Since 1782, when he suffered his first attack of his bladder stone, Franklin had been receiving remedies and advice from individuals throughout France and England. Most of this was unsolicited,…
Louis Guillaume Le Veillard informs Benjamin Franklin about the Count of Mirabeau's recent legal troubles and his departure to London. He advises Franklin to maintain his current stance while suggesting Franklin provide Mirabeau with letters of recommendation for a reputable bookseller and Dr. Price to support Mirabeau's literary efforts. Le Veillard emphasizes Mirabeau's talent and misfortune, seeking Franklin's assistance in aiding him.
Edward Bridgen introduces his friend Mr. Canning to Benjamin Franklin, seeking Franklin's goodwill and hospitality toward Canning. Bridgen emphasizes Canning's support for liberty and expresses personal gratitude for any kindness shown.
A la Chapelle St Sauveur par Ingrande sur loire ce 3. 7bre 1784 Votre Excellence Me permetra de vous dire que depuis le moment, ou j’ai eu l’honneur de vous…
William Temple Franklin reports his difficult journey to Calais, marked by a broken carriage wheel and delays, and arranges for repairs at Mr. Dessein’s expense. He plans to return to Paris in a different carriage and seeks to secure English newspapers for Benjamin Franklin at a lower cost. Franklin also mentions settling financial advances with Mr. Le Veux on Benjamin’s account.
Passy, Aug. 25. 1784. My Lord, I have had the Pleasure of seeing Lord Fitzmaurice several Times. 5 I congratulate your Lp. sincerely on your having so promising a Son.…
Benjamin Franklin writes to his grandson William Temple Franklin about social visits and the publication of a report that has sparked debate for its imaginative claims and potential impact on religious faith. He advises William to share copies with influential figures like the French Ambassador and comments on the persistence of credulity and deception in society. Franklin also mentions receiving newspapers regularly from New York despite personal losses.
Robert Morris introduces John Rucker to Benjamin Franklin, requesting Franklin's support and assistance for Rucker in his commercial endeavors. Morris emphasizes Rucker's role as a partner in a new New York business. He seeks Franklin's goodwill to help advance this enterprise.
James McHenry informs Benjamin Franklin of the warm reception Marquis de Lafayette receives during his American visit, expressing gratitude from the citizens. He also reports the near collapse of the congressional committee of the States due to members' departures, signaling a lack of effective government and uncertain communication until John Jay possibly assumes the foreign affairs role.
Nicolas-Louis-Guillaume Lacoudrais writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784, proposing himself for the position of American consul in Honfleur, Normandy, citing his experience as a merchant and former Swedish consul. The letter is part of a series of unsolicited requests for favors and positions that Franklin receives during this period. Lacoudrais seeks official recognition to represent American interests in the region.