Letter
Thomas Barclay addresses Benjamin Franklin regarding claims by Messrs. Forsters and Puchelberg on U.S. property, emphasizing adherence to established international customs rather than treating the matter as a private dispute. He clarifies that previous examinations of the debt do not confirm its validity and offers to settle and certify the account when requested. Barclay also disputes reports that he defended the case in the Court at L’Orient, attributing any defense there to another party.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs John Adams that a packet intended for him contained only a letter to Hamburg magistrates and a diploma for Reverend Wren, with no commission or mention of it, suggesting it was overlooked. He notes consulting Mr. Grand about financial relief, which proved impossible, and expresses hope that Adams' presence in Holland will be helpful.
Letter
George Washington writes to Benjamin Franklin recommending Dr. Witherspoon, who plans to travel to Great Britain and possibly France on business. Washington requests Franklin to extend civility and attention to Witherspoon during his travels.
Letter
Joseph Banks thanks Benjamin Franklin for promptly sharing news about advancements in flying technology in America and expresses admiration for Charles's successful experiment. Banks acknowledges American progress in practical flight but asserts British claim to theoretical flight, referencing Bishop Wilkins and Mr. Cavendish's earlier ideas. He anticipates future scientific endeavors that will combine theory and celestial observations to advance knowledge.
Letter
Wilhem and Jan Willink inform Benjamin Franklin that the stocks he holds cannot provide sufficient funds to cover drafts issued by Robert Morris, and they foresee difficulty in meeting payment obligations when the bills mature. They also note the absence of an account summary from Mr. Grand and report that he is unable to assist financially due to his own constraints. The merchants express concern about the potential protest of unpaid bills.
Letter
Antoine-Alexis-François Cadet de Vaux writes to Benjamin Franklin in December 1783 to convey respectful greetings and to forward a letter from the Lieutenant General of Police along with two notes from Messrs. Le Grand and Molinos. The letter serves as a formal introduction and delivery of these documents for Franklin's acceptance.
Letter
Félix Nogaret addresses Benjamin Franklin with admiration for his diplomatic achievements in securing peace and acknowledges the public's desire to see him celebrated in Paris. He expresses concern over Franklin's absence, attributing it to illness, and emphasizes the high regard in which Franklin is held as a powerful and revered figure. Nogaret urges Franklin to reveal himself to the public despite his current condition.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Count de Vergennes that due to severe bladder pain caused by kidney stones, he can no longer visit Versailles in person and hopes for understanding. He notes he has not yet received a response from Congress regarding his recall and requests that his grandson, serving as secretary of the legation, convey any future communications. Franklin expresses his respect and remains at Vergennes's service despite his health limitations.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin discusses the examination of an anonymous Brussels letter's handwriting, comparing it to samples from M. de Neufville’s clerk to determine its authenticity. He describes specific handwriting features, such as a long dash over the letter t, and notes correspondence with Henry Laurens and others regarding the letter's origin. Franklin also mentions lending letters to Mr. Ridley for comparison and encloses another anonymous letter.
Letter
François-Pierre de Séqueville informs Benjamin Franklin about the French court entering mourning on December 9, 1783, due to the death of Mademoiselle. He notes that the king will observe the mourning period for 21 days. The letter also references Séqueville's official role as secretary to the king and his involvement with the ambassadors.