Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Paul Marat, 14 February 1782
From: Marat, Jean-Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
From the Rue de Bourgogne febr: 14th 1782.
If you are curious to see a Series of new electrical experiments, directed to establish many a principle hitherto unknown, I Shall do myself the pleasure of Summiting them to your judgment.
In case you Should accept my invitation, Sir, I beg you would be so good as to appoint the day and the hour convenient to you, in order I may be ponctual to the appointment.
Any person attending you will be very well com. I am with great regard Sir Your Most obedient and very humble Servant
Marat


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [John Jay], [after 14 February 1782]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Jay, John

[after February 14, 1782]
Your Comparison of the Keystone of an Arch is very pretty, tending to make me content with my Situation. But I suspect you have heard our Story of the Harrow. If not, here it is. A Farmer in our Country sent two of his Servants to borrow one, of a Neighbour, ordering them to bring it between them on their Shoulders. When they came to look at it, one of them, who had too much Wit, says, What could our Master mean by sending only two Men to bring this Harrow? no two Men upon Earth are strong enough to carry it. Poh! says the other who was vain of his Strength, what do you talk of two Men? One Man may carry it; help it up upon my Shoulders, and you shall see. As he proceeded with it, the Wag kept exclaiming, Zounds! how strong you are! I could not have thought it! Why you are a mere Samson! There is not such another Man in America! What amazing Strength God has given you! but you will kill yourself! Pray put it down & rest a little, or let me bear a Part of the Weight. No, no; says he, being more encourag’d by the Compliments than oppress’d by the Burthen, you shall see I can carry it quite home. And so he did. In this particular I am afraid my part of the Imitation will fall short of the Original.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gabriel Johonnot, 15 February 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Johonnot, Gabriel

Sir,
Passy 15. Feb. 1782
I received the Letter you honoured me with dated the 4 Inst. & inclosing 4 Setts of Exchange on Boston for the Sum of one hundred and forty six Pounds Sterling, being the Amount of Advances on your Account. Herewith I return your Recet. for the 100. Louis I lent you that Sum being included in your Draft.
As you kindly offer to take Charge of any Letters I may wish to send to America, I take the Liberty of sending you the inclosed of which I beg your Care.
Wishing you an agreable Passage & I [a] happy meeting with your Family and Friends.
I have the honour to be Sir, Your &c.
Col. Johonnot.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes: Letter and Memoir, 15[–16] February 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

I.
Sir,
Passy, Feb. 15.[–16] 1782.
I received the Letter your Excellency did me the Honour of writing to me the 6th. Instant, enclosing an Aperçu of the Situation of the Congress Account for the Year 1781. On considering that Account this Day, there seems to me an Error in stating one of the Sums, viz. that of 2,216,000. l.t. I have therefore drawn a new State of the Account, (which I enclose) wherein that Sum is placed with the 4,000,000. as equally lent by the King to the United States, which I understood to have been the Case. But if that was not his Majesty’s Intention, the Promesses I have given to reimburse the same to the Tresor Royal on the 1st. of January 1788 with Interest, should be returned to me. This will however derange exceedingly the Operations of Mr. Morris, who imagines, as appears by his Letters, that nearly the whole Dutch Loan will be in my Hands at his disposition. I cannot therefore but wish, if not too inconvenient to the Tresor Royal, that the said Sum may be suffered to remain in its present Situation.
With great & sincere Respect, I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
Excelly. the Count de Vergennes

Notation: rep le 20.

II.
Aperçu du Compte des Etats-Unis de L’Amerique
1781
  J’ai reçu pendant l’Année 1781 des Affrs. Etranges.

£4,000,000.

J’ai reçu de meme de la Finance & sur l’ordre motivé par Ecrit des Ministres sur des Promesses
2,216,000.

J’ai fourni en consequence a M D’Harvelay 4 Promesses payables en 1788 avec Interets
  £4,000,000.

  J’ai egalement fourni au Tresor Royal 3 Promesses de même formant
  2,216,000.

  £6,216,000.
  £6,216,000

Par consequent ces Objets se soldent par eux mêmes.
  Le Roi nous a accordé un subside Gratuit

de
£6,000,000

Et nous a procuré l’Emprunt d’Hollande
10,000,000.

Sur quoi a été payé en 5 Parties

1° Fourni Argent comptant à M. Lawrens

  2,500,000

  2° Prix des Effets expediés en Mai & Juin

  2,069,109

  3° Prix des Effets destinés a partir en Mars

  2,570,000.

1782

  4° Traites de M. Morris sur Messrs. Le Couteulx

  1,000,000.

  5° Envoy revenu d’Hollande & remis a M. Franklin

  1,430,000

  Par conséquent il nous reste du

6,450,891.

  £16,000,000.
  £16,000,000.

BF.
Passy 16 Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Desegray & Cie., 15 February 1782
From: Desegray & Cie.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Most honble. Sir
St. Malo’s 15th. feby. 1782.
In Conformity of your Orders by your favour of the 21th. Jany. We have drawn on you £. 232. [l.t.] payable the 20th. instt. to the order of Mr. Olive, wch. we beg you’ll order to be paid, being the Amount of our disbursement for 26. American Seamen according to our Letter of the 9th. ulto.
We are with great respect Most honble. sir Your most obedient humble Servants
DeSegray & Co.

Notation: De Segray & Co. 5. Fevr. à St. Malo—1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louise-Geneviève Du Ponceau, with Franklin’s Note for a Reply, 15 February 1782
From: Du Ponceau, Louise-Geneviève,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
a st. martin ile de réz ce 15 février 1782
La bontez de votre coeur pour les mallereux mes [m’est] si fort connuë que jose prendre la libertez de vous en Gager a vouloir bien à Voir la bontez de me fasilitez une correspondanse avec un frere que jes a philadelphie qui est premier sécretaire du ministre des afaire étrangère: élas je resoi si rarement des nouvelle de se tendre frere que Si vous vouliez avoir la bontez mon cher monsieur de me donner une permision formelle de vous adresser les létre que je lui écrires et luy séle [celles] quil mé criret [m’écrirait] nous pourion pour lor vous regarder comme un comun père oui jose le dire monsieur vous ne pouriez faire une plus belle oeuvre car je ne vous cacherez poin que je suie dans la misère et nes [n’ai] pour tout bien que 200 l.t. que sa magesté a bien voulus macorder pour vivre et les por [ports] de ses lètre sont si cher que je suie peu amesme dan resevoir malgrez que je nes poin dautre enbision ainsi monsieur si vous avez jamais santie se que ses que lamitiez fraternelle laisez vous rendre au pressante solisitasion dune persone dons la multitude des malleur son audesus de lexpresion et le detail en seret si long quil vous sufieras de savoir qua 22 an je nes ni pére ni mére que je nes plus que mes 2 frere et quil son outremer vous voyez monsieur quelle devra estre ma reconoisance si vous daignez me fasiliter le bonneur de resevoir de leur cherre nouvelle.
Jes lonneur destre Monsieur Votre obeisante Servante
Louise-Génevieve DUPONCEAU

Addressed: Monsieur le duc de franclin
Endorsed: That I shall take care to send her all Letters which may come to my Hands from her Brother. And that when she has not an Opportunity of writing to her Brother from the Ports near the Isle of Ré, she may send her Letters to me and I will forward them.
Notation: Mde. Duponceau 5. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comtesse d’Houdetot, [before 16 February 1782]
From: Houdetot, Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

a Paris Vendredy matin [before Feb. 16, 1782]
Madame La Comtesse D’houdetot fait Mille tendres amitiés a Monsieur franklin. Elle Le previens ainsy que Monsieur son fils qu’elle n’aura point de Musique aujourdhuy Chez Elle a Cause De La Maladie de Monsieur son frere aupres de qui Elle passera L’apres Midy. Elle ira Chercher Monsieur franklin Le plutot qu’il Luy sera possible Et Regrette fort D’estre privée aujourdhuy du plaisir De Le Voir.
Mme. D’houdetot prie Mr. franklin de luy faire dire sil a Reçu Le Billet.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire Des / Etâts Unis / A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean Rousseaux, 16 February 1782
From: Rousseaux, Jean
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Brest Le 16. fevrier 1782
Je me fait L’honneur de vous ecrire cellecy pour asseurer de mon respect et en meme temp pour vous prié de ne pas Ignorez que jette abord de Lexenton [Lexington] capitaine henry Jonshon pour Capt. de prize et que je me Suis fait Lhonneur de vous ecrire etant a Dunkerque vous mavez fait Lhonneur dune reponse par laquelle vous me marquiez que cela Nettoit pas Encore finy au Sujet des prize que nous avons fait ou je vous avez Envoye La Lettre de monsieur cornic de morlaix ou jay mene une prise a Son adresse. Je vous priray Monsieur de vouloir masister dans l’etat ou Je me trouve Sans aucun Secour ny même un denier devant moy nayant pas reçu un Liard dapointemant ny autre apres Toute Les paine je Endure a bord du Blenehem pandant Six mois de prison et pour Tout malheur pour moy je revien Encore de prison de la jomaique que je ay reste pres dun an jespere monsieur que vous vouderez Bien Secourir un pauvre malheureux en Luy fezant Tenir Le peu quil luy est du le plutot posible que vous pourez je ne Seseray Monsieur de prier dieu pour la reusitte de toute vos Entreprise jespere L’honneur dune reponse je Suis Loge chez Monsieur Latapie dantiste du roy rue de Riche a Brest noublie pas monsieur Le pauvre malheureux qui Se recomand a vous.
Jay Lhonneur dettr avec respect Monsieur Votre tres heumble et tres obs. Serviteur
Jn. Rousseaux

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le docteur frankelin / Embassadeur du Congré / ameriquain Demurant ds. / Son hautel a passy / Pes. Paris A Passy
Notation: Rousseau Brest 16 Fevr. 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to ——— Palteau de Veimerange, 17 February 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Palteau de Veimerange, ——

Sir
Passy, Feb. 17. 1782.
I received the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 14th. Instant, informing me that your Endeavours to find Transports to carry the Goods purchased for the United States had been unsuccessful.
I had myself written to two American Merchants establish’d at Nantes & L’Orient, and have receiv’d very discouraging Answers, Copies of which I enclose.
When the Purchase & Transport of these Goods was resolved, I willingly left the whole Transaction in the Hands of Government, believing that not only the Goods would be bought cheaper, but the Freight agreed for more adventageously by its Officers than by me; expecting however that the Expence for Freight would be added to the Account of the Purchases, to be paid by the United States. Accordingly the Quantities sent in May & June last, amounting to more than two Millions, went in the King’s Transports, & I had not the least Idea that I [It] was expected of me to find Ships to the rest, till I receiv’d your Letter of the 28th. past, otherwise I should long since have endeavoured to procure them. There has even been time to have sent for them from America. I still hope you may be able to find some with whom I may contract for the Service, if not, I see no Remedy. The Goods must remain till another Occasion; for I believe nothing is to be done with Robineau. All in my Power is to order the Alliance to take what she can of them; but that will not be considerable, as those Frigates are not calculated for Burthen, & their Provisions & Water take up most of the Room.
With great Esteem I have the honour to be, Sir, &c—
M. de Veimerange.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Daniel Grand de La Chaise, 18 February 1782
From: Grand de La Chaise, Daniel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Amsterdam le 18 fevrier 1782.
J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer ci joint les trois Imprimés Periodiques que vous avéz demandé à mon oncle, je suis charmé qu’il mait chargé de Cette Commission puisquelle me fournit le moyen de me rappeller à vôtre Souvenir precieux, & dont je Crains que mon sejour en hollande mait éffacé.
Je vous demande la grace de permettre que Monsieur vôtre fils trouve ici l’assurance de mon sincère Attachement.
Je suis avec Respect, Monsieur, Votre trés humble & trés obeissant Serviteur
La CHAISE
S. E. Monsieur Le Docteur Franklin à Paris.

