Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Canier, 9 December 1784
From: Canier, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Decr. 9th. 1784— Paris, Hotel Gaston,Rue Traversierre St Honoré.

				Major Canier (of Dublin) presents his Respects to his Excellency B: Franklin; he is just arrived from Dublin and is bearer of a Letter from Sir Edwd Newinham to his Excellency; he requests to know on what Day and at what hour he can have the honor of Delivering the Letter to his Excellency.—

				Notation: Canier Dec. 9. 1784.


Title: Thulemeier to the American Commissioners: Résumé, 10 December 1784
From: Thulemeier, Friedrich Wilhelm von
To: American Commissioners

				⟨The Hague, December 10, 1784, in French: Your letter of November 10, conveyed by a Dutch courier, did not reach me until the 26th. I transmitted to the king a French translation of

your draft treaty, to which the recent instructions of Congress obliged you to make a few changes that differ from the proposal I gave to Mr. Adams on April 9. I will notify you of the king’s observations on the new draft as soon as they reach me. Article 23 is dictated by the purest zeal for the good of humanity. Nothing could be a more just reflection on the noble disinterestedness of the United States. It is to be desired that these sublime sentiments should be adopted by all maritime powers without exception. The calamities of war would be softened, and hostilities, often provoked by cupidity and greed, less often repeated. Please remember the request I made in my letter of October 18, regarding the preference of the United States as to a port city for the exchange of commerce.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Barclay, 10 December 1784
From: Barclay, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					L’Orient 10th Decr. 1784—

				I had the pleasure of addressing a letter to you the 8th. of October since which I remain without any of your Commands. I purpose leaving this on Monday and passing to Bordeaux where I shall remain a few days, and return to Paris. Shou’d you have occasion for wine or any other articles from the places through which I am to pass, it will make me happy to be in the least usefull to you. I address’d a Box of Tea to you some time ago with directions that it might be left at M. Pichinies near the

Barrier au Conference, it Contain’d Ten pounds of Hyson, two of Souchong, and two of Pekoe Tea for you, the same quantity for M. Adams and M. Jefferson and a dozen pounds for Mrs. Barclay, The whole will be at hand about the time this reaches you— The China which M. Franklin desired me to send, went Round to Rouen to the Care of M. Garvey who will forward it to you. I am Always with great Respect and Esteem Dear Sir Your Most Obed. & obliged Servant

						Thos Barclay

				Addressed: His Excellency / Benja Franklin Esqr. / Minister Plenipotentiary / from the United States— / Passy, near / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Amelia Barry, 10 December 1784
From: Barry, Amelia
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Pisa 10th. Decr. 1784.

				I cannot my Dear & Honored Sir, find words expressive of the joy I felt upon the receipt of your favor of the 20th Sepr. which did not reach till last tuesday.
				The honor you did me in the attentions you shewed to Messrs. Partridge & Mallack I had been made acquainted with long since; but forbore making you my acknowledgments from

an unwillingness to molest you with too frequent letters; tho’ I was truly sensible of my obligations to you for that, & million other favors.
				That Governor Pownall’s kind intentions towards me have been frustrated, lessens not my obligations to him:— there has been a sort of fatality in my life—but to disappointment your little friend has learned to submit.
				I am not surprized that your applications to Congress for leave to resign have been ineffectual:—your services must be too important to be willingly dispensed with;—but I mourn the being deprived the happiness of seeing you, & the hint you give of experiencing the infirmities of age. Would to Hear you could be permitted to pass a winter in this benign climate! The G. Duke & Dutchess with the whole Court pass all their winters at Pisa; & hither persons from all Countries resort, at this season, for the mildness and wholesomeness of the air. In me you should find a faint resemblance of your Sally. With what delight should I attend you! I would read to you,—& when you would allow me to talk, what scenes could I not recal to your memory of persons dear to you & me! In the hour of langor I would endeavour to raise your spirits; & if ill health should invade your pillow, your Amelia should administer every draught, & watch with tender sollicitude, returning health.— And is there presumption in endulging the hope that circumstances may so concur as to allow me the happiness of being near you in the declining part of your life?— To you my dear Paternal Friend, & my ever-lamented Godmama I was indebted for a large share of the happiness which I experienced in my early days;— In my

little scheme they would be acknowledged, tho’ they can never be repayed.
				As my circumstances are too contracted to admit of my living in England, & America being at too great a distance, I have made up my mind to pass the remainder of my life in Italy. I have a sweet little box upon the banks of the Arno, (for which I pay only 8 guineas a year,) and a few valuable acquaintances at this place. I have had great & generous assistance from a brother of my dear Mr. Barry, as likewise from many other friends; and by observing a strict œeconomy, and aiming at a cheerful temper, & a contented frame of mind, I am perhaps less unhappy than many persons more favored with the smiles of fortune. Pray Sir, have the goodness to tell Mr. Franklin & Mr. Beache that if they should ever come to Italy, I shall hope to see them.— The one will see a person who had once the honor to be a little favorite of his Father; & the other will not perhaps be sorry to see the friend & companion of his excellent Mother’s early years. If either of those Gentlemen would occasionally honor me with a line, giving me your news, & that of your family, I should consider myself as under the highest obligations to them.
				When you write to my dear Mrs. Beach do me the favor Sir, to present my most affectionate compliments to her.

				Accept my best thanks for the pieces you sent me. Everything written by you is valuable to me. I have lately had the good fortune to meet with a pretty good likeness of you in profile, done at Paris.
				With every sentiment of gratitude & respect, I have the honor to be Most Dear Sir your Obliged & affectionate Humble Servt

					A. Barry.

				Endorsed: Dec. 10. 84
				Notation: A Barry Dec 10 84


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Lafontaine, 10 December 1784
From: Lafontaine, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Monsieur
						Vlles Le 10. Xe. 1784.

					Aïant apris que Votre Exce. avoit le projet de Louer un hôtel à Versailles Je prends la Liberté d’avoir l’honneur de lui proposer une Maison Située Avenûes de paris, composée de trois appartements boisés et Ornés de glaces aïant un grand jardin, deux remises Ecurie &a. Elle m’apartient et je Serois flatté qu’elle pût convenir à votre Exce.
					Je Suis avec respect Monsieur, De Votre Exce. Le trés humble et trés obeissant Serviteur

							Lafontaine

					rue de la Paroisse prés de la grille du Dragon; Vis à vis de L’Entrepôt de tabac.

				Notation: La Fontaine 10 Xbre. 1784—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand, [after 10 December?] 1784
From: Grand, Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					[after December 10, 1784?]

				M houdon Sculpteur a demandé á M Grand de le presenter á Monsieur Franklin relativement a la Statue de M Wasington.
				M Grand á cru devoir au prealable Scavoir Si Monsieur Franklin le juge á propos, en ce Cas M Grand le prie de vouloir bien lui donner Son Jour & heure—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquess of Lansdowne, 11 [December] 1784
From: Lansdowne, Marquess of
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Dear Sir
					Bowood Park 11th. [December, 1784]

				I am sorry that your Grandson did not stay long enough for me to shew him all the civility I wish’d in consequence of your

recommendation. If he should ever find it desireable to settle in this Country, I shall be glad to do him any service, which lyes in my power.
				I am oblig’d to you for your account of Mr. Mesmer— We have many such Gentry, but unhappily we have no Committees to detect them.
				I am glad to hear upon the whole a good account of your Health from [the] Abbe Morellet—but I can[not le]arn whether you have been induc’d to try Adams’s Solvent for the Stone. I took the liberty of recommending it thro’ Mr. Vaughan, seeing the wonderfull effect it had upon Mr. Hamilton and some other persons— Mr. Hamilton is above 80 years old, and enjoys perfect Health, which he attributes to this Medicine, and with reason, for its wonderfull the quantity of Stone I may say that I have seen him void without pain, by means of it.
				I wish you your Health and your Country Happiness and Union,—whose prosperity I shall always look upon as intimately connected with that of G. Britain.
				I am with very high Esteem [D]r. Sr. Your Faithfull Humble Servant

						Lansdown


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Henry Lee, 11 December 1784
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir,
					Trenton december the 11th. 1784

				I have the honor to enclose to your Excellency a packet for his most Christian Majesty containing a letter from Congress to that Monarch recommending our able and active friend the Marquis la Fayette to his royal favor.
				The Marquis’s former and recent services to America deserve, and have secured to him, the warmest attachment of these United States.
				I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the highest respect and esteem, Sir your Excellencies most obedient humble servant

					Richard Henry Lee.P.

					P.S. The packet for his most Christian Majesty is left open to be sealed or otherwise as you shall deem most proper—

						R. H. Lee


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 13 December 1784
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Dear Sir
					Trenton 13 Decr. 1784

				The Marqs. de la Fayette is so obliging as to take Charge of this Letter. He has seen much of our Country since his Arrival, and, having had many Opportunities of knowing our true Situation, will be able to give you full Information on the Subject. I think he is (and has Reason to be) convinced that the Attachment of America to him, has not been abated by the Peace; and that we are now as little disposed to breake Friendship with France, as we were during the War. This is a most favorable Season for her to relax the severe commercial Restrictions which oppose

our Trade to her Islands. Her Liberality would be contrasted to british ill Humour, and unavoidably produce correspondent Impressions.
				The present Congress promises well— There are many respectable Members here— Fœederal Ideas seem to prevail greatly among them, and I may add a strong Disposition to Conciliation and Unanimity. Your Letter on the Subject of Leave to return, is, with a Variety of foreign Papers, referred to a Committee. They have as yet made no Report, & therefore I can give you no satisfactory Intelligence on that Head.
				I lately saw Mrs. Bache in good Health & Spirits, at Philada., and I am persuaded is no less anxious for your Return than you can be. Mrs. Jay & our little Family are at Elizabeth Town, & her last Letters inform me they were all well— Be pleased to make my Compliments to your Grandsons—
				I am, Dear Sir Your obliged & obedt Servt

						John Jay

					His Exy. Doctr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Henry Lee, 14 December 1784
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir,
					Trenton Decemr. 14th 1784

				I have the honor to enclose to your Excellency a resolve of Congress passed this Day, the arrival of which in due season to

prevent the signing of the convention alluded to, until an Opportunity of reconsidering it in full Congress may be had, will be very agreeable to that Body—
				I have the honor to be with the highest esteem and regard, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

						Richard Henry Lee

					His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sir Edward Newenham, 14 December 1784
From: Newenham, Sir Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Dear Sir
						Belcamp 14 Decr 1784

					There dwells an uneasiness in mine & Lady Newenham’s mind, which you (only) can relieve—we wish for a letter in answer to our many troublesome Epistles—but I most Earnestly request, that in answer to this, you or your amiable Grandson will acquaint us of Your Excellencys health—perhaps the Post office Villains may have Kept back our Letters— If they are thus Guilty of Perjury, I have only to request “that after reading this” they will forward it to the Greatest and most amiable Character in Europe—
					In one of my Last, I requested your opinion about a Conductor to my new House, to Guard it from the Lightning of the Regions above us, for as to the thunder & Lightning of those on the same Level with me, I am not afraid, even in those Days of Tryal; & that Tryal will shortly come to an Issue—
					The Space for your Excellencys Bust, seems to Call aloud for that which is to honor it, & give real pleasure to all this Family—

