Alexander Hamilton requests Samuel Hodgdon's assistance in providing transportation for Abby Mot, a destitute soldier's widow, to reach her friends in New Jersey. Hamilton appeals to Hodgdon's sense of charity to help her secure a place on a public wagon traveling in that direction.
Augustin-Joseph, marquis d’Haucourt, comte de Mailly, informs Benjamin Franklin that Marshal de Mailly has learned of Franklin’s interest in the plan and situation of Port-Vendre. He sends several copies of the plans, hoping they will be useful and satisfactory to Franklin. The letter aims to provide Franklin with detailed information about the port’s layout and strategic position.
Adrien-Jean-Baptiste Le Roy invites Benjamin Franklin to join him and Franklin’s grandson for afternoon tea and to watch a balloon launch, expressing regret for missing him the previous evening due to balloon preparations and bad weather. Le Roy also requests a response and conveys his deep respect and attachment to Franklin.
Jacques-Louis Joannis requests Benjamin Franklin's support to establish and lead a type foundry in America now that peace has returned following the war. He expresses his commitment to contribute his skills and character to Franklin's planned foundry, seeking protection and opportunity within the new United States. Joannis emphasizes his readiness to work diligently to earn Franklin's favor and succeed in this venture.
Jérôme-Marie Champion de Cicé writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing support for American Catholics and the Abbé de la Roche, while requesting clarification on how Catholic services are currently conducted, the source of priests' authority, and how clergy are financially supported. He seeks this information to better propose future plans for the Catholic community in America.
Benjamin Franklin acknowledges receipt of Elias Boudinot's letters and the intelligence they contain, noting communication with other American commissioners abroad. He congratulates Boudinot on his successful presidency and his honorable retirement into private life, expressing respect for the peace and dignity found in stepping away from public duties.
John Jay writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing concern about Franklin's reported illness and seeking confirmation of his health. He refrains from discussing politics, acknowledging Franklin's expertise and the divided opinions about him in America. Jay conveys respect and affection, promising to discuss political matters more openly in person.
A Versailles le 26. Xbre. 1783 Permettez-vous, Monsieur, que je vous recommande le paquet ci-joint. Je Supose que la fregate le Washington 9 n’est pas encore parti. Un de mes…
Baron de Breteuil responds to Benjamin Franklin's request on behalf of the family of a prisoner named Schaffer, detained in La Conciergerie, stating he will contact M. Lenoir to seek permission for Schaffer’s transfer to the colonies. He explains that no one is forcibly sent to the colonies anymore and that once ordinary courts handle a case, royal authority cannot intervene unless judges agree to halt proceedings.
Benjamin Franklin writes to Benjamin Rush in 1783 to inform him about a remarkable balloon flight by Messieurs Charles and Robert near Paris, witnessed by thousands. Franklin requests Rush to translate and share the account with their philosophical society and mentions his intention to send the society valuable books, including the French Encyclopédie.