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.
Passy, Nov. 11. 1784 Dear Son, I received your Letters of the 28th. of August, and 10th of September, with the Newspapers by M. Sailly, but they were very incompleat…
American Commissioners report to the President of Congress on their diplomatic efforts in Europe, detailing correspondence with various foreign powers including Saxony, Spain, Portugal, and Sweden. They outline the exchange of letters, responses received, and ongoing treaty negotiations, emphasizing their adherence to Congress's instructions. The letter serves as an update on the progress of establishing formal relations and treaties following American independence.
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.
Comte de La Touche requests Benjamin Franklin to review and support certain documents related to a matter involving a chevalier, emphasizing Franklin's influential recommendation as key to success. He appeals to Franklin's goodwill and promises lasting gratitude for his assistance.
John Bondfield thanks Benjamin Franklin for his assistance while Bondfield resided near Paris and Bordeaux. He reports ongoing difficulties with legal issues involving forged papers created by Price and Haywood, uncertain of the judges' decisions. Bondfield extends his best wishes to Franklin's family and expresses continued respect and gratitude.
Benjamin Franklin advises C. F. d’ Inarre on his potential move to America, suggesting that while agricultural skills would allow comfortable living in Pennsylvania, the long voyage and starting anew at his age with a family may not be advisable. Franklin encloses a pamphlet to answer specific questions and wishes him well in his decision.
Passy, Nov. 10. 1784 Sir, I send you enclos’d the Characters you desire to see, cast in the new manner lately invented in England. They are first cast separately, and…
American Commissioners inform Baron von Thulemeier that they have revised the draft treaty originally negotiated with John Adams, incorporating new articles mandated by the Continental Congress to clarify terms and address issues like contraband during war. They emphasize that one new article promotes humanitarian principles by reducing war's hardships, suggesting it would honor the King of Prussia to adopt such provisions. The Commissioners send the updated draft for Prussian consideration.
Thomas Jefferson informs Benjamin Franklin about the collaborative effort among commissioners to draft a unified treaty proposal for multiple commercial partners, a task Jefferson leads by revising existing treaties and congressional guidelines. He requests approval to modernize the treaty language and reorganize its articles for clarity and coherence. This proposal serves as a foundational document for negotiations with various nations.