Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jan Ingenhousz, 28 January 1783
From: Ingenhousz, Jan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Friend
Vienna 28 Jan. 1783.
As I expected every day to hear that peace was actualy made, I postponed to write to you, fearing to interrupt your attention now engaged in more whighty affaires than the Content of my lettres. I hope you have put the wire inclosed in my last to the test in a phial filled with fine dephlogisticated air. If you have, I am Sure you will have been pleased with the experiment. I burn’d some days ago a watch-spring in a large jarr filled with dephlogisticated air. The appearance was magnificent and inspired some terror in som of the bystanders, tho there is not the least danger in it, if you leave open the orifice of the jarr, or, which is still better, if the jarr has the bottom taken away: a lock for an air pump having an open neck instead of a nob is the best, for a common jarr must be unavoidably broken by the melted metal falling down upon the bottom, at which it Stiks, and which therefore must breake, tho there was water kept in it at the hight of two inches. I dare say you will be equaly delighted to see a small piece of Phosphorus burn in a jarr filled with very fine dephlogisticated air in the way described in my book. You will dowbt, whether even the sun it self has more splendour than the Smoak issuing from it. The piece must be only of this sice for [if] it is a thick piece, the conflagration is too quick, and the flame too large, and the jarr will be broken. A cylindrical piece of phosphorus as thick as a common quill must be divided in four at least. There is in my german book, I sent you, a figure of a small iron or brass leadel fixed to a long wire for this purpose. The orifice of the jarr for this experiment must be open or loosely stopt during the experiment.
I am very sorry that Dr. le Begue keeps my M.S. without putting them to the press. I propos’d him to get the assistance of some other gentleman, as for inst Mr. Le Roy, if he should be sick, out of town or taken up by his own occupations. But he promish’d me to doe himself what he could for me, and yet I recieve not a single sheet of the impression, which vexes me a great deal. If you could rouse Mr. le Begue out of his inaction on this head you would oblige me. You will highly oblige me to Grant me leave to dedicate this work to you, that it may be a publick and lasting testimony of a long an uninterrupted friendship between us, and so honorable for me. Thus both my books will be stamped with two very respectfull names, which my [may] conduct mine with more security to posterior ages, and prevent it being lost within the crowd of contemporary and futur philosophers.
Ten or twelf sheets are allready printed of a dutch translation of this very book printed on fine paper and with a very fine tipe. But I Stopt the progress of this edition till the original Frensh one is come out. It is now a year since the German translation is printed. If my old Gracious Imper. Mistress was still alive this business should induce me to ask her leave to goe to Paris on purpose to forward the edition as I did with my book on vegetables; but I am afrayed of meting now with a narrow minded answer, and can not bear those disdainfull frowns, of which the great soul of M. T. was incapable of. If Mr. Wharton had acted as I had a right to exspect, my fortune would have inspired me with my former republican principels; and made me act with a manly resolution.
The Composition of the Self-lighting candels was sent from the inventor mr. Paybla of Turin half a year ago to the Emperour, and delivred to me. I made them immediately and gave more than ten dozain to the Emperour.
I recieved yesterday a very civil lettre from the great Duc of Russia written by his own hand, thanking me for the Copy of the German translation of the book now to be printed at Paris, and requesting me a copy of the french edition allso. This very distinguish’d honour makes me wish so much the more, that mr Le Begue would forward the book. He will certainly find one or other bookseller how [who] will undertake it under the Condition of giving me 160 copies, which I want for distributing among my numerous friends I have scattered through Europe. They were very ready to undertake it in Holland upon this Condition.
I have heard of a machine for raising water by means of a rope, but have as yet no idea of it. I should be obliged to you if you could, as you are so good as to propose me, send me a description of it.
This moment I am interrupted by a visite of one mr. Waltravers F.R.S. a swish [Swiss] gentleman, who has been here several month for a law suit. He has often strongly pressed me to give you his best respects, which I forgot to doe. Now he begs from me to put you in mind of what he wrote to you about his circumstances, which are indeed very distressing. He wants even common necessaries, unable to pay a very homely lodging, and to redeem his cloath watch, ring &c, which are seized for payement, his law suit having turn’d out conntrary to his wishes. He looks out for a shelter on what ever condition it may be. I have a long while employed my good offices to get him in some or other family of rang, where he Could be employed in writing Copying, being a compagnon or a kind of tutor to children &c: but his age seems to obstruct my endeavours, and his wants are to great for my own pecuniary habilities, as to afford him a material relief. He beggs with the strongest expressions that you should look over his lettres and consider whether you could help him in Som or other way in America. Common charity does not admit of refusing this service to a man in such distress. As I never before this time knew him, you will be a better judge than I, whether his dismal condition, in an advanced age, has been the effect of former irregularities and imprudencies, or of unavoidable misfortunes.
I told you in my last, that in your case I should reather exspect a good effect from moderate exercise of body and keeping up the Cutaneous perspiration by softening the skin by a tepid bath used now and than, than by such medecines from whose manifest power some effect could seem to be exspected in remooving or prevening the fits of gravel and gout. For all the powerfull remedies, which have been employed doe hurt the stomach too often; and the want of propre digestion may hurt you more materialy than a fit of those diseases, by which fits a long intervall is commonly obtained. A rigourous diet would probably have the same effect as heroic medicines, it would weaken the constitution at your age. A milk diet and abstaining from animal food, would suit a young man and keep him cool. It would tend only to keep you low, and very probably have very little material effect, if at all, on remooving the disease. I publish’d in Latin Some years ago a dissertation on curing the gout, gravel &c. which I translated from Dr. Hulme, in which is recommended Water or any other liquor impregnated with fixed air either by means of mr. Parker’s Machine or by putting togeather two equal quantities of water, in one of which is melted som salt of tartar in the other are put as many drops of spirit of vitriol as by a previous experiment is found necessary to saturate the quantity of salt of tarter adhibited. The two liquors being put togeather quietely, the fixed air extricated by the meeting of the acid and alkaly remains thus almost all mixed with the liquor, which is than immediately fit for use. It has done indeed much good in some and can doe no harm. Mr. Nairn, to home I adresed it, found no benefit from it. I believe I gave you a copy of it. The titel is Nova tuta facilisque methodus curandi calculum, podagram destruendi vermes &c. … it is a pamphlet in small octavo. Upon the whole I shoud advise you not to thrust too much to the common officiousness of Physicians in your Condition, and believe, that more mischieve is to be apprehended by doying to much than by doying too little. This is still the advise, which I give you as a friend, who has so much sincere attachement for your person, as to expose him self to being looked by you as not knowing enough of the matter by not recommending you boasted medecines. May you be preserved, by kind Nature, still a great many years for the benefit of your Country, philosophy and mankind!
I have allready a good deal of sollicitations of men of the first rang to be introduced to you by me, when you will fulfill my ardent wishes to see you here.
But what bad omen gives us that procrastination of making a peace. With what pride and insolence England, after openly declaring the unjustice of the attack on my Country, can refuse to restore the town of Trinconomale on Seilon? This is an open declaration of their intention of turning by the first oportunity the Duch out of the whole Island. I hope they will not submit to Such an indignity. A year more of war can’t doe but good tho our republic. It will oblige them to restore their navy so shamefully negleted and to overturn the English party. The English here give now openly fore, that the Declaring America independent is a very sound political stroke to crush Frensh; for, say they, the Americans having obtained what they wanted will renew their commerce with old England, and England no more at any expense in America, will now fall upon france with all that tremendous power they have now on foot. Thus they look now on the Americans as on a nation as ungenerous to their protectors as the English have been to the Americans how allways had assisted them in their quarels. I wonnder all Europe is not revolted at the genious of such a haughty people.

If you have recieved some more German American news papers. I have not yet recieved the American Almanack. Has count Mercy forgot it?
If you can give me any thing news, pray doe not forget your old friend.
I hope you will find time to compleat your remarks on the furnus acapnus or fire place without smoak. I prepare a very powerfull Electrical machine with two plats of 2 feet diameter, and will make some decisive Experiments. I have now a good deal of notes on various subjects taken from your correspondence which the public may be instructed, but when I will have put them in order I will send you the m.s.
I am with as much due respect as sincere friendship your affectionate
J. Ingen Housz
Pray either burn this lettre or strik out he [the] lines opposit the Barr.

Endorsed: Dr. Ingenhouse Vienna 28th Jany. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Sargent, 28 January 1783
From: Sargent, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
London 28 Jany. 1783—
Mr. Charettier, the Bearer hereof, who had the Honour of paying His respects to You two Years agoe being about to set for Paris again, in a few Hours, to give an account of a Trust He hath executed for that Court, as Commissary for Their Prisoners of War, with great Credit, I beg Leave to recommend Him to Your Favour, & Protection, as a very honest deserving Man—
The Time is short, and will not allow me to say more than to congratulate You once more on the Peace, & the great Things Providence hath made You a principal Instrument of effecting, —which I do most sincerely,—and to convey to You the most affectionate Regards of my Wife,—old Mrs. Chambers, who still hopes to see You again,—My Sons,—& all our Family—
I say nothing of our Politicks, knowing You are like to be acquainted with Them thro’ a surer Channell; by which You will learn, We are the same unhappy ill Governed, distracted Nation—
May all Happiness attend You, and a better Disposition take place with Us!
Favour me with a Line, when You have a few Minutes to throw away, & be assured I am with the sincerest Esteem, & affection Dear Sir Your devoted Friend & Servant
J Sargent.
Dr. Franklin Paris—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 28 January 1783
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir.
Nantes Jan. 28. 1783.
As It is proper for every prudent Man to know on what Ground he proceeds before he engages too far, and as now we have a general Peace there can no longer be a Reason for keeping the Terms of it Secret, I beg you will kindly resolve the following Questions.
1 Does the Prohibition of English Goods in America cease, on Britains ceasing to be an Enemy?
If you cannot inform this positively, does it not appear probable it will be so, as that prohibition was the declared Consequence of the War?
2 May Tobacco already imported into France go to England, as it does to other Powers without any infringment of the Treaty, in short, will Tobacco be received there?
I have 800 hhds Tobacco on Sale, & I have some Vessells which propose to go to Liverpool & take Crockery Ware from thence to America, you therefore see the importance of these Questions & I trust you will answer me decisively excusing the Freedom.
My Father joins in the most respectfull Affection I am as ever most dutifully Your affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams J

As there will be vessells now soon going hence to England I can get a passage for the few Prisoners remaining here if by treaty you are obliged to send them home, if not I will let them go as they can.