Notation: La Chaise Amsterdam 18. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte and Comtesse de Vergennes and the Marquis and Marquise de Vergennes, [c. 18 February 1782]
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de,Vergennes, Anne Viviers Testa, comtesse de,Vergennes, Jean Gravier, marquis de,Vergennes, Jeanne-Claude Chevignard de Chavigny, marquise de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

M
[c. February 18, 1782]
Monsieur le Comte & Madame la Comtesse DE VERGENNES, Monsieur le Marquis & Madame la Marquise DE VERGENNES, sont venus pour avoir l’honneur de vous voir & vous faire part du Mariage de Monsieur le Vicomte DE VERGENNES, leur fils & Neveu, avec Mademoiselle DE LENTILHAC-SEDIERES.

Addressed: M. francklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Félix Vicq d’Azyr, [before 19 February 1782]
From: Vicq d’Azyr, Félix
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
[before February 19, 1782]
La societé Royale de medecine m’a chargé de Vous adresser pour sa seance publique des billets dont vous Pouvés disposer, elle vous prie tres instemment d’honnorer Cette assemblée de Votre Presence Comme Vous L’avés fait Plusieurs fois. Cette Compagnie qui se glorifie de Vous Compter au Nombre de ses membres vous Recevra avec Le meme Plaisir et Le meme empressement.
Jai Lhonneur detre avec beaucoup de Respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et Tres obeissant serviteur
Vicq D’azyr
Elle joint ici des billets pour Monsieur votre petit fils.M. franklin

Notation: Vicq d’Azir. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Kéralio, 19 February 1782
From: Kéralio, Agathon Guynement, chevalier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris, rue de Courty, 19e fevr. 1782.
Notre Bonne amie, mon digne et respectable ami, vous donnera avec le plus grand plaisir la journee du Samedi 23e, et voit avec impatience le moment ou elle pourra vous dire combien elle vous respecte, vous estime et vous aime: je l’imite autant que je le peux, vous ne devés donc pas douter de la tendre vénération avec laquelle je vous suis devoú pour la vie.
Le CHER. De Keralio

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin. / à Passy.
Notation: Keralio Le Chevr. de: Paris 19 Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 20 February 1782
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 20. fevr 1782
J’ai reçu, Monsieur, la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 15 de ce mois; elle étoit accompagnée d’un apperçu du compte des Etats-Unis, par lequel vous pretendez qu’il reste encore dû sur l’emprunt de Hollande 6,450,891 l.t.
Si vous aviez bien voulu, Monsieur, consulter la correspondance que vous avez euë avec moi dans le courant de l’année dère. [dernière], et vous rapeller vos conversations tant avec moi qu’avec M. de Rayneval, vous vous seriez facilement convaincu de l’erreur de votre calcul. Je vous prie de relire votre lettre du 4 Juin; vous y dites que les traites du Congrès tirées sur vous, sur M. Jay &a. vous mettent dans la nécessité de retenir 5. Millions sur les 6 que le Roi venoit d’accorder à titre de don; je vous répondis le 8 du même mois, qu’une partie des 6 millions devoit être employée à l’achat d’armes, vêtemens &a., et que le surplus seroit transporté en nature en Amérique pour y ranimer le crédit des Etats-Unis; que si M. Laurens avoit fait d’autres dispositions, le Roi n’y avoit eû aucune part, et qu’il ne pouvoit en prendre aucune au remboursemt. des traites de cet officier; que pour ce qui étoit de l’emprunt de Hollande, c’étoit au Congrès seul et non à nous à en disposer, que vous deviez par conséquent vous addresser à ce Corps pour être autorisé à en faire l’emploi. Par votre lettre du 10 du même mois de Juin vous observâtes qu’il vous faudroit 6 mois pour recevoir l’autorisation du Congrès; vous fîtes des réfléxions aussi amples que sérieuses sur les inconvénients qui résulteroient du protest des Traites du Congrès, et je remarquai surtout dans votre lettre le passage suivant: “D’après ces considérations et d’après l’opinion où je suis qu’une traite tirée par l’ordre du Congrès est une déclaration aussi valable et aussi claire de son intention relativement à la disposition des fonds qu’il pouvoit avoir en Europe, qu’un ordre futur de sa part, je me suis déterminé à accepter et à promettre le payement de toutes les traites susmentionnées, ce que j’ai demandé à V.E. dans ma dère. Lettre, et ce que je prends la liberté de lui répéter, est uniquem. de retenir de l’assistance en question les sommes nécessaires pour acquitter mes acceptations.” Ma réponse à cette Lettre est on ne peut pas plus positive. Je vous déclarai derechef, Monsieur, que je ne pouvois en aucune manière me mêler de l’emploi des six millions remis à la direction du Colonel Laurens, et que je vous laissois le soin de juger si vous pouviez ou non disposer, sans autorisation préalable, des fonds qui proviendroient de l’emprunt alors ouvert en hollande. Le 12 Juillet vous m’écrivites de nouveau pour m’exposer vos besoins et pour demander la disposition de 1,500,000 l.t. que M. Laurens avoit fait transporter en hollande pour être embarquées sur L’Indien. Je communiquai vos demandes à M. Joly-de fleury et je l’engageai à vous mettre en état d’acquitter les traites que vous aviez acceptées dans la suposition que l’emprunt de hollande se rempliroit, et que l’on en distrairoit les avances qui vous auroient été faites. Ce Ministre consentit aussi qu’on vous remît les 1,500,000 l.t. envoyées en hollande. Je vous fis connoître ses intentions par mes deux Lettres du 27 Juillet et 23 Août. Vous fîtes, Monsieur, le 10 Xbre. une nouvelle demande d’un million; relisez, je vous prie, ma reponse du 21 du même mois, vous y verrez bien clairement que cette somme ne pouvoit vous être accordée que sur l’emprunt de hollande; relisez également votre réponse: vous y dites expressément: que vous vous croyiez suffisamment autorisé à employer l’argent du Congrès à l’aquitement de ses traites. En conséquence de cette réponse je proposai à M. de fleury de vous procurer le million dont il est question.
Tous ces détails, Monsieur, dans lesquels vous m’avez forcé d’entrer, vous démontreront, je pense, qu’il n’a jamais été question de fournir au Congrès, à titre de prêt particulier, la somme de 2,216,000 l.t.; et que notre intention, comme la votre, a constamment été de l’imputer sur l’emprunt de hollande: c’est d’après ce principe qu’est rédigé l’apperçu que je vous ai communiqué, et que j’en maintiens l’éxactitude.
Toutes ces explications, Monsieur, m’ont paru d’autant plus nécessaires, que, selon ce que vous me mandez, et ce que M. de la Luzerne me mande de son côté, M. Robert Morris croit que les 10 millions provenant de l’emprunt de hollande sont intacts: ce Ministre des finances n’auroit pas du avoir cette opinion d’après mes deux lettres du 8 Juin et 23 Août dont vous lui avez envoyez copie; et s’il eût pu être dans la plus légère incertitude sur ma façon de penser, vous l’auriez entièrement dissipée, si vous eussiez bien voulu joindre à votre expédition copie de la lettre que vous m’avez écrite le 10 Juin et de la réponse que j’y ai faite le 17 du même mois.
Quoiqu’il en soit, Monsieur, je ne saurois adopter votre apperçu de compte, en ce que vous y employez comme un prêt particulier la somme de 2,216,000 l.t. et je dois vous déclarer que cette somme sera défalquée sur l’emprunt de hollande. Vous voudriez que dans cette supposition on vous rendît les Recepissés que vous avez fournis au Trésor-Royal; cette restitution n’éprouvera aucune difficulté aussitôt que vous pourrez les remplacer par ceux de M. Robert Morris. Quant au désir que vous auriez que les 4 millions environ qui restent encore de l’emprunt de hollande soient gardés au Trésor-Royal jusqu’à ce que M. Morris en dispose, c’est une affaire sur laquelle vous devez vous entendre avec M. Joly-de fleury; Je n’ai aucun titre pour y intervenir.
J’ai l’honneur d’être très sincèrement, Monsieur, votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur
De Vergennes
M. Franklin

Endorsed: M le Comte de Vergennes


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Andrews, 21 February 1782
From: Andrews, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Paris 21th: Feby 1782
I have taken the Liberty to send your Exellency two of my Résumé memoirs. There was a Council yesterday But haveing much business mine was not finishe’d. The Gentlemen have ordre’d a Council on Monday next for this business only at which time I flatter my self it will be Judge’d to my satisfacton, I still pray for the continuation of your Exellencys friendship & I have the Honour to be with Respect your Exellency most Obedent Humb Sert
Sam Andrews
Exellency Doct Francklin

