Letter
Herman Heyman’s Sons express gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for his support in establishing their business in North America and for providing letters of introduction to Boston and Philadelphia. They inform Franklin of their vessel Batavia’s upcoming voyage to Charlestown to purchase rice and offer to carry any items he wishes to send. The letter emphasizes their reliance on Franklin’s influence and coordination for successful trade operations.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin requests Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, to approve and expedite the printing of a complete French translation of the United States Constitutions, including the treaty with France. He explains arrangements with the printer Mr. Pierres, who requires official permission to begin publication and distribution. Franklin urges prompt authorization to facilitate timely release of the volume.
Letter
Louis-Alexandre, duc de La Rochefoucauld, sends Benjamin Franklin a draft letter agreed upon the previous day, asking Franklin to review and possibly correct its form. He advises Franklin to deliver or discuss the letter with Count de Vergennes to expedite its processing. Additionally, the duke includes a recommendation for the position of U.S. Consul at Fécamp.
Letter
Jonathan Jr. Williams writes to Benjamin Franklin explaining a delayed response due to business and informs him that a minister denies an exception requested through Mr. de Fleury. He clarifies that a packet sent by the admiralty was done without his knowledge and offers to credit Franklin for postage costs. Williams also addresses confusion over cheeses sent to Orleans, advising Franklin to consume them and settle ownership later to avoid spoilage.
Letter
Jean Baptiste Le Roy requests Benjamin Franklin's support for a candidate seeking to become the American consul in Bayonne, emphasizing the recommendation from Count d’Ornano. He also mentions sending a memorandum on trade from the port of Sette, translated into English, and asks Franklin to forward a letter to America. Le Roy expresses regret for missing a planned meeting and affirms his lasting respect and attachment to Franklin.
Letter
Henry Laurens reports to Benjamin Franklin from London in 1783 that British government negotiations remain unstable, with key political figures resisting coalition formation and delaying progress on a definitive peace treaty. He expresses frustration over the lack of advancement toward treaty ratification and insists that no commercial relations should begin until the treaty is finalized and British troops fully withdraw from American territory.
Letter
Colonel DuBouchet writes to Benjamin Franklin from Paris in 1783 to convey the good health of Franklin's family and friends in Philadelphia and to request a meeting to introduce Major General Beville. He reminds Franklin of his previous service as a lieutenant colonel of American riflemen and expresses hope for continued cordial relations following the British surrender at Yorktown. DuBouchet awaits Franklin's reply to arrange the visit.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin responds to Jonathan Shipley, expressing concern over opposition in the British Parliament to the peace treaty ending the American Revolutionary War. Franklin argues that the criticism targets the minister rather than the treaty itself and defends the American side for not demanding reparations for British wartime destruction, despite the war being unjust. He anticipates discussing his reasons further upon their reunion.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin congratulates William Jones on his upcoming marriage to Anna Maria and expresses pleasure at Jones's appointment to a lucrative position in the Indies. Franklin sends a newly finished engraving of his medal, incorporating Jones's suggested mottos, and hopes Jones will return wealthy and virtuous. He also mentions his recovery from illness and plans to travel to England the following summer.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin responds to the Earl of Buchan's inquiry about acquiring land and starting settlements in America, recommending a book by Hector St. John for detailed information. He describes America as offering good climate, fertile soil, and liberty, but emphasizes that land must be purchased and settlements are privately funded, with public support limited to defense and justice. Franklin also expresses skepticism about significant emigration from Scotland due to war losses but praises Scots' qualities that lead to success in America.