Year

Letters from 1784

457 letters
Letter

Benjamin Franklin to David Hartley, June 2, 1784

From Benjamin Franklin
To David Hartley
June 2, 1784

Benjamin Franklin addresses David Hartley's concerns about the phrasing and formality in the U.S. ratification of the Treaty of Paris, arguing that while the treaty itself follows the custom of naming the crowned head before the republic, the separate ratification acts are independently controlled by each party. Franklin asserts that the United States properly adheres to established diplomatic customs in the treaty text, and the ratification confirms all treaty articles.

Letter

David Hartley to Benjamin Franklin, June 1, 1784

From David Hartley
To Benjamin Franklin
June 1, 1784

David Hartley informs Benjamin Franklin that the ratification of the peace treaty between Great Britain and the United States contains formal errors, including the order of parties named, the terminology used, and missing signatures and dates. He requests corrections either through a congressional declaration or a revised copy to ensure proper authentication without causing delays or prejudice.

Letter

Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’ Houdetot to Benjamin Franklin, May 31, 1784

From Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’ Houdetot
To Benjamin Franklin
May 31, 1784

Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde invites Benjamin Franklin to visit her at Sannois, arranging a comfortable yacht and boatmen to ease his journey. She requests he inform her in advance to prepare for his arrival, emphasizing her deep attachment and respect. She suggests the visit occur before July, as she plans to travel and the summer heat would make the countryside less pleasant.

Letter

—— Gaspard de Bebiniere to Benjamin Franklin, May 18, 1784

From —— Gaspard de Bebiniere
To Benjamin Franklin
May 18, 1784

Gaspard de Bebiniere informs Benjamin Franklin of a demonstration scheduled for May 18, 1784, showcasing his new pump invention capable of raising over 100 feet of water in 25 seconds with less effort than traditional pumps. He invites Franklin to attend the event at the Jardin des Thuilleries before members of the Academy of Sciences.

Letter

Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette to Benjamin Franklin, May 17, 1784

From Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette
To Benjamin Franklin
May 17, 1784

Marquis de Lafayette informs Benjamin Franklin that he is sending a copy of the decree establishing free ports, in case Franklin has not yet received it. The letter aims to ensure Franklin is updated on this important economic development. Lafayette expresses respect and affection in his communication.

Letter

John Marsden Pintard to Benjamin Franklin, May 16, 1784

From John Marsden Pintard
To Benjamin Franklin
May 16, 1784

John Marsden Pintard informs Benjamin Franklin of his recent appointment as Commercial Agent for the United States at Madeira and Porto Santo, tasked with assisting American traders and managing relations with the Portuguese government. He expresses gratitude for the honor and offers his assistance to Franklin while on the island. Pintard also notes the death of his relative John Searle Sr., assuring that business operations continue unchanged.

Letter

Joseph Matthias Gérard de Rayneval (Reyneval) to Benjamin Franklin, May 15, 1784

From Joseph Matthias Gérard de Rayneval (Reyneval)
To Benjamin Franklin
May 15, 1784

Joseph Matthias Gérard de Rayneval introduces M. de Chateaufort, newly appointed French Consul General in Charleston, to Benjamin Franklin, requesting Franklin to receive him warmly. Rayneval expresses personal attachment to Chateaufort and conveys sincere regards to Franklin.