Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gourlade & Moylan, 5 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gourlade & Moylan

Gentlemen
Passy, July 5. 1780.
I wrote to M Williams on the 27th. Ult. inclosing an oder to the Commanding officer of the Alliance to take on board that frigate as many of the arms &c as he could conveniently Stow, and to give a Receipt for the same. I at the same time signified my Desire to have the Arriel fitted and dispatched with the utmost Expedition. M Williams is now here and consequently has not received my Letter, I therefore gave him a Duplicate of the Order to forward to you, and I have now to request that the remainder of the Powder and Arms may be shipped on board the Ariel, and that frigate dispatced under the Command of Commodore Jones as soon as possible. If there should remain any Room after loading the Arms and Powder let M Williams’s Cloathing have a preference to all other Goods— If the Bonhomme Richard’s men are released from the Alliance there will be enough for the Ariel, if not you must get together as many as you can, and in Addition I will order some others to join who have lately arrived at St. Malo.
You will please to inform me in answer to this when You think the Ariel will sail and I will take care to have my Dispatches ready for her, I am Gentlemen Your most humble Servant
Messrs. Gourlade and Moylan.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Paul Jones, 5 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Jones, John Paul

Dear Sir
Passy, July 5. 1780.
I received yours of June 21. with the Papers it inclosed from M. Genet, who had kept them a Day or Two to translate them for the Minister. I approve much of your humanity and Prudence. But am sorry in the Letter to Dr. Bancroft, you Complain of your friends who are in no fault. They spare you, and have not even hinted that if you had staid on board where your Duty lay in stead of coming to Paris, you would not have lost your Ship. Now you blame them as having deserted you in recovering her. Tho’ relinquishing to prevent Mischief was a Voluntary act of your own for which you have Credit.— Hereafter, if you should observe on occasion to give your officers and friends a little more praise than is their Due, and confess more fault than you can justly be charged with, you will only become the sooner for it a Great Captain. Criticising and censuring almost every one you have to do with, will diminish friends, encrease Enemies, and thereby hurt your affairs.— I continue as ever, Dear Sir. &c.
Honble. Comme. Jones.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to James Moylan, 5 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Moylan, James

Sir,
Passy, July 5. 1780.
I received your favour of the 25th. past, and am much obliged by the Pains you took to get my Letters delivered on board the Alliance. Please to return me that which Capt. Landais refused to receive, putting your Note of that Refusal on the back of it.
In yours (Gourlade & Moilan) of March 14. You mentioned the receiving 4571 l.t. 5. 4. tournois as a Ransom for the ship friendship and Cargo taken by Comm. Jones, which Sum you had passed to the Credit of my Account. Capt. Jones at the same time informed me by Letter that he had intended to burn that Ship; but the Capt. Driburgh having been excedingly useful to him as a Pilot, he had taken his Ransom merely to have the means of rewarding him by giving him the Money, & which he desired my approbation. As it did not belong to me to receive or Dispose of such Monies, I Spoke to Comm. Jones about it, and desired him to request your taking that Sum from my Account which I hope is done. But Capt. Driburgh being in want of Money here, I advanced him Ten Louis on a Draft he gave me on a Merchant in Dunkerque, which Draft is not paid, and therefore I request that out of the Money Capt. Jones may think fit to order for him, you would retain for me those ten Louis. As to the rest, I make no doubt that upon a proper Representation of Circumstances the Consideration intended by Comm. Jones for that poor Man’s Services will be approved of, by those, to whom the Allowance of his Accounts shall appertain.
With great Esteem I have the honour to be Sir,—&c.
Mr. James Moylan.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Paul Jones, 5 July 1780
From: Jones, John Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
L’orient July 5th. 1780.
Since the 23d. ult. I have been doing my best to bring our Affairs here back again to Order; or at least to be able to proceed for Philadelphia with the Ariel. The enclosed papers will best explain the circumstances of Landais’ beheaviour and of my endeavours to counteract him and his Advisers in thier schemes to defeat the Plan that you had Adopted in consent with this Government for conducting the Public Stores to America.— You will see, by the within letter of the 2d. from the Sailors of the late Bon homme Richard, that moderation was not likely to effect their enlargement.— Yesterday I was in the Afternoon, on the Parade in the Port with Mr. Blodget the Purser of the Alliance, and directed him to accompany me on Board the Ariel with two or three of my Officers in Order to examin the State of Accounts of the People of the Alliance previous to the division of Prize Money.— Blodget refused to attend me.— I repeated my Order, and took hold of his Coat, as he appeared to intend running away.— He then called for the Guard, and demanded to be put in Prison.— The Guard came and, without any Order or request on my part, took Blodget into Custody.— I gave an immediate Account of the Affair to the Commandant and Officers of the Port; and afterwards sent M. de Thevenard the letter whereof the within is a Copy. M. de Thevenard sent for me again this morning, and begged me to commit the matter entirely to his management:— he said he would take the whole upon himself, and believed he should be able thro’ the means of Blodget to Obtain the Seamen within mentioned from the Alliance.
I have not yet heard the effect of my letter to the Crew of the Alliance; but it is my Opinion they will not weigh Anchor before they are hopeless of receiving Money.
I am and will be Always, with the heighest and most Affectionate respect Dear Sir, Your most Obliged and faithful Friend
Jno P Jones

N.B. I am honored with yours of the 27th.— and by a letter of the 28th. from M. de Genet I find that you must that day have recd. my former letter with explainatory Papers that was missing.
His Excellency B. Franklin Esqr. &c. &c.

Notations in different hands: J. P. Jones, L’Orient July 5. 1780 / Comme. Jones.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquise de Lafayette, [on or before 5 July 1780]
From: Lafayette, Marie-Adrienne-Françoise de Noailles, marquise de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce mercredy [on or before July 5, 1780]
Je ne puis, monsieur refuser a un homme de mes parens qui veut partir pour Lamerique, est muni d’un passeport de monsieur de montbarey, et qui a déja obtenu de mr De Sartine a La reccommandation de mr Le Mal. De Noailles une Lettre pour Paul-jones, de vous Supplier de vouloir bien lui donner des Lettres pour Le Congrès, je vous demande bien pardon de mon importunite je vous supplie d’agréer mes excuses, ainsi que Lassurance de ma recconnoissance que minspireront vos bontés pour mr Le Baron D’arross.
Rendes justice monsieur a La sincerite des sentimens avec Lesquels j’ai lhonneur detre votre très humble et très obeissante servante.
Noailles De LAFAYETTE


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de Valory and Other Favor Seekers, 5 July 1780
From: Valory, Charles-Jean-Marie, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

