Letter
Franz Anton Mesmer accuses M. d’Eslon of violating his trust and intellectual property by publicly revealing and exploiting Mesmer’s discovery of animal magnetism without permission. He contends that d’Eslon’s actions, including involving other physicians and government commissioners, constitute a serious breach of honor and legal rights. Mesmer appeals to Benjamin Franklin, head of the investigating commission, to recognize the true inventor and condemn d’Eslon’s unauthorized use.
Letter
Pierre-Isaac Poissonnier reminds Benjamin Franklin of his promise to sign the report from the Royal Society of Medicine commissioners regarding Mr. Albert's baths. Poissonnier sends the report and a copy for Franklin to review at his convenience. He also notes that Mr. Albert will personally deliver the documents.
Letter
David Hartley requests Benjamin Franklin to send a brief message after meeting with the Minister, indicating whether a certain action is possible, so Hartley can promptly send the first part of an Address to England. He emphasizes the urgency due to the approaching parliamentary session and his tight schedule preparing letters and transcribing the Address.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin informs Charles Thomson that the ratification of the Definitive Treaty has been exchanged, marking the successful end of the American Revolutionary War. He urges vigilance in maintaining national unity, fiscal responsibility, and military preparedness to safeguard the young nation's reputation and security against future British threats. Franklin emphasizes the importance of fidelity in treaties and warns against complacency and internal divisions.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin writes to Henry Laurens expressing regret over recent disappointments and updates him on the exchange of ratifications for the definitive Treaty, while noting uncertainty about a Treaty of Commerce. Franklin requests Laurens' thoughts on such a treaty and asks for assistance in securing his dismissal from his current post so he can return home. He also seeks Laurens' recommendation of his grandson as a potential successor or interim secretary, citing the grandson's experience and qualifications.
Letter
ce jeudi 6 may. [1784] Mr Bailly de L’academie des sciences presente ses respects a Monsieur Franklin. Il est chargé par mrs les commissaires de la faculté de medecine et…
Letter
Lond: May 5: 1784 Dear Sir By the favor of Colonel Harman, 2 have sent you three lens’s from 40 to 49 inches focus, one of which I hope will…
Letter
John Gardner writes to Benjamin Franklin explaining a discrepancy in the reported weight of tobacco aboard his ship Amity, which arrived from Charleston with a rice cargo. Gardner details how a misunderstanding about weight conversions and an additional 23 pounds of tobacco found by customs, partly taken from his crew, led to an erroneous report. He seeks to clarify the situation to protect his honor and interests.
Letter
Samuel Vaughan urges Benjamin Franklin to support a petition for planting shady tree avenues in Philadelphia, arguing the project would enhance public health, pleasure, and scientific knowledge. He notes opposition has delayed the initiative and believes Franklin's endorsement could influence the Assembly before its next session. Vaughan acknowledges Franklin's greater responsibilities but emphasizes the local benefits of the proposed improvements.
Letter
Benjamin Franklin addresses the unresolved financial dispute with Jacques Donatien Leray de Chaumont regarding accounts of debts and credits between Chaumont and the Continental Congress. Franklin explains the failed arbitration attempts and Chaumont’s claim for seventy thousand livres worth of supplies sent to the Continental Army, which Franklin was unaware of. The letter marks the resumption of negotiations following congressional acknowledgment of Chaumont’s claim.