Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Barbeu-Dubourg, 13 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Barbeu-Dubourg, Jacques

Dear Sir
Passy, Aug. 13. 1779.
Having begun the affair of our Loan by the Means of our friend M. Ferdinand Grand Banker Rue Monmartre, he is in possession of all the Particulars relating to it, and can fully satisfy the Curiosity of the Person who enquires thro’ you. I need only mention in Answer to your 8th Query, that the Money borrow’d being to be laid out in France for Arms Ammunitions Soldiers Cloathing, &c. it will not answer our purpose to take Any Money but such as is current in France, and the American Paper has no Business here.— Those who have brought any of it into France (except Bills of Exchange) have committed a folly, in exposing their property to two Risques for nothing, as it must go back again to find its Value.
With regard to your proposition concerning your Property in America: I should be glad to assist you in it, but I do not conceive it practicable.— First because the Congress has no Lands in its Disposition; The vacant Lands are all in some or other of the Particular states, they dispose of them by general Rules; and an Application to them for a Deviation from those general Rules in favour of a particular Person, will hardly be attended to; for they will probably apprehend, that having done it in favour of one; they will be urged to do it for Many which would be attended with great public Inconvenience. I am ever my Dear Friend Your most affectionately
BF
M. Dubourg.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 13 July 1779 [i.e., August 1779]
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr Sir
Londo. 13. July [i.e., August] 1779
I wrote you the 1st Int. by common conveyance of post a Ostend, and also by the last packet the 10th, which I had a promise should be put into the post office at Ostend, the bearer of it being bound to Brussels. In my last I acquainted you that the needful had been properly done as to Mr. P——rs Remittance— His money has been placd in the bank he requested me to pay it into & I have the necessary rects. I am in your debt something, on accot of the first shop bill for the Books being erroniously made out. The house to whom you desird me to forward them, have informd me by letter they got safe out.
Having now a safe oppertunity to Ostend I inclose you a letter from Raspe. It has been some days in my possession, but a late journey to Birmingham & my not always having my papers about me, put it out of my power to forward it so soon after Mr Raspes delivery of it as I could wish.
I write you in great haste, having accidently met at an Inn the friend who bears this abroad, & who is on his way to the Packet. I wrote you in my last doubtfully about Prevost. We have now our doubts cleard up by arrivals from N York to Glasgow, St Augustine to London, & a vessel quicker than either from Bermudas to the River. By this last it appears He was attackd by Lincoln at his post on St Johns Island 18 miles from Chas Town, & with the loss of about 100 Men obligd to get southward into a warmer climate; & it is beleivd here he got to Beaufort with his army & is there waiting reenforcements. It does not appear He has capitulated or surrenderd, but this must be soon the case.
The grand fleets have yet done nothing. Our Commander is very unpopular in the Navy as is his Employers on shore, & the talk of the day is, that Lord Howe is to have the command. It would take more than his skill to save this Country, and the people begin now to think so. The accots. from N York by the lately arrivd Generals are that Washingtons army had been strongly reenforcd by the neighbouring militia—that he had crossd the Hudson River with 10,000 Men & got nearer to New York. This was a movement after Genl Clinton had returnd from his Expedn. up the No River. There was an expedition about to depart from N York on the 6th July—two small ships of war, several transports, and abot. 1500 Men among them a Corps of respectable Refugees. It was said to be meant for New London. The accots. from Canada by the only vessel come home this year & wch saild the 18 June are very bad a universal disposition in the native Canadians to revolt & provision flour & bread remarkably scarce. They had particular accots there that the Govr. of Detroit (Capt Hammilton who used Mr. Jno Dodge so remarkably ill as stated in the last No of the Remembrancer) having venturd too far into the habitable parts of America in one of his Indian Scalping Expeditions, had been made prisoner with abot 200 Indians & English, and that the americans soon after got the Fort. I see many of yr. friends often, and you have their best wishes among numberless complaints that the communication is so obstructed & that letter writing is so dangerous in these times of alarm from immediate invasion &c.

I have been made a little uneasy of late by some secret insinuating whispers from two Brothers whom you have some reason to know—implying that I was cool & backward to a certain cause, had rejected offers of employ to serve those I wish best, & similar tittle tattle calumny; which I feel the less from knowing my own feelings & inability to serve more than I have done. It is true, from private, rather secret offers of their own I might have found bed & board in their habitations; & however irksome such a situation might be to me, would willingly have submitted, even to the prejudice of my private views or interests, provided I had been properly desird to do so. But why need I trouble you, who have had enough from that quarter already. I shall write whenever an oppertunity offers, & always be made happy by hearing of your welfare & success. I am very respectfully Yr obligd & Ob Sert
A McPherson

There is a small fleet arrd. at Corke from N York which saild the 10th. July & before their sailing an express had arriv’d there with the accot. of Prevosts being retreating. I am sorry to find by the returns from Sweighauser that there were only 92 Engl. Prisors. in France so that the American Cartel will stop on the return of the Transport to England. Now about 140 at Portsmo & 160 at Plymo. and in other places about sixty—

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur B. F—— / A—Passey
Endorsed: July 13
Notations: Digges July 13. 79. / July 13. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Paul Jones, 13 August 1779
From: Jones, John Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored and Dear Sir
Ship Bonhomme Richard at Anchor in the Road of Groa August 13th. 1779
It is but this moment that the Court martial has finished the affairs of the Bonhomme Richard and the Alliance being run foul of Each other. I inclose you the Whole proceedings of that Court, Which being the only one of Consequence, it is unnecessary to trouble you With bundles of papers Where the Conclusions have only Amounted to Whipping Which has been Executed.
The Within paper respecting the prise money of this Little Squadron is Submitted to your regulation, and from the Inclosed paper addressed to me by the Captain and officers of the Vengeance I am persuaded that you Will think it unreasonable that he (the Captain) Should Share Equally With the Captain Landais or the Captain of the Pallace and Rather that Each Ship and Vessel Should first Share in proportion to the Number and Calibre of her Guns and the number of her Men; and that they Should afterwards divide their respective Shares by the Law of their flag, or otherwise to their mutual Satisfaction. The Within State of the force of Each Ship and Vessel Will be useful in forming your decision.
Mr. De Chaumont has made an useless Journey here as I had taken all the necessary measures to Engage the Men that Were Wanting before his appearance even at Nantes. I am however much obliged to him and to the Minister for that attention as well as all former favors.
I Shall Certainly Sail to morrow at Day break and I hope Shortly to find opportunities to testify my gratitude to our great and good Ally for the honor Which he has Confered on the American flag and on my Self.
The inclosed dictionary will be useful When I Write to you on particulars Subjects.

This Little Squadron appears to be unanimous; and if that good understanding Continues, We are able to perform Essential Service.
I Look forwards With pleasing Expectation and an ardent desire to merit your friendship and that of America.
Being ever With the heigest Esteem and Respect Dear Sir the most obliged of your obedient Servants
Jno P Jones
His Excellency Doctor Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 14 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Sir.
Passy, Aug. 14. 1779.
I received the Procedures of the admiralty of Morlaix Which your Excellency did me honour to send me, relating to the prises and Ransoms taken by the black Prince. With Great respect I am Your Excellency most Obedient and most humble Servant.

M. De Sartine.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Barbeu-Dubourg, 14 August 1779
From: Barbeu-Dubourg, Jacques
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Paris 14e. août 1779
I tank you heartily for your gracious answer. I will address the person to our friend M Grand, and am in some hope the can easily concord together. In the meantime I recommand to your favour and benevolence M Gregoire, who desire to be if not Consul at less reputed friend, correspondent, and in howsoever degree intrusted by the Americans.
I am with the utmost attachment and respect Dear friend Your most obedient humble servant
Dubourg

Notation: Dubourg Paris 14. aout 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Continental Congress: Instructions, [14 August–16 October 1779]
From: Continental Congress
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Much of Congress’ time in 1779 was spent drafting peace ultimata, a task imposed on it by Spain’s offer in April to mediate Britain’s conflicts with the Americans and French. France, which conveyed the offer, used Conrad-Alexandre Gérard, her minister in Philadelphia, to lobby Congress to demand terms which would not prolong the war, should Britain prove willing to recognize American independence and end hostilities. France’s basic interest was American political and commercial independence from Britain, so as to weaken Britain’s position in the European balance of power. She had no desire to fight further for specifically American goals and moreover she had to mediate between the wishes of the United States and those of her new ally Spain. She was also concerned that the American desire to retain her traditional fishing rights off Newfoundland and in the Gulf of St. Lawrence might lead Britain to further restrictions on France’s own fishing rights in the area. The New England delegates to Congress led by Samuel Adams, among others, fought hard to present demands for such rights as an ultimatum to Britain for entering any peace negotiations; against them Gérard successfully ranged a coalition in which were found many southern delegates anxious for French military assistance. After months of debate Congress finally decided to present such demands as an ultimatum not for a peace treaty, but for any subsequent commercial treaty with Britain; on August 14 it approved instructions for a peace commissioner and for a commissioner to negotiate a British-American commercial treaty which incorporated this decision. At the same session it approved these related instructions to Franklin. It then put the instructions aside while it turned to the equally contentious problems of electing the peace commissioner/minister to Britain and also a separate minister to the court of Spain. Not until October 16 were the instructions finally signed by the new president of Congress, Samuel Huntington.