					Mr Dean the Six Clerk, asked very kindly after your health; he is very healthy, immensely rich & wears well; Government are reviving an old Law suit between me & the Crown, and putting me to Immense Expence; they did venture to attach, attack, or move Informations against for the active part I have lately taken in Defence of a Reform; and I veryly beleive we shall obtain a Reform—
					Our Weather these 7 days has been Stormy, with heavy Snow & the Ice on my Ponds is 8 Inches thick; and the water freezes in the bed Chambers, where there is not a good fire, and when I began this Letter my hands were so cold that I could hardly hold the pen—
					My Eldest Son is commenced Gentleman Farmer; hates the City & the Ton— I am Educating one in the Mercantile Line, & he is to go in Spring to Marsailles to be bound Prentice to a Merchant; my Second is reading for the Law—
					All those of my Family, who have the Honor of being Known to your Excellency, join me in the most Respectfull & Sincerest sentiments of regard & Esteem—
					I have the Honor, to be, Dear Sir your Excellencys, most obliged & Devoted Humble Sert

							Edward Newenham

					May you enjoy many returns of this Season—

				Addressed: To / His Excellency Dr. B Franklin / Passy / near / Paris—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comtesse d’Houdetot, 16 December 1784
From: Houdetot, Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Paris Le 16. xbre. 1784

				Jay Des Remercimens a Vous faire, Mon Cher Et Venerable Docteur Du present que Vous M’avés Envoyé; jay Communiqué a Mr. De St. Lambert L’ouvrage Anglais Mais Combien j’ay Eté penetrée De La Lettre qui y Est jointe, Elle m’a arraché Des L’armes D’admiration Et De Regrets pour Le grand homme qui L’a Ecritte; Voila ce que L’humanité a perdû ce qu’on a Voulû Rendre inutile pour nous même avant Sa Mort, Vous y avés perdû plus que personne, Vous Americains qui pouviés a Votre gré profiter de Ses Lumieres, Vous Eclairer de Son Genie, Bon Dieu qu’il y En a Dans ce peu De Lignes que Vous m’avés communiquées, que j’ay Regret aux Lacunes que La prudence a Surement Exigées; je Conserverés Cherement Ce don de Votre Amitié Et Ce Monument Des grandes Vuës Et De L’Esprit Bienfaisant Et Lumineux de Son auteur; on me fait Esperer La traduction De L’ouvrage Anglais Et Vous devés penser que j’ay Bonne opinion D’un homme a qui une pareille Lettre a Eté adressée; Mon Cher Et Respectable Docteur Ma Consolation Dans ce Monde ou j’ay Vecu, ou jay Vû Meslé a quelques Biens tant De Malheur Et D’opression a Eté De Donner au moins aux

grands Bienfaiteurs De L’humanité, aux Genie qui l’ont Eclairée ou Servie, Mon Respec, mes hommages l’affection irresistible D’un Cœur Reconnaissant. Vous Scavés Mon Cher Docteur quelle part Vous avés dans ces Sentimens Et combien je me trouve heureuse Et honorée De La Maniere Dont Vous Voules Bien y Repondre, je Vous Envoye Les Vers qui m’ont Etés Demandés Chez Vous, Sur Le hazard Singulier qui a fait tomber un Aigle Dans Votre jardin. Recevés Le Compliment De Cet Aigle Et ma priere Et jettés Le tout au feu quand Vous L’aurés Lû adieu Mon Cher Docteur j’auray Bien De L’Empressement D’aller profiter Aupres de Vous Des momens trop Courts qu’il me Sera permis D’y passer.

					C’est L’aigle qui parle
					au Destin De Celuy qui Dirige La foudre
					Par un ordre Eternel mes Destins Sont Liés
					a Servir un Mortel il faut Donc me Resoudre
					Et je Viens tomber a Vos Pieds

					autre
					Le Dieu qui Si Souvent Reduisit L’homme En poudre
					a fait Voler Son Aigle Sur Vos pas
					il Viens Redemander La foudre
					Protecteur Des humains! ah! ne La Rendés pas

				Notation: D’Houdetot.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Sr., 16 December 1784
From: Williams, Jonathan Sr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Hond Sr—
					Boston Decer. 16th. 1784

				Mr. Jonas Hartwell of Lincoln in this State merchant Capt. & owner of the Brig Remittance being at St. Sabastin a port in Spain for Some reason was taken & put into Goal & from thence transported into the internal part of the Country & it Seemes his friends Cant find him they hear that he is in the Inquisition as the Officers of that Department have taken away his money about 20. or 30 thousands dollars the proceds of his Cargoe of Tabaco— His friends are Very Anxious & desire me to Write you On this Subject as he is an American & a Son of our Hartford its feard that in Some dispute he has Said Somthing that the religious Order has taken hold off— If it Should happen to lay in your power to relive this man it would Very much Oblige him as Well as his Famley & friends they are takeing every measure in their power & are allmost distracted fearing Consequences— I endevored to Excuse my Writing or trobleing you with it but they Would not be Satisfyed as they think & know that you Can do more then others—
				We are all through the goodness of God Well— Belive me Ever Your Dutifull Nephew & most Hble Servant—

						Jona. Williams

				Addressed: His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr / Passy / Near / Paris—


Title: William Franklin to William Temple Franklin, 16 December 1784
From: Franklin, William
To: Franklin, William Temple

					London Decr. 16. 1784   ½ after 12 o’Clock, at Night
					My dear Son

				Dr Jeffries has informd me that he is to set off for Dover early Tomorrow Morning, in order to embark in Blanchard’s Balloon for France. I dare say you will like to be one of the first who gets a Letter across the British Channel by this kind of aerial Conveyance: I have therefore availed myself of the Opportunity, to acknowledge the Receipt of your Letters from Calais and Paris, which afforded me the Pleasure to hear of your safe Arrival, and the good Health of my Father.— I shall execute all your Commissions as soon as possible, and write you fully in a few Days.— I need not recommend the Doctor to your Civilities, as I am sure you will render him all in your Power, should he be so fortunate as to succeed in this new and hazardous Attempt.

				Wishing you every Happiness, I remain Your affect. Father

						Wm. Franklin

					W. T. Franklin, Esqr.

				Addressed: To / William T. Franklin, Esqr. / Passy / near / Paris / Favoured by Dr. Jeffries
				Notation: Wm. Franklin 16. Decr. 1784.—


Title: Certificate for Captain Beaulieu, [17 December 1784]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

					[December 17, 1784]

				I do hereby certify whom it may concern, that Capt. Lewis Joseph de Beaulieu, late of General Count Pulaski’s Corps, is still living, being with me here at Passy, while this Certificate is writing, December 17. 1784.

					B. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Jackson, Nathaniel Tracy, John Donnaldson, and John Temple, 17 December 1784
From: Jackson, Jonathan,Tracy, Nathaniel,Donnaldson, John,Temple, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Paris Hotel d’Orleans Rue des petits Augustins Decr 17th.1784—

				Mr Jackson Mr Tracy Mr Donnaldson & Mr Temple present their most respectfull Compliments to his Excellency Mr Franklin & request his Passport for themselves & three Servants, or what is necessary for them to obtain full Liberty to quit the Kingdom— They were not ’till this Evening informed that any Application to his Excellency was required or they would have done themselves the Honour in person to have waited upon him— They mean to quit Paris Tomorrow & are ready for his Excellency’s Commands—
				Addressed: His Excellency / Mr Franklin / Minister of the United States / of America— / at Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Nesbitt, 17 December 1784
From: Nesbitt, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					L’Orient Decr. 17: 1784—

				I receiv’d a few days past a Packet of Letters from your Excellency for America, which agreeable to your orders shall be forwarded by the first Packet Boat.— We have frequently occasions from this Port directly to Philada. which are as safe as the Packet Boats, by which we could some times forward your Letters if you gave discretionary orders.— It would save twenty Sols per Lettre, which certainly is not an object in affairs of Consequence, but I apprehend many of the Letters which you send to be forwarded by the Packet are left in your hands by Persons who never think of the Postage.— You will oblige me by Causing the inclosed Letter to be deliver’d to Mr Williams & believe me with great Respect—Sir Your most hble Serv

						Jonatn: Nesbitt

				Addressed: A Son excellence / B: Franklin ministre / plénipontentiaire des Etats unis de / L’Amerique près la Cour de France / à Passy—
				Notation: Nesbit Dec. 17. 1784


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-François-Paul Grand, [after 17 December 1784]
From: Grand, Jean-François-Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					ce Jeudi [after December 17, 1784]

				J’ai l’honneur de prèsenter à Monsieur Le Docteur franklin, mes Sentimens Respectueux. Mon Père me Charge de lui tèmoigner combien il regrette d’être privé d’avoir l’honneur de l’aller voir

par une fluxion cruelle qui depuis plusieurs jours le Tourmente, & aussi la nuit.
				J’ai aussi l’honneur de vous remercier Monsieur de l’interêt que vous avez eu la bonté de prendre à l’acouchement de ma femme, qui Se porte ainsi que Son enfant au mieux possible.
				Permettez aussi que J’e prèsente à Messieurs vos fils mille amitiés & Compliments.

						Grand l’ainé

				Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur / franklin / à Passy.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de Pastoret, 19 December 1784
From: Pastoret, Claude-Emmanuel-Joseph- Pierre, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur et trés cher frère,
					Paris le 19 Xbre 1784

				La faveur que j’ai d’etre membre comme vous de la loge des neuf sœurs m’enhardit a vous demander une grace. C’est au sujet de la place de vice consul des etats unis à dieppe. Je prens le plus vif interêt à un négotiant de cette ville, plein de talens et d’activité, qu’on nomme M. dupuis. Je desirerois qu’il put mériter de votre part cette marque d’estime, et ma reconnoissance ne le cederoit point à la sienne.
				Je suis avec respect, Monsieur et trés cher frère, Votre trés humble et très obèissant Serviteur, et trés affectioné frère

					Pastoret1er orateur de la L ∴ des 9 sœurs, Conseiller de la cour desaides, des académies de marseille, angers, arras, châlonssur marne &c. &c. quai d’anjou,— n. 29.

				Notation: Pastoret 19. Xbre. 1784.


