Jacques Besse to Benjamin Franklin, December 5, 1784
A Kehl ce 5 Xbre. 1784. Monsieur, Depuis que la crainte de vous fatiguer par mes Lettres m’a empêché de continuer à vous écrire, j’ai pris le parti de me…
A Kehl ce 5 Xbre. 1784. Monsieur, Depuis que la crainte de vous fatiguer par mes Lettres m’a empêché de continuer à vous écrire, j’ai pris le parti de me…
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.
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.
Andrew Limozin informs Benjamin Franklin of the arrival of a packet sent via the American ship Friendship from Alexandria, consigned to him. He encloses the packet and expresses his respect and obedience to Franklin. The letter serves as a formal notification of the delivery.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Passy ce 23 Nov[re 1784] Je n’ai point reçu, Monsieur, le Projet dont vous faitez mention dans la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 15 du mois…
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.