Sir,
[August 14–October 16, 1779]
Having determined in order to put a period to the present War conformably to the humane dispositions, which sway the allied Powers, that we would not insist on a direct acknowledgement by Great Britain of our right in the fisheries this important matter is liable to an incertitude, which may be dangerous to the Political and commercial interests of the United States, we have therefore agreed and resolved, That our right should in no case be given up. That we would not form any Treaty of Commerce with Great Britain, nor carry on any trade or Commerce whatsoever with her, unless she shall make an Express Stipulation on that subject—And that if she shall after a Treaty of Peace, disturb the Inhabitants of these States in the Exercise of it we will make it a common Cause to obtain redress for the Parties injured. But notwithstanding these Precautions as Great Britain may again light up the flames of War and use our exercise of the Fisheries as her pretext; and since some doubts may arise, whether this object is so effectually guarded by the treaty of alliance with his most Christian Majesty, that any Molestation therein on the part of Great Britain is to be considered as a casus fœderis you are to endeavour to obtain of his Majesty an explanation on that Subject, upon the principle that notwithstanding the high Confidence reposed in his wisdom and Justice, yet considering the uncertainty of human affairs & how doubts may be afterwards raised in the breasts of his royal successors the great Importance of the fisheries renders the Citizens of these States very solicitous to obtain his Majesty’s sense with relation to them as the best security against the Ambition and rapacity of the British court. For this purpose you shall propose the following Article, in which nevertheless such alterations may be made as the Circumstances and situation of Affairs shall render convenient and proper. Should the same be agreed to, and executed, you are immediately to transmit a Copy thereof to our minister at the Court of Spain.— “Whereas by the treaty of Alliance between the most Christian King and the United States of North America the two parties guaranty mutually from that time and forever against all other Powers, to wit, the United States to his most Christian Majesty the possessions then appertaining to the Crown of France in America as well as those which it may acquire by the Future Treaty of Peace; And his most Christian Majesty guaranties on his Part to the United States their Liberty sovereignty and Independence—absolute and unlimited as well in matters of Government as Commerce and also their Possessions and the additions or Conquests that their Confederation might obtain during the War according to the said Treaty; and the said parties did further agree and declare that in case of a rupture between France and England, the said reciprocal guaranty should have its full force and effect the moment such War should break out: And whereas doubts may hereafter arise how far the said guaranty extends to this, to wit, that Great Britain should molest or disturb the subjects and Inhabitants of France or of the said States in taking fish on the Banks of Newfoundland and other the fishing banks and seas of North America formerly and usually frequented by the subjects and inhabitants respectively: And whereas the said King and the united States have thought proper to determine with precision the true intent and meaning of the said guaranty in this respect; Now therefore as a farther demonstration of their mutual good will and affection it is hereby agreed concluded and determined as follows, to wit, That if after the Conclusion of the Treaty or Treaties, which shall terminate the present War, great Britain shall molest or disturb the subjects or Inhabitants of the said United States in taking fish on the Banks, seas and places formerly used and frequented by them so as not to encroach on the territorial rights, which may remain to him after the termination of the present War as aforesaid and war should thereupon break out between the said United States and Great Britain; or if Great Britain shall molest or disturb the subjects & Inhabitants of France in taking fish on the Banks seas and Places formerly used and frequented by them, so as not to encroach on the territorial rights of Great Britain as aforesaid, and war should thereupon break out between France and Great Britain; in either of those Cases of war as aforesaid, his most Christian Majesty and the said United States shall make it a common cause and aid each other mutually with their good offices, their counsels and their forces according to the exigence of conjunctures as becomes good and faithful Allies: Provided always that nothing herein contained shall be taken or understood as contrary to or inconsistent with the true intent & meaning of the treaties already subsisting between his most Christian Majesty and the said States but the same shall be taken and understood as explanatory of and conformable to those treaties.”
Done at Philadelphia this sixteenth day of Octr. in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy nine and in the fourth year of our Independence.

By the Congress of the United States of America
Saml. HuntingtonPresident
Attest Chas. Thomson secy.The Honble. B: Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Arthur Lee, 14 August 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Paris August 14th. 1779
A decent time having now elaps’d, since the declaration of his Catholic Majesty against the King of great Britain; it seems proper to apply to the spanish Court, to know whether they are inclind to enter into the Alliance, which Congress have agreed to. At the same time it appears to me, that to ask Count de Vergennes’s opinion of such a step, before I take it, woud be an agreable & useful mark of confidence in this Court.
But as I think, such an application cannot with propriety be made to his Excellency by any one but you as Minister here, I must beg you, Sir, to take the trouble of consulting Count Vergennes, both upon the propriety & manner of my applying upon this subject to the Court of Spain; & that you will have the goodness to communicate to me his opinion. I woud very willingly apply myself, were I not persuaded that it woud be a trespass against the deference due to your situation; and that an observance of this order in our proceedings, will contribute to the attainment of the public object I have in view.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, Sir, Yr. most Obedt. Humb Servt.
Arthur Lee
The Honble. Dr. B. Franklin Minister Plenipotentiary of the U.S. of America


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbé Thomas du Rouzeau, [16 August 1779]
From: Du Rouzeau, abbé Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

L∴R∴L∴D∴N∴S∴
[August 16, 1779]
Extraordinairement convoqué ce jourdhuy 16. du Courant a arreté
  1º. que Le Venerable F franklin Lui ayant fait present de Son Buste, L’inauguration S’en fera dans Son assemblée academique du Dix huit.
  2º. que Comme cette Ceremonie ne Sauroit être trop Solemnelle il est de La dignité de L.L. que Chacun de Ses Membres y Vienne et y Contribue.
  3º. que Le prix de La Souscription de 9 l.t. sera exigible même des freres absents Comme La Cotisation annuelle.
Par Mandement de L∴R∴L
L’Ab. DU Rouzeau Secret.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / A Passy / N.S
Notation: L’Ab. Du Rouzeau


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Tabor, 16 August 1779
From: Tabor, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Rotterdam 16th Augt. 1779
I beg pardon for troubling your Excy. with the inclos’d but the loss of my valud friend the Revd. Mr Sowden of this place has obligd me for this time at least to take this liberty which is the only & the best apology I can make for it, to convince you that no disagreable correspondence subsists between Mr Gordon & myself. I send the Lr. unseald for your perusal if you choose it, if not, I request to seal & forward it per first conveyance & wherein I can return this liberty or render you any kind of service in these parts I shall cheerfully do it with which offer I have the honr. to subscribe myself Your Excellys. Most obedt. Hble Servt
Saml. Tabor

N.B. The droll circumstance of Jonathan for Samuel had occasiond my Lrs. to go to England & were opend & copyd there which not a little provokd me, as sometimes Mr. G sent them under cover & put my name without my place of abode, wh: will accot. to you for the reprehension given.
Dr. B: Franklin a Paris!

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Docter B: Franklin / á / Paris
Notation: S. Tabor Augt. 6. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Welsh, 16 August 1779
From: Welsh, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Gentn
Cadiz 16 augt 1779
I presumed that my late partnership of Duff & Welsh has been known to you, as it has been for 16 years to most of the trading places on that Continent, it is now dissolved by the present change in publick affairs, as James Duff has retired home via Lisbon above a month ago, by wch means the liquidation of their accounts & business will be carried on hence forwd under my sole signature & shall be provd to render you or your friends any service in my power.
I have had several late consignments from america & such as have had the good luck to get home have made good bills(?) with salt wine &ca.
Yesterday I recd by the French Polacre Victorieux the inclosed letter under cover from our friends Messrs. Sam Ingles & Co. of Philadelphia wch affords me the pleasure of paying you my respects & to assure you I am Gentm Your most Hum Servt
John Welsh
The honourable Commissioner or Commissioners of the United States of america Paris

Addressed: To / The Honourable The Commissioner or / Commissioners of the United States of / America / at / Paris
Notation: J. Welsh 16 Augt. 79


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Marquis de Lafayette, 17 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

Dear sir
Passy, Aug. 17. 1779.
I received duly your much esteemed favours of july 12. and Aug. 3.— You have found out by this time that I am a very bad Correspondent. As I grow old I perceive my aversion to writing increases, and is become almost insurmountable.
The Expedition of the Enemy into Virginia has done us some harm, but not considerable, and it has done them no good. They have only more exasperated the People by their Barbarities; and they have shown their Weakness, by not being able to maintain their Post but a few Days. The Reports about Fort Pitt are Newyork News, and not confirmed.
I inclose a Letter I have just received for you from America; but I believe it is a very old one as it comes far about.— I send you also a Copy of a note just come to hand from Holland relating to the affair at Charlestown. It is strange that we have no direct Authentic Advices of it.— But the Rumour comes so many different Ways, that one can scarcely forbear giving some credit to it. With the Sincerest Esteem and affection, and my best Wishes for your success in your present expedition, and safe return to your friends and amiable family crown’d with fresh Laurels, I am ever Your most obedient and most humble servant
BF.
Marquis De La Fayette.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee, 17 September [i.e., August 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Arthur

Sir
Passy Sept. [i.e., August] 17. 1779.
I this day communicated to Mr. Le Comte de Vergenes the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me, relating to the Accession of Spain to The Treaty. His Excellency was pleased to say that he would Speak about it to Mr Le Count d’aranda, who would probably write to his Court for Instructions concerning it. With great Regard. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble servant
BF
To the honble. Arthur Lee Esqe.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 17 August 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 17 Aug 1779
The want of Subject say no intelligence from the American States in any of the ports on this Coast keeps me from giving more frequent advices. It cannot be many Days before some arrives. Many Sail were preparing at Philadelphia for Europe and particularly the Deane Frigate— the difficulty to procure Seamen I apprehend the principal obstacle to their departure.
We may expect dayly to receive advice of the arrival of the Ships under Convoy of Mr. La Motte Piquet and by the first packet from Philadelphia I hope you will be advised of the safe arrival of our Ships with the Stores for the States, it is probable you will receive the inteligence first when at hand I shall esteem the favor of your advices our Interest stands deeply concernd in them adventures—
Pray can you flatter me with the hopes of receiving any indemnification from Gouvernment for the Loss of my property in the Marquise de la fayette in Virtue of my petition. I have the Honor to be with due respect Sr., your very hhb Servant
John Bondfield
Passi His Excely. B Franklin Esq

Addressed: His Excellency B Franklin / Esq / á / Paris
Notation: Bondfield John 17. Aout 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Rouzeau, [before 18 August 1779]
From: Du Rouzeau, abbé Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[before August 18, 1779]
FÊTEACADÉMIQUE,POUR LA CLÔTUREDE LA LOGE DES NEUF-SŒURS,Au Wauxhal de la Foire Saint-Germain,le Mercredi 18 Août 1779.

L’Ouverture de cette Fête se fera par un Discours, que prononcera le Président.
Ce Discours sera suivi d’une Symphonie à Grand-Chœur.
Un Fr. … prononcera ensuite l’Eloge de Montagne.
La Musique reprendra.
Plusieurs autres Morceaux de Littérature, soit en Vers, soit en Prose, tels qu’un Poëme sur Voltaire; le Repentir de Pigmalion; le Mois de Novembre, &c. seront également entremêlés de Musique instrumentale & vocale.
La Fête sera terminée par un Banquet.
Cette Assemblée sera composée de deux cent cinquante Personnes seulement, tant FF … que Dames.
On entrera depuis quatre heures jusqu’à cinq. On commencera à cinq heures précises; & alors personne ne sera plus admis.

La Souscription est de neuf livres pour les FF. Elle sera de quinze livres pour ceux qui désireront amener une Dame.
Cette Fête étant uniquement consacrée aux Arts, les FF … qui ameneront des Dames sont priés de les prévenir que la Danse en sera exclue.
On ne sera plus admis à souscrire passé le 17 de ce Mois; & l’on souscrira chez le F … Viel, Architecte, rue Poissonniere, la porte cochere vis-à-vis les Gardes-Suisses. Ce F … délivrera les Billets d’Entrée des FF … & des Dames.
Des Artistes célèbres, Membres de la Loge, ont promis d’envoyer quelques-uns de leurs Ouvrages, pour en décorer le local.
La Loge se tiendra le matin à dix heures, au local ordinaire, rue Pot-de-Fer. Les seuls FF. … des Neuf-Sœurs y seront admis, attendu qu’on y traitera d’affaires.
Par Mandement de la Loge
L’Abbé DU RouzeauSecrétaire.Rue de la Bucherie.