Notation: Andrews Saml. Paris 21. Janr. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Franklin Bache, 21 February 1782
From: Bache, Benjamin Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Mon cher grand Papa
Genêve ce 21 fevrier 1782.
Ne soyez pas ètonné si je vous écris une lettre qui est si prês de l’autre c’est pour vous demander permission d’acheter un livre qui est instructif et qui en même temps me plairoit beaucoup c’est (le Voyageur françois) en 28 Volumes mais Mr. Marignac n’a pas jugé apropos de me l’acheter, ni moi même parcequ’il coutoit 9 Louis et demi, voila mon Cher grand Papa ce que j’ai a vous dire sur ce sujet. Je vous prie me faire savoir si vous voulez que j’achete le livre et de me repondre le plustôt qu’il vous sera possible parcequ’il peut se vendre avant que J’aie vôtre permission. Je vous prie de me dire aussi quand il me faudra commencer ces lettres de Change, et aussi quand vous m’enverez ces exemples. Les Lettres de Mon cher papa et de ma mama m’ont fait beaucoup de plaisir et celle de Cockran aussi, que j’ai reçu le même jour que je vous ècris parcequ’elle est faite en vers. Md Cramer Vous fait bien ses compliments, et Mr et Md Marignac vous presentent bien leurs respects. Faites bien mes Compliments à mon Cousin et mes amitiés à Cockran.
J’ai l’honneur d’etre mon Cher Grand Papa Votre très obeissant et très affectionné petitfils
B. Franklin Bache
Faites aussi s’il vous plait mes compliments aux jeunes Moris.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats unis de L’Amerique auprès de / sa Majesté très chrètienne, Recommandée / A Monsieur Grand Banquier / Ruë Montmartre / A Paris
Notation: B.F.B. to Dr. F. Geneva, Feb. 21. ’82


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Michael Bright, Champion Wood, Levy Yonger, and Bartholomew Cashman, 21 February 1782
From: Bright, Michael,Wood, Champion,Yonger, Levy,Cashman, Bartholomew
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honour’d Sir,
Bason Prison Haver de grase Feby. 21st. 1782
We are very sorry to inform you that after makeing our escape from forton Prison in England by givin four Guineas a Peice to the Comisarys Clarks, thay gave us some of the french Prisoners Names that had enter’d into the Bretish service to pass with the french Prisoners, after we arrived here, we went to the Comisary for a Pass Port to go to LOrient after he had examin’d us he sent us to Prison where we Remain in a Dismal situation distitute of money Cloths and Nessarys of Life and know not what is the Reason of our being Confind, Capt. Middleton a Gentleman that came the same way was Cleared and had a Pass Port for Burdox. If you would be so kind as to send orders to the Comisary to Releice us we should take it very kind, likewise we shoul be very glad if you would send us something to support our selves till we could get to LOrient or else ware in order to git to America.
Sir, We think it very hard that after suffering some of us Thirty Months and others 18 Months for our Countrys Cause and then, when we arrived in france to be put into Prison and [know] not what for, and not allow’d to speek to any of our Country Men that is in the Town.
Sir, We Remain your friends and Country Men

Michl. Bright
}
of Philada.

Champon. Wood

Levy Yonger
}
of Cape Ann

Bartholemew Cashman
  }
Boston

Addressed: To / The Right Honourable / Dr. Benjamin Franklin / American Plenapotentary / at / Paris
Notation: Bright, Michael &c. Havre Fevr: 21. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de Cheylus, 21 February 1782
From: Cheylus, ——, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris le 21e. fevrier 1782.
M. Le Marquis de Cheylus Envoyé Extraordinaire de la Ville D’avignon Et du Comté Venaissin, qui a Eû Le 19e. de Ce mois Une premiere audiance de leurs Majestés Et de la famille Royale, est Venû pour avoir L’honneur de Vous voir.

Notation: Cheylus, Le Mis. De, Paris 21. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Garnier, 21 February 1782
From: Garnier, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris le 21 fevrier 1782. / .
Permettés moi de vous rappeller que, lorsque je vous présentai le prospectus d’un ouvrage ayant pour titre, Spectacle de la Galerie de Dusseldorf, vous eûtes la bonté de me promettre de me faire passer une réponse, après l’examen fait du dit prospectus. Ma mauvaise Santé ne me permettant point de l’aller receuillir, je vous prie d’en charger le présent porteur, à qui même, en cas que vous soyés disposé à souscrire vous pourrés remettre avec sureté la Somme quelconque que vous destinerés à cet effet. J’ai L’honneur d’être avec un profond respect Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur
Garnier

Notation: Garnier Paris 21. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georges-Louis Le Rouge, 21 February 1782
From: Le Rouge, Georges-Louis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Paris 21 fev: 82
Je Supplie Ve: Excellence de me faire mander si elle a Connoissance d’un ouvrage qui traitte de l’histoire des guerres actuelles de l’amerique ou lon pourroit le trouver. C’est pour M. le Comte de Segur qui me le demande.
Si Ve: Excellence pouvoit me faire venir de Londres par occasion touttes les Cartes et plans que Sr: Faden a publié depuis le 1er Janvier 1780. elle me feroit le plus gd: plaisir et a tous nos vrai curieux. Plus deux exemplaires d’une Carte en 2 feuilles contenant les C[ôtes] et provinces orientales de l’amerique septent par andrews de 1777. S’est vendu chez Dury Marchand de Cartes. Il est mort ce Dury mais la Veuve tient. Ma reconnoissance sera sans bornes.
Je suis avec respect de Votre Excellence Le tres humble et tres Obeisst Serviteur
Le Rouge geographerue des augustins

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur le Docteur / Franklin Plenipotane: / des provinces unies de / l’amerique / a Passy


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Larwood, Van Hasselt & Van Suchtelen, 22 February 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Larwood, Van Hasselt & Van Suchtelen

Gentlemen,
Passy, Feb. 22. 1782.
I duly received the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 14th. Instant respecting some Bills in your Hands drawn on Mr. Laurens by Mr. Hopkinson. Be pleased to inform me at what Sight they are payable; and if I shall see a Prospect of having Funds in my Hands sufficient, I will accept and pay them. I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, Your &c
Messrs. Lawoold, Van Hasselt, Van Scuhtelen.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael, 22 February 1782
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Madrid 22d. Feby. 1782
I received with very great Satisfaction your Letter of the 23d Ulto. I am sorry that you should think it necessary to make any apology for your Silence, for I make this Sacrifice which is not a small one to the Public Service as I have been constrained to make others. I feel all the force of what you say with respect to our pecuniary Situation, but present evils affect us more strongly than distant ones: I have taken great pains to establish an opinion of our Credit here & have succeeded tolerably well; The non payment of the Bills Accepted will utterly destroy this, which must be the case if France does not once more & I hope for the last time here, Step in to our releif. It is easy to find Pretexts for not accepting bills, but Difficult to colour the refusal to pay those Already accepted— The Court positively denies us any further aid & has with difficulty consented to pay a balance of 25000 Dollars, which diminishes thus much the Sum of 30000 £s Sterlg that Mr Jay applied to you for— I hope France will not suffer us to lose our Credit entirely here for this Sum, great part of which becomes due the middle of next month; If the Ct de Montmorin was authorized to promise the repayment of it, I am persuaded we Could have the advances made for us here similar to those made by the Marquis De Yranda, who appeared disposed to advance money for us on condition of being reimbursed by Mr Grand. I know that you will do all you can for Mr Jay, but I feel so sensibly the disgrace which is like to arrive to our National Credit here, that I cannot help unburthening Myself to you. I have agreable to your permission taken the Liberty of Drawing on you for a Quarters Salary. Hitherto I have received it from Mr Jay & consequently have had no acct open with you, The 29th of next month I shall have still 6 months salary to receive and when I tell you that I have been obliged to take Apartments & to furnish them that I am constrained to take Lodgings at all the Sities & to have my own Table you will not be surprized that I should need the payment of my Salary regularly. I have written to Congress repeatedly on the Subject, but have never received any Answer to this Part of my Letters— I sent you by a Mr Traverse some little peices published here, it does not appear that you have received them. He is to be heard of at the Marquis de Ossuns. I presented your respects to the Ct de Campones [Campomanes] who [sends] his in return & seemed much pleased by your mention of him. I hope Mr Barclay will give you leisure to make some politico-œconomical Reflections or questions to him which the perusal of his works may give rise to. The conquest of Minorca & the intended seige of Gibraltar are the Subjects of Conversations here at present. Would you Beleive it, the Spaniards reproach our generous Allies with Lenteur & mauvaise volonté in the first mentioned Affair? I dined with the Swedish Minister to day & at his Table was told that the Princess of Asturies said publicly that the Spaniards had taken Fort St Philips in sight of 4000 Spectators meaning the French Troops— The Officer who brought the Capitulation I know spoke very freely on this Subject. We think differently of French Gallantry in America, I never can think of it without thinking of the Marquis De la Fayette, will you have the goodness to tell him, that I love & admire nobody in the world so much except one that I must not mention to you altho of the same sex. I shall write you more fully by the first Courier which the Embasador dispatches; In the Mean Time I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Obliged & Most Humble Sert
Wm. Carmichael
His Excy Benjamin Franklin

Addressed: His Excy. / Benjamin Franklin / Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Hodgson, 22 February 1782
From: Hodgson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir
London 22 feby 1782
I wrote you on the 15th Ultimo to which I beg to be referred— Since I am favored with yours of the 7 Jany enclosing a Bill for £10.10 by a Mr Wyld—this Bill was not honoured but understanding the drawer lived in Chesshire I caused him to be informed that if he did not provide for the Payment some way or other I must cause him to be arrested, this has produced me another Bill for same Sum which I hope will be paid when due.
I have deferred writing some Time having been in daily expectation of hearing again from you as intimated in your last in Reply to the sundry matters in my last Letters, the Prisoners are now so numerous that they take from 50 to £60 per week at 1 s. each & little extraordinaries— I am at this moment in advance about £150— Crediting you in Acc’t for the £150 recd of Mr Grand in January I cou’d not suffer the poor Men to be deprived of their allowance at this severe Season, you will therefore please to give directions to Mr Grand that I may be supplyed with what you have before judged proper to be expended on these Men—
I have nothing further worthy your Attention. Mr Laurens is pretty well recovered he did me the favor to dine with me yesterday. I am with great respect Dr sr Yours Sincerely
William Hodgson

Addressed: To / Benj. Franklin Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Hare, Jr., 23 February 1782
From: Hare, Richard, Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excellency
Cork 23d. Feb 1782
I am inclined to hope your Excellency will pardon the Liberty I have taken in addressing a few Lines to you, which I expect will be deliver’d by Mr. Whipple or Capt Lewis, either of whom can inform your Excellency the cause that has prompted me to presume to address a person of your Rank— The Sufferings of a number of our unfortunate Brethren, whom the Fortune of Warr have thrown into the Hands of People, void of Humanity, can better be releated by either of the above Gentlemen, than in the power of my pen to releat near two hundred are at present confined in a wretched prison, many of whom would have perished the past Winter but for a small subscription raised in this place by a few Individuals.
Your Excellency will be pleased to take their pityable case into your serious Consideration & endeavour to have an Exchange effected, which, if speedily done, may be the means of saveing the Lives of a number of brave, tho’ unfortunate Men— I should think myself happy in haveing the Honr. of a Line from your Excellency convey’d thro a safe channell & shall think myself thrice happy by being honour’d, in the distribution of any sum, that I may receive directions to distribute among those unfortunate people.
I have the Honor to be Yr. Excellencys Most Obedt. & Hble Servt.
Richard Hare Junr:

