Edward Bridgen writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 to acknowledge receipt of Franklin's payment of arrears to the Society of Antiquaries, affirming Franklin's honor despite some doubts. Bridgen offers to send Franklin several prints and volumes of the Archiologia and mentions a payment received from Mr. Hodgson. He also sends kind regards to Mr. Laurens and expresses wishes for Franklin's health and comfort in old age.
Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’Houdetot, invites Benjamin Franklin to visit her estate in Sanois, offering him hospitality and expressing admiration for his achievements. She requests a prompt response, hoping Franklin and his grandson will accept her invitation to enjoy the beauty of her garden and countryside retreat.
William James writes to Benjamin Franklin from Paris, describing his extended stay due to the city's agreeable atmosphere and his active engagement in surveying and improving urban infrastructure. He compares French cities unfavorably to English ones, noting deficiencies in city planning, transportation, and sanitation despite advancements in arts and architecture. James expresses a desire to secure a professional position in France or America before returning to England.
Joseph Salvador informs Benjamin Franklin of his plan to travel to America soon, arranging passage with Captain Cunningham to Philadelphia. He requests that any correspondence be sent to Mr. Dobree in Nantes for forwarding. Salvador expresses his respect and well wishes to Franklin.
Philippe-Denis Pierres sends Benjamin Franklin a complete copy of all printed American constitutions and requests Franklin's final decision regarding them. He also inquires whether Franklin has written to the French Keeper of the Seals and asks for an order specifying the number of bound or unbound copies desired. Pierres conveys his respectful regards to Franklin.
William James writes to Benjamin Franklin seeking assistance in promoting urban improvements he has long advocated, such as better roads, pavements, and street designs. He laments that many agreed-upon reforms in Paris remain unimplemented, causing the city to lag behind London. James requests Franklin's influence to advance these public infrastructure projects.
Gauthier informs Benjamin Franklin that volumes 26 and 27 are missing from his set of the Dictionnaire des Sciences Morale, Politique, and requests their completion. He notes that Franklin last received volumes 24 and 25. Gauthier signs respectfully as Franklin's humble and obedient servant.
Nathaniel Falconer writes to Benjamin Franklin from London in 1783, reporting news from Philadelphia and his plans to buy a ship and sail there in mid-July. He offers to assist Franklin with any requests while in London and shares conversations with mutual acquaintances who express skepticism about reports of conflict between the French and American armies. Falconer sends his regards to Franklin’s family and friends.
Sarah Franklin Bache updates Benjamin Franklin on family news, mentioning visits from Mr. Oster and Betsy's promising situation with Miss Beckwith. She shares hopes that Franklin will soon return home and sends affectionate regards to his family. Bache expresses her deep desire to see him again.
David Hartley urges the American Peace Commissioners to seriously consider a proposal for unlimited commercial reciprocity between Great Britain and the United States, emphasizing its importance not only for trade but as a political guarantee supporting the new American constitutions. He argues that such an alliance would benefit both nations more than alliances with other countries like France, due to their unique compatibility and mutual interests.