Title: Sousa Coutinho to the American Commissioners: Résumé, 22 December 1784
From: Sousa Coutinho, Vicente, conde de
To: American Commissioners

				⟨Paris, December 22, 1784, in French: I received your letter and the plan of a treaty it enclosed, which I will forward to the court at Lisbon.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from André de Tronquoy, 22 December 1784
From: Tronquoy, André de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					paris le 22 Xbre. 1784

				M. de tronquoy président tresorier de france, logé hotel de la paix rue de richelieu a paris, a l’honneur d’assurer de Son réspect

Monsieur de francklin Ministre plenipotentiaire des etats unis de l’amerique Septentrionale. Il le prie de vouloir bien luy indiquer jour et heure, ou il pourra Se transporter chés Monsieur de francklin, pour y conférer avec luy, d’affaires qui intéressent personnellement Monsieur de francklin. La france en général et M. de tronquoy en particulier Se féliciteront toujours, de ce qu’il pourra arriver d’heureux au ministre plenipotentiaire des etats unis de l’amerique Septentrionale.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Tabb Bolling, 24 December 1784
From: Bolling, Thomas Tabb
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					Orleans 24th Decr. 1784

				I take the opportunity by the first post after having presented the letter of recommendation you were so good as to procure me for this town, to inform you of the reception I met with from it, and to thank you for your friendly attention to me during my short stay at Paris. I left that town the Monday after I received your polite note, and after a very disagreable journey got here the next morning. On the following Saturday I waited upon the gentleman to whom the letter was directed, and after a polite reception was asked to supper the following day, which I accepted and went to his house at the hour appointed, where I unexpectedly found a large assembly of his relations and friends all of whom shewed me every politeness and attention in their power, but more particularly Madame Crignon who relieved me from the embarrassment and awkwardness which generally attend a young man in entering into a company of strangers, by asking me several questions concerning Virginia which conversation led to others, and I had the pleasure to spend a most agreable

evening. I am indebted to you Sir, for the acquaintance of so worthy and respectable a family. I was a few days ago presented to the Intendant of this province who received me with that ease and elegance of manners which prepossessed me at first sight in his favour; both himself and lady (who is a woman of a fine education and esteemed by all those who know her) have asked me to come and spend as many evenings with them as may be agreable and convenient to me; which I promised to do after having thanked them for their goodness and civility: though I am sure I did it very awkwardedly. I hope, Sir, you will excuse the liberty I take in writing to you with so much candour as I feel myself attached to you from the sincerest friendship and esteem and should think myself happy if my conduct could merit your good opinion. I shall begin the Mathematicks the beginning of next month, as the different societies into which I have been introduced, have prevented me from studying with that attention and application which are requisite. If you may think proper at any leisure moment to favour me with a line I shall rank it as a mark of your farther goodness, and if you may think me worthy of giving me your advice, I can assure you that I will follow it with the utmost exactitude and attention. I am Sir with the sincerest respect and esteem. Your most obedient & very humb Servant

						Thomas Tabb Bolling

					My address is chez Monr. Maugar place du Martroi—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Huntington, 24 December 1784
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					Norwich, in Connecticutt Decemr 24th: 1784

				This address will be accompanied with an application from Mr Andrew Huntington requesting your Aid in order to obtain

a ballance due to him for monies he advanced, to relieve Some French Troops in distress, at the request of Mr Holker, then Consul; The loss is great to Mr Huntington more than he can well Sustain, & he thinks it extreemly hard that he Should Suffer so much, merely for his ready & faithfull compliance with the request of Mr Holker.
				Mr Huntington is a person of good reputation, & the loss he Sustains is severely felt by him, tho’ it would be of less Importance to a gentleman of great affluence, & Inconsiderable to a Nation—
				Your love of Justice, I am Satisfied, will readily dispose you to grant him the needfull aid so far as your more Important engagements shall permit.
				I have the honour, to be with every Sentiment of Esteem & Regard your most obedient humble Servt

						Sam. Huntingtgn

					Honble B. Franklin

				Addressed: The Honorable / B. Franklin Esqr / Minister at the Court / of Versailles


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Moore, 24 December 1784
From: Moore, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					London Decr 24. 1784

				I have to Inform you the Printing Press I have sent to M. le Chevr Holker should have sent it sooner but could nod get a ship before this, which is the Adventure John Damon Master the Custom Huse expences &c are 7 s. which you are Indepted to your Most Humbl servant

						Josh Moore

					No 43 Drury Lane

				Addressed: Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats-Unis de l’Amerique / Pres S M Tres Chretienne / a passy pres / Paris—
				Notation: J. Moore Decr. 24 1784.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François-Louis Bayard, 26 December 1784
From: Bayard, François-Louis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Du 26 Xbre 1784

				J’ai L’honneur de vous exposer combien le traitté que Sous vos auspices Je fis avec les Etats de Georgie m’a été préjudiciable, je ne puis tirer aucun Secours de Millions en papier de ce pays. Pour terminer un Arrangement avec mes Creanciers je vous Supplie Monsieur de Recommander le Memoire cy inclus a Monsieur Le Baron de Breteuil.—

				Je ne puis Monsieur confier au Papier une proposition três utile pr la prosperité de vos Etats que je Suis chargé de vous faire de la part d’un de vos Anciens amis, homme de Lettres en Place, a plus de 100 Lieües de Paris qu’en 1768, vous prêsentates a Londres a Mr Le Docteur Price. Daignez Monsieur employer votre protection pr obtenir la Liberté momentanée d’un Negt honnête qu’on ne peut vous Refuser et avec lequel Relativement au moins a L’objet essentiel cy Dessus vous Serez bien Charmé de vous Entretenir.—
				Esperant cette Grace de votre amour pr La Liberté dont vous êtes Le heros Je Suis avec le plus profond Respect Monsieur Votre três humble et três obeissant Serviteur

						Bayard

					a Son Excellence Monsieur Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François-Félix Nogaret, [December 1784?]
From: Nogaret, François-Félix
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Monsieur
						[December?, 1784]

					Vous vous souvenez de nos conventions. J’ai l’honneur de vous faire passer une note que nous avons reçue.

					Dans la Reponse que vous me ferez La grace de m’adresser, Je vous Serai obligé de mettre à La fin
					Je vous prie de vouloir bien Mr communiquer ma Lettre aux membres de la R∴ L∴ Ecossaise du Patriotisme, et de lui temoigner mes regrets ainsi que Le Souvenir que nous conservons de Ses honnêtetés.
					Pardon mille fois, Monsieur. Je vous remercie moi, de l’accueil que vous avez fait à M. Le Chevr. de sauvigny.
					Voulez vous bien faire agreer mes respects à Monsieur francklin et en recevoir la part qui vous est due.

					J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec ces Sentimens Monsieur au nom du Fere et de la Maman et de La D[emoise]lle. votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur

						felix NogaretBibliothecaire de Mde. Comtsse d’artois a V[ersai]lles

					Je joins ici l’imprimé d’un Fetit Foëme qui a eu ici, quelque Succès./.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baronne de Bourdic, [1784]
From: Bourdic, Marie-Anne-Henriette Payan de l’Estang, baronne de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					a Bourdic par uses en languedoc [1784]

				Son excellence daignera telle Se rappeller dune femme qu’elle a Comble de bontes a passi et qui a eu lhonneur de La voir asses Souvent pour etre autant ladmiratrice de Ses vertus que de Ses talents; elle Conserve avec Soin La medaille qu’il lui donna Cest Le gage precieux d’un Sentiment dont elle Shonore et dont elle jouit; elle a porte avec elle Le petit portrait au craŷon que Mlle de givonne fit ches lui lannée derniere; au bas duquel Se

trouver Cette inscription qui est bien plus Louvrage du Coeur de Mde de Bourdic que Celui de Son esprit;

					Cest Le craÿon d’une jeune beauté
					qui rassembla Ces traits, a lavanture?
					Ce Simple hommage a tant de verité
					que lart S’en etonne et murmure.
					Lapotre de La liberte,
					Sort encore une fois des mains de la nature

				Dapres Ce portrait et des Souvenirs tres recents un artiste en a fait un de Son excellence d’une ressemblance parfaite; je ne Cite Ces vers la et lepoque qui Les a occasionnés que pour me presenter plus Surement á Son Souvenir et acquerir le droit de reclamer Sa protection pour un jeune eclesiastique dont Le pere etoit lami intime du mien Cest l’abbé de la mailiere fils dun brave officier general qui naŷnt jamais mandée des faveurs par ladulation, vit dans Sa retraite avec autant de tranquilite et de philosophie qu’il a montre jadis dactivite et de bravour à la tete des armées; Si Son excellence veut bien accorder au pere et au fils une heure d’audience ils leur expliqueront Leur pro et ŷou that Knowest everŷ thing; that passes and have the intelligence from all the parts of the world to be able trulŷ to judge if this affair his feasible do ŷou bé Careful of ŷour healt and love me as much as I esteem ŷou I have the honeur to be Of ŷour excellencŷ the Verŷ umble Servant

						La Baronne de Bourdic


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquise de Mirabeau, with Franklin’s Note for a Reply, 1 January 1785
From: Mirabeau, Marie-Geneviève de Vassan, marquise de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Ce 1 janvier 1785

				Permestes monsieur que je me rappelle dans lhonneur de votre souvenir et que je vous renouve le dans le commencement de

lanné les voeux que je fait pour vous cest une hommage qui vous est due a tant de titres par a venerattion que vous vous attires de tout ce qui vous connoit et que je vous rand avec empressement.
				Oserais je vous demander une grace pour un homme a talent et honnete qui sappelle bourgoin honnete homme agé de 25 ans imprimeur en taille douce et habille qui desireroit passé chez les insurgen que vous vouliez bien lui accorder votre protection pour passé; ma réconnoissance esgallera le respectueux attachement avec lequels jai lhonneur detre monsieur votre tres humble et tres obbeissante servante

					VASSAN MARQUISE DE MIRABEAUrue neuve des maturin chausée dantin numero 30

				Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur le docteur franclin pleinipotencie / et ministre en son hotel / A passi
				Endorsed: That if he can pay for his Passage, and obtain a Passport from this Government, he may easily pass into America by the Pacquet Boat from L’Orient and I will at her desire recommend him to be employ’d. That I have no means in my Power of sending People to America.
				Notation: Mirabeau la Mse. De. 1er. Janvr. 1785.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Glier, 2 January 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Glier, Marie

					Passy le 2 Janr. 1785.

				J’ai reçu, Monsieur, la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire au sujet d’un nommé Thomas Dunlop, se disant Americain:— Et Je vous dois des Remerciements pour le soin que vous en avez pris le supposant tel.— Mais par le Compte qu’il a rendu de lui meme, Je soupçonne très fort, qu’il est ou Anglois, ou Irlandois. Il y a deja eu plusieurs Exemples de pareilles Supercheries: et s’il avoit eu, comme il le dit, Envie de passer en Amerique, il auroit pu le faire aussi facilement en Angleterre qu’en France.— Je crois donc, Monsieur, qu’il seroit bien de le faire travailler pour sa Subsistance, et de prendre la premiere

Occasion pour se debarrasser de lui—en l’embarquant sur quelque Vaisseau destiné pour son Pays.—
				J’ai l’honneur d’etre très parfaitement, Monsieur, Votre très humble es très obeissant Serviteur.—

					B Franklin
					M. Glier.—

				Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Glier, Lieutenant / Général du Baillage. / au Havre.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles-Joseph de Mayer, 2 January 1785
From: Mayer, Charles-Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						ce 2. jer. 1785

					Je viens, monsieur, vous faire une priere: cest de vouloir bien m’indiquer chez qu’el libraire je trouverai à paris, le recueil des constitutions fedérales des insurgens. Ce livre que je demande inutilement, m’est necêssaire, dans le moment, et j’ai cru devoir enfin vous prier, ou de me le procurer en lecture, ou de me donner des moyens de m’en rendre possesseur; si vous jugés á propos d’aller aux informations, on vous dira quel est l’usage que je fais de çes Sortes de livres. Le votre, monsieur, me donnera des occasions de rendre à votre genie un hommage bien merité, et recevés mes excuses et d’avance le temoignage de ma

reconnaissance et du respect avec lesquels jai lhonneur d’etre Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

						De Mayerofficier de cavalerie

					paris aux arcades du palais Royal No. 60


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 2 January 1785
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Dear & hond Sir
					St Germain 2 January 1785.

