Letter
Guy Claude, Comte de Sarsfield, requests Benjamin Franklin to send letters of recommendation for Jacques-Jean-Patient Mazurié, who plans to establish a commercial house in Philadelphia. He also apologizes for a previous indiscretion regarding a medal for Franklin's academy and informs him that French naval officers involved in the Chesapeake Bay campaign intend to request medals, offering to intervene if Franklin prefers.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, that he considers the proposal to cede military stores left by Rochambeau at Baltimore potentially acceptable to the Congress or individual states. However, Franklin lacks authority and specific knowledge of Congress's needs to finalize any agreement. He suggests granting power to the ambassador or consul to negotiate the disposition of these stores.
Letter
Patience Wright informs Benjamin Franklin that she has spoken with his son and observes that British Parliament remains divided over Loyalist claims to the King, with political factions deceiving each other to delay justice. She notes the King fears accountability, causing delays in policy decisions, and emphasizes that nothing will be settled until Franklin visits. Wright expresses support for Loyalists’ claims and hopes for fair treatment amid ongoing political uncertainty.
Letter
Madlin, a saddler in Paris, informs Benjamin Franklin of a small debt owed by Franklin’s son for repairs and supplies totaling 106 livres. Madlin requests Franklin’s attention to this matter, explaining he is not a regular supplier and offers to provide a detailed account if needed. He awaits a favorable response while expressing respectful submission.
Letter
Marquis de Lafayette invites Benjamin Franklin to dine with him at his home on Rue de Bourbon in Paris on Thursday, May 3, 1783. The letter serves as a polite social invitation during the concluding period of the American Revolutionary War. Lafayette expresses respect and cordiality toward Franklin.
Letter
Claude-Gabriel de Choisy and de Béville visit Benjamin Franklin on April 28, 1783, to express their gratitude for the medal he sent them. They personally convey their thanks to Franklin, acknowledging his gesture.
Letter
Elias Boudinot recommends Colonel Ogdin, a distinguished and brave officer of the New Jersey Line, to Benjamin Franklin for protection during his authorized voyage to France. He encloses a letter from the Commander in Chief and expresses anticipation for the definitive peace treaty, noting concerns about unresolved issues like English debts and the economic hardships faced by American citizens due to depreciated currency and stalled trade.
Letter
John Adams and John Jay inform Benjamin Franklin that they have arranged a meeting with Henry Laurens and invite Franklin and his son to attend the gathering the following day. The meeting aims to coordinate efforts among the American ministers.
Letter
Marianne Camasse, comtesse de Forbach Deux-Ponts, expresses regret to Benjamin Franklin for being unable to host him for tea due to her social engagements. She requests a day the following week for Franklin to join her, the prince de Deux-Ponts, and French Americans for dinner. The comtesse also sends warm regards from her intimate secretary to Franklin and his grandson.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin introduces Count Del Verme, an Italian nobleman and traveler, to Robert R. Livingston, requesting that Livingston extend hospitality and guidance to the Count during his visit to America. Franklin emphasizes the Count's distinguished character and the purpose of his journey to observe the country and its notable figures.