On July 5, 1780, in the document printed below, the marquis de Valory solicits Franklin’s help in cashing a payment made to him in American currency. Eleven other people in the course of the following four months were to seek assistance from the American minister in solving a wide range of problems having to do with money.
A former infantry major who signs himself Dalgres, writing from Paris on September 19, encloses three bills of exchange amounting to 1710 l.t. sent to him from Nantes. He has already presented them to banker Grand who said the affair must be conducted through Franklin. A note in Chaumont’s hand specifies that the papers seem to be in order but that payment should be made only on the originals because the notaries in Les Cayes (a town in St. Domingue) would not be able to detect a forgery. A notation indicates that this letter was answered on September 20th, but we have no further record of the response.
From Rabastens in the Albigeois comes a letter written on September 29 by a chevalier de Poteins. He alludes to a previous message (presumably lost) in which he had asked Franklin to help him cash in French currency the sum of 134 continental dollars which he owns. Please answer him soon. His needs are pressing.
Sir John Lambert, the Parisian banker who had already communicated with Franklin on June 20 (XXXII, 45), writes in English on September 26. He pleads the cause of “a poor American captain,” Benjamin Bucktrout, whose three bills of the U.S.A., amounting to a total of 120 dollars, were refused by Franklin because they had not been duly endorsed. The writer, having already returned them to the Amsterdam bank from which they emanated, now offers that bank’s guarantee and his own as to their validity. Could Franklin please reconsider? He did, as attested by an endorsement in Temple’s hand, crediting his grandfather’s change of mind to “consideration of this Letter.”
These are the straightforward cases. The others are somewhat more complex.
Four correspondents relate a tale of woe. Louis Gourlet Duplessÿ, a former sergeant in Col. Livingston’s regiment, pensioned as an invalid by the United States of America, is currently living in Noyon, Picardy. He had been residing for twenty-six years in Quebec when the Anglo-American war broke out and rather than take up arms against France and the United States, as the new Governor wanted him to do after the fall of Quebec, he threw his fate with that of the United States, raised a corps of fifty Canadians, took part in several battles—the last of them in Rhode Island—and was captured. It was impossible for him to go back to Canada after his exchange, so he decided to rejoin his family in Paris. While in the capital in July, 1780, he paid a visit to Franklin and obtained the promise of his protection, along with some financial help. Finally back with his own people in Noyon, he discovered that his own little capital had been spent in his absence. On August 11 he sends Franklin a letter (not in his own hand) explaining that his only hope for survival lies in the payment in France of his American pension. Along with his American certificates, the petitioner encloses one from the lieutenant general of police in Noyon. A follow-up, in his own hand this time, is sent on September 13. One year later, on September 10, 1781, Lieutenant Montfort, maître de camp de cavalerie in Noyon, urges Franklin to come to the aid of Duplessÿ and to send back his certificates.
Also returning empty-handed from America, a man named Baudin writes on September 12 from St. Martin on the Ile de Ré. He had left for Pennsylvania, he says, two and a half years previously with a fairly large capital but was captured before disembarking and thrown in a New York jail. As soon as he got out, he enlisted on a privateer. He was soon taken again and sent back to the same jail for another six months, after which he sailed directly for France having lost his entire fortune but for 156 Virginia dollars. He now needs Franklin’s help, desperately. His follow-up message, of October 18, covers the same ground. The sole difference is that the 156 dollars have become 165.
Salvator Le Séque, a sailor, living in Lorient, sends to “Monseigneur franqueline en Bassadeur des ámériquins” an undated letter sometime around August 12. His son Louis Salvator Le Séque was working as a cabin boy. The ship on which he served perished, and the father now seeks his son’s share of the prize money. Franklin endorsed the letter, “Gave this poor Man 6 Livres.”
Captain Richelot, writing from Rennes on October 1, suffered tribulations that exceed all others. Sent back to France after the fall of Charleston, he was captured five times, four times at sea and the fifth in Charleston. He is presently so debilitated by the lack of food that he keeps falling ill, which has prevented him from taking Franklin’s orders in Paris. Worse yet, the enemy has confiscated all the money he has earned in commerce while employed by Congress and he is left with only some continental paper currency that is non-negotiable in France. What he desires from Franklin is a letter that will insure that his military advancement is not hampered by his lengthy stay in Europe. He also wants guidance as to the necessary steps to preserve the value of the currency he holds, now that a congressional resolution has altered the size of bills, as he heard on the day of his departure.
Some correspondents are not too happy with the way Franklin is reacting to their requests. On September 15, the Nantes firm of Wilt & Delmestre, Junr. complains that he is too slow in accepting the bills of exchange drawn upon him in America: some of them have been almost one month in his hands, not causing them any anxiety but much inconvenience. Convinced that this is simply a matter of negligence on the part of Franklin’s secretaries, they urge him to remedy the situation. Franklin noted “Repondue” on the top of their letter.
The Italian poet Bassi reminds Franklin in no uncertain terms, on September 18, that some two months previously Franklin had tacitly agreed to subscribe for six copies of Bassi’s forthcoming Recueil de poésies Italiennes, i.e., Franklin let the poet know by an intermediary that his answer would be coming via the petite poste. Now that the printer is about to insert the names of the subscribers, it is time to pay the fifty-four l.t. that are due. He repeats his reminder the following day and sends a messenger to collect the money. Both letters come from Paris.
The last two letters in this category have to do with money in a more oblique way. Madame Dubois’ message of September 2 is quite mysterious. Franklin, it seems, promised to give her some advice and she rejoices in the thought that he is not confusing her with those indelicate souls whose only idol is money. Sensing that he trusts her, she will explain her case in a totally open way when she has the honor of meeting him the following Monday around 9 a.m. if that day and time are convenient to him.
As to Joseph Blanchard, who writes on September 28 in the third person, he has a complicated story to tell. While serving two masters, Teyleur and Trambell (Tyler and Trumbull) as interpreter, he has been accused of stealing two bags of money that had been furnished by the Grand bank and left for a night in John Adams’s residence at the Hôtel de Valois. He in turn intimates that the theft was committed by his colleague Provin. Foucault (Chaumont’s son-in-law?), Ostinn (Austin?) and someone named Jackson at the Hôtel de York (probably Edward Jackson Jones who wrote from there on July 13, below) also figure in his hopelessly garbled account. Conclusion: he requests Franklin’s protection and help.
Three people pine for news. The marquise de Castries—whose husband was to become minister of the navy the following month—wonders on September 14 whether Franklin can tell her anything about her son who is part of the squadron led by Ternay and Rochambeau. She hears that it has reached Rhode Island.
A man named Bertrand, who identifies himself as ancien commissaire des guerres aux colonies, writes on September 29 from Paris to enquire whether Franklin knows anything about Joseph Redmond, an Irishman who has been for forty years a resident of Philadelphia and who was a sheriff there about eight years ago. Is he still alive? If not, when did he die? This is of the utmost importance for the writer, who was in conversation with Vergennes when Franklin arrived the previous day in the company, as he later learned from Gérard de Rayneval, of a visitor from Philadelphia. Franklin apparently failed to answer this query, for Bertrand wrote again, on January 10, 1781, inclosing a duplicate of his first letter, at the suggestion of Rayneval.
From Ludwigsburg in the duchy of Württemberg comes, on October 31, a request from Gottlob Friedrich Ruthardt, a merchant. His brother Christian Wilhelm emigrated to Philadelphia six years ago to make his fortune in commerce. No news was received from him after the first two years and now a letter from Baltimore talks about his death. The writer begs Franklin to inquire about the matter and, if need be, to have a death certificate sent to him. A notation on a French abridged version of this long letter (written originally in German) indicates that it was answered. Indeed, in his follow-up note of December 9, in German, Ruthardt acknowledges Franklin’s letter of November 14. Our assumption is that Franklin said that he did not know the fate of Ruthardt’s brother, as the writer now encloses three identical letters to Evangelical Lutheran clergymen at Philadelphia, as well as two letters from relatives of his, with a request that Franklin forward them.

Other people need Franklin’s help in forwarding their mail to America.
From the Academy at Liege, W. Brent asks on July 17 for two letters to be sent off. He presumes Franklin has heard of the battles in the West Indies and the defeat of the Americans. He writes again on July 25, enclosing another letter and giving war news. Both his messages are in English.
On August 1, Tudesq, the mayor of Cète (Sète in Languedoc), begs Franklin to forward a package to his brother-in-law, Jean Thouron, a sea captain who has built several ships in Maryland (or maybe in Virginia) in unsuccessful attempts to send merchandise to France. The writer plans to ship a second packet, just to be safe. Franklin’s love of humanity, and of the French in particular, is so well known that he feels no qualms in doing so.
A lieutenant-colonel of a regiment of dragoons named Forestier encloses two letters that are to be remitted to M. de Villefranche. He is writing from Angers on September 5.
Using English on September 18, Alexander Gordon, principal of the “Scotch College” (Collège des Ecossais) in Paris, avails himself of the privilege of being a friend of Mrs. Strange to enclose some letters for Mr. Griffin. “One of them is from his Lady’s Aunts and, I suppose, contains nothing of any importance.”
The wife of Mr. de Flad, captain of the Royal Deux-Ponts regiment currently in the Rochambeau corps in America, has asked her friend de Puchelbel to help her send a letter safely to her husband either through Franklin or any other way he indicates. Writing from Paris on October 3, Puchelbel asks BF to add her letter to his packets to America.
In German and in a very shaky hand Baron Wilhelm Augustine von Steuben entreats Franklin, on October 18, to forward letters to his son. His letter comes from Cüstrin.
Finally, no survey of favor-seekers would be complete without people who recommend themselves or others.
J. Lepine, who lives in Paris, thanks Franklin on November 13 in excellent English for having recommended his translating abilities to a Mr. Bromfield who in turn recommended him to Mr. Andrews. They have both been satisfied enough to give him written certificates. He now humbly solicits the continuance of such august patronage.
On July 26, Fallavel, who repeatedly refers to Franklin as his friend, renews a plea: to grant a letter of introduction to America in favor of young Dezoteux, whose own message to him is enclosed.
On July 14, a receveur des impositions named Jacqué, who writes from Châtillon-sur-Sèvre, pleads with Franklin to communicate his remedy against dropsy. He has long wanted to ask this but has refrained for fear of committing an indiscretion. Now, thinking of the good this would do in his province of lower Poitou and mindful of Franklin’s benevolence, he feels emboldened.
Joseph Mazurié makes an impassioned plea on September 18 for the use of Landerneau as a Breton port and for the freedom of maritime commerce in general. He is indignant because two American ships have been forbidden to unload their cargo anywhere but in Brest and urges Franklin to discuss the matter with the controller general of finance. He encloses the text of the memorandum he would like Franklin to send.

Monsieur.
Bordeaux Ce 5 julliet 1780.
Estant un militaire qui connaist très peu Le cours des especes en papiers des colonies uniées un particulier qui en estait pourvú, et qui me devait m’en ayant donné en payement une assez forte Somme, je vous serais bien obligé de me faire donner Les Moyens d’en avoir le payement, Ou au moins de me faire indiquer ou il faut faire enregistrer ma Creance Sur Les colonies uniées, et Si elle porte interest. Malgré que j’eusse grand besoin de Ces fonds, je suis trop bon Cytoyen pour ne pas prendre patience, ainsy que tous les arrangemens que voudrat faire Le congrés, La seule chose que je desire de Sçavoir c’est comment il faut S’y prendre pour assurer en france la créance, et a quelles epoques a peu pres on serat payé.
Je vous demande mille pardons de troubler un instant des moments qui Sont tous Si pretieux pour L’humanité et pour ma patrie, je vous prie de Croire que l’estime et La Veneration que jay L’honneur de vous porter egalent Le Respect avec Lequel je suis Monsieur Vostre très humble Serviteur
Le Mqis DE Valory colonel d[torn:’infanterie]Chez mr. Le grix president des tresoriersde france a Bordeaux


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 6 July 1780
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Lahaie 6e. Juillet 1780
J’ai eu l’honeur de vous écrire le 4e. Aujourd’hui j’ai celui de vous dire qu’il est arrivé à Amsterdam un petit Bâtiment Américain the Fame Capt. Nic. Lamprell, parti de Salem le 4e. de May. J’en ai vu 2 passagers Mr. Isaac White de Salem, & Mr. Ed. Jones de Boston, qui Sont venus ici chez moi.
Mr. White avoit reçu le 1er. May des Depeches de Mr. le Marquis de la Fayette pour Mr. l’Ambassadeur de fce. [France] ici. Un Exprès les lui avoit apporté de nuit, après que Mr. De la Fayette, arrivé le 30e. Avril avoit passé une partie de la même nuit à les préparer & expédier. Cela faisoit un paquet de 4 bons doigts d’Epaisseur. Leur voyage fut heureux jusque sur le Dogger bank, banc entre l’Angleterre & le Jutland; là, environ les 56.° 36’, ils furent chassés tout un jour par un Corsaire portant pavillon Anglois. Ils jeterent leurs dix canons pour S’alléger, & même quelques marchandises. Enfin ils furent pris. Le Corsaire envoya du monde, qui visita leurs papiers, qui, conforme à leur déclaration, comme quoi ils étoient Américains, eussent dû engager le Corsaire à les laisser aller, puisque c’étoit la Princesse de Robec, Cape. Cornu de Dunkerque. Mais lui, continuant contre toute raison, de feindre, leur dit que, cela étant, ils étoient bonne prise, & qu’il alloit les conduire à Douvres, & les passagers eurent ordre de passer à son bord. White, à qui le Dr Cooper avoit expressément ordonné de jeter les Dépêches, si le salut de sa patrie lui étoit cher, en cas de prise, avoit pris la précaution de les mettre dans un sac avec un boulet, de les suspendre hors du Navire à une ficelle, & d’ordonner à un homme affidé de couper la ficelle S’il lui donnoit un certain signe, se voyant enlever, donna le signe & les Dépeches allerent à fonds, ainsi que les autres Lettres, & Lettres de change à [lui] qu’il y avoit jointes. Enfin le Cape. Cornu ne pouvant plus les méconnoître, leur dit qu’il alloit les conduire en france; & ce fut avec peine qu’ils obtinrent de pouvoir aller à leur destination. Tout ce procédé est contraire, ce me semble, à l’art. 29 du Traité de Commerce entre la France & l’Amérique. Le plus facheux c’est la perte des Dépêches. J’ai conduit le Sr. White chez M. l’Ambassadeur, qui a demandé une Déclaration signée de lui de tout cela. Dès que je l’aurai, j’en tirerai une copie & s’il y a quelque différence avec ce que j’en dis ici, je vous la marquerai, Monsieur. En attendant, j’ai cru devoir vous donner connoissance de cela, Monsieur, afin que vous puissiez en porter plainte, si vous le croyez à propos.
Du reste, le Sr. White a déclaré, que tout étoit bien à son départ. Les Recrues se levoient, & la Taxe se collectoit, avec facilité. Mr De la Fayette Se préparoit à partir pour l’Armée & vers le Congrès. Il assure que la prise de Charlestown n’aura nullement découragé les Américains.
Je suis avec un très-grand respect, Monsieur De V. Exce. le très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur
Dumas
Passy à S.E. Mr. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur B. Franklin, Esqr. / Min. Plenipe. des Et. Unis / &c. / Passy./.
Notation: Dumas la haie July. 6. 80