Notation: Hare Junr. Richard, Cork 23. Feby. 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jean-Pierre d’Açarq, 24 February 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Acarq, Jean-Pierre d’

Passy le 24. Fevr. 1782.
J’ai reçu, Monsieur, et lu avec beaucoup d’intérêt l’ode au peuple Anglois et l’ode adressée à la Hollande que vous avez eu la bonté de m’envoyer. On ne sauroit faire un plus bel usage de la Poësie que de la ramener à ce qu’elle fut dans son origine, c’est a dire de la consacrer à chanter les choses utiles à l’humanité et les hommes qui les executent, je vous remercie en mon particulier du bien que vous avez la bonté de dire de moi; quoique je me croye bien loin de le meriter, comme il se trouve joint à l’Eloge de la Cause de la Liberté dont je suis sans doute un zelé partisan. Je ne vous dirai point que j’y ai regret. Recevez le tribut d’Estime que meritent vos travaux animés par le bien public et les Sentiments distingués avec les quels je suis, Monsieur, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur.
M. D’Acarq.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand, [24 February 1782]
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce Dimanche matin [February 24, 1782]
Mr Grand à Lhonneur de souhaiter le bonjour à monsieur Franklin & de lui faire part que les Espagnols Sont en possession du Fort St Philipe depuis le 4 de ce mois qu’il s’est rendû.
On ajoute que la Garnison à été prisonière de Guerre mais Je n’en Suis pas aussy sur que de la prise du fort qui à été apportée par un Courrier à Mr Lambassadeur d’Espagne.
Voicy une Lettre qui m’a été adressée mal à propos à ce quil paroit.

Notation: Grand


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Le Paon, 24 February 1782
From: Le Paon, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
de Paris ce 24 fevrier 1782.
J’ose, sous les Auspices de votre Excellence, m’offrir avec mon Talent, au Congrès des Etats unis de L’amerique, pour la confection d’une Suite de Tableaux des faits d’armes qui s’y Sont passés à L’occasion de L’independance Enfin reconnue. Je ne demande que des relations dettaillées et des plans Exactes de chaque objet, j’ai fait plusieurs campagnes de Guerre, dans les Dragons, Monsieur, dans la Seule vue d’acquerir les Talents qui constituent le vrai peintre de Battailles, ainsi que de tout ce qui peut y être accessoire ou relatif. J’ose de plus, assurer votre Excellence que jai donné beaucoup d’ouvrages en ce Genre que lon peut voir en partie a L’Ecole Royale Militaire, et au Palais Bourbon, ou S.A.S. Mgr. Le Prince de Condé, qui me protege, me donne un Attelier et un logement. Votre Excellence connoit la Gravure du Portrait historié que j’ai fait du Grand General Washinsgton, je viens de faire, pour lui servir de pendant, celui de Mr Le Mis. de la Fayette, d’après lequel le graveur travaille. Je ne dois pas, Monsieur M’Etendre sur mes productions, non plus que sur mon zele et mon désintérressement; je ne desire que de plaire à votre Excellence, et j’ose attendre ses ordres pour cette Entreprise qui ne peut qu’ajouter à La Gloire de L’amerique.
Je Suis avec un profond Respect de Votre Excellence, Le tres humble et tres devoüé Serviteur.
Le Paön

Notation: Le Paon 24 Fevr. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 24 February 1782
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr & hond sir.
Nantes Feb 24. 1782.
I take the Opportunity by a private Hand to return you Capt Folgers Bond & Oath, in order to save the postage. I will write by the Post.
I am in haste yours most dutifully and affectionately
J Williams J

Notation: J. Williams 24. Fevr. 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Marat, 25 February 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Marat, Jean-Paul

Sir,
Passy, Feb. 25. 1782
I shall endeavour to be with you by Ten a Clock in the Morning on Monday next, having a great Desire to see your Experiments. I hope nothing will happen to prevent me, and that the Weather will be good. With great Regard I have the honour to be Sir Your most obedient humble Servant
B Franklin
[A Mr. Ma]rat


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Barclay, 25 February 1782
From: Barclay, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam 25 Feby. 1782.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellencys letter of the 12th. by Major Porter. It Came in time to give me an Opportunity of stopping the purchase of the ship Callone, which I mentiond to you in My last, but I had engaged for half of another of about 250 Ton Burthen, she was the General Sulivan an American built Privateer, and has been lately sheath’d with Copper in England, Carried 20 six pound Cannon and appears by her Inventory to be well supplied with Many articles— I hope she will be here in about a fortnight, as I have dispatch’d a Commander to Ostend to take possession of her— If the transaction had not gone too far before I received your Excellencys letter, I shou’d not have Concluded it, and I am now to inform you that of this date I have valued on you at 30 days sight for twelve thousand Ecus in favour of Messrs Ingraham & Bromefield, who have Negociated the bills to pay for half this Vessell, and I shall just add that if your Excellency shou’d continue to think it improper to Interest Congress in such a purchase I shall pay the Bills when due and take the transaction to my own Account— I have also Valued on You for Mess: Ingraham & Bromefield for 2500 Ecus at 30 Days sight, for the payment of my personal expences and those of the goods received from Mr. De Neufville, Congress owes Me about 1000 Dollars, and I have sundry Charges to pay on the supply’s— These bills are the only ones I shall have occasion to trouble you with untill I have the pleasure of a personal interview with You, unless I am able to ship some of the Course goods at a reasonable freight by the Ton, in which Case I shall be obliged to value something further on you— As you seem apprehensive of the Consequences of Advancing Money on account of the shipment of those goods, I shall not at any rate exceed the sum of £2500 Sterg. including the purchase of half the General Sulivan, for I will endeavour to ship a great part of them under the Condition of the freight being paid in America, and I am Convinced Your Excellency will be of Opinion with me, that it is much better to do the business in this way than to wait for Vessells from America, especialy as the goods are so much wanted there.
I had last post a letter from Mr. James Moylan of L’Orient, Covering his Account of Disbursements on the Alliance amounting to 15216 livres, which sum he desires may be paid to Mr. Grand on his account, You will therefore please to give the Necessary instructions Concerning that Matter, and shou’d Captain Barry be so lucky as to send in any prizes, the Money shall be replaced— I shall have the honour to write You next post some particulars relative to the Goods sold by Mr. Gillon to Col. Lawrence, and at present beg leave to assure you of my being Most respectfully Sir Your Excellency’s Most obedient Huml Servant
Thos Barclay

The Ninety day bills favor of Ingraham and Bromefield are drawn in the following setts.

1 Bill for
 1000
(No. 1)

1
   1100
  2

1
   1200
  3

1
   1300
  4

1
   1400
  5

1
   2500
  6

1
   3500
  7

12000 Ecus

1 Bill at 30 ds 2500 No. 8.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre-François de Boy, 25 February 1782
From: Boy, Pierre-François de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
Ce 25. fevrier 1782.
Le Sr. Montigny, sergent des Grenadiers Dans Luxembourg, et Capitaine d’Armes Sur la fregatte Americaine, ditte, la Caroline du Sud, Sur laquelle il a eté blessé a La Cuisse Se battant Contre deux fregattes Angloises, m’Engage a vous supplier de Lui faire payer Son Du, reconnu par le Certificat ci-inclus a Lui donné, par Le Commandant de la ditte fregatte.
Qu’il me soit permis, Monseigneur, de vous Supplier de mhonorer de votre reponse a cet egard; en raison de ce que le Sr. montigny est dans la plus affreuse indigence; et lui et moy Convaincus de la justice et de L’humanité de votre Grandeur, osons tout esperer pour L’obtention.
Je Suis avec un profond Respect Monseigneur De Votre Grandeur Le Tres humble et Tres obeissant Serviteur
De BoyCi-devant major d’infanterie au servicedes Etats unis de L’Amerique et a presentCapitaine dans le Regiment Suisse DeMeuron a la poste restante A Bayonne

Notations: [in William Temple Franklin’s hand] Ansd. neg. 13 Mar 82 / Boy Mr. De: 25. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Lafayette, 25 February 1782
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris february 25th 1782
Mis. [Marquis] de Lafayette’s Most Respectfull Compliments Wait on Mr franklin and Has the Honor to Inform His Excellency that in Compliance with His directions He Had Last Evening a Conference with Count de Vergennes— The Minister Said He Wished to Make Himself the Communication to Mr. franklin, when Asked for it By Him, So that the Sum will Be immediately Communicated, and I Heartly Wish it was not less difficult to obtain its Augmentation. The Petition will Be presented this Evening to Mr. de Castries, and the Answer sent to Passy as Soon as possible.
Mr. franklin Cannot Render His friend More Happy than in Employing of Him for the Service of America, and He feels a particular pleasure in Avoiding for the doctor the trouble of journeys to Versailles where His Peculiar Situation Calls Him two or three times a Week.