Notations: Jonath. Williams Nantes Jany. 28 1783 / [In William Temple Franklin’s hand:] Ansd by WTF.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Barclay, 29 January 1783
From: Barclay, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
L’Orient 29 Januy. 1783
I had the Honour of receiving the Letter which your Excellency was so kind as to Write me the 21st. instant and I very heartily and sincerely Congratulate you on your having seen such Important Events take place as the Independence of America, and General Peace of Europe.
There are now in this port several American Vessels ready to push to Sea, and if there is nothing improper in the application, I woud be very glad that Passports from the British Minister cou’d be obtaind to permit them to Sail without delay. It is of much consequence to the owners, as the Seamen are shipped upon the terms usually allow’d in time of War, and an other reason I have to wish to see them get away is, that all of them have Public supplies onboard.— If those supplies can be got to Philadelphia before the Shipments from England &c get there, Mr. Morris will be enabled if he chuses to Sell them, to raise a very considerable sum from them.
I am not clear as to the practicability of procuring such Passports, but as I am told they will be granted to the French Ships I hope you will excuse my mentioning it.
I have the Honour to be very respectfully Sir Your Most Obt. Most Huml servt.
Thos Barclay

The Vessels here are,
The Ship St. James,        Alexr. Cain Master
          ″      Heer Adams  . . . . .  . Collins
          ″      America . . . .   Robt. Caldwell
          ″      Washington    Jams. Josiah
And at Nantes,
  The Ship Prince of Liege Isaac All

  His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.
Notation: T. Barclay L’Orient 9 June 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 29 January 1783
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr Sir
Paris 29 Jany 1783
Two Days ago I requested the favor of Mr. W. Franklin to mention to you the Case of Mr. Johnsons Bills, and to inform me whether it would be convenient to You to provide for their paymt. & when, in Case I accepted them. Mr Johnson is anxious to know my Determination, and offers to be the Bearer of this note—
I am Dr. Sir your obliged & obt Servt
J. Jay
His Exy Dr Franklin

Addressed: His Exy Dr. Franklin
Notation: Mr. Jay Paris Jany. 29. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Cooper Johonnot, 29 January 1783
From: Johonnot, Samuel Cooper
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Respected Sir
Geneva 29 Jan 1783.
Your kind Favour of the 7th Inst. came to hand safe the 16th.— Please to accept my sincere & hearty thanks for your good Advice, & the many Obligations I am under to so good a Benefactor, & permit me also, to congratulate You upon the Peace lately concluded, which gives me the greatest Joy as a Patriot & by the Hopes I have that it will ease You of a major Part of your laborious Occupations.
I am striving to merit if possible, another Prize which however will afford me less Contentment than the good Will You are pleas’d to profess for your most humble Servant
S. Cooper Johonnot
His Excellency Doctor Franklin.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsr le Docteur Franklin / Ministre plenipotentiare des Etats / unis de l’Amerique auprès de sa Ma/ jesté tres chretienne, / A Passy / pres Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles Pettit, 29 January 1783
From: Pettit, Charles
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Philadelphia 29th. Jany. 1783
Presuming on some Degree of personal Acquaintance and the Respect I have long entertained for your Character, I take the Liberty of recommending to your Notice my Son, Andrew Pettit, who will have the Honor to present this Letter. As a Citizen of the United States I doubt not he would receive your Countenance and Protection, and I flatter myself that neither his own Conduct nor the Circumstances of his Introduction will diminish his Claim to your favorable Notice and friendly Advice.
I have the Honor to be with perfect Respect, Sir Your most Obedient & most humble Servant
Chas. Pettit
His Excellency Dr. Franklin

Notation: Petitt 26 Janvr. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan and Samuel Vaughan, Jr., 29 January 1783
From: Vaughan, Benjamin,Vaughan, Samuel Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Wednesday morning, Jany. 29, 83.
Messrs: Vaughan have the honor to present their respects to Dr: Franklin. A prior engagement obliges them with the most extreme regret to decline the pleasure of waiting upon him on sunday, agreeable to his kind invitation.
Mr: Vaughan has the honor to inclose a list of some books sold by the same bookseller who furnished Mr V with the copy of the Politique Naturelle, the mention of which is omitted in the list. The two first pencil-marks upon the list stand opposite to two other works by the same author. The marks in the second page stand opposite to books which appear to relate to the subject of criminal laws, but which perhaps are not new to Dr. Franklin.— Mr Vaughan begs the favor to have his list returned at the Dr’s leisure.
Best regards attend Mr Franklin Junr:

Addressed: a son Excellence / Monsr Franklin, / Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats Unis de L[’amerique] / a Passy, / pres Paris.
Notation: Messrs. Vaughan Jany 29th. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Franklin Bache, 30 January 1783
From: Bache, Benjamin Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Grand Papa
Geneva 30 jan 1783.
I Reciv’d your Letter dated the 7 January the 18 of the same month. I wrote your Letter a little in a hurry because the night was coming on and that I wanted to put the letter to the Post office that made me forget the date but I will try to forget it no more.
I have not receiv’d the parsel of Books you mentioned me in your letter that you had sent to me. I shall mention when I receive them. I heard yesterday with a great deal of pleasure that the peace was made Because that gives me hopes of seeing you soon if you have not Changed your resolution of coming and Because that takes away a great part of your occupations.
Beleve me for ever your Most Dutiful and affectionate Grand son
B Franklin Bache

My Dear grand Papa Finding a watch a very necessary Instrument I beg you to permit Mr Marignac to procure me a good goden one. I schall have I peculiar care of it

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur Franklin / Ministre plenipotentiare des etats / unis de l’Amerique auprès de sa / Majesté très Chretiene / a Passy / pres Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Angélique-Michèle-Rosalie Jogues de Martinville Lafreté, 30 January 1783
From: Lafreté, Angélique-Michèle-Rosalie Jogues de Martinville
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris le 30. Janver. 1783.
Mr. et Madme. La Vicomtesse de la héréria prennent le plus grand intêrét, mon cher Docteur a Mr. De La barre, ancien Receveur des Tailles de Villefranche, qui vous remettra cette lettre. Il désireroit passer en amérique, honnoré de Votre protection. Vous nous obligeriéz infiniment si vous daignéz l’accorder a un homme honnête et malheureux. Je ne vous dis rien de ma santé qui est toujours languissante. Vous me feréz grand plaisir de venir me voir. Je n’ai pas de plus douce consolation que de voir mes amis et vous Savéz bien, mon cher Docteur, que vous êtes un de ceux à qui je suis le plus tendrement Attachée.
Martinville De La FRETÉ

Notation: La Freté Mde. De 30 Janr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de La Salle, [30 January 1783]
From: La Salle d’Offémont, Adrien-Nicolas-Piedefer, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

T∴ C∴ &∴ T∴ R∴ f∴
A L’O.∴ de Paris Ce 30e. j∴ du 11e. mois de L’an de V∴ L∴ 5782∴ [January 30, 1783]
La R∴ L∴ des IX Soeurs qui a eû L’avantage de vous avoir pour Son Vénerable, Enchantée d’une paix qui rendant Le repos au monde assurre l’indépendance de votre patrie qui doit bien vous nomer son père, Dèsireroit faire passer jusqu’à vous l’expression de Sa joyë. Elle a nomée une députation pour aller vous feliciter Sur cet heurreux évenement; & j’ai la faveur de vous prier en son nom de vouloir bien me marquer quel jour & a quelle heure Vos frères pourront vous porter ses voeux & Son homage.
J’ai la faveur d’être avec les sentiments fraternels que je vous dois comme maçon, avec l’admiration qu’inspirent La Sublimité de vos talents & la profondeur de vos lumieres & le respect dû au grand homme d’êtat & au bienfaiteur de l’humanité, T∴ C∴ &∴ T∴ R∴ F∴ Votre trés afectionné Serviteur & frere
Le Mis. De La SalleVble. de La L∴ des IX soeurs.
rue St. Rock près la rue poissonniers à Paris

Notation: Marquis de La Salle Paris 30 Novr. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chevalier de Meyronnet de Saint-Marc, 30 January 1783
From: Meyronnet de St. Marc, ——, chevalier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A Lisbonne ce 30 Janvier 1783
J’ai L’honneur de vous prevenir, que j’ai reçû il y a quelques jours une Lettre du Vice Consul de françe à L’Isle de Fayal; dans la qu’elle cet officier me donne Avis; qu’ayant reçû du Consul Anglois cinq Americains pris par le Corsaire la Hornett de Bristol Sur le Brigantin la Betsey de Boston. Il Les embarquera sur un des Vaisseaux qu’on expedie de Fayal pour L’Amerique Septentrionale; et qu’il m’addressera à lors la nôte de Ses Avances dont il demande le remboursement. Cet Officier juge, Monsieur, que la Depense de leur nourriture et de leur passage pourra Monter à vingt Monoiës D’or; ce qui revient apeupres à £600 Tournois. Je vous prie, Monsieur, de Vouloir bien donner des ordres ici pour le remboursement de cette Somme, qui Sera tirée sur moi par une Lettre de Change à vue.
Je Suis enchanté, Monsieur, d’avoir cette occasion de me rappeller dans vôtre Souvenir et de vous temoigner combien je Suis faché de n’etre plus à portée de vous exprimer tous les Sentiments d’estime dont je Suis penetré pour vous; comme je le faisois, Lorsque j’avais l’honneur de vous voir à Passy Chez feu Madame la Marquise de Boulanviliez, Chez M. le Comte D’Estaing et aux termes, Chez Mr. le Mis. de Gallifet.
Si je puis vous être de quelque utilité, Monsieur, dans ce Pays ici; je vous prie de me donner la prefference. Je Serois très flatté que vous me mettiez à portée de vous convaincre de mes Sentiments respectueux.

Je Suis avec respect Monsieur Vôtre tres humble & tres Obeissant Serviteur
LE CHEVALIER DE MEYRONNET DE St. MARCançien lieutenant des vaisseaux de royconsul general de françe en portugal