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Diot & Co., 7 July 1780
From: Diot, John, & Cie.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honoured Sir
Morlaix the 7th. July 1780
This Serves to Acquaint Your Excellency that the Black Princess American privateer, which after too long a detention, Sailed from Isle Bas [Isle de Batz] Road on Thursday Evening, took 8 prizes, which the Weakness of her Crew, forced Captn. Macatter to Ransom, but on sonday 2d. Instant, Being about 3 leagues off Milford, he Saw 3 sails of Merchantmen Which he gave chace to, and Came up with the brig Padmore Captn. Solomon Williams, from Chester bound to London, with 28 four pounders Iron Guns, and after takeing out of her, the Captain, 4 hands and Two Women passengers he Sent her to harbour, under Command of Wm. Ripner and three men, With a man and a boy prisoners he left on board.
Said prize Came in this Road, Yesterday morning after a Very narrow Escape, haveing been chaced by an English privateer, Close to the harbour mouth and most under the fort.
We have deliver’d to the Admiralty office all the papers Relative to Said prize and Every thing Seeming to be Regular, We are in hopes that your Judgement in Condemnation will be issued Soon; The Two prisoners were put in Gaol.

Mr. Torris has forwarded us The Judgements of the Peter and friendship prizes, which we deliver’d to the Admiralty office, and We gratefully Thank your Excellency for same.
We have the honnour to be with due Respect Honoured Sir Your most Obedient and Most Humble Servants
Jn Diot & Co
To His Excellency B. Franklin Minister for the Congress at the Court of France Passy

Notation: Mr. Diot & Co. July 7. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 7 July 1780
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Lahaie 7e. Juille [1780]
La protestation, en Allemand, de la minorité du Chapitre de Munster, m’ayant été communiquée ce matin, je me suis tout de suite mis à la traduire, pour pouvoir vous l’envoyer ce soir. Cette piece me paroît très-bien faite. D’ailleurs la matiere est de la plus grande importance, puisqu’il s’agit du futur Electeur de Cologne & Evêque de Munster. Je la crois de la façon de Mr. De Furstemberg Administrateur de l’Evêché de Munster, grand Génie; mais ce n’est qu’une conjecture de ma part. Je pense que cela vous fera plaisir. Un vilain mal aux reins m’empêche presque d’écrire. Je suis avec un grand respect, Monsieur Votre très-humble & très obeissant serviteur
Dumas
Passy à S.E. Mr. B. Franklin

Notation: Mr. Dumas la Haie July. 7. 80


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Landais, 7 July 1780
From: Landais, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excellency
Alliance at Groix 7th July 1780.
I have waited ’till now for your Order for Sailing as you announced me another letter in yours of the 24th. June, to Come by the next Post—but since you have wrote me nothing and that you charged me in that letter with the prejudicial delay of the Sailing of the Alliance, and given no hopes of having my People righted, I have prevailed upon them to go to our own Country to seek Justice.
I have for my own part been treated very ill, and my Purser has been Put into Prison, but I hope We will have Satisfaction for the injury and I now acquaint you that I am getting under Sail to go to America.
I have the Honor to be Your most Obedient humble Servt.
P: Landais Captain of the Alliance
Doctor Franklin

Notation: P. Landais Groix July 7. 80


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baron de Wulffen, 7 July 1780
From: Wulffen, Jean Henry, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Venlo the 7th. jullett 1780
I have the Honour to late your Exelance know that am in tollerable good health arrived here at Venlo, where, where I am oblidged to rest Some days, meen time them depeches your Exelance Sent along are Delivered in good hands in the Hague, His Exelance Knowing I’ am wishing nothing more than to Return again to my post to which End have the Honour to hould my Self Recomended to your Exelance thanking your Exelance for the alrady Received protection and Honours Subschryet myself with diepst Respect, Sir your Most Humble and most obedient Servant
Johan Henrick De Wulffen

P.S. Exelance favour me with a letter of answer to this an I Shall have the Honour to wait your Exelances further orders in here


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baron d’Arros and Other Commission Seekers, 10 July 1780
From: Arros d’Argelos, Jean-François, baron d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Of the fifteen people who either applied for a commission in the American army between July 1 and November 15, 1780, or recommended someone for a commission, as far as we know only the first, the baron d’Arros, had the connections to elicit Franklin’s support. His letter of July 10 is printed below.
Also writing on July 10 was Louis-Germain Dupin d’Assarts, from the Nivernais, who begs a chance to shed his blood for America and to find a haven for his family. Seven years ago he took advantage of the gullibility of a young woman and, prompted by his religion and his honor, married her. His mother disapproved of the marriage and deprived him of all his resources. Having no money he has been unable to find employment. He speaks German, Italian, and Latin. He is robust of temperament and fit for any work. Five years ago he wrote the King of Prussia seeking a position and he encloses a translation of Frederick’s answer as well as copies of documents testifying to his gentle birth, his honorable conduct, and the military experience of his family, including that of his grandfather Philippe Dupin de Coeurs, a chevalier de St. Louis.
Three days later Charles de Dyke writes from Stralsund in Swedish Pomerania. Bored with garrison life this young infantry first lieutenant seeks at least that rank in the American army where he can learn his profession and find honor under the flags of liberty. He asks that his travel expenses to America be paid.
On July 14 Jacques-Dominique de Roberdeau of Haguenau, Alsace, introduces his son. He has ascertained that his father and General Daniel Roberdeau’s were brothers, separated after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. Now he wishes to cement his friendship with the general by sending one of his two sons to support the American cause. The son, for eight years an officer in the infantry and the troupes à cheval, is an excellent subject, calm and discreet. He speaks French, Latin, German, and will soon master English. The father has written to Montbarey, Vergennes, and Sartine to obtain recommendations and passage to America. He asks Franklin for a letter of introduction to their relative and his friend the general.
Roberdeau carried another letter of support, written on July 30, by M de Barth, the general syndic of Alsace, who recommends Roberdeau as a young man of much promise. On September 3 at Paris Roberdeau himself asks whether he may call the next day and take Franklin’s orders.

Herman Esser, a former officer in the Dutch army, on pension since 1752, writes from Venlo on July 22 concerning propositions made by M de Wolffen (i.e., the baron de Wulffen). Wulffen, who claims to be head of a corps of dragoons in the service of America, has offered him a company in the same corps and on July 7, in Esser’s presence, wrote to Franklin for his approval and the authority to confer on Esser the rank of captain with three months advance wages. Wulffen left on the thirteenth for The Hague, where Esser was to join him once he heard from His Excellency. Esser and his youngest son, age fourteen, await only a word from Franklin before departing. His second son, a cadet in the Dutch army, will want to follow them to be with his older brother, already in America serving as a lieutenant.
On August 2 Major de Pfortzheim announces his arrival in his country, at Arlon, Luxembourg. In very uncertain French the major suggests that in writing he is following Franklin’s instructions, and he hopes that Franklin will accord him “sa bien viellane et haute protection prés des ettatts unis” to pursue his vocation.
From Arpajon in the Ile-de-France a M Garnier writes in English on August 19: “Though neither a rich nor a nobleman born, yet do I chearfully desire in this time of war, to get useful.” He has served in a regiment of dragoons for six years and speaks the English tongue without any foreign accent. He will be in town the following Wednesday to wait upon Franklin “according to your answer.”
The vicomte de la Motte, a retired infantry lieutenant colonel, writing on August 23 from La Tremblade in Saintonge, recalls an earlier offer to volunteer his services in the American army in exchange for his rations. While Franklin had discouraged him in a friendly way, the vicomte still yearns to contribute “au grand ouvrage de La Liberté americaine,” and proposes now to lead a corps of three hundred seasoned soldiers to be stationed with a naval squadron for defense of its ships and to aid in expeditions and raids.
Another former commission seeker, officer O’Sullivan de Bearhaven of the infantry regiment of Dillon, renews a now-missing request on September 1. Writing in English he states that Colonel Conway and Dr. McMahon had recommended him earlier but that Franklin had not then “an ocation of Rendering me that multiplisity of Service.” He is, however, a “Nevew to Genl. o Sullivan” whom he is anxious to join. He says that Franklin’s writing in his favor to John Paul Jones now at Lorient would “the more induce him to afford my Passage on the Hariel.” He has also written to Count Dillon to sollicit Franklin on his behalf.
On October 7 Douillemond, a baillif from Vendenois near Bar-sur-Aube in Champagne, writes on behalf of an unnamed officer who has served nine years in the gendarmerie headquartered at Lunéville in Lorraine. The lieutenant of cavalry is twenty-five, tall, and well-formed. If he could find service in America and the proper rank he would go over on the first ship. All this must be kept quiet for the marquis de Castries would greatly regret losing him.
Mutel de Boucheville, a conseiller at the Cour des Comptes of Normandy, recommends his sixteen-year-old son on October 10. Charles-Pierre, chevalier de Mutel, inspired by the praise of Lafayette and Rochambeau, seeks a place in one of the regiments that have gone over to the islands. Then in forty-three verses, mainly classical alexandrines, the father praises Franklin as “Le Nestor de Boston respecté par le Temps” and depicts the visions of military glory that have inspired his son to want to fight for “Waginston secouant l’affreux joug de la vaine Albion.” In a postscript he adds that his son has completed his studies, can draw, has studied geography, and learned the books of Mr. Bezou.

