Letter
Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, informs Benjamin Franklin about a dispute in Nantes involving the American ship Marianne and the decision by the Admiralty on March 5, 1784. Vergennes relays the response from the French Minister of the Navy, who supports enforcing the Admiralty's ruling while outlining options for parties dissatisfied with the verdict. The letter aims to clarify the official stance and possible recourse regarding the maritime conflict.
Letter
Lorenzo Manini expresses gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for his kindness and shares a translation he completed as a token of appreciation. He requests further opportunities to promote Franklin's reputation in Italy and mentions awaiting the arrival of Franklin's Constitutions for translation. Manini also conveys compliments from the author of the American Letters, who values Franklin's approval.
Letter
John Jay informs Benjamin Franklin that Congress has authorized his return to America at his convenience, expressing confidence that Franklin will find satisfaction in revisiting a country he has long served. Jay also introduces Paul Randall, a supporter of the American cause, recommending him for Franklin’s attention.
Letter
Charles de Butré writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing deep sympathy for an American farmer's account that contradicts Abbé Raynal's inaccurate portrayal of America’s political history. He condemns the brutal atrocities committed by certain nations against peaceful families and praises William Penn's government as a model of natural rights and tolerance. De Butré argues that such principles should guide all societies, especially those fleeing persecution.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin thanks Benjamin Vaughan for sending books and pamphlets, including Thoughts on Executive Justice, which inspires Franklin to consider related ideas. He describes a new wax candle design by Mr. Williams that produces bright light but smokes, and expresses gratitude for castor oil that has helped him. Franklin also mentions curiosity about a passage from Kæmpfer and speculates on his son's absence due to involvement with Royalist affairs.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to William Strahan seeking his opinion to resolve a disagreement over the value of a copyright in an established newspaper with a large circulation. Franklin mentions his delayed return to England and the need to settle accounts with the family of their late mutual friend Hall. He expresses confidence that Strahan’s judgment will satisfactorily resolve the matter.
Letter
⟨The Hague, March 4, 1785, in French: The orders of the king, which I have now received, enable me to respond more fully to your last letter, 2 which I…
Letter
Josef Niclas Reichsgraf Windisch-Grätz writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1785 expressing surprise that the copies of his work he sent, in Latin and German, have not reached Franklin, suspecting the package was opened or delayed by customs. He requests Franklin to inform him if the copies arrive soon and explains his plan to publish a French version with clarifications once academic institutions agree to review his writings.
Letter
James Partridge informs Benjamin Franklin that he will personally deliver a letter to Governor Pownal regarding Mrs. Barry's affairs and expresses gratitude for Franklin's hospitality during their journey. He offers assistance with any matters in Italy and invites Franklin to send friends to Leghorn for his hospitality. Partridge conveys his respect and willingness to be of service.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin requests James Partridge to deliver an enclosed letter to Governor Pownall in Marseilles concerning Mrs. Barry's affairs. Franklin also takes the opportunity to send a packet for Mrs. Barry through Partridge's care and wishes him and Miss Partridge a successful journey.