  Nota. Tous les FF ∴ tant ceux de la Loge que les Visiteurs, seront décorés à cette Fête de leurs Cordons seuls, sans Tablier & sans aucun attribut.
  Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / a Passy / N ∴ S ∴


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Eastern Navy Board, 18 August 1779
From: Eastern Navy Board
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Navy Board Eastern departmentBoston August 18th. 1779
We were honored with your favor of the 2d of June, but not till several days after the Arrival of the French Frigate, which prevented us the pleasure of acknowledging it by the Mercury Packet which sailed for France about a fortnight agoe.
We are Sorry that any differences have subsisted among the Officers on board the Alliance, there may in this case as you observe in most others be blame on both Sides, but from the knowledge we have of Capt. Landais Temper & discretion, & other circumstances, Joined to the Intelligence we have Collected of this Matter, We Incline to think it wholly the fault of the other Officers.
As it is our duty to send Ships to France when ordered by Congress, & not having it in our power to furnish any thing that will command the Necessary Supplies there: We have Transmitted the Marine Comtee. a Copy of Your Excellencys Letter that proper regard may in future be had with regard to that matter.
We wish all Immaginable Success to the Expedition you mention. We Inclose the papers to this day with the Journals of Congress & several Letters received from Mr Lovell the Papers contain all the News of Importance, they go by French Cutter. We only add that it seems necessary that we should be furnished with an Account of the Advances made to the Officers against the Ship returns to this Port.
We are with great respect Your most Obedt humble Servts.
J. WarrenWm. VernonJno. Deshon
Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamen Franklin Esquire / Minister Plenipotentiary / from the United States of America / at the Court of France / Paris
Notation: W. Vernon Boston 18. aout 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Franklin Bache, 19 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bache, Benjamin Franklin

My dear Child,
Passy, Augt. 19. 1779
Do not think that I have forgotten you, because I have been so long without writing to you. I think of you every day, and there is nothing I desire more than to see you furnish’d with good Learning, that I may return you to your Father and Mother so accomplish’d, with such Knowledge & Virtue as to give them Pleasure, and enable you to become an honourable Man in your own Country. I am therefore very willing you should have a Dictionary, and all such other Books as M. du Marignac or M. Cramer shall judge proper for you. Those Gentlemen are very good to you, and you are I hope very thankful to them, and do every thing chearfully that they advise you to do; by so doing you will recommend yourself to me, and all good People as well as me will love & esteem you for your dutiful Behaviour. Your Friends Cochran and Deane are well. Cochran gave me a Letter for you a long time since, which I mislaid, but having now found it, I send it inclos’d. The Small Pox is in that Pension, and 4 of the Scholars are dead of it. I will speak to Cochran to send you their Names. He has not yet had it. How happy it is for you that your Parents took care to have you inoculated when you were an Infant! which puts you out of that Danger. Your Cousin is well, and will write to you and send you the Portrait you desire. Present my Respects to M. Cramer & M. Marignac. I heard lately from your Father & Mother who were well, as is your Brother Will & little Sister. I continue very well, Thanks to God; and I shall always love you very much if you continue to be a good Boy; being ever Your affectionate Grandfather
BF.

Let me know what you are learning, & whether you begin to draw.B.F. Bache


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Philibert Cramer, 19 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Cramer, Philibert

Passy, Augt. 19. 1779
I have deferred too long acknowledging the Receipt of your obliging Letter relating to my Grandson. Your favourable Account of him gave me a great deal of Pleasure. I hope he will not fall much short of your kind Expectations.— Please to accept my Thanks for your friendly & fatherly care of him, and for the Permission you are so good as to grant him of visiting in your Family, which I am sure will be a great Advantage to him. Tho’ at such a Distance from me, I feel myself perfectly satisfied respecting him, esteeming it a most happy Circumstance for him & me, that you are so good as to take him under your Protection, and to inspect his Education. Bills drawn upon me from time to time for the Expence of that Education, will be punctually paid. But I can never fully discharge the Obligation I am under to your Goodness. With great Esteem & Respect, I am, Sir, Your most obedt. & most humble Servt.
Mr. Cramer


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquise de Lafayette, 19 August 1779
From: Lafayette, Marie-Adrienne-Françoise de Noailles, marquise de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce 19 aouts 1779
Mr. De La fayette a envoyé par une occasion, la lettre ci-jointe, a Mde. De la fayette, pour monsieur franklin. Elle a lhonneur de la lui envoyer; et de le prevenir en meme tems, que sil a quelque reponse a faire, il part cette nuit pour le havre une occasion très sure. Le Commissionaire repassera s’il le veut cet après midy pour prendre ses lettres. Mde. De la fayette prie seulement monsieur franklin de vouloir bien lui donner ses ordres a ce sujet. Elle a lhonneur de lui faire mille complimens.

Notation: M. De Lafayette ce 19 Aout 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Marquis de Lafayette, 19 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

Dear Sir,
Passy, Aug. 19. 1779
I have just now received your Favour of the 17th. I wrote to you a Day or two ago, and have little to add. You ask my Opinion what Conduct the English will probably hold on this Occasion, & whether they will not rather propose a Negotiation for a Peace: I have but one Rule to go by in devining of those People, which is, that whatever is prudent for them to do, they will omit; and what is most imprudent to be done, they will do it. This like other general Rules, may sometimes have its Exceptions; but I think it will hold good for the most part at least while the present Ministry continues, or rather while the present Madman has the Choice of Ministers.— You desire to know whether I am satisfy’d with the Ministers here? It is impossible for any body to be more so. I see they exert themselves greatly in the common Cause; and do every thing for us that they can. We can wish for nothing more, unless our great Want of Money should make us wish for a Subsidy, to enable us to act more vigorously, in expelling the Enemy from their remaining Posts, & reducing Canada. But their own Expences are so great, that I cannot press such an Addition to it. I hope however that we shall get some Supplies of Arms and Ammunition; and perhaps when they can be spar’d some Ships to aid in reducing New-York & Rhode island. At present I know of no good Opportunity of Writing to America. There are Merchant Ships continually going, but they are very uncertain Conveyances.— I long to hear of your safe Arrival in England: but the Winds are adverse, and we must have Patience.— With the sincerest Esteem & Respect, I am ever, Dear Sir, Your most obedient & most hu— S—
BF—

Notation: M. La Fayette.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Nairne, 19 August 1779
From: Nairne, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Aix. Provence August 19. 1779—
Knowing the intimacy, & friendship subsisting between your Excellency, & my Brother, I presume to solicit your interest in my unhappy situation, nothing but the disstresses of my family, & the cruel advantages, the owners of the Ship I command’d, are taken, can excuse this liberty, & the certainty of being inevitably ruin’d, If I remain here much longer.
If you honour me with assistance, I may get my Parole to England, Mahon, or Gibralter, where I am certain, I can get, persons, of equal rank with myself, & Son exchanged. Your friendship on this head with lay me under such an Obligation, which I shall remember as long as I live, with pleasure, & gratitude.
Any letter your Excellency may favour me with, I shall receive safe, If directed to Messr. Gregoire, at this place. I am your Excellency’s Most Obt. & most Humble Servt.
Richard Nairne
To His Excellency Benjamin Franklin

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur Benjamin Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats / Unis de L’Amerique, auprez de la Cour / de France / A / Paris
Notation: Nairne Richard August 19. 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to David Hartley, 20 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hartley, David

Dear Sir
Passy Augt. 20. 1779.
It is a long time Since I have had the Pleasure of hearing from you. Your last favours received were two of the 24th of June, and one of july 5. The second Cargo of Prisoners you mentioned is since safely arrived. M. Schweighauser wrote to me that the Captain of the Cartel was impatient to return, and as Capt. Babcock of the general Mifflin, and others of our Cruisers, had set at liberty a much greater Number of English Prisoners on a written parole or Contract that as many Americans in England should be released on that Account, he desired to know, (as the Collecting your People would take some time) whether he should send the Cartel back empty with those Contracts as some of our Merchants at Nantes advis’d, they fearing that when you had got all your People back you would not regard such Engagements. But I ordered him to collect and send as many as he had received; and If he could not in time collect the whole Number, that he should only Send a Discharge on Account of those Contracts, for a Number equal to the Deficiency. I chose this Method, partly in Compassion, to so many poor Men who have been long confin’d here partly from gratitude for the Charities our People have receiv’d in England and farther to show my Confidence in the honour of your board of Commissioners, who by what they have already done, have convinced me of their humanity, and persuaded me, that this Mode of dismissing Prisoners almost as soon as taken, will as it tends to diminish so far the Calamities of War, receive Encouragement from them by their ordering Compliance with the Terms Stipulated. I send you enclos’d a Copy of one of those Agreements and by the next post will send you a Number of others.
I see in your News papers, that Capt. Cunningham one of our Cruizers is at length taken, and carried Prisoner into England, where it is proposed to try him as a Pirate on the Pretence that he had no Commission. As I am well acquainted with the fact, I can assure you that he really had a Congress Commission. And I cannot believe that mere Resentment, occasioned by this uncommon success, will attempt to sacrifice a brave Man, who has always behaved as a generous Enemy, witness his Treatment of his Prisoners taken in the Harwich Pacquet, and all that afterwards fell in to his hands. I know I shall not offend you recommending him warmly to your Protection.
They write me too from Dunkirk, that twenty one Men lately belonging to one of our American Privateers, Captain Merchant, and put on board some Prizes which were afterwards retaken and carried into your Ports, are also threatned with Hanging, as being most of them born in England or Ireland. We have here in The french Prisons a considerable Number of Americans who have been taken in your service; and in America a much greater Number, perhaps more than a Thousand. If we are to put to death on each side all that are in these Circumstances, we shall have a good deal of Butchery in cold Blood, to no manner of purpose but to make us still more odious to one another, and create an eternal Enmity between our Posterities.
Let you and I, my dear friend, oppose all such mad Proceedings. We may do some Good. We shall at least enjoy the Pleasure of reflecting that we meant well, and that we strove to promote the Happiness of our fellow Creatures and lessen the Miseries attendant on a state of War. Adieu, yours most aff.
BF.