A former major in the Walloon regiment of Smissaert and a chevalier de St. Louis, M de Bernard de Chasteauvieux writes on October 20 from Namur, Austrian Netherlands. His twenty-five-year-old son, who began his career as a cadet and ensign in the same Walloon regiment, has just sold his post of lieutenant in the naval regiment of Binting in the Dutch service which he had held for three years, serving in Surinam to put down an uprising of blacks. Not content with the pace of his advancement the son now wishes to enter, with Franklin’s protection, the service of the “Treize Cantons unis” and to raise a volunteer corps of one hundred men from around Liège. All he asks is the means and a place to assemble, clothe, arm, and embark the men.
Two Englishmen write in English from Leghorn on October 27. Walter Williams and Helenus Scott had left England to go by land to India with Colonel Mathews, second in command on the Malabar Coast and a relative of Williams. Mathews, however, was detained in London and they have since resolved to offer their services to General Washington. They ask for passports and the name of a port in France from which they should embark for America. One of them leaves an estate in Wales of five hundred pounds a year and the other gives up his appointment in the Army. They enclose letters of introduction to the governor and chief people at Bombay.

Monsieur
versailles le 10 juillet 1780
Javois eù l’honuer de porter â votre exelence, únne letre de madame la marquise delafaÿete au suget de mon voÿage pour Boston; vous me fites l’honuer de me dire que vous repondriés a madame la marquise il faut que votre exelence l’et oublié puisque on na rien resú de vous â lhotel de noailles; vous sçavès combien madame de lafaÿete (a qui je l’honuer d’epartenir) a des Bontés pour moÿ, et a quel point elle sinteresse a mon sort; votre exelence ne se repentira pas de mavoir rendù service, dailleur lexperience de 34 áns de servisse, et trois gúeres que je faite mont mis en meme de conetre mon metier, que je serés heureux de pouvoir le metre en activité chès les etats réunis de lamerique nos alliés vous pouvés avoir grande confiance en moÿ, je suis militaire et je ne desire autre chose que detre rendù a Boston, je me chargeré avec plaisir des comisions que vous voudré bien me donner, aÿé la Bonté dadresser vos letres a madame la marquise delafaÿete a lhotel de noailles ruë st honoré a paris./.
Je l’honuer detre avec ún tres profond respect, de votre exelence Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Le Baron D’arros

Notation: d’Arros, Versailles 10. Juillet 1780.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 10 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Sir
Passy, July 10. 1780.
I beg your Excellency to accept my thankfull Acknowledgment for your favour to the Captain of the American Union, in permitting him to continue his Cruize. You have made him & his People very happy, and have very much obliged Your Excellency’s obedient and most humble Servant.
Mr. De Sartine.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Comte de Vergennes, 10 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir
Passy July 10th 1780
I received the Letter your Excellency did me the honour of writing to me, dated the 1st Instant, together with the Papers accompanying it, containing the Correspondence with Mr Adams. I have taken some Pains since to understand the Subject, and obtain Information of the Facts, from Persons lately arrived, having received no Letters myself that explain it. I cannot say that I yet perfectly understand it; but in this I am clear, that if the Operation directed by Congress in their Resolution of the 18th of March, occasions from the Necessity of the Case, some Inequality of Justice, that Inconvenience ought to fall wholly on the Inhabitants of the States, who reap with it the Advantages obtained by the Measure. And that the greatest Care should be taken, that Foreign Merchants, particularly the French who are our Creditors, do not suffer by it. This I am so confident the Congress will do, that I do not think any Representations of mine necessary to persuade them to it. I shall not fail, however, to lay the whole before them. And I beg that the King may be assured, their Sentiments and those of the Americans in general, with regard to the Alliance, as far as I have been able to learn them, not only from private Letters, but from authentic public Acts, differ widely from those that seem to be express’d by M. Adams, in his Letter to your Excellency, and are filled with the strongest Impressions of the Friendship of France, of the generous manner in which his Majesty was pleased to enter into an equal Treaty with us, and of the great Obligations our Country is under for the important Aids he has since afforded us.
With the sincerest Respect, I have the honour to be, Sir. Your Excellency’s, most obedt. & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
His Exy. the Count De Vergennes.

Endorsed: M. de R


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gourlade & Moylan, [10 July 1780]
From: Gourlade & Moylan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[July 10, 1780]
You will find from the Perusal of these Papers (Copies of the Correspondence between Capt. Landais & M. Moylan) that we do not refuse furnishing the Fregate Alliance with the Provisions necessary for the daily Support of her Crew.
Extract of a Letter from Messrs. Gourlade & Moylan, dated July 10. 1780, to B. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Hopkinson, 10 July 1780
From: Hopkinson, Francis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Friend.
Philada. July 10th. 1780
I did myself the Pleasure of writing to you pr. Mr. Carmichael; since which, I have not heard from you in Return, but flatter myself there may be a Letter on the Way. Come when it may, it will be truly acceptable.— Since your Departure my chief Pleasure is in conversing with Mr. Rittenhouse on Philosophical Subjects. This Gratification, however, I but seldom enjoy. Both he & myself are so closely engaged in public Business as to leave little Time for those agreeable Enquiries.— He is certainly a very able, friendly & communicative Philosopher— He is an Honour to his Country as a Man & as a Man of Science—I am sure you will join me in this Opinion.— As to Politics & News I trouble you not with them—you have enough on those Subjects from all Quarters.— I only say we [torn: go?] on—ever keeping in View the main & ultimate [torn: object?] vizt. Liberty & Independence to the rising Generation— But I will not enter into so large a Field. I only wish the Continuance of your Friendship & Esteem, which I shall always endeavour to deserve.
Being my dear Sir with all affection & Regard.— Your Friend & humble servt
Fras Hopkinson
Honble Dr. Franklin

Addressed: Honourable / Dr. Franklin / favourd by Hon[le.] Mr. Searle
Endorsed: F. Hopkinson Letter of Friendship


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Landais, [11 July 1780]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Landais, Pierre

Sir,
[July 11, 1780]
There are on board the Alliance five Cases of Types shipped by Mr. Jona: Williams of Nantes in consequence of My Orders, two of which were shipped when the alliance was at L’Orient last year, the other three were put on board at L’Orient in May last, and for which no Receipt was given.

All these Cases are addressed to Mr. Watson in Connecticut, but as I Since hear that the said Mr. Watson is dead & the purchase of these types being recommended by Governor Trumbull of Connecticut as being much wanted for the public Benefit; I hereby direct you to take proper Care of the said five Cases of Types, and on your Arrival in america to deliver the Same to the Order of his Excellency Governor Trumbull who will apply for the same and for so doing this Shall be your Warrant.
Given at Passy this 11. day July 1780.
To the Commanding Officer on board the Continental frigate Alliance.


Title: Committee for Foreign Affairs to Franklin and John Jay, 11 July 1780
From: Committee for Foreign Affairs
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Jay, John

Sirs
Philadelphia 11 July 1780
Congress have appointed the Honorable Henry Laurens Esqr to solicit a loan of Money in the United provinces of the low Countries, in order to facilitate his Success the enclosed resolution, has been passed. We need say nothing to explain or urge it, except that it is thought a Mark of attention and confidence due to those powers named in it; that their interest, if the State of politics inclines them to exert it, will have a good effect, and that the want of Money makes this loan a very Capitol object to the United States. You will, we are sure, give Mr Laurens every assistance in your power, and solicit the countenance of the court where you reside to forward his Negociations. Till Mr Laurens shall arrive, Mr Adams is commissioned and empowered to undertake that business, and in case of his Disability, Mr Dana is in like Manner Commissioned and empowered. We are Sir, your mo. Hum. Servt
Signed James LovellWm. C. Houston
To the honorable Benja Franklin Esqr. & the honorable John Jay Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Committee for Foreign Affairs: Two Letters, 11 July 1780
From: Committee for Foreign Affairs
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
Sir
Philada. 11 July 1780
After the repeated Remonstrances you have made to Congress on the Subject of Bills of Exchange the inclosed Resolution we are well aware, will need an Apology. We regret that you should have so much Trouble and be put upon so many Expedients in matters of this Kind, well knowing how delicate a Point it is to solicit further Advances after so many have already been made. Congress attending to your Letters & Representations has taken this Step with Reluctance But the present Crisis when not only the Preparations for a vigorous Campaign call for large Expenditures but the Expectation of a cooperating Force make great Additions necessary, has induced Them to risque the Sum mentioned. The Bills will not be drawn faster than indispensible Exigencies may require, and it is to be hoped that this mode of commanding Cash will not be again resorted to.
We are Sir Your obedt. Servants
James LovellWm Churchill Houston
3d CopyHonble. Benja. Franklin

Addressed: Honorable / Doctor Franklin / Minister plenipory./ &c. / France

II.
Sir
Philada. 11 July 1780
We are to communicate to you that Congress entertain a favorable Sense of the Attention & Services of Monsr. Chasseaulx his Most Christian Majesty’s Consul at the Port of Bergen in Norway in the late Affair of the Prizes sent in there by the Squadron commanded by Capt. Jones, and we beg you will present through the proper Chanel the Acknowledgements to be made for the polite Respect shewn to the Interests of the Citizens of these States.
We are Sir Your very humble Servants
James LovellWm Churchill Houston
3d CopyHon. Benja. Franklin

Addressed: Honorable / Doctor Franklin / Minister plenipory. &c. / France


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sartine, 11 July 1780
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Versailles le 11. Juillet 1780.
Mr De Sartine a l’honneur d’envoyer à Mr. Franklin une Lettre pour M. de la Granville Commissaire de la Marine à l’Orient pour qu’il soit delivré un Passeport à la Dame Angloise recommandée de Mr le Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats Unis de l’Amerique et Mr. De Sartine a l’honneur de l’assurer de son très sincere Attachement./.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 12 July 1780
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir
July 12 1780
I got Your obliging favor of the 25th June by Mr. Burn & am very thankful for your attention & civility to Him. He is a very excellent young Man & may be useful to You or Yours hereafter, in case You should have anything to do at Lisbon, for which place He will set out in a month or two & where He is the head of a Merchantile House inferior to no other English one in that Country.
I mentioned to Mr S. H——y Your thanks for a second offer of some Jama Rum, & your readiness to make him some acceptable return. I put in as from you, a hint for the release of Captain C——m, who has been again taken & about this period is expected to arrive at Dartmo in a privateer which Mr H——y partly owns. I told Him one good turn deserves another, & that you had by my recommendation got releasd from a french goal one of His own Captains about a year ago & for which He was very thankful. If Mr. H——ys letter gets to Dartmo in time for the Captain of the Privateer before Captn. C——m is committed, I hope he will be releasd in consequence, but I fear if it gets to hand after Committment, there will be no hopes of liberating Him his name being so offensive.