Addressed: His Excellency Mr. / franklin Passy
Notation: Mr. de La Fayette Feby. 25. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Barry, 27 February 1782
From: Barry, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
L.Orient 27 Feby. 1782
I have the Honor to Acquaint your Excellency of my safe Arrival here yesterday, with the Frigate Alliance in Order to Receive your dispatches for America, which I hope will be here next post. But should that not be the case as the Alliance may want some few things, I shall wait for the Return of the Post for them; but it will be out of my Power to wait an hour longer if the Wind be fair— In your last you mention Mr. Barcley’s putting some public Goods on board, which I inform’d you I should take as much as I was able, but Mr. Barcly not being here, nor no one to act for him, I think it will not be likely any can be got Ready in time, as I am determin’d not to wait for any thing of the kind, having no Orders about them—
I am sorry to acquaint your Excellency that I had but verry poor success in my last Cruise, owing entirely to the greatest part of the trade of urope being carried on in neutral Bottoms of which the sea is full. Add to that, I had nothing but gales of Wind ever since I sailed, which has been the Occasion of several of my Men’s getting sick. Not a sign of an English Vessel to be seen the whole Cruise.
I remain with proper Respect Sir, Your Excellencys Most Obedt huml servt
John Barry
His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / plenipotentiary for the United States of / America. / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Cottin fils & Jauge, 27 February 1782
From: Cottin fils & Jauge
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris Le 27 Fevrier 1782.
Nous venons d’apprendre que vous cherchez un Batiment, un de nos amis en a un à Amsterdam dont l’armement Se fait Sous pavillon Imperial. Il est de 500 Tonneaux nous vous l’offrons monsieur au prix de 200 l.t. du tonneau aquis avant le depart, & a ne jauger que la Cale du Navire, la place des vivres Sera defalquée, nous Esperons que ce Batiment pourra etre rendu a Brest dans tout le mois prochain.
Nous vous Serons obligé de nous Faire une prompte reponse.
Nous avons l’honneur detre avec une parfaite consideration Monsieur Vos très humbles & très Obeissants Serviteurs
Cottin FILS Jauge

Notation: Cotin fils Jauge 27. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte de Maillebois, 27 February 1782
From: Maillebois, Yves-Marie Desmaretz, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris le 27. fev 1782.
J’ai lhonneur de vous adresser, mon cher Confrere, Le paquet cy joint qui contient des papiers importants Et qui interessent une de mes amies, Mde. La Mise [Marquise] de Cassiny, qui a des affaires assés considérables En amerique. Il s’agit de faire légaliser Ses procurations. Vous trouverés tout en regle dans les papiers cy joints. Je vous prie de vouloir bien me les renvoyer, expédiés, le plustot qu’il vous sera possible, desirant les porter moimême chés M. le Mis. de Lafayette. J’aurais été vous chercher, si Je n’etais encore bien faible le convalescent d’une attaque de goute qui m’a duré plus de 5 semaines. Je suis bien faché, mon cher Confrere de ne pas vous voir plus souvent, mais j’espere que vous n’en êtes pas moins convaincu du tendre Et inviolable attachement avec lequel j’ai l’honneur d’être votre tres humble Et très obéissant serviteur. /.
Maillebois
M. de Franklin

Notation: Maillebois 7. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 27(?) February 1782
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr & hond sir
Nantes Feb. 27(?). 1782
The inclosed Letter was given me open by Capt Jno Foster Williams who is lately arrived here from Prison. As you may have the Receipt mentioned or an authentic Copy of it I think it my duty to forward this Letter and I hope in consequence 53 of our poor Countrymen will be liberated.
I am as ever Yours most dutifully & affecty
J Williams J

Notation: Williams Feby. 2. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edmund Burke, 28 February 1782
From: Burke, Edmund
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
London, Charles Street, Feb. 28, 1782.
Your most obliging letter demanded an early answer. It has not received the acknowledgment which was so justly due to it. But providence has well supplied my deficiences; and the delay of the answer has made it much more satisfactory than at the time of my receipt of your letter I dared to promise myself it could be. I congratulate you, as the friend of America, I trust, as not the enemy of England, I am sure, as the friend of mankind, on the resolution of the house of commons, carried by a majority of nineteen at two o’clock this morning, in a very full house. It was the declaration of two hundred and thirty four; I think it was the opinion of the whole. I trust it will lead to a speedy peace between the two branches of the English nation, perhaps to a general peace; and that our happiness may be an introduction to that of the world at large. I most sincerely congratulate you on the event. I wish I could say, that I had accomplished my commission. Difficulties remain. But as Mr. Laurens is released from his confinement, and has recovered his health tolerably, he may wait, I hope, without a great deal of inconvenience, for the final adjustment of his troublesome business. He is an exceedingly agreeable and honourable man. I am much obliged to you for the honour of his acquaintance. He speaks of you as I do; and is perfectly sensible of your warm and friendly interposition in his favour. I have the honour to be with the highest possible esteem and regard, dear Sir, your most faithful and obedient humble servant,
Edmund Burke.

General Burgoyne presents his best compliments to you with his thanks for your obliging attentions towards him.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 28 February 1782
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Friend,
Feb. 28, 1782.
I have not as yet any thing to communicate to you. I have upon many occasions recommended the road to peace in the most earnest way. I am not without hopes. I think I may venture to say that the arguments which I have stated have made an impression. I have not expected to receive the final answer from Lord North till after the parliamentary arrangements of the year are settled. I am just for three or four days in the country upon a little business but upon a furlough, as I may say, with the knowledge of Lord North, who during the budget week, cannot possibly want to see me. I have therefore taken that week for a little private business in the country, and if Lord N. should happen to wish to see me, my brother keeps watch, and is to send express for me. Public report will tell you that on Friday last there was a division in the house on an American question of 194 to 193. I cannot answer for the dispositions of ministers, but in point of justice I ought to say, that I think, and as far as I can judge from the conferences which I have had, that I have found good dispositions towards peace. I do not pledge myself, because I may be deceived; however that is my opinion; and I say thus much lest my silence should appear suspicious, and create alienation in other parties. I think I have seen good dispositions from the first commencement of my conferences on peace. My brother sends me word that Mr. Alexander is to return by the next mail, I therefore write this to send either by him or at least in the same packet. I have had much conversation with him, and he will tell you that I have done my utmost to serve the cause of peace. I will conclude this with a quotation which I have applied to another person in argument respecting peace,

Consulere patriæ, parcere afflictis, ferâ cæde abstinere,
Iræ tempus dare, orbi quietem, seculo pacem suo,
Hæc summa virtus,— hac cœlum petitur viâ.

God bless you and prosper our pacific endeavours. I shall probably write again to you soon. Your affectionate,
D. Hartley.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Lafayette, 28 February 1782
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce 28 fevrier [1782]
Le marquis de Lafayette prie Monsieur de francklin de lui faire dire si Sera chés lui a midy et demie Il seroit bien aise de le voir.

Notation: De La Fayette Mr. le ms. 28. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Armand-Marc-Jacques, Antoine-Hyacinthe-Anne, and Jacques-Maxime-Paul de Chastenet de Puységur, 28 February 1782
From: Puységur, Armand-Marc-Jacques de Chastenet de,Puységur, Antoine-Hyacinthe-Anne de Chastenet de,Puységur, Jacques-Maxime-Paul de Chastenet de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

28 fer. 1782
Mesrs. de puysegur ont L’honneur de vous faire part de la perte quils viennent de faire de Mr Le Marquis de puysegur leur pere.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franquelin / A Paçy
Notation: Puysegur Messrs. de, 28. Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Strange, 28 February 1782
From: Strange, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Sir
London 29th. [i.e., 28] Feby. 1782No. 52 Great Queen Street.—
Mrs. Strange and I return you our sincere thanks for the letters you were so good as lately forward us from America. This morning I called upon our acquaintance Mr. Strahan, as he had communicate to me your last letter wherein you desired him to send you your work of Cicero’s Cato Major &c. I herewith have the pleasure of transmitting it you by our friend Mr. Alexander. Mr. Strahan is affraid it is not the edition you required, but it is such as he could procure for the present. I do believe he would have wrote you, but you may suppose he has not recovered the defeat of this morning in the house of Commons, which, thank God, opens, at least, a prospect of terminating the calamities of this country and of America— I heartily congratulate with you on this occasion.
In about two months hence I intend paying a visit to Paris and shall one day abruptly come in upon you and take a Sunday’s dinner— If you have any commands from this country I shall be happy in obeying them, mean while, with my best compts. to your grandson, I am, most respectfully My dear Sir Your obedt. huml. Servt.
Robt. Strange

Addressed: Benjamen Franklin Esqr. / at Passy

Endorsed: Letter from Mr Strange, Engraver, to BF.
Notation: R. Strange 29 Feby. 1782.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 28 February 1782
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 28 fev. 1782
J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer, M, copie d’une lettre de M. le Mis. de Castries avec L’original de celle qu’a addressée à ce Ministre le Sr. Mazeret, chirurgien à l’hopital françois établi à Lisbonne; cette dernière vous mettra au fait des secours que ce particulier a donne aux prisonniers américains qui ont été recueillis dans notre hôpital; je ne doute pas, M, que vous ne vous empressiez de pourvoir à son remboursement conformement aux desirs de M le Mis. de Castries.
M franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Barry, 2[8] February 1782
From: Barry, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
L.Orient Feby. 29. 1782
Inclos’d I send your Excellency an Account of Sundry Frenchmen who Came in the Alliance from Boston which I hope you will have settled— The Greatest part of them when received on board were sick and almost naked, the Consequence was I deliverd them Cloaths the same as my People. On my arrival here I acquainted the Commissary of the Number I had on board & that I should allow them the same Wages as my People, but that I was apprehensive they had fallen in Debt from the Quantity of Close they had received.— I then deliverd him an order to take them out with his promise that he would settle the Account. However on furnishing him with it he refused payment, & said it must be sent to the Minister. I then told him it was not dealing candid with me, & assured him, I should not take his word again— By delivering the Frenchmen up, my ships Crew was reduced to a small number, and Consequently oblig’d to lye in the harbour, and I under the Disagreable Necessity of not complying with my orders.— I am sorry to say that a Number of Americans being on board Vessels in this place and from some frivilous pretence I could not get them, but In short I think they mean to trample on us— One great reason they have to Keep them from us is that when they find we demand an American, they trump up an Account against him which they know we Cannot Pay, or if we do they make it worth their while— In short I have one before me at present which will Convince you of the justice of what I assert— There are three Americans in Goal here who the Capt. have trumpt up an Account against of Twelve hundred Livres, seven hundred of which is for Apprehending of them and bringing them here, and they are now lying in Prison, and it is out of my power to advance the money— I am sure three Sailors might be brought from the furtherest part of France here for half the Money.— In short I am convinc’d of it, being oblig’d to send to Morleaux for some in order to get the Alliance to Sea, but all my Officer could procure was Nine, altho a great Number there but the Commisary would not lett him take an American out of the Vessels in the harbour. However the Marishause [Maréchaussée] and all the other Expences did not Amount to one half of Seven hundred livres, altho the distance was near equal.
I am this moment honord with yours of the 10 Instant & am sorry to tell you that it is entirely out of my power to go to Brest being determined at all events to Comply with my Orders,— but had the Goods been here with your Reccommendation, I should have taken as much of them on board as I conveniently could, without Lumbering my Ship, or putting her out of the line of Sailing or Fighting— As there are but two Frigates belonging to the Continent, it will not do to break Orders— I would go as far for His Excellency Doctr. Franklin as any Man in the World, but I cannot think at present that it is advisable.— With Respect to Freight from this place, if the Goods were here, I am sure they might be got to America in good Vessels, and I have no doubt but Mr. Barcley on his Arrival will Reccommend to your Excellency to have all the public property Shiped from this place, there being a great Number of fast Sailing Vessels, trading from Philadelphia here.— As for sending Powder or Arms to the Eastern Provinces at this time, it might be as well in france.
When I left Boston there was Two hundred Tons of Powder drifting about the harbour in a Vessel, with only one Anchor & one Cable, having no place of Security on Shore to put it, owing to all the Magazines being full before it arrived.— And I am sure there were Twenty thousand small Arms lying in the Stores that they could not procure Waggons, or did not think it worth their while to pay the hawling to Camp, or perhaps did not want them— As I wrote your Excellency in my last that I should sail at the Return of the post, but you ordering your Dispatches for Brest I shall wait for them untill the Return of this Post, which is stretching my Orders further than I wish for—
I remain Sir Your Most obt. Huml Servt—
John Barry
His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from De Lolme, [c. February 1782]
From: Lolme, Jean-Louis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[c. February, 1782]
I wished to have the honour to see you a few days before I leave this Country, in order that you might think of what orders you intend to give me for England; and the evening being that time of the day which I can best spare, I have called here this evening; when finding you had company with you, and fearing to interrupt some business, I have desired your Servants not to mention any thing to you. I reckon I shall set out next Wednesday, and will certainly do my Self the honour to call again upon you, next Tuesday, if not before.
I am with great respect your most ob. h. Servt.
J L Delolme