P.S. I wrote you before that I should endeavour to obtain Morlaix in which I now hope to succed. It is undoubtedly much more convenient.— If you can Send me any Proposals relating to french Prisoners, and wish me to negociate that Matter, I will readily undertake it. I told you the Preliminary expected. I have not yet a perfect Acct. of the Prisoners in Spain: but hope soon to receive it— I have ordered Mr. Schweighauser to keep a regular Correspondence with the Commissioners.
M. Hartly.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Claire Delon-Cramer, 20 August 1779
From: Delon-Cramer, Claire
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Geneve vendredi 20e aoust [1779]
Votre fils Monsieur est si interessant que la famille de Monsieur Cramer a qui vous l’aviez confié partageoit la tendre amitié qu’il avoit pour cet enfant. Nous venons de perdre ce protecteur que vous aviez choisi a votre enfant, cette innocente créature a marqué la plus tendre sensibilité, il m’a montré une douleur si vive et si vrai que des ce moment Monsieur je prend votre enfant sous ma direction jusqu’au moment que mon mari revenus de la douleur affreuse que lui donne la mort de son frere pourra s’en charger lui meme. Si votre confiance accordée a l’un vous fait juger que son frere puisse le remplacer il se fera un devoir de faire tout ce qui dépandra de lui, pour cultiver les heureuse disposition que Monsieur votre fils manisfaite depuis qu’il est ici, ma belle Soeur dont le desespoir ne se peut exprimer la prié de venir tous les soir coucher chez elle pour distraire la douleur de son fils, voilà Monsieur la position de cette malheureuse famille je vous écrit dans le premier moment ce coup inopiné répand un désordre dans mon esprit qui se communique dans mes expressions mais vous y verrez l’envie de vous etre utile. Je Suis Monsieur Votre très humble et très obeissante Servante
Delon-Cramer


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from H. Sykes, 20 August 1779
From: Sykes, H.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Place du Palais Royall, August the 20th. 1779
In Consequence of Your Permission, I take the Liberty to Acquaint You that my Large Electricall Machine is quite Compleated. It was to have been deliverd on Monday next, but I shall keep it till Wednesday or Thursday, in hopes that you will do me the Honnour to Comme and see it, and favor me with Your Opinion on its Construction.
I have the Honnour of being Sir, Your Most Obedient humble Servant
H Sykes

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin, / Deputé des Etats Uniees de L’Amerique / en Son Hotel / à Passy
Notation: h. Sykes Paris 20. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Cradock Taylor, 20 August 1779
From: Taylor, Cradock
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Aix in Provance Augst. 20th. 1779
Your favour of the 12th Instant I Recd. by yesterdays post & have no Reason to complain of your Excellencyes good conduct in not being too hasty in procureing me my liberty as you inform me you have already been Deceivd. by more than one or two; as to my being taking out of a Portaguese Vessel & Compelled to Serve his Britanick Majesty against my Inclination it is well known to all the English Officers in this place I have Endeavoured to get a Certifycate from them but the Acquaint me it is what they cant do for me as it is assisting an Enemy; but as to my being a Native of Virginia I hope when it comes from Mr. Frazer who has the Honr. to Bear a Commission in the Army belonging to the United States who knows me perfectly well I hope your Excellency will be so kind as to pay some attention to it & if Possable Obtain me my Liberty.

Inclosed is a letter I Recd. from the Commandant of Merreen at Toulon as I have applied to him also. I am Sir with the greatest Respect Your Excellencies most obbligd. Hbl. Servt.
Cradock Taylor

Addressed: To / His Excellency Benjn. Franklin / Esqr. Plenapotentiary to the / United States of America / Parris
Notation: Cradock Taylor Augt. 20 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chaumont, 21 August 1779
From: Chaumont
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Passi ce 21. aout 1779.
M de Chaumont a l’honneur de prévenir Monsieur franklin qu’il a fait Venir de Bordeaux par M Grignon une petite Caisse de quina à l’adresse de M de Chalut fermier général pour être remise à Monsieur franklin cette caisse a été apportée par le Nommé Lemaille Courier de Bordeaux. Monsieur franklin voudra bien la faire demander à M de Chalut le fermier général par M L’abbé de Chalut.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sartine, 21 August 1779
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 21. Aout 1779
Votre recommandation, Monsieur, en faveur du S. Foligny ci devant Capitaine du Navire le Mis. de la Chalotais a fixé mon attention, sur le Compte que j’ai rendu au Roi des Services de ce Capitaine et particulierement de ceux qu’il a rendus aux Ameriquains; Sa Majesté pour lui en marquer Sa Satisfaction l’a admis dans sa Marine en qualité de lieutenant de fregate et je m’empresse de vous l’annoncer.
J’ai l’honneur d’etre tres parfaitement, Monsieur, votre tres humble et très obeissant Serviteur.
(signé) De Sartine.
M. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Félix Vicq d’Azyr, 21 August 1779
From: Vicq d’Azyr, Félix
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
ce 21 aoust 1779.
J’ai l’honneur de Vous envoier le Volume que la societé Royale de Médecine Vient de Publier. Vous y trouverez, dans l’histoire, l’extrait d’un mémoire que Vous avez bien Voulu nous faire parvenir et dont l’auteur est M Perkins Médecin Resident à Boston.
Je suis aussi chargé de Vous faire remettre un Certain Nombre de Billets dont Vous disposerez Comme Vous le Jugerez à propos, pour la séance publique de la société R. de Médecine.
Cette assemblée aura lieu le mardi 31 de Ce mois à 4 heures et demie très précises non pas au collège Royal comme cydevant, mais au Louvre, pavillon de l infante place du Louvre. La société R. de médecine Vous y invite et Elle desire bien Vivement que Vous assistiez à Cette seance. J’ai été Chargé de Vous faire parvenir Son Vœu à Ce sujet.

J’ai L’honneur d’etre avec Respect Monsieur Votre trés humble et très obeissant serviteur.
Vicq D’AZYR
M franklin.

Notation: Vic D’azir Paris 21. aout 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Paul Marat, 22 August 1779
From: Marat, Jean-Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce 22 Aoûst 79.
Le D. Marat a l’honneur de faire ses complimens à Monsieur le Docteur Franklin, et le prévient qu’il rassemble, mardi 24 du courant, Messieurs Les Commissaires qui se rendront sur les neuf heures et demi du matin, et dineront chez lui.
M. Marat seroit très aise que Monsieur Franklin voulût augmenter le nombre de la bonne compagnie. Il se flatte de lui faire voir de nouvelles Expériences intérressantes et curieuses.

Notation: Le D. Marat 22. aout 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Stephen Marchant, 23 August 1779
From: Marchant, Stephen
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sr/
Brest Augt. 23d 1779
I am now arrived Safe in this harbour after a Short Cruze which however has proved pretty Successfull, on the 15th Inst being clear pleasant Weather we weighed Anchor at 5 past Noon from Bass [Batz] road and Set Sail to the Westward and on Tuesday the 17th. Inst. fell in with a Danish Ship from St. Thomas West Indies bound to Amsterdam laden with Sugar Tobacco and other dry Goods. Examined her found her to have been two Years detained in Ireland on Suspition of Smugling her Cargoe there but was cleared with Great Cost to the Revenue of Ireland, having no proof I let her prosecute her Voyage to Amsterdam, took out of her two English Subjects as prisoners whom I brought to France their Names is John Newlan and John Nicholson both revenue officers from Dingle Ireland, on the 18th. near the English Shore took a Brig Called Reward came from Fishing near the Western Island [Azores], bound to London, took Brig Diligence laden with Mines [Wines] from Bassiscove [Bassett’s Cove] to Swansey, took Sloop Friends Adventure from Bassiscove to Burry, in Ballast, on the 19th. took Brig Blessing with Coals from Minehead to Cork took Brig Matthew and Sally with Coals from Minehead to Cork took the Sloop Resolution with Coals from Minehead to Cork took Sloop Betty with Bark from Bideford to Youghall, at Noon Distance from Waterford Ireland 3 Leagues, fell in with the Spy Armed Tender was Informed by a Fisherman that she had two hundred Men on board. We fought her for an hour untill shee sheered of and we chased her untill we Run her Ashore at Waterford blew hard Gales of Wind, on the 19th took Ship Sauthom from Whitehaven to Waterford laden with Coals, at 4 in the Evening blowing Very hard Broke our Boltsprit was obliged to Set the Treasail foresail and Storn Jyb and Steered for the Coast of France—we passed on the 21st. thro a fleet of Men of War unobserved thro favour of Hazy Weather. I Wrote after my last Cruze, from the Town of Morlaix to yr. Exellency giving you a Minute Account of our Transactions but has Recd. only one letter from yr. Excellency since I left Dunkerque which has given me great Trouble for fear of Miscarriage of Letters as I Recd. no Answer from yr. Excellency makes me Suspitious you have not Recd. my letters So I hereunder give yr. Excellency a Brief Acct. of my last Cruze, on the 15th. of last Month July weighed Anchor from Bass Road and Stood for the English Shore Clear pleasant Weather on the 16th July lost one Man in Boarding a Dutch Man, on the 17th July took Brig Ann with Cullom from Bideford to Plymouth, Distance from Landsend ten Leagues on the 18th took Brig Lucy with Coals from Swansey to St Ives took Sloop John with Copper Ore from Bassiscove to Bristol took Sloop Rebecca from IlfordCoome in Coals to Bassiscove took Sloop 2 Brothers with Coals from Swansey to patstow took Sloop Speedwell with Coals from Swansey to Patstow, on the 19th took Brig Union with Oats from patstow to Bristol on the 20th. took brig St Joseph with Wine being a Prize to the Emperor Letter of Mart of Bristol found Sufficient proof that she was an Irish Propperty and Good Consigned to Irish Merchants sent her to France Took Brig Dublin Trader from Bristol to Dublin laden with oil Copper Tin and Bale Goods on the 21st took Sloop Charlotte from Cork to Bristol laden with Tallow and dry skins, on 22d. took brig Monmouth from Lancaster to Chapstow with Coals—on the 25th. Came to Anchor in Morlaix Road on the 26th sent our prisoners on Shore was Informed our Prize the St Joseph was retaken and four of my Men in her was Obliged in this Cruze to Set the following Men at Liberty they signing a Duplicate to be Answerable for as many American Subjects prisoners in Great Britain, Viz Henry Rowe Capt Brig Lucy, St Ives Robert Cowling St Jearth John Lewis Swansey, John Kneebones St Ives, George Landin Owner Sloop John Kinsale, Cornelius Fowler Mate Kinsale, Eastway Capt Sloop Rebecca Ilsfordcoome [Ilfracombe] William Gross Ilsfordcoome John Trick Capt. Brig Union of Boscastle, William Berkin Mate, Boscastle we are almost Ready for Sea has got a New Boltsprit hopes thro the providence of God, to make our next Cruze Successful all hands behaves Well with true Courage. I have no more to add at present but gives my Respect to yr. Excellency’s Nephew and the American Gentlemen in Paris of yr Excellency’s Acquaintance. I Remn. with all Duty Yr. Excellency’s most Obedient Hhble. Servt.
Stephen Marchant

Addressed: To / His Excellency Benjamin / Franklin Minister of the United / States of North America at the / Court of France, at Passy / near / Paris
Notation: Capt. Merchant Augt. 23. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Wharton, 23 August 1779
From: Wharton, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Hotel de Rome August 23d. 1779
I inclose three News papers just received by way of Amsterdam. The postage cost Fourteen Livres.— All Papers are intercepted, which come by Way of Ostend; And I could wish your Direction, as to my Friend’s continuing to Send Them, Via Amsterdam.
I am with the utmost Respect & Esteem Dear Sir Your Excellency’s most obt. & most humble Servant
S. Wharton
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: A’ son Excellence / Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin /&c &c &c / Passy
Notation: S. wharton 23. aout 1779 Paris.