I observe what you say about the medal & have hinted to Dr. P—ce, Mr Paradise & Mr Jones that no further applications are to be made. I rather wonder that the Portrait of the Bishop had not reachd You before the 25th. ulo. I think it was many weeks before that, that Mr Bowens of ostend acknowlegd the safe receipt of it & that it should be forwarded on. I have got our friend Mr W——t to promise the undertaking another portrait I solicited you for, I think by what we have got, & the picture in Miss Georgianas possession we may make something out of it.
Mr. Hodgson has informd You about the ansr. of the Board, on seeing M Sartines Letter they desird Mr H to draw up a memorial stating the circumstances of the case & we are not without hopes, tho faint ones, that the Cartel may again go.
Our friend David is quite desponding, & feels much for the want of wisdom in our Rulers here for not adopting any one measure that will lead to accomodation with America; He has been incessantly upon this, & I believe Am——n Indepe. would be the summit of His Wish. So far from our wise heads thinking about, nothing but the extreem reverse is now talkd of. Since the affair of Chas. Town nothing but unconditional submission is talkd of. I do assure you Sir the great folks here look as much now upon America being in their power as they did the first day General Gage was sent to Boston. Nothing can exceed the infatuation. They look upon No Caroa. and Virga. as already theirs, that Maryland must follow, & they give out with confidence they have a considerable body of the people in Connecticut now in Arms for England. Since the quelling of the late Riots & Insurrections, & restord a little peace and order to a Capital that was for five whole days in possession of a Mob, they Think they can subdue the whole world. They Brag still of being masters of the Sea in the West Indies, (I dare say they will next claim a dominion over the air) That Rodney will infallably intercept & ruin the Spanish fleet, that Tearney’s Squadrn. is a sure & easy prey to Adml Graves, & that the Channel fleet is to shut up the port of Brest & keep the Spanish fleet from again joining &ca &ca.. This is not only the language, but seemingly the firm beleif of the Court, the Ministry, & their out Runners; The flame has spread in the City, & many thinking people are led to a beleif of it & are actually purchasing pell-mell in the Stocks, which have risen upwards of five pr. Cent lately. There is no standing against the present torrent of folly & I lean towards it in order to make my exultation the greater when some future day of gloom & sorrow may turn up. We may expect great & important news both from Ama & the Wt Indies in a few days; If it does not turn up different from what is generally, nay almost universally, expected here I shall be very much deceivd. There is no arrivals or news from any part of Ama. since the Despatches fm. Chas Town, to keep us the more in the dark as to the state of things in that Country, not one private Letter was recd. by the last packets.
It seems as if the New York fleet, wch was ready abot 2 months ago, will not be permitted to sail till we hear the actual destination of Monsr Teirnay; abot. 60 Ships compose it, & twenty or 30 others are intended for the West Indies by a Convoy very soon.
I am Sir Your obt. Servt
John Thompson
12 July 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Huntington, 12 July 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Philadelphia July 12. 1780
I take the Liberty of introducing to your favourable Notice the Honble James Searle Esquire the Bearer.
This Gentleman hath been for some Time past, and now is a Member of Congress for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and comes to Europe charged with Business of Consequence from that State.
The Honour that State hath conferred upon him, and the Confidence they have placed in him, render it needless for me to add any Thing in Support of his Character.
Mr Searle will present you with Bills to the Amount of one thousand Pounds Sterling drawn by Order of Congress, in Favour of the President & Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, upon their Minister at the Court of Versailes.

I lament the Necessity which hath occasioned so many Draughts upon you and hope the Affairs of these United States may soon be regulated in such Manner as to prevent the like Necessity in future.
I presume the Committee of foreign Affairs (to whose Department it belongs) have transmitted you from Time to Time the needful Information, and material Intelligence relating to American Affairs.
The Particulars of the Seige and Capitulation of Charlestown you will doubtless receive before this comes to hand.
Your Letters of the 30th of September, 4th of October & 17th of October 1779 and 4th of March 1780 have been received and laid before Congress.
I have the Honour to be with every Sentiment of Respect and Esteem Sir your most obedt hbble Servt
Sam. Huntington
The Honble Benjamin Franklin Esqr

Endorsed: President Huntington’s Recommendation of Mr Searle, &c July 12. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Achille-Guillaume Lebègue de Presle, 12 July 1780
From: Lebègue de Presle, Achille-Guillaume
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce 12 juillet 80
Jai Lhonneur de prevenir votre Excellence que je crois avoir trouvé une maison tres convenable au jeune Medecin Americain. Mr Desault chirurgien qui fait des cours de chirurgie avec succès consent a le prendre en pension et a lui faciliter Létude de la langue francoise, ainsi que de la chirurgie theorique et pratique, comme il a deja fait pour mr lunn de Philadelphie qu’il a eu chez lui. On m’a rendu le meilleur temoignage de la societé de mr Desault. Il est doux, honnete, et a une parente qui est avec lui. Il demande douze cent livres de Pension. Comme il n’a point de chambre libre, il faudra en prendre une dans le voisinage; et j’en ai vu plusieures a louer dans la maison voisine, a 12 et 15 livre par mois, toute meublée.
Sa demeure est, comme le desire ce jeune medecin, tres près de l’hotel dieu et des Ecoles de chirurgie ou il y a un petit hopital. C’est dans la rue des Lavandieres a peu de distance du College de beauvais, et de la rue st jacques. Comme c’est mon quartier je Souhaite que cette pension convienne dans L’esperance de pouvoir temoigner au jeune Americain par mes services, combien je desire de faire des choses qui Soient agreables a votre excellence.
Je suis avec respect votre tres humble serviteur
Lebegue De PresleRue st jacques la seconde porte cochereau dessus de la rue des mathurins

Endorsed: Ansd
Notation: Le Begue de Presle. 12 juillet 1780.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Mrs. ——— Shrowdy, 13 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Shrowdy, Mrs. ——

Madam,
Passy, July 13th. 1780
Messrs. Foulke and Fox having signified to me your Desire of going to England in some of the Cartel Ships from L’Orient and requested me to obtain for you, Monsr. De Sartine’s Permission.— Herewith I have the honour of Sending you a Letter from that Minister to Monsr. de La Granville, by which you will find he has been pleased to grant your Request, and has given Orders accordingly.
With great Respect, I have the honour to be Madam Your most obedient and most humble Sert.
Mrs. Shrowdy.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from E. Jackson [Edward Jackson Jones], 13 July 1780
From: Jones, Edward Jackson
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris 13th. July 1780.
A very near Relation of Dr. Cadwalladers of Philadelphia presents his respectfull compliments to His Excellency Benjamin Franklyn Esqr. and wishes to have the honor of an Audience—He has taken the Liberty of sending by the bearer, the London papers from the 20th. Ulto. to the 4th. Inst.
E. Jacksonà L’Hotel de Yorck Rüe Jacob Fauxbourg st. Germain

Addressed: A Son Excellence Benjamin Franklyn / Ministre Plenipotiniare / des Etats Unies de L’Amerique / Septentrionale / a Passy
Notation: Jackson Paris. no date


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean de Neufville & fils, 13 July 1780
From: Neufville, Jean de, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honour’d Sir!
Amsterdam the 13th July 1780.
Though with some reluctance we take the Liberty to trouble your Excellency again, she will excuse us we hope as saving the reputation and the Credit of the United States is our only motive.

Our Laws do not admitt any bills to be only enregistrated when not Accepted they are generally protested, and So they must. We thought however upon previous consultation and the extraordinary situation of the Cause of Mr Laurens absence that most of the bearers would be satisfied that we should give an attestation when each bill had been presented, on the hint Your Excy were pleased to give us about it, and we tried it severall times since agreable to the inclosed modell; butt farr from being satisfied therewith they send all a Notary to have the bills protested in due form today again a house doing bussiness even for the Convenience pretended to do the Same and Send the protest to Londn. so no choice being left, we have again Accepted.
About Mr Laurens being retired early from Charlestown Congress we were informed received proper intelligence, butt none as farr as we know about her departure. So methodes absolutely must be found in Europe, if we intend to show regard for the honour of the United States. It is miraculous mostly that by so many Vessells as already arrived there hath been no greater quantity remitted, as which we could resolve to stop a vessell which gott a quantity on board Distroy’d her papers and the other which brings the duplicates was not yett heard of. Every day however we tremble now to see this or any other Vessells from the Continent or our own Colonies Arrive with a larger quantity; and we think your Excellency can find no fault nor shall we to be blamed before Congress, if we do not go any further now by want of any Certainty of rembursements. We thought however, we should again propose to your Excellency wether for a remitted summ of one or two hundred thousand Gilders we might not draw in the manner formerly proposed. This might perhaps go a great Lenght and we have some hopes that the Hone. john jay at Madrid if it laid in his power would also lend us assistance if such a way could be agreed upon. If this should still apear not practicable to your Excellency then we fell on the idea of trying a Loan. We have gott the honour to represent verbally and by letters that something might be expected in that way. We should not have mentiond this if the Cause had not been so urgent, and perhaps your Excellency will have other measures to prescribe which would answer the Same purpose which we confess not to know, for Your Excellency had already mentiond that she had given up all idea of making loans in Holland, and by what hath happend before this prudence was not butt ruled by experience.
We may say however that the American spirit here hath been encouraged severall times since by some favourable events and that with some private Persons we should from time to time have made up Some money which now could have been of Service. Since the capture of Charlestown there should be certainly not many in favour of this entreprise, butt those expectations are momentaneall, and every opportunity may be adopted. We never could yett engage positively for any Summ at once we can do it best again in this moment, nor can we try any thing butt upon a proper power. All other ways for Securing the money for the payment of those bills should they be closed. We flatter our selfs however that we could herewith prevent the worse. It should at least not faile by want of endeavour nor should we entrusted there with expose the Credit of Congress to new risqs. To assure your Excellency that we rather should leave everything undone then to make that suffer again we can not express equally to our feelings; and here of persuaded by our selfs we have made a generall plan fr. Such a power. We take the liberty to inclose it. We will only mention that though it extends to two million we think we must make the first triale for much less. This must be foreseen with prudence and we engage to give the most exact Account of our proceedings; the terms your Excy formerly fixed us were 10 p Ct. viz 1 p Ct. Annum. We found those rather low then, and so they Should be still may they be exceeded we wish to know to facilitate the dispatch of any Summ of consequence, if not we will try what may be done, for farr from viewing to gain by it only, this our proposall only tends to cover the bills which provisionally might suffer.
Hath all our endeavours since we enter’d into so large a Scale of bussiness as to view at the Independence of America and a conection between both countries been extended to promote this. We should be sorry to fall short in it at any instance, may your Excellency be assured thearoff [?] as of the most perfect and extended Regard, with which we have the honour to be always Honourd Sir Your Excellencys most devoted and most Obedient humble Servants
John DE Neufville & SON