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Rudolph Erich Raspe, [February 1782?]
From: Raspe, Rudolph Erich
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honoured Sir
[February, 1782?]
Since the disgracefull exit of Mr. Diggs, who delivered me Your Excellency’s kind invitation to Passy, I have had the good luck of finding in one of the Libraries at Cambridge the Manuscript for which I intended to go to Paris and to have recourse there to the Kings Library; so that having some employment since and no other immediate call I have stayed here, usefully employed for the Sciences at least, which I continue to cultivate for their own sake. This has led me of late upon a very singular enquiry, and upon an Idea to make a literary excursion into Egypt, in order to collect there a collection of Hieroglyphical and other Egyptian monuments, that have been too much neglected. The greatest attention I shall pay to the Coptick Libraries, which have never been properly examined and in which we have a chance of meeting with old Egyptian Annals. Natural history shall not be forgot, nor any one of the objects, which can recommend my Idea to Your Excellency’s support and to the attention of those few, who really wish well to the Sciences. With that conscioussness I take the liberty to lay before Your Excellency a few Proposals relative to my literary excursion, which I humbly request Your Excellency occasionally to distribute as a literary novelty.
At the same time I feel myself under a necessity to recommend the bearer of this the Revd. Dr. Olivar to Your Excellency’s charitable attention. He belongs to one of the most respectable families at Minorca and was upon the interest of the late Governor General Mostyn presented to the Provostship of that Island, at a time that he and the Governor were at London and General Murray commanded there in his absence; but such was General Murrays interest with Lord George Germaine that Governor Mostyn could not carry his point without making over to Gen. Murray the Summ of 500. £. in the name of Dr. Olivar. This Sum Gen. Murray received, but he neither respected the Kings presentation nor put Dr. Olivar into possession. Whether it was to have a greater Sum from Dr. Olivar or another Candidate may be indifferent, but such is the power of a military Commander at that place, that the poor man was under a necessity to sollicit the Kings gift here at London. He has gone through all the long and dispendious delays of Court and Law-Sollicitations and nothing has been done in his favour and to all appearances nothing can under the present Situation of affairs at Minorca. In this perplexing Dilemma and upon a Supposition that soon an end may be put to Governor Murray’s Command there, he has been advised to go by the way of Paris to Minorca and to request the Duke de Crillons protection. The Place is still vacant. He comes with all his Papers Royal and Ministerial about him, and by his remarkably hard case recommended to the Great and the Good, that have or can procure him any interest with the Duke and his Family. T’is a singular case indeed that an English Subject should apply to a Spanish General and to an American Minister to have the will of his Master done.
I have the honour to be with the greatest esteem and veneration Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servt.
R.E. Raspe.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Hodgson, 1 March 1782
From: Hodgson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir
London 1 March 1782
I wrote you a few posts ago, I there mentioned that my funds were more than exhausted, & the demands continue. There is some hope of relief Mr Burke having obtained leave of the House to bring in a Bill for a general Exchange of Prisoners & there is some hope of Success, tho’ I must own I am not very sanguine in my expectations unless we have a Change of Men, which perhaps may be the Case after what passed last night which being matter of public Notoriety I need not mention to you, If it shoud produce any change of measures that desireable Object Peace may still be within our Reach; Mr L—— [Laurens] in answer to a Note I sent him of the present opportunity says “he considers himself as restricted from writing to persons abroad, but that he is attempting to do good & will do all in his Power;”— You know If I can be of any use you may Command my utmost Attention being most truly— Yrs Sincerely
William Hodgson

Addressed: To / Dr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 1 March 1782
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Sir
Madrid 1st March 1782
I have lately recd. a very friendly Letter from the Marqs. de la Fayette, covering some Dispatches from Mr Livingston. I find that the objects of his Voyage are interesting to us, and that it is the Desire of Congress that we should correspond with him. My answer to his Letter is herewith enclosed—peruse and dispose of it. I have given him a summary account of my Situation here; he will doubtless be willing, & perhaps able to afford You Assistance relative to the Difficulties it imposes upon you.
The Minister has ordered the Ballance due (about 26,000 Dollars) on the 150,000, to be paid to Mr Cabarrus on my account, and has thro’ him informed me that no more is to be expected.
Cabarrus is exceedingly anxious about the Money we owe him, & which the 26,000 Dollars he is to recieve will not pay. He declines making further Advances. The Embassador of France can afford me no Resources. Mr Cabarrus is ready to supply what we may want, on the Promise either of France or Spain to repay him in ten or twelve Months.
The Embassador will write (by a Courier who sets out Tomorrow) on these Subjects to his Court. All that remains in my Power is to endeavour to keep the public Creditors quiet until his or your final answer shall arrive.
That this Court should permit our Credit to be ruined for the want of about 25,000 pounds, does not greatly surprize me; but I should be astonished if the Minister of France should act the same Part, for I have a high Opinion of his Wisdom—
I am dear Sir with perfect Regard & Esteem Your obliged & obt Servt
John Jay
His Exy Doctr. Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to François Bowens, 2 March 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bowens, François-Jacques-Arnould

Sir,
Passy, 2d. Mar. 1782.
This is to request, that in Addition to the Paper you already have the Kindness to forward me, you would procure & send me Likewise, The Whitehall Evening Post, & the General Advertiser. Your Disbursements on this Account shall be thankfully repaid you by Sir, your &c
M. Bowens.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Alexander, 3 March 1782
From: Alexander, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Sir,
Ostend Sunday 9 at Night 3. March 1782.
Altho’ I expect to see you in a Day or two after this comes to hand, I cannot let slip the Opportunity of M. Moore formerly with Mr. Williams to inform you that the addresses in Consequences of the Question carried on Wednesday, was carried to the King by the whole Opposition on Friday, That the answer after the common place phrazes and the repetition of the Substance of the adresses was declaring his Disposition to comply with it—and that of pushing the War with Vigour agt. the common Enemies until a safe & honble. Peace could be obtained which was his most earnest wish. This is the Sense as delivered to me Friday evening by a member present. I have several Letters for you which I will deliver on my arrival & can give you a good deal of the Sentiments of Parties in England— I left London Yesterday. You will have all our public News up to Thursday. The 1st. Payment 15. per Ct. was made on the New Loan Friday & Stock, was got up 2 per Ct. thereafter. I had the good Fortune to get Gouverneur & Curson liberated after Mr. Hodgson had tried it in vain. I beg that your Son will drop a Line to St. Germain to let them know I am here well and will be with them by Wednesday barring accidents— their Brother Bob is wt. me. Mr. Moore goes away just now so have only time to suscribe myself wt. the most sincere Esteem, dear Sir, Your most hble. St.
(signed) W. Alexander.

Endorsed: Mr Alexander March 3. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael, 3 March 1782
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Madrid 3 March 1782
I seize the opportunity of writing you by a French Courier who is sent with the news of Mr Guichens arrival at Cadix with five sail of the Line 2 frigates and a Cutter the 26th Ulto., & I once more sollicit your friendly attention to our distressed situation here. The Bills for this month become due now every Day & must be refused payment in the End, unless Mr Jay can be enabled by your Interference to pay them. The most of them are indorsed to French Merchants, who will be the great sufferers on this occasion. Mr Jay has made repeated applications to the Ministry to obtain money to discharge those he has accepted but without effect. The Court indeed has paid 26000 Dollrs being the ballance of what was promised last year, but this sum is applied to the reimbursement of part of what Mr Cabaerus advanced us— This payment however diminishes the Sum which Mr Jay demanded of you, & if the Court of France would add to the Other Obligations it has conferred on us, that of Saving our National Credit here, It will not cost it more than two thirds of 25000£ Steg. advanced at present & the remainder in two months or perhaps a longer Period, provided Mr Jay was assured the money would be finally paid. I know that People in America who are ignorant of the urgencies of France at this Crisis, will think it hard that it does not make an advance for us here of a Sum which one Capital house in Commerce would make for another & this motive has induced me to importune the French Embassader, his Secretary, & your Excellency so frequently on this Subject. I can truly say that I have not had a moments tranquillity for weeks past. These Bills haunt my Imagination as much as the fatal Handkercheif did the jealous brain of Othello. The remembrance of them will serve as an Emetic to me. Mr Jay is determined to protest all that come in future, so that If by your Assistance we can pay those already accepted, I hope you will have no further Trouble from this quarter on this disagreable Subject. Our Negociation is in Statu quo. Mr Del Campos Instructions are not yet ready. We cannot be surprized at this, for this Court generally names its Ministers to Others a year or two before they mean they should set out, in order I suppose to have leisure to prepare their Instructions. This was the Case with Mr Las Casas whom I had the honor to present to your Notice. I am sorry to inform you that I am not so well at the Marquis de Yrandas as I wish to be; when Mr Jay received the money from the Court with which he intended to repay the Marquis He was applied to by Mr Cabaerus, who was then making advances for us for that Sum which was paid in Specie, with a promise of replacing it with Billets the same day & an allowance of the difference between specie & paper. Mr Gardoqui who received the money from the Treasury gave Mr Cabaerus information on this Subject. Mr Jay could not refuse this favor to Mr Cabaerus, circumstanced as He then was, & particularly being under no Obligation to pay in Specie, a Debt which he had contracted in paper. Mr Cabaerus did not fulfil his promise, for he did not repay the full sum in paper until some weeks after— This put the Marquis to some inconvenience— He received me Coldly afterwards, altho’ I was but a mere agent in the Whole Matter, having Litterally followed Mr Jays directions, so that by this means I am deprived of a Society which I value much— A loss that is irreparable in Madrid— We are so Elated here with the taking of Fort St. Philips, that the Public has determined the siege of Gibraltar— All that I know of the Matter, is that the Court has given orders to amass a considerable sum of Money In Andalusia. Mr Little Page, the young American, who went a Volunteer and acted as one of the Duc de Crillons Aid De Camps at Minorca has acquired general Esteem— I know this will give you pleasure. If the Spaniards made good writing Ink heretofore, I can assure you the art is lost now. I must apply to the Ct de Campomanes to know at what Period it acquired a reputation & whether the Moors were not the Inventors of it, from which it may have acquired the epithet of Black Ink, & likewise whether they did not carry the Secret with them to Africa. If the Investigation of this matter should prove curious, I will inform you of the result of it. In the mean time I employ the best I can procure to assure you with Truth that I ever am Your Excellency Obliged & Most humble Sert.
Wm. Carmichael
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Conde de Aranda, 4 March 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Aranda, Pedro Pablo Abarca de Bolea, Conde de

