Sarah Franklin Bache informs Benjamin Franklin that Major Du Pontier, aide to Baron Stuben, will deliver the letter and requests his attention to the young gentleman. She updates Franklin on her children’s health and their summer retreat by the Schuylkill River, mentioning her son Richard’s recent serious illness and recovery. Bache expresses affection and promises longer letters soon.
Charles Thomson informs Benjamin Franklin of Congress's recent adjournment and the appointment of a committee of states to meet during the recess. He reports the election of John Jay as Secretary for Foreign Affairs and the addition of Thomas Jefferson to the commercial treaty negotiation team alongside Adams and Franklin. Thomson also notes the departure of the Chevalier de la Luzerne, who leaves with Congress's high regard.
Noël Le Mire presents a portrait of the Marquis de Lafayette to William Temple Franklin and requests that he kindly present it to his father, Benjamin Franklin. Le Mire expresses a wish to deliver the portrait in person but is unable to do so.
Jean-Sylvain Bailly informs Benjamin Franklin that eight commissioners, including physicians and academicians, will visit him on Saturday to accept his invitation. Bailly requests Franklin's assistance in bringing additional individuals, including patients and companions, for planned scientific experiments. He also plans to meet Franklin beforehand to discuss and prepare the experimental arrangements.
Passy, June 17. 1784. Dear Sister, It is long since I have had the Pleasure of hearing from you, 7 but am glad to hear by Cousin Williams that you…
Jean-Sylvain Bailly requests Benjamin Franklin to return the original commission register he sent last week, as it is urgently needed for copying the next morning. Bailly allows Franklin to keep it until the evening if he has not yet read it but asks for its prompt return to Chaillot.
Benjamin Franklin informs Thomas Mifflin that the ratifications of the Definitive Treaty have been exchanged and that British instructions on American trade negotiations are delayed due to parliamentary matters. He warns of lingering British resentment and advises vigilance in anticipating changes in European affairs that could impact American interests. Franklin refers to Mr. Jay and Mr. Laurens for more detailed updates from London.
Félix Vicq d’Azyr informs Benjamin Franklin that he is sending copies of a medical society report previously promised and will soon deliver the third volume of the Royal Society of Medicine's collection. He expresses gratitude on behalf of the society for a paper Franklin shared by Mr. Perkins. Vicq d’Azyr respectfully conveys these materials and thanks Franklin for his contributions.
John Witherspoon writes to Benjamin Franklin recommending William Brown, a skilled classic scholar seeking to improve his French in Paris. Witherspoon asks Franklin to consider introducing Brown or helping him find teaching opportunities in English or classical languages. The request is made on behalf of a mutual acquaintance and Witherspoon’s obligation to assist.
London 4th. June 1784. Dear Sir. Permit me to introduce at Passy, Mr. Parker 5 a young Gentleman of an exceeding good character Son of John Parker Esquire a respectable…