Notation: Meyronnet 30 Janvr. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chamber of Commerce of Aunis and Others Concerning the Selection of Free Ports, 31 January 1783
From: Chamber of Commerce of Aunis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Article 32 of the 1778 Franco-American Treaty of Amity and Commerce promised that the king of France would provide one or more free ports in Europe for American produce and merchandise. During the war all French ports were open to American ships, the choice of free ports being left until the peace. Once France reached peace terms with Britain, various French cities sought to influence the coming choice of free ports. The present letter extolling the advantages of La Rochelle is the first of many appeals sent to Franklin.
The municipal officers of Port Louis (across the bay from Lorient) begin their campaign with a letter of February 14. They have already spoken to Barclay and Moylan, and have addressed a petition to the marquis de Castries. On April 7 they send a three-page memoir on the commercial advantages of their city. Franklin also received, probably around this time, a copy of an undated memoir petitioning Louis XVI to make Port Louis a free port for trade with the United States. It is signed by the abbé Rugnebourg, député of the city.
On February 15 Mayor Etienne Lalanne writes on behalf of the municipal magistrates and city council of Bayonne, urging the advantages of their port and introducing a deputy named Galart, who is coming to Paris and would be pleased to speak with Franklin. Galart arrived by March 1, and finally obtained an interview with the American minister through the perseverance of their mutual friend Jean-Jacques Lafreté. Galart himself writes Franklin on April 10, recalling Franklin’s statement that American commerce will eventually settle upon whichever port proves to be the most convenient. Under present circumstances Bayonne will not be favored on account of the high duties and heavy regulations placed on it by the French government, which prevent the entry of goods destined for the Spanish interior. Making Bayonne a free port, the subject of the memoir he encloses, would open avenues of trade not available elsewhere. If his translator had not delayed, Franklin would have had it two days earlier.
In a memoir of February 25, chevalier Louis-Honoré Froger de La Rigaudière argues that nothing would be more advantageous to the United States than having a free port in the province of Saintonge, be it Marennes, La Tremblade, or the Ile d’Oleron. In a continuation dated March 8, the author urges Congress to name his brother as consul at Marennes; he will serve without pay. Froger undoubtedly added the second section after being assured by his friend Jean-Jacques Bachelier that the latter had obtained for him an audience with Franklin. On March 8 he also wrote a memoir addressed to Congress for Franklin to forward, the first part of which concerned free ports, the second part of which was a copy of what he had written about his brother. He had the memoir signed by Baron Anne-Léon de Montmorency, commandant general of Aunis, Saintonge, and Poitou. After meeting Franklin Froger made a summary of his arguments, adding that Franklin should recommend his petition to the court; he sent this “Extrait des deux mémoires présentés le 12 mars 1783 à Son Excellence Monsieur de Francklin” to Vergennes. On March 30, in a letter to Franklin, he explains that his recent silence was due to a terrible cold. Has Franklin yet given his March 12 memoir to Barclay to translate into English, and has he spoken with Vergennes? In a letter of April 8, written at Passy, he explains that he wants to see Franklin, who should know that the maréchal de Richelieu is interested in speaking to him as well. He is giving Franklin a map of Saintonge.
On February 26 the marquis de Luce-Seillans, reminding Franklin of their conversations in September, 1777, writes from Grasse extolling the advantages of Antibes and remarking that the consuls of the port had petitioned the French government on its behalf.
Writing from Paris on April 12, Perrot de Chezolles, director general of the Bureau royal de correspondance, reminds Franklin of his promise to support the application of La Ciotat (between Marseille and Toulon) and encloses a copy of a memoir on the subject addressed to the French naval ministry.
Finally, we take note of three undated memoirs. One, insisting that no port would be more convenient for the Americans than Lorient, was signed by the mayor of that city, Esnoul Deschatelets. The Chamber of Commerce of Montpellier proposes nearby Sète as a free port and urges the “Ameriquains Anglais” to take advantage of all the products the Languedoc has to offer. A five-page memoir in the hand of Francis Coffyn outlines the advantages of Dunkirk to the commerce of the kingdom.
The French government did not reach a final decision on free ports for another year. By an Arrêt du Conseil d’Etat du Roi of May 14, 1784, it selected Lorient, Bayonne, Dunkirk, Marseille, and St. Jean de Luz.

Monseigneur
La Rochelle le 31 Janvier 1783.
La paix qui met une fin glorieuse à la tâche importante dont vous étiés chargé, est une époque que nous croyons devoir saisir pour réclamer l’intérêt que nous avions déjà suplié Votre Excellence de nous accorder. Daignés permétre, Monseigneur, que nous remetions sous vos yeux notre Mémoire à l’effet d’obtenir que la Rochelle soit un des ports francs promis par le Roi aux Etats-unis de l’Amérique.
Si, comme nous l’en suplions de nouveau, Votre Excellence veut bien prendre en considération la situation de cette ville, l’émulation de ses habitans, la comodité & la sureté de ses Rades, la nature des productions de son sol, la proximité des manufactures propres à alimenter un commerce naissant, les liens de parenté dont nous rapellons les traces, nous ne craindrons point, Monseigneur, de fonder les plus grandes espérances dans votre crédit, ainsi que dans les vues d’utilité qui vous animent.
Nous sommes avec respect Monseigneur Vos très humbles & très obéissans serviteurs Les Directeur & Syndics de la Chambre de Commerce du Pays d’Aunis
Ranjard DirecteurLegrixGoguetJacq. GuibertB Goraudeau
Monseigneur de Francklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Brongniart, 31 January 1783
From: Brongniart, Alexandre-Théodore
To: Franklin, Benjamin

paris Rue St Marc. le 31 janvier 1783
M. Brongniart a L’honneur de presenter Son Respect a Monsieur franklin et Le prie de Lui faire Sçavoir Si on lui a remis Vendredi de L’autre Semaine, deux Nouvelles Epreuves de la Medaille, et entre autres Celle de la tete de la libertè.
Monsieur franklin oublie apparemment d’envoyer a Mr Brongniart Ce qu’il desire faire mettre au Bas de la Medaille de chaque Cotè, et Cela retient Le graveur qui desireroit terminer Cet ouvrage—

Notation: Brognart 31 Janvr. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Mathurin Roze de Chantoiseau, 31 January 1783
From: Roze de Chantoiseau, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur.
Ce 31. Janvier 1783.
Oserois-je vous offrir Le fruit de plusieurs années d’un travail assidu et reflechi, dont le resumé n’exige pas un quart d’heure de Lecture, et dont le resultat seroit d’operer, d’une maniere simple et peu dispendieuse, la Liquidation de la majeure partie des Dettes d’un Etat, Sans en alterer les fonds, et Sans en diminuer les revenus, ny en aggraver les charges.

Emprunter une somme quelconque a interêt, doubler les impots, ou en creer de nouveaux, n’est chose rare ny difficile; mais Eteindre Les interets et le Principal d’une somme quelconque Sans alterer Ses fonds actuels, Sans diminuer ses revenus, sans creer aucun Emprunt et Sans Etablir ny doubler aucun impot paroîtra Sans doute chose neuve, et digne, Si jose dire, d’un accueil favorable et des suffrages de Votre Excellence.
On Cherche depuis longtemps des moiens Simples et peu dispendieux pour Liquider tout ou Partie des Dettes d’un Etat Sans en diminuer les revenus ny en aggraver les charges. Le Ministere qui connoit combien il seroit interessant de trouver un objet aussi essentiel reçoit tous les Projets d’œconomie, de finances, d’aggriculture, et de Commerce qu’on lui propose, les examine, les discute, et paroit jusqu’a ce jour n’en n’avoir trouvé aucun qui dut etre adopté.
En Effet quand on a pesé et combiné tous ces differents sistêmes, et que l’on reflechit Sur les difficultés et l’immensité de tems qu’il faudroit Employer pour les mettre à execution avant de pouvoir en recueillir le fruit, on S’apperçoit qu’ils ne peuvent remedier pour L’instant aux besoins pressants d’un Etat; et dès lors on seroit tenté de regarder le mal comme desesperé et Sans remede si l’on n’offroit de demontrer qu’il en est un aussi prompt qu’efficace pour Subvenir a tous les besoins urgents des Citoyens par une operation Simple, facile, uniforme, et peu dispendieuse dont l’effet seroit de procurer a tous les Creanciers de L’Etat le moyen de se Liberer envers leurs creanciers et de mettre ceux cy a couvert des poursuites quils seroient dans le cas d’essuier en leurs transmettant pareillement les memes droits et facultés a legard de leurs creanciers personnels de maniere que les peines de Saisie et d’enprisonnement ne seroient pour ainsi dire plus desormais reservées qu’a l’inconduite ou a la mauvaise foi.
Ce Sisteme quelque Specieux qu’il paroisse par les avantages inestimables qu’il presente n’est pas une speculation Vague et denuée de fondements; Ce nest pas même un sisteme a proprement parler; C’est un moyen unique et certain de Simpliffier toutes les operations de finances et de reduire presque toutes les operations de Commerce a une Seule forme connüe, avoüée et generalement reçue qui en desobstruant les canaux de La circulation ouvre a jamais, a LEtat qui en fera Usage, une Source de richesse et Ecarte au loing tous les Funestes Effets de la fraude, du Vol, de la Surprise et de l’usure.
Tel est, Monsieur, Lobjet important que jai à proposer à Votre Excellence, et que je me fais fête de lui justifier dès qu’il lui plaira m’accorder un moment d’entretien particulier, et m’indiquer Le jour et Lheure qui lui seront les plus commodes.
Je Suis avec un tres profond respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
Roze DE CHANTOISEAUDirectr. du Beau. [Bureau] d’Indicationsgenerales des artiste celebresRue comtesse d’artois
A Monsieur francklin Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de L’Amerique.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 31 January 1783
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dearest Sir,
Paris, January 31, 1783.
When I had read over your sheets of minutes of the principal incidents of your life, recovered for you by your Quaker acquaintance; I told you I would send you a letter expressing my reasons why I thought it would be useful to complete and publish it as he desired. Various concerns have for some time past prevented this letter being written, and I do not know whether it was worth any expectation: happening to be at leisure however at present, I shall by writing at least interest and instruct myself; but as the terms I am inclined to use may tend to offend a person of your manners, I shall only tell you how I would address any other person, who was as good and as great as yourself, but less diffident. I would say to him, Sir, I solicit the history of your life from the following motives.
Your history is so remarkable, that if you do not give it, somebody else will certainly give it; and perhaps so as nearly to do as much harm, as your own management of the thing might do good.
It will moreover present a table of the internal circumstances of your country, which will very much tend to invite to it settlers of virtuous and manly minds. And considering the eagerness with which such information is sought by them, and the extent of your reputation, I do not know of a more efficacious advertisement than your Biography would give.
All that has happened to you is also connected with the detail of the manners and situation of a rising people; and in this respect I do not think that the writings of Cæsar and Tacitus can be more interesting to a true judge of human nature and society.