Sir,
Passy, March 4. 1782.
The Bearer Don Gabriel Olivar, a Clergyman of the Island of Minorca, is recommended to me by a Friend in London, as an honest worthy Man. I beg leave at his Request to present him to your Excellency, and to ask in his Favour a few Moments of your Attention. With great & Sincere Respect, I am, Your Excellency’s &c.
His Exy. the Count D’Aranda. Ambr. of Spain.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Palteau de Veimerange, 4 March 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Palteau de Veimerange, Gabriel-Claude

Sir,
Passy, March 4. 1782
I have followed your kind Advice in acquainting M. le Comte de Vergennes & Mr. le Ms: de Castries with our Difficulties in finding Vessels. Mr. Vergennes was so good as to promise he would speak about it to the Marquis; and the Marquis has very obligingly promis’d to do all he can for us and I hope we shall succeed. I therefore request you would order the Remainder of the Goods, which I understand are still at St. Denis to be forwarded as fast as possible to Brest. The Alliance had not receiv’d my Orders to go there when she sailed on a Cruize; but being now return’d I suppose she will go directly to Brest to take in what She can. With great Esteem, I have the honour to be, Sir, &c
M. de Veimerange.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Barry, 4 March 1782
From: Barry, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
L’Orient March 4. 1782
An oversight in my last gives me an Opportunity to write your Excellency, a few lines before I sail— Not inclosing the Account I mentioned, and further wish to acquaint you that the Alliance is by no means fit to take Dry Goods on board, it being impossible in a gale of Wind to keep them from Damaging, ev’ry place in the Ship being wett, owing to her working so much in bad Weather, in short Frigate is by no means calculated to Carry Goods, they are in general so sharp built that they can but barely carry Provisions & water for their Crew, in a passage from Europe to America, especially if they Chace ev’ry Vessell they See. As I am left to my own option in that Respect I shall Certainly endeavour to speak ev’ry Vessel I see, taking care to be prudent.
I Remain with Respect Your Most Obt. Huml Servt—
John Barry
His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / Plenipontiary for the United / States of America / Paris / Passey
Endorsed: Alliance Capt Barry


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Guild, 5 March 1782
From: Guild, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

His Excellency Dr Franklin,
Nantes March 5. 1782
About six weeks past I arrived at l’Orient from Boston. Since my arrival I have purchased a Brigantine at private sale in l’Orient and wish to dispach her immediately for Boston. Should therefore be much obliged to your excellency for a passport, that, as she is American property, she may go under the American flag.
Her dimensions are 50 feet keel, 18 feet beam, and 9 feet in the hole; carries four guns; is called the Count de Noailles, Wm. Chace, master.
Should your Excellency see fit to give a passport please to enclose it to M. Monistrol postmaster at l’Orient. Should any charges attend it I hope for the pleasure of waiting upon your Excellency in person after a few days and shall be answerable for all expence arising from it. As the Brigantine will be ready for sea immediately I should have made this request before had I not expected the pleasure of doing it in person.
I left all friends well at Boston; am chargd with particular respects to your Excellency from Mr Williams, Mr Bowdoin, Dr Cooper &c.
I am with great respect and esteem your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble servant
Benj. Guild.
His Excellency Dr Franklin.

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqr / Minister Plenipotentiary for the / United States of America / residing / at / Passy.
Notation: B. Guild 5 Mar 1782.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Jones, 5 March 1782
From: Jones, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear and venerable friend,
5 March 1782. London.
I had the pleasure yesterday of receiving your message contained in your letter to an amiable young lady. The translation, which you mention, I will do my best to procure, and will send it by the first opportunity. By the word repeat, which you use, I fear you had honoured me with a letter, which I have not received: this I should think a heavy loss, as every line of yours is valuable. My friend of Virginia must very soon set out for his State, of which he will be an excellent citizen. Should I accompany him, I shall again have the happiness of enjoying your conversation at Passy. I have no wish to grow old in England; for, believe me, I would rather be a peasant with freedom than a prince in an enslaved country. You will have heard, before you receive this, that on the morning of the 28th. Febr. there was a majority of nineteen in the house of commons for a cessation of hostilities against the Americans; and an address was presented on the first of this month conformably to that vote: the king’s answer was in substance “I do not want your advice, and will do as I please:” the precise words were reported yesterday, when the opposition, affecting to consider the answer as a full compliance, moved and carried without a division, first, an address of thanks for such compliance, and, next, a resolution that, “whoever should advise the king to continue offensive war against the Americans, or attempt their reduction by force, would be highly criminal and an enemy to his country.” There is, I find, a translation of Anacreon in verse, under the name of Addison: it is rather scarce, but, if procurable, shall be sent to you.

Endorsed: This is from Mr now Sir William Jones
Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats Unis de / l’Amerique / à Passy / prés de Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 5 March 1782
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dearest sir,
London, March 5, 1782.
My father having an immediate desire to purchase lands in America to the amount of £4000 by way of a beginning; and your friend Mr. E. Jeffries of the club of “honest Whigs at the London Coffee House,” being determined to appropiate £2000 in that line; and I believe another friend having determined upon a like adventure, of which he is soon to advertise us; I beg you to give a very brief answer to the following queries.
1st. Is it likely that present purchasers in Pensylvania will be liable to confiscation or contested title, on account of non-residence &c. and of being under the predicament of the above parties. N.B. S.V’s Children have American parentage on the mother’s side.
2d. Is the ordinance which professes on the part of Congress, Decr. 4th: 1781, that after “March 1st: 1782 all goods, wares & merchandizes of the growth produce or manufacture of Great Britain, or of any territory depending thereon, if found within three leagues of the coasts & destined to any port or place of the United states, in any ship or vessel belonging to the citizens of the said states, or the subjects of any neutral power, shall be subject to capture & condemnation &c.”, I say is this ordinance, or this clause, genuine and accurate and in present force?
3rd. Supposing the sending of goods (British or foreign, directly and circuitously,) should be judged by the parties in question improper, impolitic, or dangerous, can money be transmitted to America through the American loan office at Paris, without loss or with profit; there being a heavy discount on bills from America upon Europe.
I have copies of the above numbered queries; so that your letter may be short, containing nothing but answers under the corresponding numbers 1, 2, & 3, unless you will have the goodness to add a little volunteer advice.
The inclosed letter from John, written in the fulness of his heart, developes the whole of his conduct, which was as mysterious to me, as perhaps it was to you.— He waited by his last, for nothing but your letters; but notwithstanding the weight of them, I cannot think he ought to wait for them; and shall therefore press his instant departure, if not already gone, which I hope he is.
After the late votes in the House of Commons, I shall hope to see you soon. The instant my father can proceed without confiscation of his property, he will embark with, all his family.
I am, my dearest sir, your ever devoted, obliged & affectionate
Benjn. Vaughan

Notation: Vaughan London 5. March 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Barry, 6 March 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Barry, John

Sir,
Passy, March 6. 1782.
I received yours of the 27. past by which I perceive you had not then received mine of the 10th. I therefore send you a Copy enclosed. You will see by it the Utility and Necessity of your going to Brest and there taking on board what you can of the continental Stores. It will be doing great Service to our Armies, who want much what is there provided for them and there you will find my Dispatches. I am sorry your Cruise has proved so unfavourable, & hope you will another time have better Fortune. Being with great Esteem, Sir, Your &c.
Honble. Capt. Barry.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Barry, 6 March 1782
From: Barry, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
L.Orient March 6. 1782
The inclosed was this moment handed me, and as an Officer in the Service of the United States, I can not suffer the Subjects of America to be treated in the manner they are, without laying the Subject before your Excellency. The Author is the Son of Mr. Jacob Bright, who I am sure you must have known, as he was a Man of Property, & much respected in Philadelphia before the War—be assured Sir, the Natives of France, are not used in this manner in America— there must be a fault some where, and I am confident was it properly represented to your Excellency, you would not suffer such abuses.—
With respect I remain Sir your Excellencys Most Obt. and verry humble Servt—
John Barry
His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / Plenipotentiary for the United States / of America / Paris / Passey


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Couteulx & Cie., 6 March 1782
From: Le Couteulx & Cie.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris le 6. Mars 1782.
Nous avons l’honneur de vous prevenir que l’on nous presente à l’acceptation cinq traites de M. Wm. Bingham de philadelphie ensemble £75 / mille, a compte du credit que M. Robert Morris a donné sur nous au dit Sieur.
Nous vous prions de nous faire scavoir si nous devons les accepter, et sil sera possible qu’a l’echeance M. Grand nous en fasse les fonds sur le credit que M. Morris nous a assigné sur lui.