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, 14 July 1780
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Vendredy 14 Juillet [1780]
J’ai vu, mon Illustre Docteur, M. De Maillebois et comme vous lui avez donné le choix du Jour il a pris Jeudy prochain 20 de ce mois. Ainsi ce jour là nous aurons l’honneur de vous voir et de causer avec vous. Je m’ennuye d’étre privé depuis Si Long tems de ce plaisir et de cet Avantage. Recevez les Sinceres assurrances de tous les Sentimens d’attachement que Je vous ai voués pour La Vie
Le Roy

P.S. Si par hazard mon Illustre docteur il arrivoit quelqu’obstacle dans cet Arrangement Vous voudrez bien m’en prevenir, afin que J’en avertisse M. De Maillebois. Mille complimens Je vous prie a Monsieur Votre petit fils.

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plénipotentiaire des / treize Etats unis de LAmérique / en Son hôtel / a Passy
Notation: Le Roy 14 Juillet 1780.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Mease, 14 July 1780
From: Mease, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
L’Orient July 14. 1780
I am this day favoured with a letter from Mr. Jonathn Williams, desiring me to give you what information I am able, respecting the comparative value of hard money, bills of Exchange and the circulating currency of America, at the time I left Philadelphia.
In compliance with his request, permit me Sir, to inform you That interest bills on the Commissioners and those drawn by Mr. Holker the French Consul at 30 days sight sold at 45 paper dollars for one dollar of 5 livers Tournois and were considered to be scarse specie being more negociable both at Home and in the West Indias, and the credit of bills not well established bore an advance generally of 15 to one more than the bills above mentioned, to which may be added that it had chiefly got into such hands as necessity or a great advance only could call it from, and had been in some instances up to 70 for one and higher about two or three weeks before my departure at which time it had fallen to 55 a 60, and it was generally believed that paper money must still appreciate through the late measures taken for that purpose, (though much complained of) and that the quantity in circulation was verry inadeqte. to the necessaries of Life and the prices of Goods. Bills upon London were to be had sometimes and were sold much about the old rate which was reduced into the present circulation at its depreciated state. That is £160 the rate of Exchange for £100 Sterling and that sum multiplied by 60 the present state of depreciation gives £9600 for £100 Steg. Some time before I came away I was asked more, but it had got lower afterwards and it was the prevalent opinion that it must of necessity still grow better. The necessaries of life rose(?) from 80 to 120 of the former prices and imported goods from 150 to 300.— I intend shortly to pay a visit to Paris when I propose having the pleasure of paying my respects to you in person.—
I have the honour to be Sir verry respectfully Your most obedient Humble Servant
Robert Mease

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre plenipotentiare des Etats Unis / De l’amérique a la Cour de france / A Passy près paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Sr., 14 July 1780
From: Williams, Jonathan Sr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond sr
Boston July 14th. 1780
I take this opportunity to Send you a small Box of Crown Soap that I Recd from your Sister Who has been here On a Visit, is now return’d in good helth & Spirits, & I belive more happy now then I ever new her. I repeated to her that I Stood ready to advance her any money she stood in need of agreeable to your Orders her greatfull hart was effected. She told me that she hoped the Income of the house would be soficient.
Notwithstanding all discouragement our Political State grows Better. The Loss of Charlestown was indeed a disagreeable Circumstance but the arival of our Fleet at Rhode Island makes up for it, now we are all, more then ever, through the Continent in high Spirits, & do & Shall exert ourselves to give our Enemies a decive blow & I hope Soon finish the Blooddy Contest, two days ago One of the Transports ariv’d in to our harbour yesterday Landed the Troopes as they march’d up State Street they Passd through the Acclamations of the people they had three Cheeres by a great multitude as they Passd. I think they look’d full as well & behav’d much better then I ever saw Britians that is the Officers did not Look so much Like Tyrants nor the Soldiers so much like Slaves. We are all well my Wife & Children Joine in Duty & Love to you & yours Belive me Ever Your Dutyfull Nephew and most Hble servant
Jona. Williams
N.B. My Only Brothers onley Son is dead

Addressed: His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr / In / Passy / France / per Capt Sampson


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Ross, 15 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Ross, John

Dear Sir
Passy July 15. 1780
I have received your favour of the 9. July. I should be very glad to have it in my Power to satisfy every body, and send all the Supplies immediately to America, which the late Disturbance on board the Alliance has in a great measure prevented. I understand that the Alliance would carry a considerable Part of the Stores, and the Ariel the Remainder, but this first Ship is gone with little or nothing, and I now hear that the other is too small to take what is left.
The Court of France who have assisted us with the Ariel, will certainly expect her to be employed to carry out the Supplies they have also assisted us with, in Preference to any other Goods; The most essential of these Supplies are the Arms and Powder, and M. Moylan informs me these are as much as the Ariel will carry, there will therefore remain no Question whether to prefer your Goods or the Cloathing made in this kingdom, tho’ if their should be any Room left, I confess it appears to me that the latter should be shipped first.— Methinks you may be able to persuade the Customs-House Officers to permit you to land the Goods under an obligation to reship them as soon as you can find occasion, and when I can get the other Supplies away, I will endeavour to make Room for yours; at present the Ariel must be dispatched with what She can carry, and I can only recommend to you to deposit the Goods till a Ship is procured on freight, unless you can find some Vessel at L’Orient which can take them in, and go under the Ariels Convoy.
M. John Ross.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Alexis Judlin, 15 July 1780
From: Judlin, Alexis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Ce Samdi, 15 juillet 1780
Comme je n’ai pas eu lhonneur de vous trouver chez vous jai laissé une lettre de la part d’un Mr: de Votre Connoissance, au quel vous avés permi, de vous faire peindre, comme cela vous serés trop incomode de vous transporter chez moi et que je ne pourés point non plus vous donner des seances chez vous, Si vous pouviés me Confier pour quelque jour un portrait de vous qui fut resemblant jaurès le plaisir de Contenter celui qui desir votre portrait vous pouvés être assuré Monsieur que j’aurés tout les soins possible pour le portrait que vous me pretterés, j’ai lhonneur d’etre Monsieur Votre tres humble serviteur
JUDLINpeintre De la Reine

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / à Passy
Notation: Judlin 15 Juillet; Paris 1780.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Schweighauser, [15 July 1780]
From: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[July 15, 1780]
Having just received Advice from Messrs. Puchelberg & Company that the Alliance Sailed the 8th. Instant, I seize this Post to acquaint you therewith. Notwithstanding the positive orders I gave to the above House not to furnish any longer to that Frigate, they write me that they have been obliged to continue, no other House there having presented itself to do it.
Extract of a Letter from J.D. Schweighauser of Nantes, dated, July 15. 1780 to B. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Cooper, 17 July 1780
From: Cooper, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Sir,
Boston July 17th. 1780.
I wrote you not long since by the Rambler from Salem, and the Pallas from Newbury Port and have now too much Reason to fear that the Vessel in which Mr Austin sailed from hence the latter End of Jany, or the Beginning of Feby, is lost, as we have hitherto received no Account of it: By that Gentleman I wrote you largely.
This will be delivered to you by Mr Bromfield, Son of Henry Bromfield Esqr, whose respectable Family and Connections, and whose Reputation not only as a Merchant, but from the public offices he has so worthily sustained, you are not unacquainted with: His Brother Mr Bromfield late Merchant in London, and the Frowns he received from the Ministry upon Account of his distinguished Attachment to [torn: the?] American Cause, which obliged him to leave England, must also [torn: be?] known to you. The young Gentleman by whom I write, and who is much esteemed here, goes to England to look after his Father’s Property combined there with his Uncle’s; from whence he wishes to transfer it in the most advantageous Manner to France, where also, he has some important Accounts of his Father to settle. From your Philanthropy, and Inclination to secure the Property of every good Subject of the United States, I doubt not of your Readiness kindly to afford him your Countenance and aid in every Measure proper to be taken on these Occasions. This will be a particular Favor to a very deserving Gentleman and Family, for whom a Number of your Friends here are much interested.
I am Sir, with every Sentiment of Respect and Friendship, Your most obedient and very humble Servant
Samuel Cooper

