de Forbach Deux-Ponts, expresses regret to Benjamin Franklin for being unable to host him for tea due to her social engagements. She requests a day the following week for Franklin to join her, the prince de Deux-Ponts, and French Americans for dinner. The comtesse also sends warm regards from her intimate secretary to Franklin and his grandson.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin introduces Count Del Verme, an Italian nobleman and traveler, to Robert R. Livingston, requesting that Livingston extend hospitality and guidance to the Count during his visit to America. Franklin emphasizes the Count's distinguished character and the purpose of his journey to observe the country and its notable figures.
Letter
David Hartley proposes a supplemental treaty between Great Britain and the American States to facilitate the removal of British troops and the reopening of ports before the final peace treaty. He argues that the provisional articles effectively end the war and establish American independence, allowing for immediate cooperation similar to that between Britain and France. Hartley seeks to clarify ambiguities regarding the timing and nature of the final treaty to ensure smooth post-war relations.
Letter
Agathon Guynement, chevalier de Kéralio, reminds Benjamin Franklin of a previous mention of Burgundy wine offered by the head of a military school in Auxerre. He acknowledges the preference for Bordeaux wine in Franklin’s homeland and asks Franklin to kindly accept the wine and respectful regards sent with the letter.
Letter
Mary Ann Davies expresses deep gratitude and respect toward Benjamin Franklin, acknowledging his recent political success and offering heartfelt congratulations despite her personal suffering. She admits limited knowledge of politics but trusts Franklin’s greatness to appreciate her sincere sentiments. Davies requests a personal reply to learn more about his health beyond public reports.
Letter
Robert R. Livingston informs the American Peace Commissioners about his correspondence with British officials regarding the provisional Articles of peace, noting their cold and doubtful responses. He reports that Congress debates whether to immediately ratify the provisional Articles and whether to release prisoners, seeking clarification on the Articles' status as either preliminary or definitive. Livingston requests guidance from the Commissioners to resolve these uncertainties.
Letter
Luigi Pio expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for the generous gift of a medal received in Paris on April 20, 1783. He conveys his sincere thanks and recognition for Franklin's kindness.
Letter
Marie-Anne-Henriette Payan de l’Estaing, baronne de Bourdic, writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing her eagerness to correspond with him and apologizing for the slow and difficult translation of a four-page letter he entrusted to her. She requests a brief note from Franklin to confirm that her work meets his approval before she returns to her province. The baronne values the opportunity to engage with a man she admires for his virtues and genius.