But these, Sir, are small reasons in my opinion, compared with the chance which your life will give for the forming of future great men; and in conjunction with your Art of Virtue, (which you design to publish) of improving the features of private character, and consequently of aiding all happiness both public and domestic.
The two works I allude to, Sir, will in particular give a noble rule and example of self-education. School and other education constantly proceed upon false principles, and shew a clumsy apparatus pointed at a false mark; but your apparatus is simple, and the mark a true one; and while parents and young persons are left destitute of other just means of estimating and becoming prepared for a reasonable course in life, your discovery that the thing is in many a man’s private power, will be invaluable!
Influence upon the private character late in life, is not only an influence late in life, but a weak influence. It is in youth that we plant our chief habits and prejudices; it is in youth that we take our party as to profession, pursuits, and matrimony. In youth therefore the turn is given; in youth the education even of the next generation is given; in youth the private and public character is determined; and the term of life extending but from youth to age, life ought to begin well from youth; and more especially before we take our party as to our principal objects.
But your Biography will not merely teach self-education, but the education of a wise man; and the wisest man will receive lights and improve his progress, by seeing detailed the conduct of another wise man. And why are weaker men to be deprived of such helps, when we see our race has been blundering on in the dark, almost without a guide in this particular, from the farthest trace of time. Shew then, Sir, how much is to be done, both to sons and fathers; and invite all wise men to become like yourself; and other men to become wise.
When we see how cruel statesmen and warriors can be to the humble race, and how absurd distinguished men can be to their acquaintance, it will be instructive to observe the instances multiply of pacific acquiescing manners; and to find how compatible it is to be great and domestic; enviable and yet good-humoured.
The little private incidents which you will also have to relate, will have considerable use, as we want above all things, rules of prudence in ordinary affairs; and it will be curious to see how you have acted in these. It will be so far a sort of key to life, and explain many things that all men ought to have once explained to them, to give them a chance of becoming wise by foresight.
The nearest thing to having experience of one’s own, is to have other people’s affairs brought before us in a shape that is interesting; this is sure to happen from your pen. Your affairs and management will have an air of simplicity or importance that will not fail to strike; and I am convinced you have conducted them with as much originality as if you had been conducting discussions in politics or philosophy; and what more worthy of experiments and system, (its importance and its errors considered) than human life!
Some men have been virtuous blindly, others have speculated fantastically, and others have been shrewd to bad purposes; but you, Sir, I am sure, will give under your hand, nothing but what is at the same moment, wise, practical, and good.
Your account of yourself (for I suppose the parallel I am drawing for Dr. Franklin, will hold not only in point of character but of private history), will shew that you are ashamed of no origin; a thing the more important, as you prove how little necessary all origin is to happiness, virtue, or greatness.
As no end likewise happens without a means, so we shall find, Sir, that even you yourself framed a plan by which you became considerable; but at the same time we may see that though the event is flattering, the means are as simple as wisdom could make them; that is depending upon nature, virtue, thought, and habit.
Another thing demonstrated will be the propriety of every man’s waiting for his time for appearing upon the stage of the world. Our sensations being very much fixed to the moment, we are apt to forget that more moments are to follow the first, and consequently that man should arrange his conduct so as to suit the whole of a life. Your attribution appears to have been applied to your life, and the passing moments of it have been enlivened with content and enjoyment, instead of being tormented with foolish impatience or regrets. Such a conduct is easy for those who make virtue and themselves their standard, and who try to keep themselves in countenance by examples of other truly great men, of whom patience is so often the characteristic.
Your Quaker correspondent, Sir, (for here again I will suppose the subject of my letter resembling Dr. Franklin,) praised your frugality, diligence, and temperance, which he considered as a pattern for all youth: but it is singular that he should have forgotten your modesty, and your disinterestedness, without which you never could have waited for your advancement, or found your situation in the mean time comfortable; which is a strong lesson to shew the poverty of glory, and the importance of regulating our minds.
If this correspondent had known the nature of your reputation as well as I do, he would have said; your former writings and measures would secure attention to your Biography, and Art of Virtue; and your Biography and Art of Virtue, in return, would secure attention to them. This is an advantage attendant upon a various character, and which brings all that belongs to it into greater play; and it is the more useful, as perhaps more persons are at a loss for the means of improving their minds and characters, than they are for the time or the inclination to do it.
But there is one concluding reflection, Sir, that will shew the use of your life as a mere piece of biography. This style of writing seems a little gone out of vogue, and yet it is a very useful one; and your specimen of it may be particularly serviceable, as it will make a subject of comparison with the lives of various public cut-throats and intriguers, and with absurd monastic self-tormentors, or vain literary triflers. If it encourages more writings of the same kind with your own, and induces more men to spend lives fit to be written; it will be worth all Plutarch’s Lives put together.

But being tired of figuring to myself a character of which every feature suits only one man in the world, without giving him the praise of it; I shall end my letter, my dear Dr. Franklin, with a personal application to your proper self.
I am earnestly desirous then, my dear Sir, that you should let the world into the traits of your genuine character, as civil broils may otherwise tend to disguise or traduce it. Considering your great age, the caution of your character, and your peculiar style of thinking, it is not likely that any one besides yourself can be sufficiently master of the facts of your life, or the intentions of your mind.
Besides all this, the immense revolution of the present period, will necessarily turn our attention towards the author of it; and when virtuous principles have been pretended in it, it will be highly important to shew that such have really influenced; and, as your own character will be the principal one to receive a scrutiny, it is proper (even for its effects upon your vast and rising country, as well as upon England and upon Europe), that it should stand respectable and eternal. For the furtherance of human happiness, I have always maintained that it is necessary to prove that man is not even at present a vicious and detestable animal; and still more to prove that good management may greatly amend him; and it is for much the same reason, that I am anxious to see the opinion established, that there are fair characters existing among the individuals of the race; for the moment that all men, without exception, shall be conceived abandoned, good people will cease efforts deemed to be hopeless, and perhaps think of taking their share in the scramble of life, or at least of making it comfortable principally for themselves.
Take then, my dear Sir, this work most speedily into hand: shew yourself good as you are good, temperate as you are temperate; and above all things, prove yourself as one who from your infancy have loved justice, liberty, and concord, in a way that has made it natural and consistent for you to have acted, as we have seen you act in the last seventeen years of your life. Let Englishmen be made not only to respect, but even to love you. When they think well of individuals in your native country, they will go nearer to thinking well of your country; and when your countrymen see themselves well thought of by Englishmen, they will go nearer to thinking well of England. Extend your views even further; do not stop at those who speak the English tongue, but after having settled so many points in nature and politics, think of bettering the whole race of men.
As I have not read any part of the life in question, but know only the character that lived it, I write somewhat at hazard. I am sure however, that the life, and the treatise I allude to (on the Art of Virtue), will necessarily fulfil the chief of my expectations; and still more so if you take up the measure of suiting these performances to the several views above stated. Should they even prove unsuccessful in all that a sanguine admirer of yours hopes from them, you will at least have framed pieces to interest the human mind; and whoever gives a feeling of pleasure that is innocent to man, has added so much to the fair side of a life otherwise too much darkened by anxiety, and too much injured by pain.
In the hope therefore that you will listen to the prayer addressed to you in this letter, I beg to subscribe myself, my dearest Sir, &c. &c.
Signed Benj. Vaughan.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Sr., 31 January 1783
From: Williams, Jonathan Sr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond sr
Nantes, Janry. 31, 1783
The bearer is the Honble. President Wheelock (in Company with his Brother) he is on a Benevolint Design & has the Best Recommendations, he wishes to Lay the Plan & his Credentials before you, for your Opinion or Advice.
I take the Liberty to Recommend the above Gentm. to your Civilities as strangers in your City, which will ad to the many Obligations all Ready Conferd On Your Dutyfull Nephew & Most Hbe Servant
Jona. Williams

Notation: Williams Jona. Nantes Jany. 31. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Antoinette-Cécile Clavel, dite Mademoiselle Saint-Huberti, and Christian Karl Hartmann, [before 1 February 1783]
From: Saint-Huberti, Antoinette-Cécile Clavel, “dite” Mlle,Hartmann, Christian Karl
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[before February 1, 1783]
Votre Excellence est invitée d’honorer de Sa présence le Concert des Amateurs qui Se donnera le 1er. février 1783, dans la Salle du Contrat Social, Rue Coqhéron de la part de Madelle. St. huberti et de Mr. hartman Directeur dudit Concert./.
Son Excellence voudra bien accepter les deux Billets d’Entrée ci-joints./.


Title: Franklin’s Passport for British Ships, 1 February 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Franklin, William Temple
To:

Exchanging ships’ passports was the first official act between the former belligerent nations, whose vessels needed protection until the news of the armistice was generally known, and whose merchants were anxious to race their cargo to newly opened ports. But were those ports truly open? Franklin maintained that until the Prohibitory Act was repealed by Parliament, America could not admit British manufactures. This, rather than the passports themselves, was the first substantive issue he discussed with Fitzherbert when the two met on January 24. Franklin told Fitzherbert that “an article for that purpose had been inserted in the project of preliminaries transmitted by himself and his colleagues, but that it had been left out in that which was brought back from England by Mr Strachey.” Fitzherbert replied that the article in question (Article 4 of the first draft treaty, which gave American merchants the same commercial privileges as their British counterparts, and vice versa) was so broad as to be applicable to all Britain’s trade laws, including the Navigation Act, “which, [Franklin] knew, could not be meddled with, Without the most serious and mature deliberation.” Fitzherbert recommended that the two countries agree to an article that confined itself “to such acts as had been passed on both sides on account of the war.” Franklin then mentioned that additional articles might have to be inserted into what would become the definitive treaty. The British negotiator was both alarmed and adamant that “no fresh matter was to be introduced on either side.” Unless, as Franklin urged, both sides should agree to it.
It appears that Fitzherbert called at Passy on the morning of February 1 and informed Franklin (as he would later that day inform Jay) that the British were prepared to issue passports for American merchantmen if the Americans would do likewise. Franklin, who was used to writing such documents, composed one immediately, adopting much of the language verbatim from the British passport that Fitzherbert must have shown him. He insisted, however, on inserting a clause restricting British ships from entering the United States.

When Fitzherbert returned to Paris, he informed Jay that Franklin was preparing passports in his own name as minister plenipotentiary. The two men agreed that the authority to issue the forms resided not with a minister to any particular court but rather with the commissioners authorized to negotiate peace. Jay immediately wrote to inform Adams. “Would it not be proper to apprize the Doctor of our Sentiments,” he concluded, “before the passports he is now making out shall be delivered?”
The following day, Adams summoned Franklin and Jay to a meeting at his house on February 3, at which passports would be discussed. Franklin obviously brought to that meeting the present document, as Adams wrote a notation on the verso and kept it among his papers. It was probably Adams, also, who was responsible for editing the manuscript; Franklin’s and Temple’s signatures were crossed out, and certain phrases that were disputed that morning were underlined. Chief among them was the restriction on British trade with America. In this, Franklin was overruled by his colleagues. The American commissioners’ passport adopted on February 3 is published below under that date.

The British passport reads as follows:
George the Third, by the Grace of God, King of Great Britain, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, Duke of Brunswick and Lunenburg, Arch-Treasurer and Prince Elector of the Holy Roman Empire, &ca. &c. &c.
To all our Admirals, Vice Admirals, Captains, Commanders of our Ships of War, or Privateers, Governors of our Forts and Castles, Customers, Comptrollers, Searchers, and to all and singular Our Officers, both Civil and Military, our Ministers and Subjects, whom it may concern, Greeting:
Our Will and Pleasure is, and We do hereby strictly charge and require you (as We do likewise pray and desire the Officers and Ministers of all Princes and States in Amity with Us) to permit and suffer the American Ship called the [blank] to sail with her Lading, or in Ballast, from the Port of [blank] or any other Port of America, to [blank] and to return from thence to [blank] or any other Port of America, without any Lett, Hindrance, or Molestation whatsoever; Provided that the said Ship do not carry any Goods or Merchandizes which are prohibited or contraband, or import from America into this Realm, or any other of his Majesty’s Dominions, or carry out from hence, any Goods prohibited by Law.
Given at our Court at St. James’s the [blank] day of [blank] 1783, in the twenty-third Year of our Reign.
By his Majesty’s Command,
Grantham

[February 1, 1783]
To all Captains or Commanders of Ships of War or Privateers, belonging to the United States of America, or Citizens of the same. Greeting.
We the Underwritten, Minister Plenipotentiary from the Congress of the said States to the Court of France, do hereby in their Name, strictly charge and require of you, as we do likewise pray and desire the officers and Ministers of all Princes and Powers in Amity with the said States, to permit & suffer the Merchant Vessel called the [blank] commanded by [blank] belonging to Great Britain to sail from any of the Ports thereof to any Port or Place whatsoever, except those of the said States in North America, together with the marchandize wherewith she may be laden, without any Let, Hindrance or Molestation whatsoever, but on the contrary affording, the said Vessel, all such Aid and Assistance as may be necessary. Given at Paris, this First Day of Feby 1783.
B Franklin

By Command of the Minister Plenipotentiary
W. T. Franklinsecy

Notation: Form of a Passport


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Martha Laurens, [before 2 February 1783]
From: Laurens, Martha
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hotel d’Yorcke. [before February 2, 1783]
Miss Laurens presents her respectful Compliments to his Excellency Doctor Franklin, & will be much obliged to him if he has any Letters directed for her, to send them by the Bearer of this Billet—

Addressed: His Excellency Dr Franklin / Passy—
Notation: Miss Laurens.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 2 February 1783
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris 2 Feb. 1783
Mr Adams having Something of Consequence to communicate to the American Ministers Plenipotentiary, for the Peace, requests the Honour of His Excellency Dr Franklin’s Attendance, with the other Ministers, at Mr Adams’s Lodgings, at Eleven O Clock Tomorrow Morning. The Points to be considered, are 1. Passports to be given to and received from the British Minister, for British and American Vessells, and 2d. Preparations for the Signature of the definitive Treaty. Both upon the Propositions of the British Minister Plenipotentiary.
Hotel du Roi. Feb. 2. 1783.

