Topic

Letters about Founding Era

16,550 letters
Letter

Peter Elmsly to Benjamin Franklin, September 12, 1783

From Peter Elmsly
To Benjamin Franklin
September 12, 1783

Peter Elmsly writes to Benjamin Franklin from Paris in 1783, offering to carry any parcels Franklin wishes to send to England and assuring their safe delivery to Mr. Pissots. He also informs Franklin that four parts of the Philosophical Transactions from Sir Joseph Banks have been sent to Mr. Pissots and will be forwarded once the bale arrives.

Letter

Benjamin Franklin to Octavie Guichard Durey de Meinières, September 12, 1783

From Benjamin Franklin
To Octavie Guichard Durey de Meinières
September 12, 1783

Benjamin Franklin writes to Octavie Guichard Durey de Meinières expressing his intention to dine with her and her family despite health advice against it. He hopes her rheumatism has improved to allow her more comfort and looks forward to seeing her husband, conveying respect and affection for both. Franklin also compliments her English and modestly remarks on his own French skills.

Letter

John Jay to Benjamin Franklin, September 11, 1783

From John Jay
To Benjamin Franklin
September 11, 1783

John Jay assures Benjamin Franklin that they share a unified commitment to securing the full boundaries and fishing rights outlined in the Treaty of 1783. He recalls their joint efforts and consistent stance against ceding territory or navigation rights, emphasizing their mutual determination to uphold American claims. Jay affirms no disagreement existed between them on these issues during the negotiations.

Letter

Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric Dumas to Benjamin Franklin, September 11, 1783

From Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric Dumas
To Benjamin Franklin
September 11, 1783

Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric Dumas requests Benjamin Franklin to forward an enclosed letter to the Congress, preferably through trusted contacts like Mr. Thaxter or Mr. Barclai, to avoid delays or loss. He also informs Franklin about continuing to draw on his funds for his annual subsistence while awaiting Congress's approval.

Letter

Jean Rousseaux to Benjamin Franklin, September 10, 1783

From Jean Rousseaux
To Benjamin Franklin
September 10, 1783

Jean Rousseaux writes to Benjamin Franklin requesting assistance regarding his unpaid wages and prize money from the capture of the American frigate Congress Lexington. He emphasizes his lack of resources and hopes Franklin will help him recover what he believes he has rightfully earned. Rousseaux asks for a prompt response and expresses his respectful regard.

Letter

Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’ Houdetot to Benjamin Franklin, September 6, 1783

From Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’ Houdetot
To Benjamin Franklin
September 6, 1783

Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde appeals to Benjamin Franklin for assistance in securing the release of a French sailor unjustly imprisoned in Caen, requesting Franklin to write to the local intendant to facilitate the sailor's freedom and return to Lorient. She offers to cover any expenses if no funds are available and emphasizes the sailor's potential to continue serving America.