Addressed: His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / Minister Plenipotentiary from the United / States of America. / At the Court of Versailles.
Notation: Dr. Cooper 17 July 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 17 July 1780
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir
Monday July 17. 1780
Since my letter to you of the 12th. I have seen Jas Garnet who is loungeing & going so idly about the Streets, & whom I have detected in so many lies, that I think it necessary to apprise you of Him in order that Monsieur Chamont may be warnd not to pay too implicit faith to what Garnet may write. He told me had drawn two Bills on Him before He gave me the one for 12 Guins abot. the 8th of last month: as he told me he was taken in a Ship of Mr Chamonts & carryd into Ireld. & that He was sure of getting the command of another vessel of Mr Chamonts now fitting out, I readily lent him the money to get away, without wch He seemingly could not have movd. At Ostend He took up eight Guis [guilders] more in my name of Mr Bowens, went as He tells me from thence to Dunkirke, then post to Nantes, & so back via Ostend to London, which He had not possibly time to do. When I taxd him hence he prevaricatd & lyed most abominably, but persisted He returnd on accot of yr. sending Him an order to embark on board P. Jones, whom He said He did not like well enough to go to Sea with. I wrote to you & Mr A. by Him under date the 8th June or 7th, I do not recollect which. I am much afraid He sacrificd my letters, & when you have an oppery [opportunity] should be glad to know whether yrs. got to hand or not. I fear I shall be 20 Guins out of pocket by Him, but prudence obliges me to keep up an outward civility, as yet I have not heard whether His bill on Monr Chamont was paid or not. It will be no new matter to me to get it protested, for accept the one you paid me drawn by a Dr. Jas Brehon I have never had a bill paid, nor any remittance from any one of my Countrymen passing hence.
In my letter of the 12th. I mentiond the mode I had used towards helping Capt. C——m; We have no answers yet, but not destitute of hopes but we may succeed. Capt. M——y has also had fresh hints given Him.
I have good reason to think this will be put into the Post Office at Ostend tomorrow morning (Tuesday) and by that means will most likely inform you sooner than advices by the Regular post from London that a mail in 37 days from Jama. gives an accot. that The Expedition from that Island to the Spanish main Commanded by Kemble, but generally calld Dallings Expedn had succeeded so far to take Fort St. Juan on a River of that name not far from Carthagena or rather in the quarter of Nicarauga Lake. No particulars are yet transpird, but the clamour which is usual on every slight success is gone forth to a greater degree than for the fort Omoa. It appears the Expedition got an easy footing near Cape Gracios a Dios towards the 20th April, & from thence proceeded up the River St. Juan to the Fort, before which they were near three weeks. Report says the Garrison offerd the sum of 4, million of Piasters as a ransom to the Place; (at 3 / 4 d ea [3s. 4d. each] is 660,000£ Ster). I dont believe the fee simple of the whole settlement was worth so much. However, nothing less than millions are talkd of or will be beleivd— perhaps a few hours may paint the Expedition but as of trifling consequence. The same packet brings accots that the Spaniards & Indians have broke up the Settlement of English in the Black River in the Bay of Campeachy, & driven all the English to the Island of Rattan. This Jamaica Packet appears to have saild the begining of June, had only 37 days passage, came thro the Windward passage with the whole Jamaica fleet, upwards of two hundred Sail, & left them in safety from the Cruisers in those Seas. This fleet is expected to arrive in a week or ten days. And in a little time after, one from the Leward Island of abot 120 Sail.
There is also a Packet from Chas. Town with a multitude of Letters, none of wch are yet out, but this packet cannot bring any material news, having saild but three days after the last publishd accots. from Genl Clinton; But the cry is that No Carolina has submitted to Engd. & that Virga will certainly do the like. I am yrs &ca &ca
W S. C

Notation: July 17. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henry Grand, 17 July 1780
From: Grand, Henri-Maximilien (Henry)
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris ce 17 Juillet 1780.
J’ai eu lhonneur de remettre hier à Monsr. J. Williams la Notte des payemens qui me paroissoient regarder vôtre dépense particuliere depuis l’Epoque du 11 fevrier 1779. Les comptes que jai eu(?) Celui de vous remettre depuis des Etats Unis vous mettront à même de collationer cette Notte.
Vous trouverez ci joint, Monsieur, le mandat que vous tirates Sur moi, conjointement avec Mr. Dean, le 2 Mars 1778, pour la somme de £3600. & qui vous étoit échappée de la Mémoire vous voudrez bien avoir la bonté de me la renvoyer après vous en être Servi.
Je Suis avec Respect Monsieur Votre tres humble & très obeiss. Servitr
Hy. Grand

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur Bn. Franklin / Passy
Notation: Grand Paris. 17e. Juillet 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 17 July 1780
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
madrid 17 July 1780.
I have had the Pleasure of receiving your favours of the 13th. & 25th. of June last.
After having recd. Part of the money lodged with marquis d’Yranda, I sent for another Part, not chusing to receive the whole at once, and intending to leave in his hands the Balance due to you. I recd. for Answer that I might receive the whole, but not a Part. There was no Choice, and I recd. it accordingly. No Remittances from Congress have arrived. I have written to them on the subject, and am now feeding on your Ballance choosing rather to do this, than humiliate my Constituents, by running them in Debt for my Bread here.
The Papers enclosed with this will make known to you the Exact State of affairs at this Court. I have been permitted to accept Bills to amount of between ten and twelve thousand Dollars; and as the Court and particularly the Count de florida Blanca seem well disposed towards us, I hope this unpleasant Measure will terminate Well, these Papers should have been sent you before, but I have been long waiting for Count Montmorin’s Courier, by whom I would rather transmit them than by the Post, for Reasons which you will be at no Loss to conjecture. From these Papers you will naturally conclude, that it is very far from being in my Power to afford M. Ross the aid mentioned in your Letters. On the Contrary, I find myself constrained to request the favor of you to lodge here, for M. Carmichael and myself, a further Credit, to enable us to receive what may be due on account of our Salaries— We shall otherwise be very soon in a very disagreable Situation.— To take up money from Individuals would not be eligible or reputable and it would not be prudent to trouble Government, already a little sore about the Bills, with further Requisitions at present. I am also obliged to make this Request without being able to give you other assurances respecting the Time of Repayment, than that the proceeds of the first Remittances I may receive, shall be Applied to that In preference to any other Purpose, I cannot However think the time will be very distant, as Remittances may now be made in Bills of Exchange. But if I should be deceived and if the Servants of Congress here, must live a while on Credit they may seek and find with others, I think it most decent to recur to their ally. France I know has already done great things for us and is still making glorious Exertions—I am also sensible of your Difficulties and regret them, tho’ I am happy in reflecting, that since they must exist, they have fallen into the Hands of one whose abilities and Influence will enable him to sustain and surmount them at a Court, which does not appear inclined to do things by Halves.
I should be surprised at the Treatment your Letters I sent to Nantes have met with, had I not experienced too many Strange things to be much surprised at any.
It is necessary you should be informed that the papers inclosed with this are known to Count Montmorin, and therefore are probably no secret to his Court. I am on good terms with the Count, whom I esteem as a man of abilities, and am pleased with as a friend to our Country. As France had interested herself deeply in our Cause, had done us essential Benefits, and had been requested to interpose her friendly offices for us here, I could not think of withholding from him all the Confidence which these Considerations dictate—especially as no personal Objections forbid it. To have conducted the Negociations with Finesse, unnecessary Secrecy, and equivocating Cunning was irreconciliable with my Principles of action, and with every Idea I have of Wisdom and Policy— In a Word, France and America are and I hope always will be allies; and it is the Duty of each Party to cultivate mutual Confidance and Cordiality. For my own Part while their Conduct continues fair, firm, and friendly, I shall not only remain strongly attached to their Interest and gratefull for their Benefits, but Shall endeavour to transmit the same Impressions to my Posterity.
Mrs. Jay is much Pleased with and Thanks you for the Print you was so kind as to send her. It is a striking Likeness. I find that In France great men like their Predecessors of old, have their Bards— Yours seem to have mounted high mettled Pegasus, and to have been inspired (if Brydenes [Dryden’s?] Doctrine be right) by electrised muses. Your Strictures are just, tho’ a little Severe while there are young Telemachus, and fascinating Calypsos in the World, Fancies & Penns and Hearts will sometimes run Riot in Spite of the mentors now and then to be meet with.
Your Danish Correspondent was very civil as well as very much embarrassed, I am pleased with both Circumstances they indicate more Caution in future, but I fear the present Case will continue without Remedy.
I receive no Letters but what have passed thro’ the fire once and often twice, and that is not the worst of it. For I am sure that some have been suppressed. I wish therefore that such as you may favor me with be sent either by Courier, or in some other Way that you may have Reason to confide in.
I am, Dear Sir, with very sincere Regard Your most obedient Servant
(signed) John Jay

P.S. Mrs. Jay had a Daughter born the 9 Inst. They are both well. Benevolent minds enjoy Events grateful to others, I cannot forbear telling you this little piece of news.
His Excellency B. Franklin Esqe.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Franklin Bache, 18 July 1780
From: Bache, Benjamin Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Mon cher grand Papa
Geneve Le 18 Juillet 1780
J’ai reçu vôtre lettre avec beaucoup de plaisir parcequ’il y avoit long temps que je n’avois eu de vos nouvelles et De celles de mon Papa et de ma maman. J’ai donné le gouter que vous m’avés acordé et je vous en remercie beaucoup j’en fus très content ainsi que tous mes amis je ne vous envoie pas une pièce de dessin parce qu’elle n’est pas tout à fait finie mon maître étant malade. Je languis beaucoup d’avoir fini mes classes pour pouvoir aller voir mon papa et ma maman je ferai tout mon possible pour les faire aussi bien que je les ai commencées. Je vous souhaite une aussi bonne santé que la mienne ainsi qu’à mon cher papa et à ma chere maman faites bien mes amitiés à mon ami Cockran et encoragès le à venir à Genève. Mr et Md Marignac vous présentent bien leurs respects. J’ai l’honneur d’être Mon cher grand papa Votre très humble et très obeissant petit fils
B Franklin B
BF

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats / unis de l’amérique recomandée à / Monsieur Grand Banquier ruë / Montmartre / A Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael: Extract, 18 July 1780
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Madrid, July 18, 1780.
I thought, until the receipt of your letter (of the 17th June) that Mr. Jay had sent you Sir John Dalrymple’s Memorial, and other papers while I was at Aranjuez. He sends them, however, by this courier, and I think you will be amused in reading Sir John’s Reveries.
Mr. Cumberland, a former Secretary of Lord Germaine, succeeds Sir John. His residence gives no uneasiness to the Count de Montmorin, which with the assurances that we receive from the Count de Florida Blanca, ought to remove our apprehensions.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to ——— Rinquin, 19 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Rinquin, ——