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats Unis de L’Amerique pour la Paix / en Son Hotel a Passy / Pres Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Michel-Alain Chartier de Lotbinière, 2 February 1783
From: Lotbinière, Michel-Alain Chartier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

      Monsieur
      paris, Rue de Bourgogne En face du palais Bourbonpetit hôtel de Lordat,Ce dimanche matin 2 fevrier 1783.

  Vous Etes trop Certain de l’intèrêt que j’ai pris dez le principe a la Cause des Etats-unis de l’amérique, pour pouvoir douter de la joye Extrême que j’ai ressenti En apprenant que vous Etiez Enfin reconnus indépendans par Ceux même qui vouloient vous Jetter dans les fers. Mais En même tems Je ne puis Cacher a Votre Excellence ma peine de ne vous pas voir le Canada unis Comme quatorziéme province, Et il Se pourroit que sous bien peu d’années vos Etats Eussent beaucoup a se repentir de n’avoir pas tenu plus fermement sur Cet article. Comme En Ce moment il n’est plus question que de retarder le mal qui En doit résulter autant qu’il vous Est possible, C’est a bien fixer vos limites Entre vous Et vos voisins que vous pouvez trouver quelque ressource Contre tout Ce que j’envisage pour l’avenir. J’entend dire sourdement que le 41e degré de latitude septentrionale doit faire la ligne de démarcation Entre vous Et Eux. Il ne me paroit pas possible que vous y Consentiez a moins que ce ne soit audelà des limites fixées pour chacune des provinces de new-york et de pensylvaine qui S’Etendoient jusqu’au 45e. degré sur le lac champlain Et la Riviere de Katarakoui [Cataraqui], Et de la bordoit (Si je ne me trompe) Cette Riviere, tout le lac ontario, Et une partie de Celui d’Erié auprès du portage de Niagara; autrement vous Consentiriez a Céder a Cette Couronne la partie la plus précieuse Et pour ainsi dire la plus peuplée de Vos Etats. D’ailleurs Vôtre Excellence sent trop de quelle Conséquence il Est a vos Etats de ne lui pas livrer la navigation Exclusive de toutes ces parties; Et la ligne desja tirée, En vous y tenant fixément Et formant des Etablissemens solides a ses bords, vous donne incontestablement la navigation Exclusive sur le lac Champlain, Et vous met dans le Cas de les gesner [gêner] au moins autant sur celle des grands lacs (ayant a vous la partie de Riviere intermédiaire) qu’ils le peuvent pour vous.— Un moment de conversation avec vous, Monsieur, ou Monsr. adams accompagné d’une bonne Carte de Ces parties, vous feroit sentir Mon idée beaucoup Mieux que je ne le puis dans une simple lettre. Mais a présent que le Canada est décidé rester à la grande Bretagne, Et que ma famille Et ses Biens y sont, pour ne la point Exposer a perdre immédiatement Et peut Etre a des accidens plus funestes Encore, Je me vois forcé de ne pouvoir Communiquer a découvert avec Vous Messieurs Car que ne peuvent-ils pas Surtout ce qui habite Ce pays, avec le Conseil legislatif qu’ils y ont Etablis?— S’il Etoit donc possible, ou a vous Monsieur, ou a Monsr. adams de vous porter jusqu’a ma demeure a heure Et jour Connu au moins Vingt quatre heures En avance, Je pourrois vous y Exposer toutes mes Craintes a vôtre sujet, Et le meilleur remede que j’y vois voulant prévenir pour un tems les accidens les plus grands.
J’ai Eu l’honneur a mon retour de l’Amérique, de remettre a Votre excellence les papiers pour mes seigneuries d’hocquart (en face de Crown-point &c.) Et d’allainville (qui Commence a une lieue de Crown-point et s’étend de Suite Jusqu’a l’Entrée du lac george, Comprenant ticonderoga) qui sont a présent mon unique appui, ne m’etant plus permis sans le risque le plus Certain, après tout Ce que J’ai fais pour vos Etats, de me replacer sous l’autorité Britannique. J’espere que vous aurez, dans le tems, fait valoir mes droits incontestables auprès du Congrès, Et que vous voudrez bien le faire aujourd’hui plus que jamais; puisque ma proscription, Et peut-etre sous peu Celle de Ma famille Entiere, ne vient uniquement que du vif intèrêt, Et des mouvemens multipliés Et Constans Jusques dans ces derniers momens, que je me suis donné pour le Succés de Votre Cause.
J’ai l’honneur d’Etre avec l’attachement le plus réel, Et Beaucoup de Respect Monsieur de Votre Excellence le tres humble Et tres obeissant serviteur
Lotbiniere

Notation: Lotbiniere 2 Fevr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Matthew Ridley, 2 February 1783
From: Ridley, Matthew
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Paris February 2d: 1783.
I take the Liberty inclosing you a power of Attorney executed by me & to beg you will affix a Certificate there to with your Seal annexed— I should not have given your Excellency this Trouble had not some difficulties been made by the Notary here as to the Form—
I would not pretend to dictate to you the form of a Certificate but wish if agreeable to you that it might run something in the following State.
“I do hereby Certify that the Signature to the annexed Power of Attorney is the proper hand Writing of Matthew Ridley a Subject of the United States of America & that all due faith & Credit ought to be given thereunto &ca.”
Any alterations or additions you may please to make will be perfectly agreeable to me— I have only to beg it may be returned by the Bearer as I am desirous of sending it away to night.
Mrs. Ridley joins me in respects & wishes to be informed that you enjoy good health. I have the Honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt & hble Sert
Matt: Ridley

Notation: Matt. Ridley Feby. 2 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 2 February 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Vlles. [Versailles] le 2 fevr. 1783
M le Cte. de Vergennes a l’honneur d’envoyer à Monsieur franklin deux exemplaires des articles preliminaires de paix convenus entre le Roi et le Roi de la Grande Bretagne.


Title: The American Peace Commissioners: Passport for British Ships, [3 February 1783]
From: American Peace Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John,Jay, John,Laurens, Henry
To:

[February 3, 1783]
We John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and John Jay, three of the Ministers Plenipotentiary of the United States of America for making Peace with Great Britain.
To all Captains or Commanders of Ships of War, Privateers or armed Vessels belonging to the said States, or to either of them, or to any of the Citizens of the same, And to all others whom these Presents may concern send Greeting.
Whereas Peace and Amity are agreed upon between the said United States and his Britannic Majesty, & a Suspension of Hostilities to take place at different Periods in different Places hath also been agreed upon by their respective Plenipotentiaries. And Whereas it hath been further agreed by the said Plenipotentiaries, to exchange one hundred Passports for Merchant Vessels. To the End that such as shall be provided with them shall be exempted from Capture, altho’ found in Latitudes at a time prior to the taking place of the said Suspension of Hostilities therein. Now Therefore Know Ye, that free Passport, Licence and Permission is hereby given to the [blank] Commander now lying at the Port of [blank] and bound from thence to [blank]
And we do earnestly enjoin upon and recommend to You to let and suffer the said Vessel to pass unmolested to her destined Port, and if need be, to afford her all such Succour and Aid as Circumstances and Humanity may require.
Given under our Hands and Seals at Paris on the [blank] day of [blank] in the Year of our Lord 1783.
Passport to Ships given by the Commisios. for making PeaceCopy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 3 February 1783
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond: Sir
Philadelphia Febry 3d, 1783
Permit me to introduce to your Acquaintance & Civilities, Mr. Petitt, Son of my Friend Mr Charles Petitt of this place; I believe him to be a young Gentleman of merit, and as such beg leave to recommend him to your Notice & Esteem— Sally & the Children are well, I am ever Dear Sir Yours affectionately
Rich Bache
Dr. Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency / Dr. Franklin / at / Passy / Favored by Mr. Pettit


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Fizeaux, Grand & Cie., 3 February 1783
From: Fizeaux, Grand & Cie.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Amsterdam le 3 de fevrier 1783.
Conformément á la lettre que vous nous avéz fait l’honneur de nous écrire le 23 du mois dernier, nous avons acquité la traitte de M. Morris Sur nous de L2458.10. & Suivant vos ordres nous nous en remboursons par la nôtre Sur vous Monsieur de 820 écus, á 20 jours de date, á nôtre ordre.
Nous en créditons le Compte des Etats unis au che. [change] de 54 5/16 en B f. 1113.8.— Veuillés l’accepter.
Nous avons l’honneur d’être avec un Respectueux dévouement, Monsieur, Vos trés humbles trés obeissans Serviteurs
FIZEAUX Grand Comp
S. E. Monsieur Franklin, à Passi.

Notation: Fizeaux Grand & Co. Amsterdam 3 Fevrier 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Loyseau, 3 February 1783
From: Loyseau, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Le 3 fevrier 1783.
La Revolution de L’amerique etant heureusement achevée, il est permis de penser aux objets du commerce qu’il est dorenavant possible de faire avec elle. Je m’interesse Beaucoup a une Manufacture d’acier etablie a 20 lieues de paris, elle opére par cementation pour parvenir a La conversion du fer de Suede en acier. Elle veut S’ouvrir un débouché en amerique, elle peut quant a present en fournir plus de 300 milliers. Les interessés a cette manufacture dans le nombre desquels je Suis, desirent Savoir S’ils trouveroient a vendre cet acier en L’envoyant en amerique et comment on Le leur payeroit; ils prendroient, a defaut d’argent des objets d’echange en amerique, mais qu’ils pussent esperer de vendre ici avec quelqu’avantage. Voulés vous, Monsieur, me fournir quelques Renseignemens Sur ce point de vue. L’on pourroit faire une fourniture chaqu’année de 3, 4 5 ou Six cent Milliers et meme davantage. La Maniere de traiter Sera aussi Loyale qu’on pourra le desirer.
Je Suis avec Respect Monsieur votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
Loyseauavocat au parlement Rue Ste. anne
L’acier est aussi bon que celui d’angletere.