				Mariamne has made me a new Years Present of a very fine Girl, both mother & Child are in a fine way & I am in hopes the Scheme of Nursing will Succeed.
				Accept my hearty good wishes for as many returns of this Season as you yourself desire, I don’t know how many that is, but I hope at least it will not interfere with your Dixenniel Custom for at least twice more. Please to make my affectionate Compliments of the Season acceptable to Mrs Hewson with Love to Billy Ben & the little folks.
				I am as ever most respectfully & Dutifully Your affectionate Kinsman

					J Williams

				Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Americain / A Passy / pres Paris
				Notation: Williams 2 Jany. 1785.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Antoine Roucher, [before 3 January 1785]
From: Roucher, Jean-Antoine
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					[before January 3, 1785]

				VERITE∴ UNION∴ FORCE∴

					T∴ C∴ F∴.

				L∴ R∴ L∴ des Neuf Sœurs, est convoquée pour le Lundy 3 du iieme. mois D∴ L∴ D∴ L∴ V∴ L∴ 5784, en son local, Hotel du Musée, rue Dauphine, à Onze heures précises.
				La Séance Académique Sera remplie par les ff∴ Du Paty, Marnésia, Pastoret, Roucher, De Cubières, Lantier et Le Changeux, Et Sera Suivie d’un Banquet.
				Vous êtes prié d’y venir augmenter les douceurs de l’union Fraternelle.
				Je suis par les N∴ C∴ D∴ V∴ M∴ V∴ T∴ H∴ & affectionné Frere

					RougherSecretaire de la R∴ L∴
					L’adresse de la Loge est à M. Rougher, premier Secretaire de L∴ R∴ L∴, rue de l’Eperon.

				Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur / franklin / N∴ S∴ ./. A Passy


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to David Hartley, 3 January 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hartley, David

					My Dear Friend,
					Passy, Jan. 3, 1785.

				I received your kind letter of December 1, from Bath. I am glad to hear that your good sister is in a fair way towards recovery; my respects and best wishes attend her.
				I communicated your letter to Mr. Jefferson, to remind him of his promise to communicate to you the intelligence he might receive from America on the subjects you mention; and now having got it back, I shall endeavour to answer the other parts of it.
				What you propose to draw up of your opinions on American negociation, may be of great use, if laid, as you intend, before administration, in case they seriously intend to enter on it after the meeting of parliament: for I know your ideas all tend to a good understanding between the two countries and their common advantage; and in my mind too, all selfish projects of partial profit are the effects of short-sightedness, they never producing permanent benefits, and are at length the causes of discord and its consequences, wherein much more is spent than all the temporary gains amounted to.
				I do not know that any one is yet appointed by your Court to treat with us. We some time since acquainted your minister with our powers and disposition to treat, which he communicated to his Court, and received for answer that his Majesty’s ministers were ready to receive any propositions we might have to make for the common benefit of both countries, but they thought it more for the honour of both, that the treaty should not be in a third place. We answered that though we did not see much inconvenience in treating here, we would, as soon as we had finished some affairs at present on our hands, wait upon them, if they pleased, in London. We have since heard nothing.

				We have no late accounts from America of any importance. You know the Congress adjourned the beginning of June till the beginning of November. And since their meeting there has been no account of their proceedings. All the stories in your papers relating to their divisions, &c. are fiction, as well as those of the people being discontented with Congressional Government. Mr. Jay writes to me, that they were at no time more happy or more satisfied with their government, &c. than at present, nor ever enjoyed more tranquillity or prosperity. In truth the freedom of their ports to all nations has brought in a vast plenty of foreign goods, and occasioned a demand for their produce, the consequence of which is the double advantage of buying what they consume cheap, and selling what they can spare dear.
				If we should come to London, I hope it may still be with you that we are to do business. Our already understanding one another may save on many points a good deal of time in discussion. But I doubt whether any treaty is intended on your part, and I fancy we shall not press it. It may perhaps be best to give both sides time to enquire, and to feel for the interests they cannot see. With sincere and great esteem, I am ever, my dear friend, yours most affectionately,

					B. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Mayer, 3 January 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Mayer, Charles-Joseph

					Sir,
					Passy, Jan. 3. 1785.

				I have just receiv’d the Piece, entitled, Asgill, &c. which you have been so good as to send me. Please to accept my Thanks,

together with the Book of our Constitutions, which I send herewith. I am, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant

					B. Franklin
					M. de Mayer.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Mordejay Delamar, 3 January 1785
From: Delamar, Mordejay
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					Mogador 3 Jany. 1785

				Notwithstanding the grief I withold when misfortunes befalls my fellow Creatures and the Supreme Being is pleased to punish us with Prudence we must Resign to his pleasure. Also I must Acqt. you by ordr. of His Imperial Majesty of Morocco that the Brig Betsey from Philadelphia bound to Tereneffe taken on the Barbary Coast by one of his Privateers & Suspended with her Cargo. Yesterday I Receivd Letters from the Emperor whom as Addressd to my Care as his Chief Employer Captn. James Hervey Comandr. of sd. Brig & all the Crew with whom all Humanity & Civility is & shall be used to them till an Embassador of the United States of America does Appear. Then in Course the Brig Cargo & the whole will be Honourably Discharged. Persuadg. yourself Sr. The Gentlemn. Appointd. as such will be Shewn all honour by the Emperor and Afterwards by whom

Subscribes himself to be with all Regard Your Excelencies Most Hble. & Obt. Servt.

						Mordejay Delamar

					To: His Excelency Dr. Franklin Ministr. Plenimenty of the United States of America

				Notation: M. Delamar to B. Franklin 3d. January 1785.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Du Calvet, 4 January 1785
From: Calvet, Pierre du
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					a londres le 4e. Janvier 1785. a no. 9, Cannon-Street,near general post office.
					Monsieur L’ambassadeur,

				J’ai reçue le 28 de decembre par penny post la lettre que Votre Excellence m’a fait l’honneur de m’ecrire le 14 d’octobre dernier. Si cette lettre est partie de passy par la voie directe de la poste, il n’est pas difficile de deviner la cause, qui la prolongeé Si ong tems Sur la route, avant de parvenir jusqu’a moi; les Soupçons et la malice du despotisme ne Sont pas confinés á québec; ils regnent á londres, avec moins d’audace peut être, mais avec non moins de réalité, qu’oi qu’en exercice dans les ténébres et Sous le masque; ils m’ont porté et ils ne cessent encor d’essayer tous les jours á me porter de rudes coups: mon cœur y est Sensible Sans doute; la Nature et l’honneur lui en font une loi; Mais, Monsieur, l’ambassadeur, la Sensation la plus forte de l’adversité, ne monte jamais ches moi, jusqu’á la tête, même pour en affecter l’a memoire.
				Je S’avois et je ne l’ai jamais oublié, que votre excellence ne m’avoit promis, que d’envoyer au congrés les doubles de mes papiers, et d’en appuyer la liquidation de Sa recommandation. La moindre connoissance du monde m’avoit appris, qu’un ambassadeur n’est pas Solidairement responsable, des dettes contractées par Ses maêtres, hors de Son district, et qu’il ne peut ni ne

doit même y Satisfaire Sans ordre. Mais le general haldimand ne consultant que Sa haine pour l’amérique, S’etoit hautement refusé á me delivrer un passe-port, pour faire le voyage d’europe, á travers les êtats unis, les préparatifs de mon attaque judicielle contre ce tiran, ne me permettoient pas de me dérober Si long-tems de londres, pour aller Solliciter en personne, mon payement auprés du congrés; dans des conjonctures Si critiques, je pris le parti de m’addresser á vôtre Excellence, non pas comme á un débiteur personnel, a qui je demandâsse mon dû, mais comme á un protecteur généreux et humain, dont je visois á me conciler la protection, la bienfaisance et la justice, pour-faciliter et accélérer e payement de la dette de Ses maîtres; cette addresse, fondeé Sur la haute ideé que Mr. le Docteur franklin á donneé au monde de Ses vertus civiles et Sociales assurément n’a pû être que dans les regles. Je n’ai jamais porté mes Espérances du côté de vôtre Excellence, au dela de cette récommandation, de cette protection, de cette Sollicitation en ma faveur auprés du congrés. Ma lettre du 24. de Septembre á la quelle vôtre Excellence me répond, l’atteste dans les termes les plus positifs. La longue lettre qui l’a Suivie n’intime rien de plus Sur ce point; elle n’est rélative, qu’á l’information de Mr. lambert, qui, Sur les déclarations de vôtre Excellence, (dit il,) me Sommoit de retirer mes papiers originaux de Ses mains. Vôtre Excellence en Se chargeant de devenir mon protecteur auprés du congres, avoit eû la bonté de m’assurer en Surplus, qu’elle m’informeroit du Succés; Je n’avois pas reçue cette information de Sa part; c’est á ce Sujet que je me rétranchai contre la demande de Mr. lambert, Sur la probité de Mr. le Docteur franklin, incapable d’en appeller de Ses promesses.— Qu’oi qu’il en Soit de cet exposé, qui n’est que l’explication pure et Simple des faits, je ne balance pas d’ajouter, que Si je n’esperois pas, que vôtre Excellence me payât, je ne m’avisai jamais de former le moindre doute, que l’ordre de me payer á paris, ne Suivit de prés Ses réprésentations en m’a faveur. C’est Sur cette persuasion, bien fondeé assurément, (puisque vôtre Excellence ne me parla en aucune façon á lors de faire par moi même, aucune

application au congrés) que j’ai resté tout le tems dans l’inaction; inaction, aujourdhui bien fatale pour moi.
				Au reste, Monsieur L’Ambassadeur, je me flatte que vôtre Excellence dans Son approbation de la nomination des commissaires, proposés par le congrés pour l’examen des dettes canadiennes, n’a point eû en vûe de mettre la mienne dans la masse de celles, que la friponerie a essayé en canada ou ailleurs, d’extorquer Subtilement de vos maîtres. Elle á eû en main les tîtres Sur lesquels m’a créance est fondeé, tîtres dont elle fit elle même la vérification; et c’est Sur cette vérification, qu’elle Se détermina á devenir elle même mon protecteur et mon Solliciteur auprés du congrés. Aprés une telle résolution, il ne peut plus rester de nuage et de doute Sur la réalité et la justice de la dette. Les lumieres et la justice de Mr. le Docteur franklin en Sont garans.
				Malgré tout ce mal-entendu, vôtre Excellence conclut ôbligeamment Sa lettre, par une nouvelle promesse de réitérer Ses récommandations en m’a faveur auprés du congrés, pour mon juste et prompt payement. Si elle pense, qu’en cas de réussite, ce payement ne dût pas être effectué á paris, contre ma premiere persuation, Si bien autorisée, je la Suppliérois de mettre le comble á Ses bontés, en m’en donnant avis. Il est bien tard, j’ai perdu plus d’une anneé d’une bien infructueuse et bien cruelle attente. Le général haldimand est attendu à chaque instant á londres, n’importe, il faudra bien Se Soumettre alors á la mauvaise étoile, qui ne cesse de me poursuivre, retirer mes papiers des mains de Mr. lambert, et envoyer une procuration en amérique, pour les faire valoir, quand on pourra, car depuis

le départ de mon beau frere de philadelphie, je ne Sai aujourdhui personne, á qui m’addresser. Ce que je puis ajouter en finissant cette, peut-être, trop longue lettre, c’est que J’ai Souffert pour le compte de l’amérique; je ne crois pas que l’amérique veuille entrer Sur les rangs, et Se mettre Sur la liste de mes oppresseurs, en me privant longtems des moyens de la venger, en me vengeant de mon tiran. Les vertus citoyennes dont elle marqu’a Son horreur pour la tirannie, justifient mon opinion.
				A tout événément, je Suis m’ortifié des peines que j’ai données á vôtre Excellence, et je l’assure en homme d’education et d’honneur et du plus profond de mon cœur de toute ma réconnoissance pour Ses bienfaits passés et a vénir.
				J’ai l’honneur d’être avec le plus profond respect. Monsieur L’ambassadeur, De vôtre Excellence Le trés hûmble et trés ôbeiss[ant] Sr.

