Pierre Du Calvet appeals to Benjamin Franklin, praising his integrity and kindness, to seek repayment for supplies valued at over 56,000 livres tournois provided to American generals in Quebec in 1776. Du Calvet emphasizes Franklin’s reputation for fairness and hopes to gain his support in recovering these debts.
Andrew Huntington requests Benjamin Franklin's assistance regarding funds he advanced in 1778 to support destitute French prisoners released in New York and sent through Connecticut to Boston. Huntington trusted the promise of repayment from Monsieur Holker, the French consul, but now seeks Franklin's help to secure reimbursement. He emphasizes the dire condition of the prisoners and his reliance on the honor of French officials.
The Hague July 19. 1784 Sir I have the Honour of your Letters of the 27 of June and 4. July, and Should advise your Excellency to present the C.…
Benjamin Franklin advises Mason Locke Weems on the difficulties of obtaining ordination without swearing allegiance to the Archbishop of Paris or converting to Catholicism. He suggests exploring ordination through the Church of Ireland or other Protestant churches, noting the limited options if British and Irish bishops refuse. Franklin also mentions the possibility of following the example of early American Episcopalian clergy as an alternative.
Michel-Augustin Thouret sends Benjamin Franklin a copy of his research on animal magnetism, expressing respect and admiration. He presents the work as a humble token of esteem toward Franklin. The letter reflects the scientific exchange and mutual regard between Enlightenment thinkers.
Jane Mecom writes to her brother Benjamin Franklin expressing deep concern for his serious illness and reflecting on her own struggles, including frequent dizziness and mental distress. She apologizes for her delayed correspondence and shares her current living situation in Boston. Mecom conveys affection and worry, hoping for his recovery while grappling with her own fears of declining health.
Noël-Jacques Pissot informs Benjamin Franklin that he no longer has an extra copy of Cook's voyage to exchange but provides names of acquaintances who purchased it and might lend Franklin a volume. He expresses hope that one of these individuals will assist Franklin until Mr. Nicoll completes the exchange. Pissot closes with respectful regards.
Le Couteulx & Cie informs Benjamin Franklin that a shipment of tobacco from Virginia, sent by Mr. Morris as part of funds owed to the United States, has been sold to a merchant after local farmers declined to pay the asking price. They offer to prioritize farmers for any remaining tobacco if they agree on a fair price, noting the scarcity and rising price of tobacco in America.
Benjamin Franklin explains to Félix Frecon that the United States uses a mix of foreign gold and silver coins as real money, with Spanish dollars being most common, while paper currency varies in value across states. He describes the use of bills of exchange drawn on Europe and details Virginia's system of tobacco inspection and payment. Franklin also notes that weights and measures follow British standards uniformly across the states.
Boston July. 2d. 1784 Sir Governor Jefferson who sails for Europe by this Conveyance 9 will be able to afford you every necessary Intelligence relative to the State of our…