Notation: Loyseau 3 Fevr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 4 February 1783
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear friend
London feb 4 1783
As I enclose this in the same cover as one from my Brother, his letter anticipates every thing that I have to say to you at present. I beg leave to join in the recommendation to you of Mr Joshua Grigby who with the Spirit of Youth & activity wishes to see the new world. I hope the future intercommunication between this Country and America will obliterate temporary animosities & restore the antient harmony & connexion. I heartily rejoice to see & hear of the public tokens of an approaching pacification. Whenever I shall see the general proclamation for a suspension of hostilities between all the belligerent parties my heart will be at rest. We are encouraged to expect such a proclamation in this Country very speedily. Every future view of my life upon this subject will be to cultivate conciliatory principles between our two Countries, in the reciprocity of common interests & common affections. Believe me to be a friend to the rights of Mankind and of all those who are friends to them; & therefore ever Most sincerely and most affectionately Yours
G B
To Dr. Franklin &c &c &c


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comtesse d’Houdetot, 4 February 1783
From: Houdetot, Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Mardy 4. fevrier 1783.
Madame La Comtesse D’houdetot Se Conformera aux intentions De Monsieur franklin avec Le Regret De le Voir huit jours plus tard. Elle Espere qu’il n’a point oublié qu’il Luy a promis De Luy faire L’honneur de Venir Entendre De la Musique Chez Elle De jeudy prochain En huit treize de Ce Mois. Elle aura Soin De prevenir Mr. De St. Lambert pour Le Mercredy douze; Elle prie Monsieur franklin De Vouloir Bien agreer Ses plus tendres Complimens.

Notation: La Ctesse. d’Houdetot


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Brossière, 5 February 1783
From: Brossière, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
L’orient le 5. fevrier 1783.
Mille pardons si Je prens la liberté de vous détourner un instant de vos immenses occupations; mais la Circonstance dans laquelle Je me trouve, demande un éclaircissement qu’on m’a assuré que vous pouviés me donner. Voici le fait.
Une certaine Demoiselle, nommée Desbois, originaire de cette Province, est venû demeurer dans cette Ville; elle y est entré, y vit Et n’est connuë que Sous le nom de Madame Loch. Ce Monsieur Loch qu’on dit né à Block-island dans l’amerique Septentrionnale, fut pris en 1780. Conduit, comme prisonnier de guerre, dans la Ville de Dinan, Et ayant manqué à sa parole d’honneur, fut mis au Chateau de Nantes: ayant eu Son échange, il partit pour l’angleterre, la dlle. Desbois, dont il avoit fait la Connoissance pendant qu’il étoit à Dinan, le suivit à Londres Et elle y a demeuré près de deux années. Revenuë en france Sous le nom de Madame Loch, il est à présumer qu’elle S’est mariée en angleterre avec ce monsieur. Il Se presente aujourd’hui un établissement, elle veut l’accepter. Dans les renseignemens que j’ai pû prendre Sur sa qualité de femme, elle m’assure qu’elle ne l’est point Et que, quoiqu’elle porte le nom de M. Loch, elle n’est point mariée avec lui, Et que ledit Sieur Loch est lui même depuis long tems marié Et qu’il a Sa femme Et un enfant à Nantuchest. Je lui en ai demandé la preuve; elle n’a pû me la fournir; mais elle m’a dit que je pouvois m’adresser à vous, Monsieur, Et que vous me donneriés un certificat qui constateroit le vrai mariage du sr. Loch, Et l’existence actuelle de sa femme. Si le récit de cette personne est vrai, Et que vous daigniés, Monsieur, me certifier que ledit Sieur Loch etoit marié avant d’etre fait prisonnier de guerre environ 1780, Et que Sa même femme éxiste encore, tout est fini, les difficultés Sont levées Et rien ne m’empêcheroit de procéder au mariage qu’elle desire contracter dans cette Ville. Je vous Supplie donc Monsieur, de vouloir bien me dire ce que vous en pensés; votre Sentiment fera la regle de ma conduite.
J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec un respect infini Monsieur Votre très humble Et très obeissant serviteur
BrossiereRecteur de l’Eglise Royale de L’orient

Notation: Brossiere 5. Fevr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Campo-de-Arbe, 5 February 1783
From: Campo-de-Arbe, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
paris 5 fevrier 1783
Le temoignage que je me rends au fond de mon Cœur, de n’avoir aucun reproche a me faire pandant le tems que j’ai eü L’honneur de vous appartenir, tant a l’egard de la probité, que de mon zéle a chercher en tout, les occasions de vous plaire, et de vous Servir utilement; me fait esperér, Monsieur, que vous voudrés bien m’honorer de vôtre protection pres des personnes de votre connaissance, et me permétre de vous Saluer;
Je prie M. de lamotte de vouloir bien me faire connaitre vos intentions, et dans tous les cas, quelque chose que vous determiniez pour moi, je me rendrois promptement a vos ordres.
J’ai lhonneur d’etre avec un profond respet Monsieur votre tres humble et tres obeisant Serviteur
CAMPO-DE-ARBE

Endorsed: Campo d’Arbe


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Alleyne Fitzherbert, [5 February? 1783]
From: Fitzherbert, Alleyne
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris Wednesday afternoon. [February 5, 1783?]
Mr. Fitz-Herbert presents his Compliments to Dr Franklin and many Thanks for the passports.— He purposes sending away a Messenger to England tomorrow about noon and will be happy to charge him with any letters or packets which Dr Franklin may have to send.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from George Walker, 5 February 1783
From: Walker, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
Calais 5th February 1783.
I did myself the honour of writing to you in the beginning of December to request your advice and assistance. Mr. Laurens, whom I saw on his return from Paris, told me I was not to wonder at your silence, for that your time was so taken up with matters of State, that your private friends must excuse you, nor impute to a seeming inattention to them, what arose solely from a multiplicity of publick business. I can easily conceive such a situation, and should therefore have been unwilling to have repeated the same trouble so soon, if Mr. Laurens had not recommended it to me to apply to you again.
Since my first application, the suspense, whether peace or war, is decided, and peace is to take place. Allow me to congratulate you on the happy issue of your negotiation: it will be the task of the historian to record your praise; it is the part of the humble friend to admire and be silent.
Mr. Oswald passed thorough this place on his return. Entire strangers as we were to each other, I could not resist an impulse I felt to introduce myself to him. I wished to know what was intended to be done by England for the planters of Barbadoes, whose ruin begun by the late ministry, had been compleated by the hurricane. Mr. Oswald was very civil, blamed where I blamed, and entered into a good deal of conversation with me: but I found no redress of a publick nature was thought of, not even an act of insolvency upon liberal principles. However he had no doubt of success in an application to my creditors for liberty and a moderate allowance. I had already vested all my property in trustees for those purposes. He even offered to undertake the necessary solicitations himself. It was an offer not to be declined, although all former efforts of the sort have been ineffectual: neither have I much hopes from this new attempt. Indeed my favourite wish is to be put into some decent way of earning a livelihood; you know me and can judge wherein I may be useful to myself or others.
I remain, Dear Sir, Your most obedient humble servant
George Walker.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael, 6 February 1783
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Madrid 6th Feby. 1783
Altho Mr Jays acquaintance with Mr Gardoqui, who will have the honor to deliver this to your Excy. Might excuse me from taking the present Liberty, yet I cannot refuse this Gentlemans request to be the bearer of a Line from myself to your Excy; His friendly conduct to me intitles him to every mark of Consideration in my power to shew him & I hope to the many proofs of regard which You have had the goodness to manifest in my favor you will add of convincing Mr Gardoqui that you still interest yourself in what Concerns one who has the honor to be With the greatest Respect & Affection Your Excys Obliged & Humble Sert
Wm. Carmichael
His Excy Benjamin Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Frédéric-Samuel Ostervald, 6 February 1783
From: Ostervald, Frédéric-Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Neuchâtel en Suisse le 6. fevrier 1783.
Puisje me flatter que Votre Excellence Se rappellera encore, l’hommage respectueux, qu’eut l’honneur de lui rendre, il y a pres de deux ans un homme de Lettres, directeur de la Société Typographique de neuchâtel en suisse, en sollicitant humblement Sa puissante protection, dans la vue de faire connoitre cet établissement, chès les Etats unis de l’amerique Septentrionale? Je pris alors la liberté de Lui présenter le plan génèral qui dirige notre travail en ce genre. Elle daigna me donner quelques espérances de pouvoir le rendre utile aux peuples dont les plus précieux interrests lui ont été confiés à si juste titre, lors que la paix leur auroit rendû la tranquilité, fruit nécessaire de leurs soins généreux. J’ose donc Saisir aujourdhui cette heureuse èpoque, pour lui rappeller ces faits interressants avec une legére esquisse de ce même établissement.
Votre Excellence sait que tous les premiers typographes étoient gens de Lettres, & il eut été sans doute à Souhaiter que l’exercice de ce bel art ne fut jamais Sorti de leurs mains. Nous avons entrepris, mes associés & moi, de fonder & de diriger une imprimerie considérable, pour l’utilité de ceux qui font le commerce de livres en nous attachant à ne produire que des éditions propres & correctes & en leur cédant à des prix très modiques, & même ordinairement à un sol argent de france la fueille tous frais compris, les fruits de nos travaux, ensorte qu’il est de l’interrest de tous les Libraires de tirer de nous, comme de la premiere main. Mais nous ne nous bornons pas à la simple exècution typographique, nous cherchons de plus à augmenter de quelque mérite les ouvrages qui occuppent nos presses, lors que l’occasion s’en présente. Nous savons que Votre Excellence a bien voulû acquérir un Exemplaire de nos Descriptions des Arts 40. lequel lui a été fourni par Mr. l’abbé Morrelet qui nous honnore de ses bontés & Elle aura pû juger par cette production, de la maniere dont nous travaillons. C’est même dans le dessein de lui en donner une idée plus complette que je prends la liberté de lui en prèsenter ici le Tableau géneral, qui fera connoitre en même temps à quel point se trouve aujourdhui poussèe de notre part cette utile entreprise, si propre à rèpandre les connoissances les plus interressantes, chès les peuples de l’Amérique unie.
Je ne dois point omettre un avantage qui nous est acquis dans le lieu de notre domicile & dont Vôtre Excellence connoit le prix mieux que personne. C’est une honnête & raisonnable libertè de la presse, qui sans jamais dègènérer en licence, nous permet de publier bien des ouvrages qui quoi que n’offensant rien de tout ce qui doit étre respectè ne pourroient pas s’imprimer dans le royaume de France. Nous avons enfin, toutes les facilitès nécessaires pour le transport de nos marchandises & notre correspondance s’etend aujourdhui à tous les principaux pays de l’Europe.
Je prends donc la libertè de Supplier, Votre Excellence de vouloir me faire èprouver aujourdhui ses bontès en daignant prendre ma Typographie Sous ses auspices, en la faisant connoitre aux Libraires des principales villes de l’Amérique unie & les engageant à m’accorder leur confiance. L’usage de la langue Françoise ne pourra que s’ètendre de plus en plus dans ces heureuses contrèes, à qui nous fournirons avec plaisir & à un prix bien infèrieur, tout ce que la Littèrature Nationale produira de mieux, & jaurai l’honneur de présenter à Votre Excellence, si Elle me le permet, le catalogue de tous les livres que nous sommes à même de céder actuellement.
Tels Sont les dètails dans lesquels l’accueil flatteur dont il a plût à Votre Excellence de me favoriser, sembloit m’inviter d’entrer, mais que la discretion me deffend de prolonger. Je ne pourrai cependant point finir sans lui offrir mon très humble compliment Sur l’heureux Sucès qui vient de couronner ses travaux patriotiques en lui assurant & comme philosophe & comme nègotiateur, un double titre à l’immortalité.
J’ai l’honneur d’être avec un tres profond respect Monsieur De Votre Excellence Le très humble & trèz obéissant serviteur
Le Banneret D’OSTERVALD