Title: A Sword for the Marquis de Lafayette: Four Documents, [before 24 August–c. 24 August 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

On October 21, 1778, Congress granted Lafayette leave to return to France. They thanked him for the “disinterested zeal” that had brought him to America and directed Franklin to present him “an elegant sword, with proper devices.” It was suggested that this ceremonial sword represent the military actions in which Lafayette had most distinguished himself. The Marquis desired that his own cutler in Paris, Liger, make the item, and the craftsman consulted Franklin about it (I). The sword was ready by August 24, on which day Liger signed a receipt for payment in full (II). In a brief note to Temple, Franklin requested that the sword be shown to Madame Brillon (III). And it was Temple who was entrusted with bearing the sword to Le Havre to present to Lafayette personally.
Before sending the sword to Lafayette, Franklin composed a description of the splendid object (IV), probably for the purpose of publicizing Congress’ gift. This piece appeared in the French press, the Gazette de Leyde, and English newspapers. At least one French writer mocked the lavish manner in which the sword was described, comparing it to Homer’s rendering of Achilles’ shield. The marquis’ grandfather-in-law, the duc de Noailles, is said to have called it “plus poétique que ruineux.” Franklin apparently responded: “cela prouve que chacun a sa façon de voir.”
On August 29, below, Lafayette thanked Franklin for the “Noble present.” While the marquis was in Austrian captivity during the French Revolution, his wife buried the sword for safekeeping. Although the blade rusted, the handle and mounting survived and were smuggled to him by his son.

I.
[before August 24, 1779]
Liger fourbisseur bijoutier De Mr Le Marquis De Lafayette rue Coquillerre au coin De celle Des vieux augustins pour la legende wich you was to send him for the sword of the Marquis.

II.
a paris ce 24. aoust 1779
Je reconois avoir Receu de Monsieur De franclin La Somme de quatre mil huit cent livres pour payement Dune Epéé Dor a Bataille en Bas Relief Dont quittance
Liger

Bon pour quittance de: 4800 l.t.

Endorsed: Liger, Sword Cutler, Receipt. Aug 24 1779 £4800 l.t.

III.
[c. August 24, 1779]
Madame Brillon is desirous to see the Sword. Be so good as to send it by my Servant.

Addressed: A Monsr Mons Franklin

IV.
[c. August 24, 1779]
Description of the Sword given by Congress to the Marquis de la Fayette.
On one Side of the Pommel are the Marquis’s Arms, and on the other the Device of a new Moon reflecting Rays of Light on a Country partly cover’d with wood & partly cultivated. Symbol of the Republick of the United States; with this Motto, Crescam ut prosim. By this it was intended modestly to express
1. Her present Mediocrity of Strength, as the Light of the Moon tho’ considerable, is weaker than that of the Sun.
  2. Her Expectation of becoming more Powerful as she increases, and thereby rendering herself more useful to Mankind
  3. The Gratitude with which she remembers, that the Light she spreads is principally owing to the kind Aid of a greater Luminary in another Hemisphere.
On the Bow, is this Legend: From the American Congress to the Marquis de la Fayette 1779.
The Handle is ornamented with two Medallions. In One America represented by a Woman, presenting a Branch of Laurel to a Frenchman. In the Other a Frenchman is treading on a Lyon.

On the Guard are Seperately represented, in fine Relieve,
The affair at Gloucester
The Retreat off Rhode Island
The Battle of Monmouth
And the Retreat at Barren Hill.
The Hilt is of Massive Gold. & the Blade two edged.—
Cost 200 Louis.
Made by Liger, Sword Cutler, Rue Coquillierre

Notation: Description of the sword given by Congress to the Marqs de la Fayette


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Marquis de Lafayette, 24 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

Sir,
Passy, Augt. 24. 1779
The Congress sensible of your Merit towards the United States, but unable adequately to reward it, determined to present you with a Sword, as a small Mark of their grateful Acknowledgement.— They directed it to be ornamented with suitable Devices. Some of the principal Actions of the War, in which you distinguished yourself by your Bravery & Conduct, are therefore represented upon it. These with a few emblematic Figures all admirably well executed, make its principal Value. By the help of the exquisite Artists France affords I find it easy to express every thing, but the Sense we have of your Worth & of our Obligations to you. For this, Figures & even Words are found insufficient.— I therefore only add, that with the most perfect Esteem & Respect, I have the honour to be, Sir,

P.S. My Grandson goes down to Havre with the Sword, and will have the Honour of delivering it unto your Hands.
Marquis de La Fayette.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Montgomery, 24 August 1779
From: Montgomery, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Alicante 24th August 1779
I had the honour of writing Your Eccelly. from Madrid advising that I had by the Malicious asertation of a wretch in this place been ordered to return 20 Leagues inland and that I expected to have an Interview next day with the Minester of State, in which I succeeded so well on account of a letter you ware already pleased to write in my favour that he ordered me to return Back to my house Saying he would give the Necessary order to this Governour Respecting my Residence here But on my return yesterday was Surprised to find not only the order promised me by the Count De Florida Blanca, Secretary of State that I should remain peaceably in my Establishment But allso one from the Count De Ricla Secretary of war that I should not only retire inland but not be permited to Carry on Business during the War. These Extreams has oblidged the Governour to Suspend attending to either orders till farther Information I find that the order from De Ricla is in Consequence of the falce Informations given him by the asesor here mentioned in my Last Respects, And therefore must again request that your Eccelly: will do me the honour to write this Minester in my favour, or else the Count de Aranda Embasador at Paris on this Matter that thro’ your means I may be permited to Live quietly with my Family and no Sacrifice to the Malice of an Irreted bad man. I need not mention to Your Eccelly that even the honour is Concerned in my being mintained in our rights and Previliges at this Juncture and as I have always Suported th highest Reputation here as a Merchant and allso been honoured with an Intimacy with the Governour, Lieutenant General Dn George Dunant with General Mace, and the first Spanish Familys in this City, I do not fear giving a very good account should either of the Minesters Require a General Information of My Conduct Since my Establishment in this place, But Very Justly fear that as they have already made a party Master of it I shall fall a sacrifice to their Reconciliations if not suported by Your Eccellys Interpassing warmly in my favour, Should you please to give me any order to Execute I think it will Effectualy secure my Residence and should it be for any suplys of this Produce for America shall Execute it at my own Expence and acct if you think proper and should it be in any other Line either here or at Madrid you may Depend on my utmost Abilitys being Exerted in obeying any of your Commands.
Being with the Most Profound Respect Dear Sir Your Eccellys: most obedt. humble Servt
Robt Montgomery

We have Just Learned but without Circumstances that the United fleets have gained a Compleat Victory over the English which if true will Certainly bring us a Peace with Independancy—

Notation: Robt Montgomery


Title: Certification of Jonathan Williams, Jr.’s Accounts, [26 August 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[August 26, 1779]
I hereby certify that Jonathan Williams junior, late Agent to the Commissioners of the United States at the Court of France, has exhibited before me his Accounts as settled up to the twenty fifth of July 1778, by Joshua Johnson, James Cuming John Nesbitt, and Joseph Gridly Esqrs: Arbitrators appointed for that purpose, the Ballance of which then was nine thousand one hundred and ten Livres, nineteen Sols, and six deniers, and is regularly carried forward to the Credit of the said Commissioners in the said Williams’s subsequent Account, he being then under further Engagements. I also certify that the said Williams has exhibited before me his said subsequent Account, with Vouchers for every Charge, which I have carefully examined and do approve. I further Certify, that I have received from the said Williams, the Sum of two thousand and sixty Livres, one Sol, and seven Deniers, being the Ballance of his Account in full of all Demands.
In testimony whereof, I have signed four Certificates, all of this Tenor and Date.
At Passy, near Paris, this 26th Day of August 1779.
B FranklinMinister Plenipotentiary, from the United States at the Court of France./.

Notation: Certificate from Dr Franklin relative to settlement of my Accounts.


Title: List of Articles Purchased by Fizeaux, Grand & Cie. on Franklin’s Orders: résumé, 26 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

<Amsterdam, August 26, 1779: The articles in question, to be purchased in Holland and delivered to Nantes by La Ville de Bordeaux, Capt. Claas, are thirteen in number. Eleven of them call for pharmaceuticals, two for textiles. The pharmaceuticals comprise large quantities of hipoquana root and jalap (both purgatives), sublimated sulphur (fleur de soufre), pannacea mere, opium, two kinds of rhubarb, two kinds of quinine, and refined camphor. The textiles are divided between Osnabrück linen and sail cloth. The total cost, including the extras, amounts to 2810 banco florins.>


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Charles Epp, 27 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Epp, Charles

Sir
Passy Augt. 27. 1779
I received the Letter you did me the honour to write to me concerning your Inclination to remove to America. In so great a Country as is at present possess’d by the thirteen United States extending through Such different Climates, and having such a variety of soils and Situations there is no doubt but you might if you were there, find one to your Mind. Lands in general are cheap there, compared with the Prices in Europe. The air is good, there are good Governments, good Laws, and good People to live with. And as you would probably make a good Citizen, there is no doubt of your meeting with a Welcome among them. But since you are in easy Circumstances where you are, and there is no immediate Necessity for your Removing, I cannot advise your making Such a Voyage with a family in this time, when if taken by the Enemy, you might be Subject to Many Inconveniences. I have the honour to be Sir Your most obedient & humble servant
BF
Mr. Charles Epp, Procureur at Altdorff in Swisserland


