Topic

Letters about Science

5,751 letters
Letter

Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes to Benjamin Franklin, December 4, 1784

From Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes
To Benjamin Franklin
December 4, 1784

Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, appeals to Benjamin Franklin on behalf of Jean Jacques Delvard, a crew member of the privateer cutter La Revanche, who has not received wages or shares from captured prizes during his six months of service in 1777. Vergennes requests Franklin's assistance in securing justice for Delvard, emphasizing that he was left disabled by injuries sustained while serving.

Letter

Jonathan Jr Williams to Benjamin Franklin, December 3, 1784

From Jonathan Jr Williams
To Benjamin Franklin
December 3, 1784

Jonathan Jr Williams writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 describing a versatile carriage suitable for both travel and city use, including detailed sketches and suggestions for adjustable seating and a suspended bed to improve comfort. He seeks Franklin's approval of the design and shares insights from a coachmaker who endorses the proposed features.

Letter

John Frederick Sackville, third Duke of Dorset to American Commissioners, November 24, 1784

From John Frederick Sackville, third Duke of Dorset
To American Commissioners
November 24, 1784

John Frederick Sackville, third Duke of Dorset, informs the American Commissioners that British ministers are open to proposals for a mutually beneficial agreement but insist that negotiations occur in London with an authorized U.S. commissioner. He notes that discussions on specific articles of the 1783 peace preliminaries with France will be addressed by the British Court to seek a fair resolution.

Letter

Benjamin Franklin to Jean-Anne Lafont, November 24, 1784

From Benjamin Franklin
To Jean-Anne Lafont
November 24, 1784

Benjamin Franklin advises Jean-Anne Lafont against undertaking a costly and uncertain journey to a foreign country where he lacks language skills and connections. Franklin suggests Lafont consider French islands instead, where he might find better opportunities to practice medicine. He declines to provide a recommendation due to unfamiliarity with Lafont.

Letter

Benjamin Franklin to J.-B Marioge, November 23, 1784

From Benjamin Franklin
To J.-B Marioge
November 23, 1784

Benjamin Franklin responds to J.-B. Marioge, clarifying that he has no authority to facilitate passage to America for establishing manufacturing. He advises caution given Marioge's family responsibilities and age, and notes that America is open to all without special incentives from Congress. Franklin encloses information on potential risks and opportunities related to Marioge's plan to emigrate.

Letter

Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Jefferson, November 23, 1784

From Benjamin Franklin
To Thomas Jefferson
November 23, 1784

Benjamin Franklin discusses the common practice of seeking influence or protection to secure payment of debts, noting that creditors often petition officials before formally presenting their claims. He requests Thomas Jefferson's advice on a specific case enclosed with the letter to provide guidance to the creditor involved. Franklin aims to clarify proper procedures for debt collection and offers assistance through Jefferson's counsel.

Letter

——, marquis d’ Auzoüer to Benjamin Franklin, November 22, 1784

From ——, marquis d’ Auzoüer
To Benjamin Franklin
November 22, 1784

The marquis d’Auzoüer writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 expressing regret for not spending more time with Mrs. Adams and another American lady during his brief stay in Paris. He requests Franklin to convey his apologies and sentiments to them. The marquis also mentions his and his husband's recent illnesses and expresses gratitude for Franklin's kindness toward Mr. Carroll.