						Pierre du Calvet

				Notation: Pierre du Calvet 4 Janvier 1785


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ferdinand Grand, 9 January 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Ferdinand

					Sir,
					Passy, Jany. 9. 1785.

				I received your Letter of the 29th. past with the State of the Interest Money claimed by the Department of Finance as due the 1st. Inst, the Account of your Advances for the United States, and a Copy of the Letter of Messrs. Willink & Staphorst offering you by Order of Mr. Morris 400,000 Livres the Sum due in November last for the Interest of the Dutch Loan, on all which you propose it for Consideration, whether (that Interest

being already advanc’d for us & duly paid by this Government according to its Guarantee) it would not be more prudent to delay the full Reimbursement of that Sum, reserving one Half to answer the still arriving old Loan-Office Drafts, Ministers Salaries & contingent Expences & to reimburse you for your Advances; unless Messrs W. & Staphorst, having more Money of the States in their Hands, would on an order from us advance 200,000 Livres which are necessary for those Purposes. I communicated your Letter with the other Papers to Mr. Adams under whose Direction the Loans managed by Messrs. W. & S. have been transacted. He undertook to write to those Gentlemen for Information what Money they might have in Hand beyond 400,000 Livres; and they have written in answer that the two Loans being nearly full, they shall have (if I remember right) above a Million of Florins, which would discharge honourably all our Engagements to this Court, a Thing I much wish would be done, but Mr. Adams alledges that he has no Power to draw on or dispose of that Fund without Orders from Congress; and certainly Mr. Jefferson and myself have, without him, no such Power. I have since received your Letter of the 5th. Instant on the same Subject, and being of Opinion with you that, (unless there be Reasons for delaying the Payment, which we are unacquainted with) the Congress cannot be pleas’d with this Breach of Punctuality, while they have Money lying dead in the Hands of those Merchants in Holland, I communicated also this your second Letter to Mr. Adams but he continues of the same Opinion, and was rather displeas’d with my Importunity, so that I can carry it no farther.

				With regard to your Request that I would give you Orders in Writing for the Payment to Government of a Part of the 400,000 Livres, it does not seem necessary or proper for me to give such Orders. I can only give you my Opinion of what I should do were I in your Case. Your Advances have been considerable, the Inconveniency to you not a little, the mentioned Sum has already been advanced for the States by Government, and our Credit in Holland thereby secur’d till the next Year’s Interest becomes due before which time, Funds will probably be prepared for the regular Discharge of all Interests due to our European Creditors. I would therefore at least retain the Reimbursement of my Advances, and sufficient to pay the Salaries engag’d for to the End of 1784, and discharge the probable Demands by Loan Office Bills still coming; for there is no reason why you should continue longer in Advance or advance farther.
				The House of Fizeaux & Grand have wrote to me that they have drawn on me for the last Year’s Interest of their Loan. You will please to pay the Draft as usual. Do you think it probable, in the present State of Things, that that Loan could now be extended, if so I still have by me the Promisses and Coupons, which that House return’d to me. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant

					B Franklin
					Mr Grand, Banker


Title: John Jay to the American Commissioners, 14 January 1785
From: Jay, John
To: American Commissioners

					Office for Foreign Affairs New York14th. January 1785
					Gentlemen,

				On the 21st. Ultimo I accepted the Place of Secretary for foreign Affairs. All the foreign letters which had been received during the recess of Congress were then and are still in the hands of a Committee to whom they had been referred—none have since arrived.—
				The adjournment from Trenton to this Place necessarily occasioned delay in business— Congress yesterday made a House, and I expect that some of these more important measures will soon be matured. By the next opportunity I flatter myself with having the pleasure of writing to you more particularly. Judges are nominated and will doubtless be appointed to decide the interfering claims of Massachusetts and New York. Advices just received give reason to apprehend an attack of the Cheroquees on Kentucky, a settlement which encreases with a degree of rapidity scarcely credible. It is rumored but not ascertained that the Spaniards encourage them.—

				I have the honor to be Gentlemen Your most Obt. & hum. servt.

						John Jay

					To the Honorable John Adams, Benjn. Franklin & Thos. JeffersonEsqrs.

				Notation: New York Janry. 14. 1785 from Mr Jay Secry of Foreign Affairs


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ingenhousz, 14 January 1785
From: Ingenhousz, Jan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Dear friend!
					Vienne en Autriche Jan. 14. 1785

				I send this inclosed in a lettre to Dr. LeBegue by a privat hand, only to inform you, that I continue in good health, and to make you remembre how much I desire to hear from you. I was in hopes, that, now your country enjoys the happiness, that has been the object of your desires, you would spend the remainder of your days in Philosophical leasure, as you proposed to doe. But I see with great concern, that politicks keep you still out of the philosophical world, and ingross all your attention. If this my disappointment is a real loss for the sciences, it is a particular loss for me, as you may have observed in my last letters. It would have been a particular Satisfaction to me if you had had a moment time to inform me, if the inclosed lettres, to mr. Williams, Wharton, Duker &c have been recieved and forwarded. You know very well, how much I am concerned in the affaires of mr. Wharton, of whom I hear nothing at all.

				I hear from time to time by mere accident, that you continue in tolerably good health. Not long ago I was inform’d of it by the Countesse de Fries, who I introduced to you last year. However great the plaisur of such happy intelligence may be for me, yet it would be an infinitely greater satisfaction for me to be informed of your good health by your self. Some weaks ago I recieved some few German American Newspapers, which came from you. But I was Greately disappointed in finding them unaccompanyed by a lettre. However, I trust upon your promis and your frindship to me, to hear Soon of you, before the treatening ware between France and the Emperour breaks out and shut of our correspondence. I doe not dare to make you any reflexions on this head, except that I lament the fate of my Country and of mankind.
				You will be Sorry to hear the good bishop I recommended to you is dead. Poor man was not one of the best philosophers, tho verry desirous to become one.
				Give my best Compliments to your grandson.
				My book Melanges de Physique et de medecine, dedicated to you, now above three years in the press and finish’d a whole year ago, is however not yet publish’d. The German translation of that book is not only sold out, but a second edition and a second volum of it is all ready printed and perhaps sold out for the half. Who provoking this is you may judge. Mr. le begue de Presle has the care of it. He professes to be my friend.

				I am very respectfully My dear Friend Your most obedient humble servant

					J. Ingen Housz

				Addressed: à Son Excellence / Mr. Benj. Franklin / Ministre Plenip. des Etats unis / de l’Amerique / a Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Fortunato Bartolomeo de Felice], 15 January 1785
From: Felice, Fortunato Bartolomeo de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					yv. [Yverdon] 15 Janvier 1785

				Permettez qu’un admirateur depuis 35 ans aumoins de vos grands talens vous adresse la lettre ci jointe, elle servira de preface a quelques idées que j’ai mises par écrit ces jours passes et que je viens de donner à l’imprimerie.
				Un personnage distingué de la Haye m’envoya il y a 6 semaines les Observations de M. l’Abbé de Mably, sur les differentes Constitutions de vos Republiques, et en souhaita mon avis. Je parcourus avec empressement cette brochure, et je fus étrangement surpris de me trouver à la fin sans avoir été arreté par une seule remarque qui eût merité mon attention. Je n’ai pas reconnu dans cette production M. de Mably, mais plutot un chirugien doux, qui flatte les plyes [plaies] qui vont devenir funestes à votre Patrie, si on n’y employe pas le fer promptement

et avec prudence. J’ai fais quelques remarques sur les Observations de M. de Mably et sur les principales de vos constitutions. J’ai pris la liberté d’en exposer avec franchise les fautes que je crois y avoir remarquées, et j’enverrai cet ouvrage dans une 15ne de jours à mon ami de la Haye.
				La liberté dont j’ai crus devoir faire usage dans cette production, m’oblige à rester caché derriere le ridau, mais si vous en souhaitez un exemplaire, vous pouvez Monsieur le faire venir de la Haye ou M. Adams le connaitra d’abord par le cannal de mon àmi à qui je l’enverrai par la Poste.
				Il y as quelques annees que je travaille à un ouvrage qui as pour titre le Developpement de la raison en 4 gros ou 6 vol. mediocre 8°. Je me suis apperçus qu’une des principales causes de la coruption générale des mœurs, est l’ignorence où croupit la plupart du genre humain. Je me suis appliqué à l’instruire. Quelques grands hommes qui ont parcourus mon Mss. qui est finis, m’ont assurés que j’y ai reussi. Je pensois de l’envoyer pour le faire imprimer à Paris ou à la Haye. Pour peu que cet ouvrage pût faire plaisir ou être de la plus petite utilité aux Etats-Unis; je me ferois un plaisir de leur en faire hommage: d’autant plus que mon ouvrage est bien plus propre à conserver les moeurs là où il y en a, qu’à les ramener où il n’y en as point, comme en Europe où mon ouvrage ne feras pas une fortune brillante. En un mot, Monsieur, si je pouvois être de la moindre utilité à votre respectable pays, je le ferois avec un très grand plaisir.

				Je lis les Affiches où le journal General de France que fait à Paris M. l’Abbé de Fontenai rue St Hyacinte le 3e porte cochère à droite par la place St Miche, si vous trouviez chez-moi quelques choses qui meritât votre attention, vous pouriez faire demander par cette feuille que l’Auteur du Developpement de la raison se fit connaître.
				En attendant, j’ai lhonneur d’etre avc l’estime que vos grands talans ont su m’inspirer Monsieur Votre très humble et très Obéissant Serviteur

				Addressed: à Monsieur / Monsieur Francklin / Min. Plenipot. des Etats-Unis / de l’Amerique en son Hautel / à Paris
				Endorsed: L’Auteur du Developement


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de La Rouërie, 15 January 1785
From: La Rouërie, Armand-Charles Tuffin, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					paris 15 Jry. 1785—

				The ponctuality of america in her engagement with us having impressed our hearts with gratitude & respect, we have

wished to communicate and fire theses sentiments in every honest Breast in our Country—we have thought that, by publishing the inclosed paper—we would, in some measure, attain our purpose—I send it to your Exellency for your approbation, and as we hope you will grant it to us, I request you would send it to me— I have the honor to Be with great respect your Exellency’s Sir the most obdt. hbl. Servte.

