Topic

Letters about Science

5,751 letters
Letter

John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, December 5, 1783

From John Adams
To Benjamin Franklin
December 5, 1783

John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin of newly arrived dispatches from Philadelphia, including letters and instructions related to peace negotiations and potential commerce treaties with Great Britain. He requests early intelligence on any commission granted to Franklin for trade discussions, as Parliamentary actions on trade depend on such authority. Adams also mentions financial difficulties reported by Willink & Co and considers relocating to the Hague if no commission includes him.

Letter

Sir Edward Newenham to Benjamin Franklin, December 4, 1783

From Sir Edward Newenham
To Benjamin Franklin
December 4, 1783

Sir Edward Newenham informs Benjamin Franklin about the political unrest in Ireland, focusing on the Volunteers' efforts to secure parliamentary reform and greater representation. He describes a recent parliamentary defeat of their reform bill and details the disciplined and spirited conduct of the Volunteers during their meetings. Newenham emphasizes the growing momentum for change despite government resistance.

Letter

Joseph Banks to Benjamin Franklin, November 28, 1783

From Joseph Banks
To Benjamin Franklin
November 28, 1783

Joseph Banks writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing gratitude for a report on the Montgolfier brothers' balloon experiment, noting the significant progress from trivial soap-bubble-like balloons to manned flights covering over five miles. He also describes a recent local experiment with a small taffeta balloon filled with inflammable air, which traveled about 48 miles before landing. Banks speculates that Franklin may have influenced these advancements in aeronautics.

Letter

Jean Rousseau to Benjamin Franklin, November 25, 1783

From Jean Rousseau
To Benjamin Franklin
November 25, 1783

Jean Rousseau proposes to Benjamin Franklin that the American Congress should not have a fixed seat but instead rotate its meetings among the thirteen united provinces to reduce jealousy and promote unity and equality. He believes this approach could help maintain harmony among the states. Rousseau shares this idea after discussing with North American gentlemen and reflects on its importance despite his personal uncertainties.

Letter

Sir Edward Newenham to Benjamin Franklin, November 25, 1783

From Sir Edward Newenham
To Benjamin Franklin
November 25, 1783

Sir Edward Newenham informs Benjamin Franklin about the contentious debates in the Grand National Convention and expresses hope for a fair reform through a place bill. He seeks Franklin's advice and assistance in negotiating a separate treaty between Britain and the United States to foster friendship and commerce. Newenham criticizes the British Parliament's corruption and mismanagement, warning that public unrest is growing due to the government's selfish policies.

Letter

Armand-Benoît-Joseph Guffroy to Benjamin Franklin, November 25, 1783

From Armand-Benoît-Joseph Guffroy
To Benjamin Franklin
November 25, 1783

Armand-Benoît-Joseph Guffroy petitions Benjamin Franklin on behalf of Captain Jean Charles Igonnem, Chevalier de Richebourg, seeking justice and payment for his naval service under Commodore Paul Jones in 1779. The letter details Richebourg's efforts to claim his rightful share of prize money, including correspondence with Mr. Ray de Chaumont and delays caused by legal disputes over a privateer vessel. Guffroy emphasizes Richebourg's continued pursuit of compensation despite obstacles.

Letter

Giacomo Francisco Crocco to Benjamin Franklin, November 25, 1783

From Giacomo Francisco Crocco
To Benjamin Franklin
November 25, 1783

Giacomo Francisco Crocco informs Benjamin Franklin of his diplomatic mission to secure a Treaty of Peace and Commerce between Morocco and the United States, following instructions from the Emperor of Morocco. He requests financial support of fifteen hundred dollars for his travel expenses and mentions the customary allowances given to ministers by European courts. Crocco emphasizes the Emperor's willingness to grant the treaty promptly, unlike other European powers.

Letter

Jean-Baptiste-César du Buc, chevalier de Saint-Olympe to Benjamin Franklin, November 24, 1783

From Jean-Baptiste-César du Buc, chevalier de Saint-Olympe
To Benjamin Franklin
November 24, 1783

Jean-Baptiste-César du Buc, chevalier de Saint-Olympe, expresses deep respect and gratitude to Benjamin Franklin as he prepares to leave France in 1783. He requests permission for Franklin’s son to visit Madame de Saint-Olympe during his absence and promises to personally pay his respects upon his return. The letter conveys ongoing loyalty and esteem toward Franklin.