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis d’Amezaga, 29 August 1779
From: Amezaga, Ignace d’Urtado, marquis d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris ce 29 aoust. [1779]
Mr. D’amezaga fait ses très humble compliment a Monsieur de franklin, et luy fait demander sil dinne chés luy aujourd’huy dimanche, et au cas qu’il n’y dinne Pas S’il vouloit venir dinner demain lundi chés Mr. amelot á Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 29 August 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 29 Aug 1779
By Letters from Lisbon of the 3 Instt. we are advised of the Capture of one of our Ships (that went with La Motte Piquet) with Military Stores and sent into New York. The fate of the other two is not yet come to hand. A continued chain of Miscarriages have attended every Operation in which I have stood Interested. Could predestinarism Exist I should be tempted to place faith or had I been an object sufficient to attract as in past days the resentment of some Deity there would be latitude to invoke the oposing power [torn: word or words missing]. We are without any American advices by Letters from Cadiz they confirm the report of Provosts defeat and say Packets are arrived at that Port from Congress for you if real you are ’ere this in Posession of them. I have the Honor to be with due respect Sir Your very hhb Servant
John Bondfield
His Excellency B. Franklin Esq

Addressed: His Excellency B. Franklin / Minist Plenip. des Etats Unies / a Paris
Notation: John Bondfield Bordeaux 29. aout 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de Lafayette: Two Letters, 29 August 1779
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
Sir
At the havre 29th August 1779
Whatever Expectations Might have been Rais’d from the Sense of past favors, the Goodness of the United States for me has ever been such, that on every occasion it far surpasses any idea I could have conceiv’d— A new proof of that flattering truth, I find in the Noble present which Congress have been pleas’d to honor me with, and which is offered in such A Manner By Your excellency, as will exceed Any thing, But the feelings of My unbounded Gratitude— Some of the devices I Can’t help finding too honorable A Reward for those slight services which in Concert with My fellow soldiers, and under the God like American hero’s orders, I had the Good luck to Render— The sight of those Actions where I was a witness of American Bravery and patriotic spirit, I will ever enjoy with that pleasure which Becomes a heart glowing with love for the Nation, and the Most ardent zeal for theyr Glory and happiness.
Assurances of Gratitude which I Beg leave to present to Your excellency are much unadequate to My feelings, and nothing But those sentiments May properly acknowledge Your kindness towards me— The polite Manner in which Mr. Franklin was pleas’d to deliver that inestimable sword, lays me under Great obligations to him, and demands my particular thanks.
With the most perfect Respect I have the honor to Be Your excellency’s Most obedient humble servant
Lafayette
his excellency Mr. Benjamin franklin Esq.

Notation: Marqs. la Fayette 29. Augt. 79.

II.
My dear sir
At the havre 29th August 1779
After I have pay’d to the Minister from the United States that due tribute of my Gratitude, which I have the honor to offer him on this occasion, Give me leave to present My friend doctor franklin, with particular and private thanks, for which no expression may adequate the sense I have of Your Goodness— The noble present I have the Honor of Receiving from Congress has been adorned By you with so many flattering attributes, that I have no idea of such a glorious Reward being ever conferr’d By A Nation upon Any soldier, and that Nothing may be added to it, But a much Greater share of Merit on My part, which Might Render Me a More proper objet for so Great an honor— I waïted for Mr. franklin’s departure that I Might send Back my answer By that Gentleman, to whose politness I am particularly indebted— There is a great matter, My dear sir, for which I am to Confer with you, and in which your Grandson’s feelings are deeply interested— So many preparations have fill’d his heart with a desire of seeing them exerted against the Common Enemy, and he most ardently wish to obtain Your leave for Going to England with us— In Case You are dispos’d to Grant that liberty, I will feel very happy to Render him this Campaign as agreable As May be in My power— You might then, My dear Sir, apply to M de vergennes, and tell him that as an american General officer you would intrust me with an aid de Camp, whose fate is extremely dear to You— The Minister will most Certainly write to Me on the occasion, and also to the count de vaux, or duke of harcourt who Commands at the havre— And if you approuve of mr. franklin’s being with me I will Carry him along on any occasion, and he will see as much of the service as myself— Be Certain, My dear sir, that Nothing might please me more than such a mark of your Confidence, and that I will feel very happy in Giving you one of my tender and sincere sentiments.
From the time when Count d’estaing left Martinico I would be Rather induc’d to Believe that he Might have gone to North America— Suppose it was the case, and I had time to go there nothing Could Make me happier than your asking me from the Ministry for to join again American colour.
With the Most sincere affection and perfect Regard I have the honor to be Dear sir Your most obedient humble servant
Lafayette

I leave to mr. franklin the Care of speaking to you of our present situation, and on any other point Relating to america— He will also tell you what immense effect the Noble present from Congress has made in the army.

Notation: Lafayette Au havre 29. Aout 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Coffyn, 30 August 1779
From: Coffyn, Francis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond. Sir
Dunkerque 30th. Augt. 1779.
Since the last letter I had the honour to write Your Excellency, on the 12th. inst, I am deprived of your Excellency’s favours.
In the instructions delivered to Capn. Marchant of the black Prince privateer (for which your Excellency was pleased to grant a Commission,) is mentioned arte. 3d.—that the trial of the prizes made on the Ennemy by the American Ships of war, which may be carry’d into the ports of France or Spain, shall be Submitted to the Courts there instituted to determine Such causes.
On the 23d. June Said privateer carry’d into Morlaix an English brig call’d the good will, and landed the hostage of a vessell he ransomed. On the 24th. of July the Same privateer conducted into the Same port another brig call’d the Dublin, and landed 12 hostages for the Same number of vessells he ransomed, the particulars of which I had the honour to send to your Excellency by my letter of 2d. inst. The prisoners on board Said prizes, & the hostages have been Examined by the officers of the Admiralty at Morlaix and the process’s have been instructed in the Same manner & form as is practised with the prizes taken by the French ships of war, and the papers respecting Sd. prizes have been Sent to Mr. De Grandbourg Secretary general of the marine Department in order that the Conseil des prises should pronounce their condemnation, to the forwarding of which Mr. Torris owner of said privateer wrote to Mr. Bigot, Greffier or Clark of said Court, in order that he might be enabled to sell the prizes & recover the ransoms; but by the answer he received from this Gentleman, it appears that Sd. Tribunal has no orders to Judge the American prizes, and that the papers have been Sent to M. De Sartine. This induced M. Torris to write to the Minister on the 11th. of this month, but as he has not yet received any answer, and the officers of the Admiralty at Morlaix refusing to sell the prizes before they receive the condemnation, Mr. Torris desired me by a letter he wrote me the 27th. inst. (which I take the liberty to inclose with a copy of that he address’d to M. De Sartine) to represent to Your Excellency that there are Several perishable articles on board said prizes, which may be Exposed to a total loss if the sale suffers a longer delay, & to request your Excellency to pronounce the condemnation of said prizes, or to mention what steps may be taken to obtainleave to Sell them. I further understand that the owners in England of the vessells which have been ransomed by said privateer, are unwilling to discharge the bonds & redeem the hostages, before a regular condemnation is pass’d over them as lawfull prizes. Its the more necessary that this matter should be brought into its proper channell, as it seems that this adventurer causes great interruption to the Ennemys Trade, by letters the owners received last night from Brest, they are advised that he put again into that port, after a weeks cruize, with Eight Hostages on board, for the Same number of English vessells he ransomed, the particulars of which are not mentioned. These Successes have determined the proprietors to fitt out an other Cutter of 60 feet keel, & 20 feet beam mounting 16. three pounders 24 Swivels & small arms with 65 men, all Americans & Irish under the command of Capn. Edward Macarter of Boston; this Cutter will be call’d the black Princess, and is intended to cruize in Company with the black Prince. The owners have again apply’d to me, to request Your Excellency to grant them a Commission. If Your Excellency thinks proper to comply with their request, I shall conform to Your Excellencys orders and intentions, respecting the instructions, and oath of allegiance to the united States to be taken by Capn. Macarter his officers & Crew, a formula of which I beg Your Excellency to send me, as I did not keep a copy of that taken by Capn. Marchant. Interim I here inclose an acknowledgement Sign’d by three prisonners he Set at liberty under their promise of obtaining the Exchange of the same number of Americains. If these two privateers cruize together as intended, I hope they’ll be able to keep all their prisonners on board, which the former could not do on account of the Smalness of his vessell. I beg the favour of your Excellency’s answer as Soon as convenient, interim I have the honour to remain with due respect. Your Excellency’s Most obedient & most devoted humble Servant
Frans. Coffyn

The papers concerning Capn Cunningham’s people, will be Sent to your Excellency by my next.
Mr. Torris also requested me to send the Copy of a letter he wrote your Excellency on the 9th. inst. which he apprehends miscarry’d.
To his Excellency Dr. Bn. Franklin at Passy.

Notation: Mr. Coffin Augt. 30.1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Rattier with Chaumont’s Draft of a Reply, 30 August 1779
From: Rattier, ——,Chaumont
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
a Tours le 30 Août 1779
Quatre Prisoniers de Guerre Anglois, qui sont a Tours sur leur Parole m’engagent de Vous faire part du desir qu’ils ont de passer au Service des Etats unis de l’Amerique, Deux en qualité de Capitaines de Prises, et les Deux autres en qualité de Volontaires.
Si cette affaire peut avoir lieu, je Vous prie Monsieur de me faire connoitre la marche que je dois tenir.
Ces Prisoniers etoient cy devant Sur des Vaisseaux Anglois Corsaires ou Marchands.
Je suis bien flatté de trouver cette occasion de Vous assurer des sentiments d’estime dont je Suis penetré pour Vous, Monsieur; Sentiments que je partage avec toute la France.
J’ay l’honneur d’être connu de M Le Ray De Chaumont, et d’être lié intimement avec Mrs Montaudoüin freres de Nantes.

Je suis avec un profond Respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
RattierReceveur de la Ville et Commissaire desPrisoniers de Guerre Anglois
Notation in Chaumont’s hand:

Monsieur
Je ne peux accepter la proposition que quatre prisonniers anglais vous ont Chargés de me faire de leur services pour les Etats unis d’amerique afin d’estre Employés a Commander des prises, il est prudent de Se Mefier de pareils offres de la part des anglais.
J’ay l’honneur d’estre très parfaittement Monsieur

Notation: Rattier Tours 30. aout 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gérard de Rayneval, 31 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gérard de Rayneval, Joseph-Mathias

Sir,
Passy Augt 31. 1779.
I received Yesterday Evening, in good Order the Packet you were so obliging as to send me, & which had been missing. I am sorry you have had any Uneasiness about it. I received also by the Hands of M. De Chaumont the Packet directed to Mr. Adams.
With great Esteem, I have the honour to be Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
M. Gerard de Raynevalle.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 31 August 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir,
Passy August 31. 1779.
I have just received from M. De la Fayette a Letter, containing the Paragraph, a Copy of which I enclose praying your Excellency to cast an Eye on it. If you should not disapprove the Proposition it contains in favour of my Grandson, I am willing he should embrace this Opportunity of improving himself, in seeing the excellent Discipline of the Armies of France, hoping he will thereby be render’d more capable of serving his Country & our Common Cause. With the greatest Respect, I am ever, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant.
B. Franklin
M. le Comte de Vergennes.