Notation: Le Banneret Portewalez 6 Janvr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 6 February 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Versailles le 6. fevrier 1783.
Daprès la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire, Monsieur, le 25. Janvier dernier, j’ai pris définitivement les ordres du Roi touchant le nouveau prêt d’argent que le Congrès des Etats-Unis de l’Amérique Septentrionale, Sollicite des bontés de Sa Majesté; Elle a bien voulu le fixer à Six millions de livres payables dans le Cours de la présente année; J’ai fait dresser en conséquence le projet d’articles d’un nouveau Contrat à passer pour cet objet, à l’instar de celui que nous Signâmes le 16. Juillet de l’année derniere pour les précédentes avances fournies par Sa Majesté au Congrès; J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer ci-joint les articles projettés; Par le premier le Roi veut bien prêter au Congrès Six millions de livres, payables à raison de Cinq cent mille livres par chacun des douze mois de la présente année, à charge de remboursement de cette avance au Trésor Royal à Paris, avec les intérêts à Cinq pour cent par an.
L’article 2e. récapitule les precédens Secours fournis par Sa Majesté au Congrès, et les divise Selon leurs differentes Classes.
Le 3e. fixe les termes de remboursement des Six millions au Trésor Royal.
Vous verrez, Monsieur, que le premier terme est combiné sur la derniere époque de remboursement de l’emprunt de hollande, Stipulé par la Convention du 16. Juillet 1782.
Par l’article 4e. le Roi veut bien faire don et remise au Congrès, des intérêts partiels du Capital à payer, et fixe le terme où les intérêts subséquents commenceront à courir.
Les articles 5e. et 6e. ne contiennent que les Stipulations d’usage.
Je vous prie, Monsieur, d’examiner ce projet et de me communiquer les observations que vous pouvez avoir à y faire, afin de mettre ensuite le Contrat Sous la forme qu’il éxige et que vous connoissez déja par celui de l’année derniere.
J’ai l’honneur d’être très parfaitement, Monsieur, votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur.
De Vergennes
M. franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Christoph Diedrich Arnold Delius, 7 February 1783
From: Delius, Christoph Diedrich Arnold
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir!
Bremen the 7 feber 1783
I am established in this City near 20 Years and carry on Business for my own proper Account particularly in the Linnen Trade & other Manufactories & Merchandizes for Exportation, especially the produces of the Dominions of His Majesty the King of Prussia and with some tolerable good Success. These different Kind of Goods were formerly sold to the English Men and by them exported for America: however this Trade is greatly diminished & almost totally lost by the long duration of the present War, which was undertaken & carried on by the said 13 United Provinces in order to obtain freedom and independency, in which at last they have gloriously succeeded and Preliminaries of Peace have actually been signed, in which Your Exellency’s unremitted zeal & Patriotism had a great Share.
For many Years past I have wished to get in direct Connexions with the 13 united States of America in order to establish a mutual Trade equally beneficial to both parties: about 2 Years ago I had the pleasure to get acquainted at Amsterdam with Mr Nathan Blodget of Boston, by whom I was recommended to Mr Smith of that place who both encouraged my Plan of sending a Cargo of Goods to Boston, as Your Exellency will find by the inclosed Original Letter of Mr Smith.
Before the Preliminaries of Peace were signed I had already resolved in Conjunction of my Friends Mr. Heyman & Mr. Talla, both Merchants of this place, to set out a Ship of about 400 Tons upon the Plan of the aforesaid Mr. Blodget, which actually has been executed & she is loaded with Linnen, Manufactured & other goods: but as that time the Præliminaries of Peace were not yet signed, we resolved not only that our Friend & Copartner Mr. Heymann should apply to His Prussian Majesty for leave & to permit the Ship sailing under Prussian Coulours, which was not only granted, but at the same time we received the necessary Passport, of which I have the Honour to present to Your Exellency inclosed a Copy; but also to direct the said Ship first to the Isle of St. Thomas and there it was to be regulated & settled whether she should go to Boston or Philadelphia, because in consequence of the said Passport & other Circumstances we did not dare venture to go directly to the Continent.
But now as the Præliminaries of Peace between England and the 13 free & United States of America are signed, we could indeed directly sail for the Continent, but the Ship beeing already loaden and a few Goods must be left at St. Thomas, we can not make any Alteration in the Plan.
In order not only to sell the present Cargo of Goods & take in Exchange the Products of the 13 united States, but also to examine whether it would not be possible to establish for the future a Treaty of Commerces or make such regulations that either we in particular or our City in general should & might enjoy all such Beneficia & Emolumenta as have been and are to be granted to other Powers, I am resolved to make the voyage to America as Supercargo with the aforesaid Ship, which is called the 3 Friends & comanded by Captain Havinghorst.
However as we are for Want of Acquaintances and Connextions in that part of the World afraid, that great Difficulties may arise or some obstructions may be put in our way, I find it not only necessary to acquaint Your Exellency of our intended Plan, but humbly beseech You at the same Time To grant me a Letter of Recomendation to the President of the Congress or Regency of the 13 united free & independent States, That they would graciously be pleased to take me, my Ship & Cargo under their particular protection & that if any Beneficia or Emolumenta, which are granted to other Powers should or might be thought Necessary, that they may be granted to me as also to give all possible assistance to establish a Trade equally Beneficial to both Parties.
I beg at last most humbly Your Exellency that You’ll favour me with a Resolution and answer accompanied with such Letter of Recomendation I have prayed for, & to deliver the Same as soon as possible to the Bearers Messrs. Laval & Wilfelsheim who will take care to forward it to me as fast as possible, for we intend to set sail in abt 16 Days at farthest.
Having the Honour to subscribe myself Your Exellency’s most humble & most obedient Servt.
Arnold DeliusMercht

P.S We believe to make it possible if we are honoured with a Letter of Recomendation from Your Exellency, to direct the Cours of our Ship & loading aforesaid to Philadelphia & beg Your Exellency’s advice upon this Subject whether it can be done with Safety.
To His Exellency Benjamin Francklin Esq. Ambassador of the 13 United States of America. at the Court of France.

Notation: Delius 7 Fevr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 7 February 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 7. fever. 1783.
Jai l’honneur, Monsieur, de vous envoyer copie d’une lettre que je viens de recevoir de M. le Mis. de Castries.
Vous y verrez la maniére indécente dont le Capitaine smith s’est conduit envers quatre officiers distingués des troupes du Roi qui s’etoient embarqués sur son bâtiment pour repasser en france, et les exactions par lesquelles il a terminé ses procédés injurieux et violents à leur égard.
Je Suis bien persuadé que vous serez aussi indigné que nous le sommes nous-mêmes de cette conduite du Capne. smith, et que vous employerez volontiers l’autorité dont vous êtes revêtu pour rendre justice à nos Officiers, et pour punir ceux du Corsaire américain Le Général Gaveret, qui se sont réunis avec leur Capne. pour les maltraiter.
J’ai l’honneur d’être trés-sincérement, Monsieur, votre très humble et très-obéissant serviteur./.
De Vergennes
M. francklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Wright, 7 February 1783
From: Wright, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Friend
London 7th. of 2nd month 1783
I take the liberty to inclose a letter from my ffrd Charles Eddy late of Philadelphia but now of Dublin respecting which I doubt not thy doing what shall be proper & expedient and if his request appears so to thee thou wilt be so kind to Comply therewith.
I congratulate thee on the peace which I hope will be permanent & mutually beneficial to both Countries and that we shall have the pleasure of seeing thee here wherein I promise myself great satisfaction.
I understand my ffrd David Barclay wrote thee on the Subject of Tim Matlocks affair & recd. an agreable answer. I could not entertain a doubt of the justice of Your government in the business.

I shall esteem a letter from thee a favour & hearing of thy welfare always affords me pleasure being with great Esteem Thy very Respectful Frd
John Wright

A ship from Massachusets bay or Rather from Nantucket is arrived in the Thames & reported at the Customhouse— The first ffrdly 13 stripes may she be the forerunner of thousands

Addressed: Doctr Benjamin Franklin / Minister Plenepotentiary / From the Congress / of the United States of America / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Lotbinière, 8 February 1783
From: Lotbinière, Michel-Alain Chartier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
paris, petit hôtel de Lordat Rue de BourgogneCe samedi matin 8 fevrier 1783.
J’ai Eu l’honneur de vous faire Compliment dernierement Sur la signature des préliminaires de la paix, sans savoir Encore Ce qui Concernoit particulierement vos Etats. Je vis le tout hier dans le Courrier de l’Europe, Et suis tres satisfait des limites que vous avez fixé Entre vous et Vos voisins Bretons; ils sont par Ce moyen beaucoup moins En Etat de Vous nuire, que vous a Eux.
J’ai pris au même tems la liberté de rappeller a Votre Excellence le souvenir de mes deux seigneuries a la tête du lac Champlain (allainville, Et hocquart); de la promesse que vous me fites a mon retour du Continent de l’amérique, En 1777, que vous recommanderiez le plus particulierement Cette affaire au Congrès, En lui faisant passer Copie des papiers que j’eus l’honneur de Vous remettre alors; Et J’Espère, ayant pris date de si longue main, que la Chose doit desja avoir Eté déterminée intèrieurement, beaucoup avant les derniers arrangements, de maniere a me louer de la justice Complette que me doivent vos Etats a Cette occasion Et Conformément a mes titres Et aux traités qui m’assuroient la pleine propriété de Ces biens, pour En jouir a perpétuité de la maniere dont j’en avois joui Et du jouir avant. J’ose vous réitérer ma priere a ce sujet, regardant Ces seigneuries Comme mon appui unique Et le lieu de mon azile a venir. J’en ai prévenu dez longtems, Et tout recemment encore M. le Comte de Vergennes, qui, je l’espere, aura pû vous En toucher desja quelques mots.—
J’ai l’honneur d’Etre avec beaucoup de Respect Monsieur de Vôtre Excellence le très humble Et tres obeissant serviteur
Lotbiniere

