Benjamin Franklin provides letters requested by Johann von Schönfeld for Mr. Thieriot, intended to secure him proper reception and respect due to his sovereign and merit. Franklin expresses confidence these letters will achieve their purpose and conveys his sincere attachment and respect to Schönfeld.
Benjamin Franklin introduces M. Thieriot, a Saxon commerce commissioner, who travels to Philadelphia to establish beneficial correspondence between Saxony and the United States. Franklin requests Robert R. Livingston to extend support and hospitality to Thieriot, emphasizing his potential official role and the friendship between their nations.
American Peace Commissioners inform Robert R. Livingston that Congress has ratified the Provisional Articles and address his concerns about the process and the Separate Article 3. They explain that British negotiator Mr. Oswald aimed to maximize British territorial claims along the Mississippi and eastern shores, influenced by British interests in retaining the Floridas. The commissioners promise a detailed explanation to clarify these complex negotiations.
Benjamin Franklin advises John Jay to postpone justifying their signing of the preliminary peace agreement, arguing that the issue is currently quiet and publicizing their defense could provoke offense and harm relations with foreign ministers. Franklin notes that Congress has not demanded an explanation or censured them, suggesting restraint to maintain good diplomatic relations.
St James’ Street No. 40 London 17 July 1783 Sir, I wrote to your Excellency from the Hague, requesting a letter to Dr Price, & the favor to be informed,…
Henry Laurens informs Benjamin Franklin of his imminent departure from Bath and plans to travel to Paris by the 24th or 25th of July 1783. He expresses eagerness to comply with Franklin's request for his return and sends respectful greetings to Franklin and his acquaintances.
The Farmers General remind Benjamin Franklin of an outstanding debt of 846,770 livres owed by the United States from a loan of one million livres, originally to be repaid in tobacco shipments. They request Franklin to settle the account now that the David lease has expired and the war has ended, suggesting the debt could be paid in tobacco as initially agreed. They emphasize the urgency of concluding this financial matter following the peace.
William Alexander asks Benjamin Franklin to consider covering bills drawn by Mr. Bache of Philadelphia if their mutual acquaintance Williams fails to do so, to prevent financial loss and dishonor. He advises Franklin to request the exact amount from Williams to understand the full extent. Alexander also mentions his travel plans and sends regards to Franklin's son.
American Peace Commissioners inform David Hartley that Congress has ratified the Provisional Articles of November 1782 and is prepared to exchange ratifications with Britain. They report that British forces have violated the treaty by carrying off American-owned enslaved people from New York and request urgent measures to address this injustice. Additionally, they raise concerns about losses suffered by British debtors in America during the war.
Benjamin Franklin recommends that the Farmers General write to Robert Morris, Superintendent of Finance, to request payment of the debt owed by the states and to ask for a cargo of tobacco purchased on their behalf. Franklin expresses full confidence in Morris's skill and integrity and suggests this transaction serve as a trial to determine if future debt payments should continue in this form. The Farmers General ultimately decide to address the letter to Franklin instead.