Antoine La Sablière de La Condamine writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 to express his deep respect and admiration, using the pretext of sending a rejected rhapsody to initiate direct communication. He contrasts the acceptance of Comus by the medical faculty with the opposition faced by Mesmer, reflecting on contemporary debates in medicine.
Benjamin Franklin thanks Jacques Leveux for retrieving goods belonging to John Jay and for caring for escaped American prisoners from England. He requests an account of expenses to reimburse Leveux and approves his refusal to assist certain self-proclaimed Americans. Franklin clarifies that consul appointments are decided by Congress, but suggests Leveux's services may favor his nomination if one is made for the city.
Richard Bache informs Benjamin Franklin about forwarding a packet to Dr. Cooper and describes the heavy postage costs despite Franklin's frank. He reports on the severe winter delaying navigation and expresses optimism about the growing mercantile business, especially promising connections with Trieste in the German Empire.
Paris rüe Plâtriere No. 14. ce 5. Mars. 1784. Monsieur! J’ai l’honneur, de vous envoyer le catalogue de la bibliotheque de M. le Duc de la Valliere, 5 et de…
Count Guy Claude de Sarsfield writes to Benjamin Franklin requesting a collection of small items Franklin had previously promised but forgotten to send. Sarsfield expresses impatience due to his imminent departure for The Hague. He reaffirms his sincere and devoted attachment to Franklin.
Benjamin Franklin sends Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, the original documents proving financial arrangements with creditors as requested. He expresses gratitude for Vergennes’s attention to the matter and asks that the papers be returned to Mr. Williams after review. Franklin signs the letter with formal respect and humility.
Benjamin Franklin apologizes for missing Marie-Françoise-Dominique Brouttin Mollien de Sombres during her visit and clarifies that he does not have authority to appoint consuls. He suggests that if a consul is named for Dunkirk, it will likely be Mr. Coffyn, who has selflessly aided American prisoners escaping England for seven years without compensation.
Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, responds to Benjamin Franklin regarding a request for a third suspension letter for Franklin's nephew, Mr. Williams. Vergennes expresses willingness to support the request but requires legal proof of the arrangements mentioned before presenting it to the King. He promises to report the matter to the King's Council once the documentation is received.
Marie-Françoise-Dominique Brouttin Mollien de Sombres writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 seeking a response regarding a petition she submitted on behalf of her relative, M. Morel of Dunkirk. She expresses concern over the lack of reply and requests Franklin to inform her if there is any hope for a favorable outcome. She emphasizes her respect and patience while awaiting his answer.
Jean Rousseau thanks Benjamin Franklin for sending a valuable book, expressing admiration for its content and the principles it represents. He promises to study it carefully and hopes to fulfill his obligations to Franklin when time allows. Rousseau closes by requesting Franklin's continued support and protection.