Notation: Lotbiniere 8 Fevr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ingraham & Bromfield, 10 February 1783
From: Ingraham & Bromfield
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Bordeaux February 10th: 1783.
The Letter which we have the Honor to enclose reach’d us Yesterday under a Cover dated so long ago as last October.
We proffit of this Opportunity to mention that we have here a Ship which will be ready to sail for New England in a few Days & beg Leave to ask whether a particular Passport will be necessary for Security against Capture, or whether any Act of the Commissioners will give sufficient Protection without one. If the first be the Case we must be oblig’d to trouble you for the Papers requisite & shall esteem ourselves greatly indebted for them by the earliest Opportunity.
We have the Honor to be With great Respect Sir, Your most obedient Humble Servants
Ingraham & Bromfield
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Benjamin Franklin / Minister des Etats unis / d’Amerique / á / Passy.
Notation: Ingraham & Bromfield Bordeaux February 10th. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, 10 February 1783
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

De Paris ce lundy 10 Fevrier 1783
J’ai lhonneur de vous renvoyer mon Illustre Docteur La lettre de mon beau Père et le projet de rèponse que j’y ai fait tant bien que mal car Je suis bien loin d’y avoir fait parler comme je le désirois, et comme Il le feroit lui même, Le Libérateur de L’Amérique; mais enfin je vous l’envoye telle qu’elle est. Si je n’avois été un profane J’aurois éte vous demender à dîner avec Le détachement de La Loge des neuf Soeurs que vous traitez aujourdhui à ce que m’a dit M. De La Lande qui a bien voulu Se charger de cette lettre. Adieu Mon Illustre Docteur vous savez combien Je vous suis passionnément attaché pour la vie
Le Roy

[On a separate sheet:]
J’ai reçu Monsieur La lettre que vous m’avez fait L’honneur de m’écrire au Sujet de la paix et Je suis fort Sensible à tout ce que vous me marquez de flatteur à cette Occasion. Je ne puis esperer d’y répondre comme je le désire. Je vous prie ainsi de vouloir bien Suppléer à mes expressions car votre langue est Si difficile qu’un etranger et surtout quand il a mon age doit renoncer au plaisir et à la Satisfaction de S’y exprimer d’une manière qui réponde à ce qu’il sent le mieux. Cependant je puis vous dire que je me flatte de l’entendre assez bien pour avoir parfaitement distingué votre compliment de la foule de ceux que m’ont attirré ce grand évenement. Il y a une tournure de franchise et de vérité qui n’appartient qu’aux anciens militaires François et que j’ai déja eu lieu d’observer plusieurs fois. Je joins avec grand plaisir Monsieur Mes Voeux aux Votres pour la prosperité et L’Union èternelle des deux nations. Pour la mienne elle n’oubliera jamais que sans les secours d’un Roi puissant et génereux et les efforts de ses braves troupes elle n’auroit pu être delivrée aussi rapidement du Joug tyrannique de la grande bretagne. C’est une verité qu’elle se plaira à répandre jusques dans les forets les plus reculées de LAmérique et d’age en age jusques à la derniere Posterite.
J’ai Lhonneur détre, &c

Mon petit fils Monsieur qui a èté fort sensible à votre Souvenir me charge de vous en marquer Sa reconnoissance et de vous assurrer de son respect.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Franz Ulrich Theodor Aepinus, 1 [i.e., 12] February 1783
From: Aepinus, Franz Ulrich Theodor
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,à St. Petersbourg. ce 1 [i.e., 12] Fevrier. 1783.
Vous pardonnerez sans doute, à l’empressement, que je montre, à l’occasion de la grande nouvelle, qui nous est arrivée, ces jours-ci, de me rappeller à Votre souvenir, qui me sera aussi precieux, que me l’a été dans le tems, l’approbation, que Vous avez crû pouvoir accorder autrefois, à mes travaux pour l’avancement des sciences.
J’ai l’honneur de Vous feliciter, Monsieur, non pas tant sur ce, que la posterité ne cessera de citer Votre nom avec respect, et avec admiration. Les ames, comme la Votre, n’ayant pas besoin d’être remuées, par ce qu’on appelle la gloire, n’en font pas tant de cas. Pour produire un effèt surprenant, un corps grand en soimême, n’a pas, comme une bâle de fusil, besoin d’être poussé par l’elasticité de vapeurs comprimées, capables de lui communiquer un degré de vitesse, qui puisse en quelque sorte compenser la modicité, ou plutôt le néant de son énergie, et de son poids originaire. Si je crois avoir lieu de Vous feliciter, c’est que Vous jouissez maintenant, Monsieur, du plaisir pur, de Vous pouvoir dire à Vous même, que Vous avez commencé la carriere, que la Providence Vous fait parcourir, par porter une lumiere éclatante et inattendue, dans la branche des sciences humaines, qui s’occupe du developpement des ressorts et des loix, par lesquels l’Etre supreme anime et gouverne son éternel et immense ouvrage; et que Vous l’avez terminée, cette heureuse carriere, par procurer, et par assûrer à Votre patrie la liberté, événement, dont les effets bienfaisans, s’etendront, par la suite des siècles, sur tout le genre humain.
Avec les voeux, les plus sinceres, pour Votre prosperité constante, et avec le respect le plus vray, et le plus inalterable, j’ai l’honneur d’être Monsieur Votre très-humble et très-obeissant Serviteur,
Aepinus,Cons: d’Etat actuel au College des Affaires étrangeres.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Francklin, / Ministre Plenipotentiaire de 14 Provin / ces unies de l’Amerique Septentrionale / à la Cour de Sa Majté tres Chretienne, / à / Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, 12 February 1783
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce Mercredy 12 Février [1783]
Je Suis chargé Mon Illustre Docteur de la part de M. Le Cte de Maillebois de vous demander si vous pouvez lui faire L’honneur de venir dîner chez luï ruë de Grenelle, Vendredy prochain 14 de ce mois. Vous y trouverez M O Connell que Je Sais qui vous a demandé un rendez vous. Je Souhaite bien Mon Illustre Docteur que vous acceptiez La proposition de M. De Maillebois parcequ’elle me procurera L’honneur et le plaisir de vous voir et de diner avec vous. Je n’ai pas besoin de vous dire qu’il espere bien que Monsieur Votre petit Fils Sera de la partie. Recevez Mon Illustre Docteur mille et mille Complimens
Le Roy
réponse S’il Vous plait parceque je l’ai promise pour ce Soir.

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / en son hôtel / à Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand, 13 February 1783
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurParis le 13. fevrier 1783.
J’ai l’honneur de vous renvoyer la lettre de Mr. Le Comte de Vergennes et le projet d’Acte qu’elle renfermait, que l’on a omis d’insérer dans celle que j’ai eu celui de vous écrire hier. Je n’ai rien a ajouter a ce que j’ai eu l’honneur de vous marquer au Sujet de ces piéces. Mais je dois vous observer encore que le Traité du 16. Juillet 1782. n’ayant pas fait mention des Sommes accordées ci devant en don gratuit au Congrès, il doit paraitre extraordinaire, ou du moins l’on aura peine à comprendre pourquoi le nouveau traité en fait mention.
J’ai eu l’honneur de vous remettre l’année derniere le tableau des fonds accordés par le Roy au Congrès, et des Payemens faits en conséquence. Je fis dans le tems ce tableau pour vous aider à vous reconnaitre, et reconnaitre les Promesses que vous aviès fournis depuis 1778. qui est l’époque où ont commencé les 18. millions que porte le traité. La totalité des Sommes que porte ce tableau ne S’éleve qu’à 34. millions et le projet du nouveau traité les fait monter à 37. millions, parcequ’il y comprend Sans doute les 3. millions de 1777. car je n’ai pas connaissance qu’il en ait été payé d’autres.
Je Souhaite que ces éclaircissement vous Satisfassent, Monsieur; S’il en est d’autres en mon pouvoir, je suis à vos ordres. Je me conformerai à ceux que je vous ai demandé, et que j’attends, relativement aux traites de Mr. Morris que l’on me presse de rendre acceptées ou non.
Je vous renouvelle les assurances des Sentiments respectueux avec les quels j’ai l’honneur d’etre Monsieur votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur
Grand


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, [13 February 1783]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Jeudy matin [February 13, 1783]
J’espere Mon très cher Docteur, que vous n’avez point oublié La proposition de M. De Maillebois, pour demain dîner. Il m’a bien recommandé de vous en faire Souvenir, ainsi que Monsieur Votre petit fils Sur Lequel il compte pareillement et de graces ne manquez pas de L’Amener car M. De Maillebois m’en voudroit beaucoup. Je vous Souhaite bien le bon Jour à tous Les deux. Voila Docteur un beau tems à Echecs.

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats Unis


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John MacMahon, 13 February 1783
From: MacMahon, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

feby. the 13th. 1783
Doctor Mac Mahon presents his sincere respects to Dr. Franklin, and thanks for his obliging invitation. He is very sorry not to have had it in his power to wait upon him these three or four weeks past, but will break off a previous engagement to have that honour next sunday.

Addressed: A son Excellence / Monsieur le Docteur Franklin / Ministre Plénipotentiaire / des Etats unis de l’Amerique / à Passy
Notation: Mac mahon


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de Mirabeau, 13 February 1783
From: Mirabeau, Victor de Riquetti, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieurde paris le 13e. fevrier 1783
Mr. gattelier, très digne et utile mèdecin dans le canton ou se trouve la campagne que j’habite une partie de l’année, m’adresse le livre et la lettre que vous trouverez cy jointe pour vous etre offerts. Il me charge de scavoir 1°. si vous voulés bien donner par ècrit le consentement a la dédicace, dont vous l’avés flaté par tierce personne; 2°. si vous daignerés prendre prèalablement lecture de l’ouvrage, pour y ordonner les corrections ou suppressions que vous desireriés, 3°. il me charge de solliciter une aussy prompte expedition que vos affaires le permettront attendu que son dèvouement a cet ègard a déja fort retardé son libraire qui s’empatiente, et nuy a ses arrangements.
Ce que je puis ajouter a cecy Monsieur cest que Mr gattelier est notoirement un homme de mèrite et qui vaut d’etre encouragé. Je ne scaurois assurément prononcer en thèorie, mais quand à la pratique, il à la confiance de tout le paÿs. Né de parents très pauvres, n’ayant pu avoir qu’une èducation de village il s’est fait tout seul—ayant la confiance de touts le paÿs et chateaux il ny à prèsque pas de jour ou dans toute saison il ne fasse douze et quinze lieues et ne lasse plusieurs chevaux; et cest au milieu d’une vie si agitèe qu’il trouve encor la nuit le temps dècrire et de travailler mème dans ses courses et dans sa voiture; et le feu dont il est animé ne tourne qu’a bien, ne procure que du bien, car il est fort heureux dans ses traitements et grand observateur de tout dans ses courses.
Ce sont choses Monsieur dont je puis et dois rendre témoignages et qui apuyent la prière que je vous fais de vouloir bien lèxpédier promptement et amiablement. Je saisis avec plaisir cette occasion de vous renouveller les assurances des sentimens Rèspectueux avèc lèsquels j’ay l’honneur d’etre Monsieur votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur
LE Mis DE Mirabeau

Notation: Marquis de Mirabeau Paris 13 Fevrier 1783