Sir
Passy, July 19. 1780.
I received the honour of yours dated the 14th. Instant. containing the Pieces relative to the Padmore a Prize taken by the Black Princess; and I Send you here with the Judgment thereupon. I have the Honour to be, Sir, &c.
M Rinquin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Schweighauser, 19 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

Passy, July 19. 1780.
In order to have the old arms, conveyed to America in the cheapest manner, I request you to have the Gun Barrells Locks Bayonnetts & Iron or brass furniture of them closely packed in small Cases so as to take up the least Room possible. The Cases may be the exact length of a Gun Barrell & being about a foot broad & deep they will contain as many as a man can easily manage, & thereby make convenient & handy ballast, which will be an inducement for Ships to take them on a reasonable freight. I do not think the Woodwork of the arms worth sending, as I understand the principal Part must be new Stocked which had better be done in America. Care must be taken to have the Barrells & Locks cleaned & oiled, at least so well as at their arrival they may not be in a worse condition than they now are, as this Operation does not require much Skill common Labourers will answer the purpose in case you cannot obtain armourers. In the Course of a month I may perhaps have an Opportunity of sending what you may then have ready and at about that time I shall be glad to know the quantity.
The arms already repaired if any remain unshipped, must go as they are.
Mr. Schweighauser.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Ross, 19 July 1780
From: Ross, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

L’Orient 19th. July 1780.
I have the honour of your Excellencey’s much Respected favour 15th. Inst:— The disturbance on board the Alliance must be attended with delay’s & difficultys in geting forward the Stores. Therefore, it being evident Your Excellencey’s plan have been deranged by the measure’s of that faction, much to the dishonour & prejudice of the United States & foreseeing the impossibility of the Ariel carrying even half the arm’s ordered on board.— My last of the 10th. Inst: woud inform you of my determination; agreeable to which, the 123 Bales are now on board the Brigg St. Luke Capt: Clark which I hope will be approved of.— So soon as the bills of Lading are Signed, one shall be Sent accompanying the order for the Freight.
It will be proper to recommend this Brigg to the protection of Captain Jones Commander of the Ariel dureing the Voyage, if it can be done consistent with your Excellys Views & the Service of the States— As well as Such other American Vessels that are ready to proceed with him for America.— All kinds of stores whether on public or private Accots. being essentially necessary to get safe home.
The Duke of Linster, Captain Souder, will proceed with the Ariel, in which Vessel, I propose to Embark. If your Excellencey shoud have any further Commands to commit to my cares— I shall pay attention to the delivery of them on my Arrival, if I have but the good fortune to get home Safe.
With particular Respect and Regard, I have the honour to be Your Excellenceys Most obedient very humble
Jno. Ross
PassyHis Excellencey Benjamin Franklin. Minister Plenipoty. from the United States at the Court of Versailles


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Vicomtesse de Clermont-Tonnerre, 19 July 1780
From: Clermont-Tonnerre, Anne-Marie-Louise Bernard de Boulainvilliers, comtesse de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

le 19 juilliet 1780
MDe. La Vtse De tonnerre a lhoneur De faire mille Complimets a monsieur le Docteur franklin et Celuy de luy envoyer deux Lettre pour les etats unis affin qu’elle parviennent plus Surment a Leurs destination elles Sont de mr le chr De failly qui a eté longtems aux Service des etats unis mde. De tonnerre Sest chargé de Suplier monsieur le docteur de franklin denvoyer Ses lettres avec un de Ses paquets elle espere ne pas Luy etre importune en Luy demandant Cette grace ayant Saisit cette ocasion avec empressement pour le faire Souvenir des habitents du chateau de passy mde. Sa mere et elle Se plaignent du tems quil y a quelles n’ont eu lhoneur de le voir et de luy offrir Lhomage de Leurs attachement.

Notation: Mde. Tonnerre.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Alexander Small, [before 22 July 1780]
From: Small, Alexander
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Hotel de York Paris [before July 22, 1780]
Being thus far in my way to England, and being informed that you live out of Town, I take this Opportunity of enquiring of your Welfare, and beg to know whether Capt Nairn, Brother to Mr Nairn in Cornhill, gave you a paper on Ventilation, and the History of it. I hope to receive a favourable Answer to these particulars, and ever remain Dear Sir Your Faithful humble Servant
Alexr Small

Addressed: A Monsieure / Monsieure le Docteure / franquelain a pacie
Notation: Alex Smal Paris.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Alexander Small, 22 July 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Small, Alexander

Passy, July 22, 1780.
You see, my Dear Sir, that I was not afraid my masters would take it amiss if I ran to see an old friend though in the service of their enemy. They are reasonable enough to allow that differing politics should not prevent the intercommunication of philosophers who study and converse for the benefit of mankind. But you have doubts about coming to dine with me. I suppose you will not venture it; your refusal will not indeed do so much honour to the generosity and good nature of your government, as to your sagacity. You know your people, and I do not expect you. I think too that in friendship I ought not to make you more visits as I intended: but I send my grandson to pay his duty to his physician.
You enquired about my gout, and I forgot to acquaint you, that I had treated it a little cavalierly in its two last accesses. Finding one night that my foot gave me more pain after it was covered warm in bed, I put it out of bed naked; and perceiving it easier, I let it remain longer than I at first designed, and at length fell asleep leaving it there till morning. The pain did not return, and I grew well. Next winter having a second attack, I repeated the experiment; not with such immediate success in dismissing the gout, but constantly with the effect of rendering it less painful, so that it permitted me to sleep every night. I should mention, that it was my son who gave me the first intimation of this practice. He being in the old opinion that the gout was to be drawn out by transpiration. And having heard me say that perspiration was carried on more copiously when the body was naked than when clothed, he put his foot out of bed to increase that discharge, and found ease by it, which he thought a confirmation of the doctrine. But this method requires to be confirmed by more experiments, before one can conscientiously recommend it. I give it you, however, in exchange for your receipt of tartar emetic, because the commerce of philosophy as well as other commerce, is best promoted by taking care to make returns.
I am ever, Yours most affectionately,
B. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 22 July 1780
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond. sir
Philadelphia July 22d. 1780.
The last time we had the pleasure of hearing from you was on the arrival of the Marquis de la Fayette. Having just recd: an account of the arrival of the French Fleet at Rhode Island, we please ourselves with the expectation of hearing of you, if not from you.
Sally with her two youngest Children are in the Country, at our Friend Mr. Duffield’s, returning a visit that the Miss Duffield’s made us in the Winter; she and the Children are well— Will stays in Town on account of going to School, he shews a good deal of Genius, but much inattention; as he advances in years, I trust the latter will wear off— I long to hear how Ben comes on, in his Learning, and whether he makes such improvement, as our fond wishes suggested he would do, at the Geneva Accademy— It would give us pleasure to hear, that you had found leisure enough to visit him at Geneva, but I suspect your time has been more importantly employed; the Journey might conduce to your health, & be a means of prolonging a Life, that is not only of so much consequence to us, but to the World in general— Formerly you used to find a Journey absolutely necessary for you, every now and then; surely you must think it equally so now, unless the Climate of France should agree with you better, than any other Climate you have heretofore lived in.
I herewith send you the Newspapers; some I shall also send you by another Conveyance sailing at this time— The loss of Charles Town seems to have roused us out of the Lethargy we have been in, for two years past— I trust we shall make such exertions this Campaign, as to render the United Force of our Good Ally, of real and substantial use.
The Females of our City have been interresting themselves in behalf of the soldiers of our Army, by collecting donations, to be applyed to their use & comfort; this plan was first set on foot here, and I have the pleasure to tell you, that Sally has had no small hand in it; it is likely to obtain thro’ the different States; New Jersey & Maryland have already adopted it— It has put our Soldiery in the highest good humour, & for this end, believe me, something of this sort was necessary—
Many of the Merchants & Landed Men of this City have subscribed liberally towards establishing a Bank for very laudable & generous purposes, you will see in the papers an account of it, I will therefore refer you to them. Remember me with Will to Temple & Ben— Accept our Love & Duty & believe me to be Dear sir Your ever affectionate son
Rich: Bache

I herewith send you a Letter for Capt. Droüart, from his Son, who impatiently wishes to hear from his friends.
Dr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Tristram Dalton, 22 July 1780
From: Dalton, Tristram
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Boston July 22nd. 1780.
I am honor’d with your Favors of the 17 October last respecting the Compensation order’d by the good King of France, for Reperation of the loss of the Brigantine Fair Play, & did flatter myself, that there would have been no further Occasion of troubling or interrupting your more important Business, on this account, but that of asking Acceptance of the Owners unfeigned Thanks for the Attention bestowd thereon, & my gratefull Acknowledgements for personal Expressions— Which indulgent Favor of believing them true, both with Respect to the Owners & myself, be pleased to grant— The Order on the Government of Guadaloupe for said Indemnification, has been acknowleged & Application made by Mr. Bingham, for Observation of it, who after repeated Addresses on the Subject, has received for answer, that further Representation must be made to the Court of France, & payment be orderd there, as their Chests were empty— This Evasion puts the concern’d to the disagreable Task of renewing their Application to the Fountain Head of Justice, which they see with the greatest Pleasure is untainted & pure— They therefore, by me their Agent, presume to entreat your further Attention to the Affair that it may be finished, if possible by having the Payments order’d in France, as the Governor of Guadaloupe is said to be not friendly to the Subjects of the United States, and in this instance has evaded the Execution of his royall master’s Orders— That this should give the least possible Interruption to your other & infinitely greater Concerns, I have enclosed every Paper, and mentiond every particular to my esteemed Friend, the Honble. Mr. Dana, asking the Favor of his Attention, & Correspondence on the Subject— To him therefore permit me to refer if any Enquiry more is necessary—
The greatest Confidence is placed in the Justice which sways the Heart of his most Christian Majesty, and in the mode by which Application will be made in this Affair—
I have the honour to be with the most profound Respect & Esteem Your Honor’s Most Obedient & most humble Servant
Tristram Dalton
Honble. Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqr: / Minister Plenipotentairy of the / United States of America at the Court / of Versailles, / Passy near Paris
Notation: Tristram Dalton. Boston July 22 1780
Endorsed: Tristram Dalton Esq. Papers relating to the Loss of the Fairplay Brigantine—