Letter
Joseph Banks thanks Benjamin Franklin for promptly sharing news about advancements in flying technology in America and expresses admiration for Charles's successful experiment. Banks acknowledges American progress in practical flight but asserts British claim to theoretical flight, referencing Bishop Wilkins and Mr. Cavendish's earlier ideas. He anticipates future scientific endeavors that will combine theory and celestial observations to advance knowledge.
Letter
Wilhem and Jan Willink inform Benjamin Franklin that the stocks he holds cannot provide sufficient funds to cover drafts issued by Robert Morris, and they foresee difficulty in meeting payment obligations when the bills mature. They also note the absence of an account summary from Mr. Grand and report that he is unable to assist financially due to his own constraints. The merchants express concern about the potential protest of unpaid bills.
Letter
Antoine-Alexis-François Cadet de Vaux writes to Benjamin Franklin in December 1783 to convey respectful greetings and to forward a letter from the Lieutenant General of Police along with two notes from Messrs. Le Grand and Molinos. The letter serves as a formal introduction and delivery of these documents for Franklin's acceptance.
Letter
Félix Nogaret addresses Benjamin Franklin with admiration for his diplomatic achievements in securing peace and acknowledges the public's desire to see him celebrated in Paris. He expresses concern over Franklin's absence, attributing it to illness, and emphasizes the high regard in which Franklin is held as a powerful and revered figure. Nogaret urges Franklin to reveal himself to the public despite his current condition.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Count de Vergennes that due to severe bladder pain caused by kidney stones, he can no longer visit Versailles in person and hopes for understanding. He notes he has not yet received a response from Congress regarding his recall and requests that his grandson, serving as secretary of the legation, convey any future communications. Franklin expresses his respect and remains at Vergennes's service despite his health limitations.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin discusses the examination of an anonymous Brussels letter's handwriting, comparing it to samples from M. de Neufville’s clerk to determine its authenticity. He describes specific handwriting features, such as a long dash over the letter t, and notes correspondence with Henry Laurens and others regarding the letter's origin. Franklin also mentions lending letters to Mr. Ridley for comparison and encloses another anonymous letter.
Letter
François-Pierre de Séqueville informs Benjamin Franklin about the French court entering mourning on December 9, 1783, due to the death of Mademoiselle. He notes that the king will observe the mourning period for 21 days. The letter also references Séqueville's official role as secretary to the king and his involvement with the ambassadors.
Letter
John Adams informs Benjamin Franklin of newly arrived dispatches from Philadelphia, including letters and instructions related to peace negotiations and potential commerce treaties with Great Britain. He requests early intelligence on any commission granted to Franklin for trade discussions, as Parliamentary actions on trade depend on such authority. Adams also mentions financial difficulties reported by Willink & Co and considers relocating to the Hague if no commission includes him.
Letter
Sir Edward Newenham informs Benjamin Franklin about the political unrest in Ireland, focusing on the Volunteers' efforts to secure parliamentary reform and greater representation. He describes a recent parliamentary defeat of their reform bill and details the disciplined and spirited conduct of the Volunteers during their meetings. Newenham emphasizes the growing momentum for change despite government resistance.
Letter
Geore Street No 3 Adelphi London Novr 28th 1783 May it Please your Excellency To accept my unbounded thanks for the Honor you did my freind Miss Maxwell when in…