Jean-Sylvain Bailly informs Benjamin Franklin that eight commissioners, including physicians and academicians, will visit him on Saturday to accept his invitation. Bailly requests Franklin's assistance in bringing additional individuals, including patients and companions, for planned scientific experiments. He also plans to meet Franklin beforehand to discuss and prepare the experimental arrangements.
Passy, June 17. 1784. Dear Sister, It is long since I have had the Pleasure of hearing from you, 7 but am glad to hear by Cousin Williams that you…
Jean-Sylvain Bailly requests Benjamin Franklin to return the original commission register he sent last week, as it is urgently needed for copying the next morning. Bailly allows Franklin to keep it until the evening if he has not yet read it but asks for its prompt return to Chaillot.
Benjamin Franklin informs Thomas Mifflin that the ratifications of the Definitive Treaty have been exchanged and that British instructions on American trade negotiations are delayed due to parliamentary matters. He warns of lingering British resentment and advises vigilance in anticipating changes in European affairs that could impact American interests. Franklin refers to Mr. Jay and Mr. Laurens for more detailed updates from London.
Félix Vicq d’Azyr informs Benjamin Franklin that he is sending copies of a medical society report previously promised and will soon deliver the third volume of the Royal Society of Medicine's collection. He expresses gratitude on behalf of the society for a paper Franklin shared by Mr. Perkins. Vicq d’Azyr respectfully conveys these materials and thanks Franklin for his contributions.
John Witherspoon writes to Benjamin Franklin recommending William Brown, a skilled classic scholar seeking to improve his French in Paris. Witherspoon asks Franklin to consider introducing Brown or helping him find teaching opportunities in English or classical languages. The request is made on behalf of a mutual acquaintance and Witherspoon’s obligation to assist.
London 4th. June 1784. Dear Sir. Permit me to introduce at Passy, Mr. Parker 5 a young Gentleman of an exceeding good character Son of John Parker Esquire a respectable…
Marquis de Lafayette informs Benjamin Franklin of his planned departure from Paris on June 22, 1784, and expresses his intention to visit Franklin before leaving. He inquires about recent news from America, mentioning debates over the Cincinnati Society, Congress's proposed six-month adjournment with limited committee powers, and the sale of the Washington Packet. Lafayette also asks if Franklin has received any updates regarding his own initiatives.
George Washington informs Benjamin Franklin that David Humphreys has been appointed secretary of the new commercial treaty commission, a decision that dashes hopes for Franklin’s grandson, William Temple Franklin, to secure a diplomatic post. The appointment reflects political maneuvering, as supporters of John Adams opposed Temple’s selection due to his close ties to Franklin, fearing bias would hinder negotiations. This outcome signals congressional disapproval of Franklin’s influence.
Thomas Thompson informs Benjamin Franklin that John Jay and his family have departed on the ship Edward, but a large portrait of Marquis de Lafayette intended for General Washington could not be loaded due to space constraints. Thompson requests Franklin’s instructions on whether to send the painting to London for shipment or return it to Calais.