						Armand Mqis. de la Rouerie—

					his Exellency B— franklin—

				Addressed: his Exellency Bmin. franklin— / ministre plenipotentiary from the united / states of america to the Court of / france / passy—
				Notation: Armand Ms de la Rouerie 15 Jany 85

				[Enclosure]

					paris Ce 14 Janvier 1785—

				Les etats unis viennent de faire payer la premiere année de rente sur les Contrats accordés a Ceux des officiers françois qui avoient servi dans leurs armées pendant et Jusqu’a la Conclusion de la derniere Guerre— La ponctualité de ce payement fait le plus grand honneur à cette republique naissante, et ne peut manquer de retablir la Confiance publique que sur des Bruits mal fondés on etoit que trop disposé a leur refuter— La dete des officiers françois etoit sans doute des plus sacrées, C’etoit le prix de leur veilles, de leurs travaux et de leur vies prodigués dans une revolution aussi difficile que glorieuse—mais si Ces officiers avoient des droits particuliers á la reconnoissance publique, on ne peut trop admirer l’empressement et l’exactitude avec lesqu’els les etats unis ont Commancé à la leur temoigner— Cet evenement qui prouve incontestablement ce que l’on doit attendre de la probité nationalle de Ce peuple, est sans doute le fruit de l’ordre etabli dans le departement des finances par l’habile surintendant Robert Morris, et l’heureux presage d’une administration sage et equitable de la part de ses successeurs—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Beyer, 17 January 1785
From: Beyer, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur,
					Paris ce 17. Janvier 1785.

				Les bontés dont vous daignés m’honorer m’enhardissent à prendre la liberté de vous informer que MM. de l’académie m’ont fait dire de me rendre à leur assemblée de mercredi prochain, avec l’instrument dont je Suis l’inventeur. Comme je ne fais aucun doute, Monsieur, du plaisir que vous aurés à apprendre le Jugement que ces Mrs. auront porté Sur la Construction de mon instrument, Je me ferai un devoir de vous en instruire et de vous demander de nouveau la Continuation de vos bontés et de votre puissante protection.
				Je Suis avec un trés profond respect, Monsieur, Votre trés humble et trés obéissant Serviteur

						Beyer

					M. francklin.

				Notation: Beyer 17 Jan. 85


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henri Fizeaux & Cie., 20 January 1785
From: Fizeaux, Henri, & Cie.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Amsterdam le 20, Janvr. 1785.

				Mrs. Pott & Cie. de Lausanne nous ont fait parvenir Suivant vos ordres un ballot de Livres, en nous en recommandant l’expedition ulterieure à M Thompson à Philadelphie, ce que nous ne differerons pas d’executer, si vous ne nous en ordonnés pas autrement, nous prierons ensuite M. Grand de nous rembourser de nos frais, présumant que telles Sont vos intentions.
				Nous avons l’honneur d’etre avec une Consideration Respectueuse Monsieur Vos trés humbles & trés obeissans Serviteurs

					H. Fizeux & Cie.
					Monsieur Franklin Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis à Paris.


Title: The American Commissioners to Thulemeier: Résumé, 21 January 1785
From: American Commissioners
To: Thulemeier, Friedrich Wilhelm von

				⟨Passy, January 21, 1785: We have received your letter of December 10. We assumed that the principles contained in the draft treaty, which we sent to you, would answer the request made at the end of your letter of October 18. According to Articles 2 and 3, the citizens and subjects of each power may visit all the coasts and countries of the other and reside and trade therein all kinds of goods, paying no greater duties than the most favored nation. According to Article 4, each party shall have the right to carry their own goods in their own vessels to any parts of the dominion of the other, where it shall be lawful for the subjects or citizens of both parties to purchase them and sell their own goods, paying in all cases only those duties as shall be paid by the most favored nation. If Prussia wanted to establish a free port or a depot, we suggest that both Emden and Stettin should be selected. If we needed to choose one or the other, we would have to request instructions from Congress.⟩


Title: Pio to the American Commissioners: Résumé, 22 January 1785
From: Pio, Luigi
To: American Commissioners

				⟨Paris, January 22, 1785, in French: I gave the king your letter of September 27, 1784, offering to conclude a treaty of amity and commerce. He has authorized me to assure you that nothing

would give him greater pleasure. His Majesty has lately opened and established a free port at Messina in Sicily, open to all nations, as the enclosed edict will show. Moreover, he has charged me to make you a formal declaration that United States merchant ships will be received at Messina and our other ports with the most sincere friendship; that we will always come to their and and furnish them with whatever they may need; and that they will be free to trade their own produce as well as merchandise of their own and other countries’ manufacture. Tobacco being the most essential part of American trade, as you told me during one of our private interviews, I must inform you that the king has abolished all duties on this commodity. As for other produce, you may import whatever you choose and export whatever you find useful or appealing. Commercial relations may and should be established as soon as possible, while the court considers carefully the objects of a treaty. Allow me to also point out that none of the other nations trading extensively and profitably with the Sicilies has a treaty with my court.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gioanni Francesco Viglione: Résumé, 22 January 1785
From: Viglione, Gioanni Francesco
To: Franklin, Benjamin

				⟨Turin, January 22, 1785, in Italian: Most illustrious and honorable Professor, I send you my work in the fervent hope that

you will enjoy such a first effort, and forgive the many mistakes in printing. Drawing on the fundamental principles of your theory, I have dared to slightly disagree with you and Professor Beccaria in my own experiments and findings. I learned only recently that Dr. Cigna, Professor of Anatomy at the Royal University of Turin, had reached similar conclusions using different methods. I became aware of Professor Cigna’s work when I presented him with a complimentary copy of my book and he directed me to his own experiments, which were published in the volumes of the Miscellany of the Royal Academy of Turin. I am presently reading his work, having been given that volume by the president of the Academy, the Count of Saluzzo.
				If your response confirmed that I have been moving in the right direction, it would be a great reward for all my efforts and would spur me to continue following in the luminous tracks traced by you and Professor Beccaria, two of the most enlightened figures of this century in the area of electrical studies.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Walter, 23 January 1785
From: Walter, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir,
					London Jany. 23d. 1785.

				By your Grandson I had the Honor to transmit you a Copy of the first Letter in the Alphabet in the Mode I pursue in printing, which I hope came safe to Hand, though the Rect I am not honor’d with an Acknowledgemt. of.

				Several Books having been issued from my Press on various Subjects among the rest Adams on Electricity & the first Volume of a Series of Works which your Grandson was so polite to set down your Name for as a Subscriber, which is likewise honor’d by the Duk[es of] Richmond & Northumberland, Earls of Bute & Ma[nsfield] Ld. Romney Sr. Jos. Banks & about 150 other very respectable Names & I flatter myself to place his Majesty’s Name at the Head of it—
				If you will please to signify by what Conveyance I shall send You the first Vol: which is in twelves, & 17 others (of which Dr. Watts on the Improvement of the Mind will be the first) will be all in Octavo— It shall be sent to your Order by Sir Your Much Oblig’d & Obedt Servt

						John Walter.

					Dr. Franklin—

				Addressed: Dr. Franklin / at Passy near / Paris


Title: Thulemeier to the American Commissioners: Résumé, 24 January 1785
From: Thulemeier, Friedrich Wilhelm von
To: American Commissioners

				⟨The Hague, January 24, 1785, in French: The king has authorized me to transmit to you some observations on the counterproject of the treaty of commerce, which you sent me on November 10 and which a Dutch courier delivered on the twenty-sixth. An express courier charged with dispatches for the Dutch ambassador at Paris provides me today with a safe and swift opportunity. Since the Prussian chancellery as well as the king and his ministers are unfamiliar with the English language, I had to have a French translation of the treaty made, and to demonstrate its accuracy, I had it placed alongside the enclosed observations. I flatter myself that the latter will appear to you dictated by the spirit of justice, equity, and humanity that characterizes all the endeavors of my monarch. I do not doubt that your next letter will facilitate an agreement and enable us to complete the treaty.⟩


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Georgiana Hare, 25 January 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hare, Georgiana

					My dear Friend
					Passy, Jan. 25. 1784 [i.e., 1785]

				Your Letter of the 12th Inst. came duly to hand. I congratulate you & Mr Hare on your Marriage, & wish you every Felicity.

				I will answer your Enquiries as well as I can. The Cultivators of Land are a respectable Part of our People in Pensilvania, being generally Proprietors of the Land they cultivate, out of whom are chosen the Majority of our Magistrates, Legislators, &c. and a Year’s Residence gives a Stranger all the Rights of a Citizen. I am not much acquainted with Country Affairs, having been always an Inhabitant of Cities; but I imagine a good Plantation ready form’d, with a Dwelling House, &c. may be bought for half the Sum you mention to be now in your Possession, and that the other half would amply furnish the Stock &c. necessary for working the Land to Advantage. A Farm of two or three Hundred Acres, in the hands of a Man who understands Agriculture and will attend to it, is capable of furnishing Subsistance to a Family: If this may be the Case with Mr Hare, you see that your 300£ a Year will be an accumulating Fund, providing for the Establishment of Children, and for a Retirement of Ease & Comfort in Old Age. The Law is also an honourable Profession with us, and more profitable than Agriculture; and if Mr Hare is already acquainted with the English Common Law, which is the Basis of ours, he might be admitted to practice immediately, and would find but little Difficulty in acquiring a Knowledge of our few Additions to, or Variations of that Law; I have known in my time several considerable Estates made by that Profession. But the Study is dry and laborious and long, that is requisite to arrive at Eminence; and if Mr Hare has not already gone thro’ it, he will consider whether he has the Habits of Application, Industry & Perseverance that are necessary. Not knowing his Character & Dispositions it is impossible for me to advise well, or to judge whether sitting down quietly in some cheap part of Europe, and living prudently on two thirds of your Income, may not be preferable to any Scheme in America. I can only say, that if I should be there when you are, my best Counsels and Services will not be wanting, and to see you happily settled & prosperous there would give me infinite Pleasure; but I have not yet obtained Leave to go home, and am besides in

my 80th Year; of course if I ever arrive there my stay can be but short.— While I do exist, wherever it is, you will find me with unalterable Esteem & Affection, my dear Friend, Yours most sincerely.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Archambault, with Franklin’s Note for a Reply, 25 January 1785
From: Archambault, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Paris 25 Janvier 1785

				M. Mottin de la Balme, aprés s’estre retiré de l’Etat Major de la Gendarmerie avec rang de Capitaine de Cavalerie, avec l’agrément du Ministere passa en amérique pendant la Guerre qu’elle á Soutenue contre l’Angleterre, avec titre de Colonel, et la permission d’emmener avec lui vingt cinq volontaires. Le General Wasingthon le fit inspecteur Général de toute la Cavalerie de Son armée, il á eû lhonneur de le Servir en cette qualité pendant plusieurs années, aprés quoi il Se retira aux Environs de Philadelphie, ou il avoit monté un attelier d’arts et métiers, Ennuyé Sans doute de la mauvaise réussite de Son Entreprise il a passé chez les Illinois a ce que jai appris par voye indirecte.
				Comme il est oncle paternel de mon Epouse qui á beaucoup d’amitie pour lui, et a qui il n’a pas donné Signe de vie depuis au moins cinq ans, en reponse á une lettre qu’elle lui écrivit, et qu’elle prit la iberté de vous adresser Suivant Ses ordres, pour lui la faire tenir, comme elle en est Extremement En peine, elle vous prie Monsieur de la tranquilliser Sur Son Sort, et Si vous ne le pouviés a présent, de me dire Si vous auriés la bonté d’ecrire en amerique pour Savoir de ses nouvelles, il Seroit tres important qu’elle le Sçû pour des arrangemens de famille.