Title: Certificate for a Georgia Lieutenant, [31 August 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[August 31, 1779]
I do hereby certify whom it may concern, that to my Knowledge M. —— was a Lieutenant in the —— Regiment of Georgia in the Service of the United States of America, and had a regular Commission of the Congress appointing him to that Office, which I understand he lost when he was unfortunately taken by the English. Esteeming him a young Gentleman of Merit, I willingly give him this Certificate, to serve as there may be Occasion. At Passy, this thirty first Day of August, 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, [31 August 1779]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Doctor
Tuesday morning [August 31, 1779]
I hope you wille excuse me if I do not accept of your good offer and go along with you to the Société de Médecine but I have so many thïngs to do before to morrow that I go to the academy that I have thought it best to stay here the afternoon but I hope nevertheless you will do us the honour to come and take a dish of tea with us at your return and we shall have a game or two at chess and I will endeavour if possible not to play so fast and with so little circonspection.

Addressed: M Le Dr Franklin


Title: Franklin and Madame Helvétius: An Exchange through Cabanis, [August or September 1779?]
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Helvétius, Anne-Catherine de Ligniville d’Autricourt
To:

Since the following two letters are undated, we can do no more than guess that they might answer each other and belong to the early stage of friendship during which the Doctor and the widow corresponded rather coyly through her permanent house guest and secretary, Pierre-Jean-Georges Cabanis. Franklin’s message is addressed to him; the lady’s answer, if such it is, is in his hand. This could place both documents in 1779, more precisely in the summer because of the “nuits claires” mentioned in II. The allusion in I to the “4 Mesdames Helvétius” must be an inside joke; Mme Helvétius had two married daughters, and her granddaughters were in their infancy.

I.
A Passy, Dimanche matin. [August or September, 1779?]
M. Franklin étant levé, lavé, rasé, peigné, beautifié à son mieux, tout habillé& sur le point de sortir, avec sa tête pleine des 4 Mesdames Helvétius, & des doux Baisers qu’il propose de leur dérober, est bien mortifié de trouver la Possibilité de cette Félicité remise à Dimanche prochain. Il prendra autant qu’il peut de Patience, espérant de voir une de ces Dames chez M. de Chaumont le Mercredi. Il sera là à bonne heure, pour la voir entrer avec cette Grace & cette Dignité qui l’ont tant charmé il y a sept Semaines dans le même lieu. Il projette même de l’arrêter là& de la retenir chez lui pour la vie. Les trois autres restantes à l’Auteuil peuvent suffire pour les Serins & les Abbés.

Addressed: A [deleted: Madame] Monsieur / Monsieur Cabbanis / chez Made Helvétius / à Auteuil

II.
[August or September, 1779?]
L’aimable lettre que vous mavez Ecrite, mon cher ami, m’a fait sentir encor plus vivement le Regret de n’avoir pu Dîner avec vous mercredy. J’esperais qu’après m’avoir dit de si jolies choses sur le papier, vous viendrez m’en dire de vive voix: je suis bien piquée d’avoir trop esperé; car je vous avoue que j’aime beaucoup les jolies choses, et surtout celles qui me viennent de vous. J’aurai aujourdhuy de vos nouvelles, et je compte qu’on ne m’en donnera que de bonnes de votre douleur D’Epaule. Mais à propos qu’avez-vous fait à cette Epaule? Si C’êtait par hazard un Rhumatisme gagné sous Les fénétres de quelqu’une de mes Rivales, où vous êtes bien assès jeune pour aller passer Les belles nuits Claires à jouer de La guittare & à soufler dans vos doigts! Songez y bien, je ne vous plaindrais gueres. En tout Cas Ce sera une bonne Leçon pour vous; et je vois mieux tous Les jours combien la jeunesse Legere et inconsidérée en a besoin. Ce qui me Rassure, c’est que Mr. votre fils veille sur vôtre Conduite: et je vous recommande de suivre ses avis.
Adieu, Mon ami, je vous embrasse tendrement, et je vous desire beaucoup.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 1 September 1779
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

To Dr F
Sept 1. 1779
Yours of August 20th recd. I entirely agree with you in all the Sentiments of humanity wch you express & shall always most heartily concur with you in every endeavour to lessen the Miseries attending the State of war. I will to the best of my power recommend your propositions respecting the most facile & expeditious method of releasing prisoners of war, & when I get any final answer from government here I will transmitt it to you.— I had heard the report wch you mention of Capt. Cunningham but as I now find that he is sent to Plymouth in the common state with the other prisoners I conclude that the report has no real foundation. I will take care to make known the circumstance of his having acted under a Commission together with his conduct towards the prisoners wch he has taken himself. In general I can only say that from the Conversations that I have had with the Commissioners of Sick & Hurt, that I see no reason to expect any thing like butchery in Cold blood.— There is an officer whom I do not personally know Capt Joseph Tathwell of his My’s sloop the Swift. I am desired by the board of Sick & Hurt to apply to you upon his account. I understand that he entered into a Parole at Philadelphia to negotiate the exchange of himself & his Crew against Capt. Harris & his Crew. When he came to England he found Capt. Harris exchanged & the Crew taking their turns in Exchange so as to defeat all possible completion of the intended specific bargain viz Capt Tathwell & Crew against Capt Harris & Crew. The request therefore wch I have to transmitt to you is that Captain Tathwell under these circumstances may be considered by you as discharged from his Parole. I have nothing farther yet in commission respecting the English & french prisoners.
I am &c
DH:


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Lee, 1 September 1779
From: Lee, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
Frankfort Sept. 1st. 1779.
I have not had the Honor of receiving any Letter from you for some time past, & as by your last Letter in June you seem’d desirous of declining to make any farther application to the Ministers of his Most Christian Majesty for the Arms, Artillery & Ammunition on account of the State of Virginia, as I requested the favor of you to do in March last; I presume those articles have not been obtain’d: I am now therefore to desire that you will decline taking any farther steps in that business in consequence of my application.
I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect and Consideration Sir Your most Obedient and Most Humble Servant
W: Lee
Honorable Benjamin Franklin Esqr.


Title: Franklin and Chaumont to Dumas, 2 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Chaumont
To: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric

Passi ce 2 7bre. 1779.
Du 2. 7bre. 1779
Notte pour Monsieur Dumas agent du Congres des etats unis d’amerique et pour Luy Seul:
Je prie Monsieur Dumas de Se Rendre incessament a amsterdam pour Rendre tous les Services qui pouront dependre de luy a unne Escadre Sous Le Commandement de M. Jones portant pavillon americain qui doit Se Rendre au texel.
Les Vx. qui Composent Cette Escadre Sont
Il est essentiel que M. Dumas Exige des Commandans de Ces vaisseaux La plus grande Circonspection pour ne pas offenser Les hollandois et ne donner Sujet a aucune plainte.
Si Cette Escadre a Bezoing de quelques Rafraichissemens ou Secours, M. Dumas voudra bien S’adresser a M. Jean de Neuville pour les procurer.
Aussitost L’arrivée de la ditte Escadre Je prie M. Dumas de m’en prevenir pour que Je prenne Les Mezures Necessaires pour envoyer aux américains Les Secours dont ils peuvent avoir Bezoing; Sans quil puisse estre question d’aucun objet qui puisse mettre les hollandois en Contradiction avec les Menagements qu’ils Croyent devoir observer avec les anglais.
Leray de Chaumont.Approuvé, B Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbé Nolin, 2 September 1779
From: Nolin, abbé ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A Versailles le 2 7bre. [1779]
J’ai reçu il y à trois semaines une Lettre de Mr. Gérard avec un cathalogue de Plants quil m’envoyoit. La datte de sa Lettre est du 3 décembre 1778. Le 26 Juillet dernier J’ai recu une autre Lettre avec des cathalogues d’arbres et graines, la datte de cette derniere Lettre est de Philadelphie le 28 mars 1779.
Ces deux Lettres m’ont été Envoyées des Bureaux de Mr. le Cte. de Vergennes. Comme il n’est point fait mention dans les Lettres de M. Gérard du nom des Vaisseaux par lesquels il ma fait les envois, je n’ai fait que des démarches Inutiles pour en avoir des nouvelles, on na pu me dire chez M. de Vergennes par quels Vaisseaux sont arrivées ces deux Lettres.
Je recois dans le moment une autre Lettre de M. Gérard dattée de Philadelphie le 6 Juillet 1779 par laquelle il me marque quil a fait charger sur le navire le Victorieux Capitaine Sapet, des caisses de Plants. C’est la premiere fois quil m’a annoncé le nom du capitaine chargé de ses Envois. M. de Renneval ma assuré que personne ne pouvoit mieux que vous me faire Instruire par vos Bureaux dans quels Ports les Navires americains arrivent.
Si ce n’est pas abuser de votre complaisance Je Vous serois Infiniment obligé de Vouloir bien en faire donner la notte à la Personne qui aura l’honneur de vous remettre ma Lettre. Il y a tout à Craindre que les Plants annoncés ne soyent perdus si on tarde à les reclamer.
J’ai déja payé 2168 l.t. pour les Envois qu’on ma fait d’Amérique et Je n’en ai reçu que deux fort médiocres que le hazard m’a procuré. Dans des temps plus tranquiles nous serons plus heureux.
J’ai L’honneur d’Etre avec Respect de Votre Excellence Le trés humble & trés obéissant serviteur
L’abbé NOLINDirecteur gal des pepinieres du Royau Roule. fg st. honoré

