Letter
William Hodgson informs Benjamin Franklin that the British Parliament has repealed the prohibitory acts against America and is preparing further legislation to ease restrictions on American ships. He expresses hope that these measures will restore trade and mentions the anticipated visit of Mr. Hartley to negotiate a commercial treaty. Hodgson also notes a financial balance owed to Franklin related to prisoners and offers to provide details upon request.
Letter
Comte de Beaujeu thanks Benjamin Franklin for sending him a medal symbolizing American glory and European interest. He expresses regret at being unable to respond to Franklin's letter due to his lack of English comprehension. Beaujeu conveys sincere wishes for Franklin's continued prosperity and success.
Letter
Jonathan Sr Williams informs Benjamin Franklin that he has obtained a new edition of the Common Prayer Book and is sending it via a bearer. He mentions London's resemblance to home and expresses reluctance to travel to France due to the difficulty of the journey, but would consider going if accompanying Franklin. Williams also conveys greetings to Franklin’s son and anticipates Franklin’s visit to London in the summer.
Letter
Louis-Alexandre, duc de La Rochefoucauld requests Benjamin Franklin to send the treaty with Sweden or inform him of his intentions regarding it, so the printer can complete the publication of the treaties with France and Holland. He also seeks guidance on the preface and plans to visit Franklin soon.
Letter
Philippe-Henri, marquis de Ségur, acknowledges receipt of a medal sent by Benjamin Franklin on April 11, 1783. He expresses his gratitude to Franklin for this honor. The letter serves as a formal thank-you for the gift.
Letter
C. Barthélémy reports to Benjamin Franklin that the last Anglo-American ship, the Hawke, recently departed Marseille with a tobacco cargo, while French expeditions to Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore, and Philadelphia are ongoing. He notes the Congress appointed Monsieur Cathalan Fils as consul in Marseille and questions whether Franklin will allow him to remind that the Congress trusts French nationals. Barthélémy also informs Franklin of an English ship for sale in port, suitable for transatlantic voyages.
Letter
Jean-Omer Joly de Fleury, former French finance minister, expresses sincere gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for sending him a medal. He acknowledges the gesture with appreciation and conveys his thanks to Franklin, then the United States' plenipotentiary minister in Passy.
Letter
Guillaume Grivel informs Benjamin Franklin that an unexpected illness prevents M. Canolle from retrieving a promised letter for London and requests Franklin to send it to him via local post in Paris. Grivel expresses hope for Canolle’s recovery and conveys respectful regards to Franklin.
Letter
Francis Coffyn informs Benjamin Franklin of his efforts to assist American prisoners recently arrived from England by securing their passage home and providing financial aid. He requests Franklin to honor drafts totaling £894.8 drawn on him to cover these expenses. Coffyn also reports dispatching vessels to North American ports, promoting trade through Dunkerque and supporting Franklin's recommended merchants in Philadelphia.
Letter
Giuseppe Bartoli expresses deep gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for a medal he received, praising its design and craftsmanship. He acknowledges Franklin’s kindness in sending it ahead of the official distribution and shares a poetic description he composed in honor of the medal. Bartoli conveys his profound respect and esteem for Franklin throughout the letter.