				Je vous fais bien des Excuses de l’Embarras mais on ma assuré que vous aimiés tellement á rendre Service, que Cela ma Enhardi á vous Importuner.
				Jai l’honneur d’être avec un profond Respect, Monsieur Votre trés humble & trés obeissant Serviteur

					ArchambaultRue Thevenot au No. 6.

				Endorsed: That I know nothing of the present Situation of M. Mottin de la Balme. That it would be well to enquire of M. le Marquis de la Fayette who is just arrived from America, & in case he can give no Information, then to write to M. de Marbois Consul of France at Philadelphia.—
				Notation: Archambaud 25 Janvr. 1785.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ann Ourry, 27 January 1785
From: Ourry, Ann
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					Kinsale Jany 27— 1785—

				I did myself the Honor of Writing to You by a Similar opportunity about two Years ago, but am certain that letter never reach’d you, for exclusive of the long friendship that subsisted between You & my Dear Father, & the kind attention You were so good to shew my Mother, & me in my Childhood, I know the Unfortunate have a claim on Your humanity that wou’d have induc’d You to Answer it. Shall therefore proceed without farther preface to acquaint You with the reason of my troubling You with this.
				You are no Stranger to My fathers long Services in America, nor to the reward appointed by Government for them. He, with other Officers fix’d on a tract of Land near Albany, illegally occupied by ———— Ransler. After a considerable expence in a

Lawsuit it was at last given in their favor, & Governor Tryon had Orders to take it up, & see it properly located, You know he was not permited to land, I only mention those circumstances to Shew why my Father had not his lands as well as other Officers. You left Him on half pay at Hammersmith. In 72 he got a Company in the 15 Regt. but on its being order’d to America in 77 he Sold out, tho Still so Attach’d to the Military line as to purchase the Fort Majority of Kinsale. In 78 he was appointed Commissary for Prisoners of War, & in a few Months he fell a Victim to his great Humanity to the poor Wretches under his care, having caught a violent putrid fever in the prison. The remainder of the purchase money of His Company was unfortunately left at interest in the hands of His Agent Jerves Hall of Dublin, Who became a Bankrupt soon After His Desease. So that all the benefit which remains to us, of My Dear Fathers Three & Thirty Years service, is Captns. Widows pension £26 per Anum during My Mothers life, our only inducement to stay in this Kingdom.— Now Sir, as no person I presume will dispute My Fathers former pretentions to Lands in America, You are the best Judge whether He ever forfeited them, as also (if He never did), of the Measures proper for me to pursue to recover them. I shall not Apologize for requesting Your Advice & Interest in this Affair. Necessity is Bold, & I flatter Myself I have everything to hope, from the generosity & Justice of the Congress of the United States of America, Under Your Patronage.

				I have frequently made enquiries concerning Your Health, & with sincere pleasure have learn’d that You were well, & most Agreeably Situated. I cannot conclude without beging You to excuse any Errors in this Epistle, as it is written in haste. Madam Boulleé, who charges herself with this to Paris, Sailing very unexpectedly to Morrow Morning & if it is not properly addressd intreat You to impute it entirely to My Ignorance. My Mother joins Me in best Wishes for many happy Years, And I am with the greatest Respect and the Highest Esteem, Sir, Your Oblig’d Humble Servant

						Ann Ourry.

					To Benmn. Franklin Esqr.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Richard Price, 1 February 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Price, Richard

					My dear Friend
					Passy, Feb. 1. 1785.

				I received duly your kind Letter of Oct. 21. and another before with some of your excellent Pamphlets of Advice to the United States. My last Letters from America inform me that every thing goes on well there; that the new elected Congress is met, and consists of very respectable Characters with excellent Dispositions; and the People in general very happy under their new Governments. The last Year has been a prosperous one for

the Country; the Crops plentiful and sold at high Prices for Exportation, while all imported Goods, from the great Plenty, sold low. This is the happy Consequence of our Commerce being open to all the World, and no longer a Monopoly to Britain. Your Papers are full of our Divisions and Distresses, which have no Existence but in the Imaginations and Wishes of English Newswriters and their Employers.
				I sent you sometime since a little Piece intitled, Testament de M. Fortuné Ricard, which exemplifies strongly and pleasantly your Doctrine of the immense Powers of compound Interest. I hope you receiv’d it. If not I will send you another. I send herewith a new Work of Mr Necker’s on the Finances of France. You will find good Things in it, particularly his Chapter on War. I imagine Abbé Morellet may have sent a Copy to Lord Lansdowne. If not, please to communicate it. I think I

sent you formerly his Conte rendu. This Work makes more Talk here than that, tho’ that made abundance. I will not say that the Writer thinks higher of himself and his Abilities than they deserve, but I wish for his own sake that he had kept such Sentiments more out of sight.
				With unalterable Esteem & Respect, I am ever, my dear Friend, Yours most affectionately.

					B Franklin

				Addressed: To / The Reverend Dr Price / Newington Green / near / London / per favour of / Dr Bancroft. / with a Pacquet of Books
				Endorsed: Letter from Dr Franklin dated Feb 1st. .85 with another inclosed from Mr Jefferson


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame ——— Düeil, 6 February 1785
From: Düeil, Madame ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Monsieur
						a paris le 6 fevrier 1785

					Les bonté dont Madame adelaide honnore ma familles mayant atire a versalles pour luy faire des remercimant jesperé profitté de Ce momant pour avoir lhonneur de vous faire ma Cours et vous demandé vos hordre [ordres] pour du vin de chanpangne ayant lieux desperé que vous avés esttes Contans de Celuy que

jay heut lhonneur de vous fournir au moy daout quatre vintroy. Commes je vas enlivré a Monsieur le Compte de Mallebois pour un voage qui ce propose de faire je desireret savoir sis vous en navez bezoint dans Ce momant isis sis Contre mont atante il ne vous avez pas plus autans quatouts les [grand?] a qui jan nes fournis de pareil jannes de diferante espesse a paris donc je pouvé vous faire un petty pannier descée est je vous livreret Celuy qui vous pleré le plus je vous suplie de me donné vos hordre pronte mayant peut detans areste a paris. Je Croy que vostre ecellance ce rapellera esemant que Monsieur le Compte de Mallebois vous a dit que je meritté vostre Confiance tans du Cotté de la delicatesse defasont depancé que sur la bonne Callité des vin il est tres inportans pour la sante davoir du vin bien franc et qui ne soit pas ferlaté. Jattans les hordre de vostre ecellance est jay lhonneur de lasuré deu profond respect avec lequel je suis Vostre tres hunble est tres obeisante servante

						DÜEILfammes de laide major de gravellines

					demeurant a paris rue de la cheze pret la rue de grenelles faubour st jermain chez Madame bossus

				Addressed: A sont escellance / Monsieur de franckellin / l’enbasassadeur des province / unie de lamerique en sont / autel / a passÿ
				Notation: Dueil 6. Fevr. 1785.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Richard Henry Lee, 8 February 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Richard Henry

					Sir,
					Passy, Feb. 8. 1785.—

				I received by the Marquis de la Fayette the two Letters you did me the Honour of writing to me the 11th & 14th of December; the one enclosing a Letter from Congress to the King; the other a Resolve of Congress respecting the Convention for establishing Consuls. The Letter was immediately deliver’d, and well receiv’d. The Resolve came too late to suspend Signing

the Convention, it having been done in July last; and a Copy sent so long since that we now expected the Ratification. As that Copy seems to have miscarried, I now send another. I am not informed what Objection has arisen in Congress to the Plan sent me. Mr Jefferson thinks it may have been to the Part which restrain’d the Consuls from all Concern in Commerce. That Article was omitted, being thought unnecessary to be stipulated, since either Party would always have the Power of imposing such Restraints on its own Officers, whenever it should think fit.— I am however of Opinion that this or any other reasonable Article or Alteration may be obtain’d at the Desire of Congress, and establish’d by a Supplement.
				Permit me, Sir, to congratulate you on your being call’d to the high Honour of presiding in our National Councils,—and to wish you every Felicity; being with the most perfect Esteem and Respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant

					B. Franklin
					His Excellency Richard Henry Lee, Presidt of Congress.


Title: The American Commissioners to Richard Henry Lee: Résumé, [9] February 1785
From: American Commissioners
To: Lee, Richard Henry

				⟨Paris, February [9], 1785: In our letter to Congress of December 15, we enclosed our letter to the Portuguese ambassador with our proposed draft treaty. Since then, he wrote to inform us that he had received it and forwarded it to his court (Enclosure No. 1). Baron Thulemeier wrote a similar letter (No. 2) and requested, as he had done in his letter of October 8, that we choose a port in the Prussian king’s dominion for trade between our two countries. We supposed that we had answered this by proposing in our draft treaty that all places in the dominions of either party should be open for commerce to the subjects or citizens of the other. As Thulemeier repeated the king’s desire that we choose some place, we answered him (No. 3) and now ask for instructions from Congress.

				A few days ago, Baron de Walterstorff called on us separately to inform us that he had been granted permission to return to Copenhagen on personal business, and had been asked to bring with him our proposals, so that the court might consider them during his visit. He communicated this more particularly in a letter (No. 4), which we answered (No. 5), enclosing the draft treaty.
				We also enclose the answers we received from the chargé d’affaires of Naples and the ambassador of Turin (Nos. 6 and 7). We do not propose to respond, unless future overtures from them or other circumstances render it necessary or proper.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles Williamos, 9 February 1785
From: Williamos, Charles
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Wednesday 9th: febry: 1785

				M: Williamos has the honor to present his Most respectfull Compliments to Doctor Franklin, will wait on his Excellency with Much pleasure on Monday Next.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Reichsgraf Windisch-Grätz, 9 February 1785
From: Windisch-Grätz, Josef Niclas Reichsgraf
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Bruxelles le 9 de fev: 1785

				Vous avez fait tant de bien a votre patrie, et vous avez rendu de Si grands Services a l’humanité en général par les lumieres, que vous avez répandues; que tout homme, qui croit avoir des vuës utiles, peut Se flatter, que vous voudrez bien concourrir a les propager.
				C’est là Monsieur ce qui me détermine, quoique je n’aie pas l’honneur d’être connu de vous, a vous envoyer par mon beau frere le Comte Auguste de la Marck quarante exemplaires Allemands et cinquante latins d’un ecrit que je fais répandre dans toute l’Europe, dans lequel je propose la Solution d’un probleme, que vous trouverez peut être digne de l’attention des hommes.
				Si mon ecrit a le bonheur Monsieur de mériter votre approbation, je desirerois, que vous eussiez la bonté de faire passer ces exemplaires en Amerique, et d’etayer mon programme de votre Suffrage dans les deux continents:

				Vous Savez mieux que moi, ce que peut le Suffrage d’un homme illustre; desirant vivement, que l’on S’occupe Sérieusement de la Solution de mon probleme, il est assez Simple, que j’ambitionne le votre.
				Je n’ai pas mis mon nom a la tête de cet ecrit, parceque je ne veux pas être nommé publiquement, mais je ne peux pas me résoudre de garder l’anonime en vous parlant Monsieur de cette profonde éstime, que vous etez Si fait pour inspirer aux habitans de toutes les parties du monde, et pour vous prier d’agréer l’hommage de la vénération avec laquelle j’ai l’honneur d’être Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur

						Le Comte de Windisch: Grätz

				Notation: Windisch Gratz 9 Fevr. 1785.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre Vernier, 10 February 1785
From: Vernier, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monseigneur;
					A Lyon le 10e. fevrier 1785.