Notation: L’abbé Nolin Versailles 2. 7bre.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Smith, 2 September 1779
From: Smith, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Nantes Sepre: 2nd: 1779
I take the Liberty to trouble you with a few Lines, which hope you’ll excuse, on seeing the immediate Necessity of my writing—
I embark’d from Philada: for France & was unfortunately taken, haveing at the same Time with me a Sum, in Loan Interest Bills drawn on the Commissioners for the Thirteen United States of America at Paris, which was oblidg’d to destroy, they being the first Bills of the setts—
Since my Arrival here I’m inform’d of a Ship from Philada: called the Mary & Elizabeth being taken with her Mail and carried to Lisbon, have great Reason to believe that I had Letters with either the 2nd, 3rd: or 4th: Bills inclosed to me on board the said Vessell—
Should those People be so dishonest as to present any of these Bills, it must be under a false signature, as I do here declare to you, that I have not as yet, receiv’d any of the remaining setts, & must beg of you if any of said Bills have been already presented & accepted, to stop the payment, but if none of them have yet appear’d, not to accept them when they do without advice from me, as those Bills are made payable to me by indorsement from Messrs: Wikoff, Turnbull & Compy. & when I shall receive any of the setts of the said Bills, shall send them forward for your acceptance with a Letter of advice—
If you would please to favour me with an Answer to this Letter by the next Post, it will greatly contribute to the releif of a distress’d mind, & am Sir, with the utmost Respect your most Obedt: & very humb servt
Saml Smith
The Honourabl: Benjamin Franklin

Notation: Ansd 8 Sept


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy, [3 September 1779]
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Mon bon papa,
ce vendredi matin [September 3, 1779]
J’ai appris hiér au soir que mr votre fils alloit bientost partir et qu’il étoit aide de camp de mr de la fayétte; ils sont faits l’un et l’autre pour se distinguér et il est juste que votre enfant aille déffendre la libérté que votre sagésse a procuré a l’amérique; mais je vous plains mon bon papa, il en couttera a votre áme d’estre séparé de votre aimable fils dont les soins vous sont utils, et dont l’ésprit vous amuse; si la quallité de votre fille que vous m’avés accordée avéc tant de grace peut me donnér quelques droits pour vous distraire et vous consollér; vous sçavés que mon coeur est tout a vous:/:
Si je ne partois de trés bonne heure pour allér voir ma mére, et réstér avéc elle jusqu’a mardi au soir; j’aurois été prendre le thé aujourd’hui avéc vous; j’espere que vous viendrés mércredi de bonne heure le prendre chés moi; c’est toujours un nouveau plaisir pour moi de passér quelques instants avéc vous:/:
Recevés les respécts de vos petites filles:/:

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / [In another hand:] A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand: Receipt, 3 September 1779
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris le 3 septembre 1779.
J’ai recu de Monsieur Franklin ministre plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de l’amerique Deux mille soixante Livres un sols sept deniers
Grand
L 2060.1.7 l.t.

Endorsed: Mr. Grand’s Receipt


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Roger Luscombe, 3 September 1779
From: Luscombe, Roger
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honour’d Sir/
Angers September 3d. 1779
I hope you will excuse the Liberty I have taken in sending you those few unpolish’d lines, but as you are the only Person, of Power in France that is appointed by the Independant States of North America, it prompts me to apply to you for your Assistance in getting to America, for I am at present a Prisoner in France, and know of no other method of getting there without applying to you, as I beleive it is in your Power to have me releasd and get me a Passage to America; My reasons for going there are this, My only Friend that I have any Dependance on is a Commander in the Independant Army, which is Major General Horatio Gates my own Cousin he allways promised to get me a Surgeons Birth in the Army, but since the Disturbances betwixt America and England I have never heard from him, but am Confident if I were in America that he would do every thing in his Power for me; I should have been with him long before this time but it was not in my power so hope for the honour he has done the Independant States that you will give me your Assistance in geting to America with him, and your Petitioner will ever pray for you and take it as the greatest favour that can be conferd on your most Humble Servt. at Command.
Roger Luscombe
at Angers in the Province of Anjou

Addressed: For / Alexander Frankling Esqr. / Plenipotentary / for the Independant States / of North America / at Passy near Paris
Notation: Roger Luscombe Angers Sept. 3. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Cradock Taylor, 3 September 1779
From: Taylor, Cradock
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Aix in Provance Septr. 3th. 1779
I hope your Excellency will excuse my troubling you with this letter as I think it a favourable Oppertunity of Convincing you that I am no Imposture. Mr. Gregoire (a Merchant of this City who I am perfectly well acquainted with) will do me the Service to acquaint your Excellency that he has always Understood me to be an American & that he has likewise been Informd by the Officers of the Ship I was taken that I was betraed into the British Service. I hope by this time Mr. Frazer has Informed you who I am & that your Excellency will procure me my Liberty which Shall ever be Acknowledged as an Obbligation confered on your Excellencies Most Obbligd. & Obedient Humbl. Sert.
Cradock Taylor

P.S. Mr. Gregoire has favoured me with the cariage of this letter as he has Businiss at Parris

Addressed: To / His Excellency Benjmn. Franklin / Esqr. Plenipotentiary to the / United States of America / Parris
Notation: Cradock Taylor


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François Bordot, 4 September 1779
From: Bordot, François
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honorable Sir,
Rochelle, septr: 4. 1779.
Yesterday evening the frigate Diligente, belonging to Count DEstaing’s fleet, arriv’d in St. Martins Roads, with Express Dispatches from that Admiral. The Captain, Mr. Duchilo, came a Shore at 6 o’clock, told the Governor and Commissary he brought material and welcome News, Recommended to them an English Prisoner of great Distinction he had on board, and took Post immediately for Versailles.
I have the honor to be with all due Respect, Honorable Sir, Your most obedient and humble servt.
F Bordot

Notation: Bordot La Rochelle 4e. 7bre. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 4 September 1779
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir
Saty. morng 4 Septr. 1779
I have risqued two letters to you very lately, and having an oppertunity by private conveyance I repeat to you the substance of them. Mr. Peters’s affair has been settled to His wish as you will see by his inclosd Letter. I am rather surprisd that my bill forwarded the 9th July had not appeard on the 20th Augt.— but suppose it is at the Bankers unknown to you. There was every care and attention paid to Capt Cu——m immediately on its being known He was in England; He was wrote to three or four times with offers of service but by means of his being shifted about, I fear some of the letters did not reach him, & he might think himself neglected. He was movd from F——th by strong solicitation to P——h among the rest, but during the late alarm, I heard they were movd inland— I hourly expect a line in anr. to mine pointing out what necessarys he may want, & you may be assurd they shall be freely & carefully given him.
You will by this time have read that Capt Hutchins was taken up last Sunday at a frds. house nr. Leatherhead, his papers all seizd, has had three or four close examinations as to accomplices, & himself a close prisoner in New Prison Clerkenwell. His accusation is treasonable correspondencies with Dr. Franklin Mr S. Wharton & other Americans— A Mr. Beasley & a Mr Bundy are said to be his accomplices— it appears the former has been a carrier for him, & it looks as if he had betrayd H——s.
Since these examinations others have been taken up & their papers seizd & examind, particularly a Miss Stafford, and a Clerk of Mr Neaves who it is said lately came from Paris; all Neaves books and papers have been searchd, & they seem to be going onto the seizure of all papers of Persons who appear by the above correspondencies to have any connexion or intercourse with the partys, so that every person may suffer whose names have been imprudently used. Two friends of S W in Wimpole and Marybon street may have their papers searchd, from meerly having their names (I mean the former) imprudently mentiond in these correspondencies; which I suppose will turn out to be a meer friendly correspondence between Cap H and Mr W as Countrymen; for in these times I cannot suppose any person imprudent enough to enter into politics, or by mentioning the sailing of fleets, movements of armys, or panickes given at the apprehension of invasion, thereby be supposd to be given information.
I understand Capt H. gives himself up as a lost man & desponds very much of being acquitted, He being in the service & in all likelyhood to be tryd by Court martial. It is said He has confessd to every thing that gives the least appearance upon paper against him—not unlikely from his little acquaintance in these matters and a natural timidity he may have acknowleged too much, & thereby helped his own condemnation. By every accot his examination & papers have not led to that depth of information & the convicting others, that His prosecutors seem to be aiming to obtain. A little blood may be wanting to stop the popular clamour against our Leaders and turn the public conversation from the present gloomy state of affairs in this once great & flourishing Country. It may be necessary for you to give immediate information of this to W, to whom a letter directed in the usual way has no chance whatever of reaching him. I should be very glad to know a proper person at ostend to direct to, and it woud be useful to have your proper address when I inclose to Monr. Grand. From the situation of the two grand fleets (wch. are now said to be both within sight of St. Helens) a grand naval combat may be hourly expected, & the Empire of the Sea decided in favor of one or the other. It is a critical hour for us Englishmen. If there is not a material rumpus or convulsion to prevent it, I will write you by a friend via Holland in a very few days. I am very truly & sincerely Yours
V.J. Bertrand

Endorsed: Sept. 4
Notations in different hands: V.J. Bertrand Ostende 4. 7bre. 1779. / Messieurs fr. Romberg & Comp. a Ostende


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Rudolph Erich Raspe, 4 September 1779
From: Raspe, Rudolph Erich
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honourd Sir
London. Sept. 4. 1779.
Since my last of July 27. which I hope came to Your Excellency’s hands I have been ever more convinced that the publick as well as my own privat affairs grow worse and worse from day to day and as I am to speak only of my own concerns I beg leave to tell Your Excellency that a foreign Nobleman has almost accomplished my ruin. He engaged me by the fairest promises and words to be very liberal with my time to him ever since November last, nay he prevailed on me even so far as to go with him on a five months Tour through the Kingdom. His external appearance and recommendations gave weight to the fairness of his professions, when I told him I was accountable to myself for my time and that I had Scarce any thing to depend upon in this Kingdom but the well earned fruits of my honest industry. But alas! I have trusted to his honour with too much facility, since at our return to Town he has so much underrated and so illiberally taxed my time, my labour and my losses, that I am reduced to the utmost difficulties and that to recover my losses I have no prospect but the visionary hopes of a Law Suit.
Therefore I most humbly beseech Your Excellency to save me from utter ruin and to grant me Your influence and protection on any side of the Sea it may be in Your power usefully to employ my Literary abilities.
I could wish to have some support in France for a couple of months in order to make some enquiries at the Royal Library that bid fair to prove acceptable to the learned; and thence to pass over to America under Your auspices to be employed there in the education of young Gentlemen or in any other branch of business my abilities and circumstances will point out to me or to those, who will please to be my Protectors and Benefactors on Your account; and in consequence of my faithfull attachment, which in particular is Sacred and devoted to Your Virtues by Your Excellency’s most obedient humble distressed Servt.
R E Raspe.

Addressed: Monsieur / Monsieur B F—— / Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 4 September 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Vlles. le 4. 7br. 1779.
M. l’ambassadeur de Suède, M, vient de m’addresser le mémoire ci-joint; le seul usage que je puisse faire de cette piéce, c’est de vous la renvoyer, afin que vous puissiez prendre sur son contenu le parti que la justice et la prudence vous suggéreront.
M Franklin