				Je vous Supplie d’excuser la liberté que je prends de m’addresser à vous, pour vous prier de me faire la grace de m’instruire Sur ce que je dois faire à l’égard de trois Contrats ou obligations du Congrès des Etats de Pensilvanie de 1000. Dollars chacun qui m’ont été Cédés par les Sieurs Lavabre Doerner et Compe. de Paris, par acte du 9. Janvier 1781. payables avec Intérêts à la fin de l’année 1783.; J’ay écrit à Philadelphie on ne m’a rien répondu. Mr. Lavabre me dit é Paris au mois d’Aoust 1783, qu’il falloit attendre de Savoir quel parti le Congrèz prendroit pour le rembourssement de ces éffets; C’est pourquoy, comme je ne doute pas que vous n’en Soyes instruit, Je vous Supplie vouloir bien m’en faire part. Je joints icy Copie de l’acte de Céssion qui m’a été faitte des dits trois Contrats pour vous en faire connoître la nature, il me seroit très intéréssant de Savoir à quoy m’en tenir pour cet objet; En m’obligeant vous rendriés un Service très éssentiel à celui qui a l’honneur d’être avec le plus profond

Respect De Votre Excéllence; Le très humble et très Obéissant Serviteur./.

					Pierre VernierMarchd. Tireur d’or

				Notation: Vernier 10 Fevr. 1785.


Title: Thulemeier to the American Commissioners: Résumé, 11 February 1785
From: Thulemeier, Friedrich Wilhelm von
To: American Commissioners

				⟨The Hague, February 11, 1785, in French: The letter that you wrote to me in January, without indication of a specific date, reached me a few days ago. I transmitted to the king the offer to establish the ports of Emden and Stettin as free ports, and I await His Majesty’s orders, which I will hasten to make known to you. You will have received by now the counterproject, enclosed with my letter of January 24, and I earnestly hope that we can complete the work that has been the object of our common concerns.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chevalier de Laumoy, 13 February 1785
From: Laumoy, Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur,
					A paris le 13 fevrier 1785.

				Messieurs du Portail Gouvion et moi avons regu dernierement des lettres de Mr. de Marbois Consul Genal. de france à Philadelphie, par lesquelles il nous mande que Mr. Millegan lui a dit vous avoir envoyé les nouveaux certificats des Sommes qui nous Sont dues par le Congrès, et dont l’Interest doit être

d’orênavant payé à paris par Mr. Grand.— Oserois-je vous prier, Monsieur et au nom de ces Messrs. de vouloir bien me faire Savoir Si vous les avez reçus, ou Si vous en avez quelques nouvelles. Je vous en aurois une obligation infinie.
				Je Suis avec un très profond Respect Monsieur, Votre très humble et tres obéissant Serviteur

					LaumoyLt. Col. d’Infanterie, à l’hotel d’hollande rue du Bouloy,A paris

				Notation: Laumoy 13 Fevr. 1785.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis Delacolonge, 14 February 1785
From: Delacolonge, Louis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Lyon Le 14e fevrier 1785—

				Comme plusieurs personnes m’ont proposé de n’achetter de ma fonderie que certains articles, laquelle fonderie j’ai eu l’honneur de vous offrir dans le temps, je me suis decidé de la vendre par parties détachées; cette vente Se fera chés moi, et commencera le 20 ou le 25 avril prochain au plus tard; jj’ai l’honneur de vous en prévenir pour que Si vous êtes dans l’intention d’y achetter quelques choses, vous puissiés en charger quelqu’un pour ce temps la; j’ai celui d’être avec un très profond Respect./.

				Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur

					Delacolongefondeur en Caracteres d’imprimerie près les carmelitesA Lyon
					Mr franklin de paris

				Notation: Delacolonge 14. Fev. 1785


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis and Marquise de Lafayette, 15 February 1785
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Paris Ce 15. fe. [février] 1785.

				M et Mde. La Mise. De la Fayette prient Monsieur Franklin de leur faire lhonneur de Venir diner chez eux Lundy prochain.

					R.S.V.P.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jacques Brillon de Jouy, 16 February 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Brillon de Jouy, Jacques

					à Passy ce 16 Fevr. 1785.

				Mr. Franklin fait mille Compliments à Monsieur Brillon. Il lui envoie selon sa Promesse l’Extrait de la Lettre que M. Bache lui a écrite, au quel il a joint une Traduction, et le prie de vouloir bien les remettre à M. Thomas.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre Michel, 16 February 1785
From: Michel, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Le Havre le 16 fev. 1785./.

				Votre Excellence est peut être informée que Le Capne Buttler Commandant L’Aréthuse arrivé en ce port e Vingt huit du Mois dernier & Venant de Baltimore auroit amené avec lui dudit Lieu Une jeune fille agée d’environ dix Sept ans qui Se Seroit engagée Sous l’habit D’homme en qualité de Novice. Le Navire étoit bien amaré Dans notre port depuis deux jours Lorsque je fus informé qu’un jeune homme avoit été indignement Mal traitté par l’equipage dudit Capne & le Commissaire de Police qui avait ete temoin de La scene M’assura que Le Pretendu jeune homme Maltraitté étoit une femme. Je fis Venir le Capne qui me jura sur Sa parole D’honneur n’avoir appris que Sur la fin de Sa traversée que le Novice qu’il avoit engagé fût d’un autre Sexe; jacceuillis cette Malheureuse & La mis dans une Maison ou on Voulut bien Se charger d’elle jusqua ceque je fûsse informé exactement de cequelle étoit et décidé au party à prendre. Jai Scu depuis quelle appartenait a une famille honnête de Boston Connue d’une Maison de Commerce de cette Ville & javois déja Vu M Limozin pour lui obtenir une place dans le premier Navire qui repasserait a Boston, quand l’hôte chéz lequel je l’avois Mise en attendant Vînt Me dire quil ne Vouloit plus me repondre de cette femme folle d’amour pour le Second Capitaine du Navire Sur lequel

elle étoit Venue & quelle etoit quelque fois comme frénétique. Je Crus devoir M’assurer d’elle & la fis Conduire Sans le Lui dire a la prison de la Ville ou assés doucement traittée je puis au moins attendre a Son égard les ordres quil plaira a votre excellence me faire passer.
				Je Crois devoir observer que le Capne Ma assuré qu’elle a les inclinations les plus Vicieuses, portée a Boire & libertine. Jai été Moy même temoins de la violence de Sa passion pour le Second capitaine en question. Absolument Nue quand elle est arrivée, jay Cru devoir par humanité M’occupper de la faire Vetir & de lui adoucir autant que possible la rigueur de La Saison.
				Jose Me flatter que Votre Excellence approuvera la Conduite que jay tenue jusqu’icy & je Seray attendant les ordres quelle Voudra bien Me donner pour la Conduite a tenir par la Suite & le rembours des avances que j’ay faites; & a faire.
				Cette femme S’appelle Elisabeth Tingis de Baltimore & le Cape Buttler poura partir Sous peu pour Londres & de la pour Baltimore.
				Jai l’honneur detre avec Respect Monsieur De Votre Excellence Le très humble & très Obéissant Serviteur

					MichelP du Roy de L’amté

				Notation: Michel 16 Fevr. 1785.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Childs, 17 February 1785
From: Childs, Francis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Honored Sir,
					New York, Feb. 17. 1785—

				It is some time since I did myself the honor to Address you, & in the present instance I importune you with this only that my situation in Life demands it,—sensible that your time must be engrossed by your attention to matters of more importance.—

				I have experienced considerable loss by being as yet disappointed in not receiving the Types which so long has been expected.— If I remind you of this, think not but that it is with due deference to dignity, & veneration & Gratitude for the Countenance & Favor you have already shewn me.—
				I wish Sir, that by the next Packet you would do me the honor to send me a line or two that I might know where to fix my hopes.— As to be suspended betwixt the hopes of receiving them & the Fear of being Disappointed, you will admit is certainly not a very agreeable situation.
				My Most unfeigned Respects to you accompany this with every wish for your happiness, & believe that I am Honored Sir, Your Most Obedient Servant

						Francis Child

					His Excellency Benj. Franklin Esqr. Passey—

				Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / Passey / near Paris / per Packet.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Michel, 19 February 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Michel, Pierre

					Sir,
					Passy, Feb. 19. 1785.

				The Humanity you have shown to that miserable young Female, Elizabeth Tingis, is very laudable, notwithstanding the Depravity of her Character. If it be true that she is of a respectable Family in America, there can be no doubt but they will repay the Expence with Thanks; but I never knew there any Family of that Name, and I question her being an American; I rather think she may be one of the late Emigrants from Ireland or Britain; and I think the Captain who brought her should be oblig’d to pay the Expence she has occasion’d, and take her away with him. I have the honour to be, Sir,

					M. Michel P. du Roy de l’Amirauté, à le Havre


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vernier, 19 February 1785
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vernier, Pierre

					Passy ce 19 Fevrier 1785.

				J’ai reçu, Monsieur, la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 10 de ce Mois, relativement à 3 Contrats du Bureau d’Emprunt des Etats Unis dont vous étez Porteur [Text deleted by Franklin: Le Congrès s’occupe maintenant des moyens de rembourser ces Effets, et a pris de mésures éfficaces pour assurer le Payement des Interéts, qui a souffert quelque Retard; ceux de l’Année 1782 ont déja été payés, et ceux de l’Année 1783 le seront vraisemblablement bien tôt. Mais comme dans tous les Pays on ne peut payer ni l’Intérêt ni le Principal que sur la Représentation de ces Contrats, Les Proprietaires ont tres mal fait de les faire passer en Europe où

ils ne sont bons à rien. En conséquence Je pense qu’il est necessaire de les renvoyer en Amerique à quelque Négociant ou à M. de Marbois Consul de France à Philadelphie, car il y a déja longtemps que Mr. Oster a changé de Consulat, ce qui est peutêtre cause que vous n’avez pas reçu de Reponse à la Lettre que vous avez écrite à ce Sujet. Afin de prevenir le Risque que vous courez en leur faisant passer la mer une seconde fois, vous feriez peutétre bien d’en prendre ici des Copies Authentiques, qui puissent vous servir en cas qu’ils soient perdus dans le Voyage.]
				J’ai l’honneur d’etre, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obeissant Serviteur./.

					à M. Pierre Vernier.

				[Revised text to be translated and inserted:] & which were deposited in the Hands of Mr Oster then Vice Consul of France at Philada. I know nothing certain of the present State of those Contracts, but suppose they may be now in course of Payment. I hear that Mr Oster is remov’d from Philadelphia to the State of Maryland or Virginia; which is probably the reason that you have had no Answer to your Letter. It would be well, I think, to write to Mr Marbois, present Consul of France at Philadelphia, (in whose Hands probably Mr Oster may have left the Papers deposited in the Consular Office,) and empower him to receive and transmit to you the Money.