Nous sommes avec Respect Monsieur Vos tres humbles et tres obeissants serviteurs
Le Couteulx
Monsieur Le Docteur franklin Ministre plenipotentiaire des etats unis de l’amerique

Notation: Couteulx & Co. Paris 6. Mars 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-François-Paul Grand, 6 March 1782
From: Grand, Jean-François-Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris le 6 mars 1782.
Mr. Lefèvre de Lisbonne a dèsiré que j’eus l’honneur de l’introduire à vôtre connoissance pour qu’il put vous entretenir d’une affaire qui lui est recomandée particulierement.
Quoique vôtre affabilité ordinaire & son mérite lui eussent assuré une rècèption obligeante de vôtre part je me permets de satisfaire à sa demande en prenant la liberté de luy donner Cette Lettre.
Je suis avec les sentimens les plus Rèspectueux Monsieur Vôtre très humble & très obeissant serviteur
Grand

Addressed: à son Excellence / Monsieur Le Docteur Franklin
Notation: Grand, 6 Mars 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Brissot de Warville, 7 March 1782
From: Brissot de Warville, Jacques-Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Paris 7. March [1782]
I have had the pleasure of seeing at my friend Mr. Marat’s experiments, a man Whom I admir’d a long While ago. I Would not speak to you, not to be indiscreet, about my Litterarys enterprises & the prospectus of my philosophical Biblioteck on the penal Laws, Which I sent to you a fortnight ago, With a Letter unanswer’d, for what I was much disappointed. The thir’d volume of that Biblioteck contains the acccount of american laws on the crimes, With a commentary. Will you be so good as to accept of the little discourse I have the honour of sending to you. It Belongeth to the same Matter. Un doubtedly, the object, if not the style, shall move your Concern & pity.
I am With the utmost respect your most humble & most obedient Servant
Brissot DE Warvillehotel mayence rue de Seineprès Le nore [notaire]

Notation: Brissot de Warvle 7 March


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Thaxter, Jr., 7 March 1782
From: Thaxter, John Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam 7th. March 1782.
Mr. Adams being obliged to go to the Hague this Morning to meet Mr. Le Duc de la Vauguyon, has prevented him from writing to your Excellency by this Post, and forwarding the inclosed Lists. He has therefore requested me to forward them, which I have the Honor to do, and to be, with the most perfect Respect, Sir, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant
John Thaxter Junr.
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Endorsed: Mr Adams


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Warren, 7 March 1782
From: Warren, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
7th March. 1782
Having affairs to settle in Philadelphia several of my friends have advised my going over for that purpose, I therefore take the liberty of requesting the favor of you to give me such credentials as will insure my reception, and a permission to remain there till I have adjusted every thing between Mr. Hare & myself, the term for which we engaged having expired long ago. I will name a circumstance which you are probably not acquainted with, & which I should suppose likely to secure me a favorable reception.
A short time before the evacuation of Philadelphia I accidentally heard of a design formd for seting fire to that City, just as the last body of Troops were crossing to the Jersey Shore. This I communicated to General Grey, in consequence of which an order was given to that General to take the command of the Troops employd to Man the Lines, the night preceding the final evacuation, and afterwards to March them down to Glocester Point, so that no part of them came near the City, by which means the threatned danger was averted. These particulars I communicated to several People now in Philadelphia some days before the order was carried into execution, so that the fact can be incontestibly proved. I will beg the favor of you to put your answer to my application under a cover directed
Mr Thomas Willson
Cannon Coffee House
Charing Cross
London
I hope you will excuse the liberty I have taken in giving you this trouble.
I am Sir Your Most Obedient And Most Humble Servt
James Warren

Addressed: His Excellency B. Franklin Esqr / Paris
Notation: James Warren 7. March 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [David F. Barber], 8 March 1782
From: Barber, David F.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excellency
March. 8. 1782
The Grand public of North America of which I am a Real member is greatly abused by Agents in a particular manner by a Certain Francis Coffine agent at Dunkerque, who never offer’s to Examine any person who appears before him (and says he is an American) Concerning the part he was Born in but will Immediately tell him he is Concerned in and partly owns Several Cutters which is fitting out as privateers and if they will go onboard he will give them Five Guineas as a present from CONGRESS; but if not he Cannot give them a Single Farthing for your Honour will not allow it, Except they will Travel to Paris and then he will give them five Guineas; when at the same time he Says himself Twenty Guineas is not Sufficient to bear their Expences which really Obliges poor Seamen Natives of No. America to enter Onboard Dunkerque privateers which is often Taken by British Men of War; and then Obliged (by the British Tartars) to fight against Our NOBLE ALLIES; and their Beloved Brethren of NORTH AMERICA; which is a Damned Shame that Such a Rascal Should be kept in Employment;
There was an Instance Sir not many days ago of Severall poor Lads born in Boston N England had been taken and runaway from English prison; went to Dunkerque waited upon Mr Coffine informed him of their Disstressed Condition he had no Compassion On them till they waited on him Eight times, he told them they had better go aprivateering; he had a fine privateer, they had best go, when he found they would not go he gave them two Guineas each; (they Spent 32s / Ster. Vidtils Each in Dancing Attendance on him which made Clear Gains to Each of them 10s / Sterling he desired they would tell No one of his Generousity to them for it was not allowed by Dr. Franklin, (but from his, Coffine’s, private purse).
There was a young man born in Philadelphia Who had been taken by a man of WAR, and kept onboard her 3 Long years, had made his Escape got to Dunkerque waited on Mr Coffine (who informed him he had nothing to do with him he must go to the French Commiss. of The Navy), and so he Shipt him away without a Single Farthing to save his Soul from HELL; the young man had not a second Shirt to his Back and what he had was Really Rags. Rags. Rags.
Oh Immortal GOD; is men to be put in a public Office to Ridicule Tyrannize and Triumph Over their fellow Brethren in Adversity No, No, No, the American public at Large Calls On you Sir to Drive that Rascal from his Employment Or Office under you and give it to Some Gentleman who is Neither Ashamed to act in the public Character of an American Agent Nor at No time will ——— America of her money. Nor poor Seamen Real and true born Sons of America of their just Support Allowed them by CONGRESS; after they have been taken and, Run a Risque of being Shott by Centinells in Escapeing from prison to a Neutrall port for Freedom.
There is 6 American Gentlemen in Dunkerque masters of Vessells who have been in Mill and faunton prison in EngLand Some 3 years and some 4 years and have made their Escape and through a series of difficulties have got there have waited on the Great and mighty Frank Coffine; who Refused to Supply either of them with a Single Sols, or Stivre telling some of them they were better Cloathed than he was and he was Sure they was Not in want. Now Sir I Conclude by informing you there is Gentlemen in Dunkerque of Great Abilities who would think it an HO-NOUR, to be stiled an American Agent and would with a willing hand and Chearfull heart Rise from their Bed at Midnight to Assist a True born American. Now Sir I humbly hope and wish that you would Read and peruse this Letter with Great Attention and Consult in your Own Breast whether it is not better to Discharge him and Appoint (another,) One of those Characters before Mentioned who would not be Ashamed of the Business they undertake Nor yet think themselves So high Lifted up as to make a POOR JACK TARR Call Eight times Before they Get Admittance Once.
A True Born American

Notation: Anonyme


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baron de Poellnitz, 8 March 1782
From: Poellnitz, Friedrich Karl Hans Bruno, baron von
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Bordeaux le 8e Mars 1782
Il y a deûx ans que jeû l’Honeur de faire ma Cour a Votre Exellençe a Passi, Elle me fit la Grace de me dire qu’Elle me favoriserait de qu’elque Récommendation pour L’amerique.
Je compte de partir dans peûs sur le Nonsuch Vaisseau Américain dernierement arivé à Nantes avec ma femme & famille pour Philadelphie.
J’ai l’Honeur de me Récommender à ce Sujet à la Protection de Votre Exellençe; Notre Dessin est de Vivre dans Un des Treises Etats, sous L’Ombre des Loix & de leur Heureûse Constitution, en Retraite.
J’ai lHoneur d’etre avec un Profond Respect, De Votre Exellençe, Le tres hûmble, & tres Obeissant Serviteur
K H B DE Poellnitz
Mon adresse a Mr. le Baron de Poellnitz, aux allées D’albret à Bordeaux.

Notation: Poellnitz, Bordeaux 8 Mars, 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Barry, 9 March 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Barry, John

Sir,
Passy, March 9. 1782
I have just received yours of the 29th. past and am sorry you do not think proper to go to Brest and take in some of the Goods, as I apprehend they are much wanted and that you will be blamed. The Account of Sundry Frenchmen which you mention as inclosed, was omitted and I have not received it. With this you will receive my Dispatches, and I wish you a prosperous Voyage, being with much Esteem, Sir, &c. &c.
Hble. John Barry Esqe.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston, 9 March 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Livingston, Robert R.

Sir
Passy, Mar. 9. 1782
I have just received the honour of yours dated Jan 7. Your Communication of the Sentiments of Congress with Regard to many Points that may come under Consideration in a Treaty of Peace, gives me great Pleasure, & the more as they agree so perfectly with my own Opinions and furnish me with additional Arguments in their Support. I shall be more particular on this Subject in my next; for having Notice from Capt. Barry last Night that he will not go to Brest as I expected, to take in some of our Goods, but will sail immediately on the Return of the Post, which sets out to Day, I am obliged to be short. You will see in the inclosed News Papers the full Debate in the House of Commons on the Subject of declining the War with N. America; by private Advices I learn, that the whole Opposition, now become the Majority, went up in a body with the Address to the King; who answer’d that he would pay a due Regard to the advice of his faithful Commons, and employ his Forces with more Vigour against the Ancient Enemies of the Nation; or to that purpose; & that Orders were immediately given for the taking up a great Number of large Transports, among which are many old India Ships; whence it is conjectured that they intend some great Effort in the West Indies, & perhaps mean to carry off their Troops & Stores from New York and Charles-town. I hope however that we shall not in expectation of this, relax in our Preparations for the approaching Campaign.
I will procure the Books you write for and send them as soon as possible.
Present my Duty to the Congress, & believe me to be with sincere Esteem, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
Honble. R. R. Livingston Esqr Secy for Foreign AffairsNo 4.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Robert Morris, 9 March 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Morris, Robert

Sir,
Passy, March 9. 1782
I have just received the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 7th. of January, with the Duplicates of Sundry others. In mine by this Conveyance you will be pretty fully informed of the State of our Funds here, by which you will be enabled so to regulate your Drafts as that our Credit in Europe may not be ruined, and your Friend kill’d with Vexation.
The Cargo of the Marquis de la Fayette is all replaced, and at Brest; but the late Loss of Transports has occasioned a Difficulty in conveying them. You will see by the enclosed Letters the Measures I have taken, & my Disappointment. Capt. Barry thinks himself too much confined by your Orders to allow himself to go to Brest as I desired; and as the Minister of the Marine was pleased with my Intention, of employing that Ship in taking a Part (he hoped 400 Tons) he promised to endeavour to help us in forwarding the Rest; but when he sees that we will not help ourselves, but throw every Burthen upon our Friends, I fear it may put him out of humour. I find by Experience that great Affairs and great Men are sometimes influenc’d by small Matters, and that it is not good to differ with or disoblige them or even their Secretaries. I have apprehended that the little Misunderstanding between two Persons in Philadelphia of which you gave me an Account, together with the Refusal of allowing the Virginia Supply had for some time an ill Effect here. You will see on comparing my modest Letter of the Feby. with the Answer, that if I had reply’d, which I could easily have done, a Dispute might have arrisen out of it, in which if I had got the better, I should perhaps have got nothing else. I have therefore pocketed several of the Observations that are not well founded, and console myself for the Present with the 6,000,000 l.t. Relying on your Promise that no more Loan office Bills shall be drawn on me after the first of April.
I shall believe be able to pay in due time the Drafts in favour of Messrs. Ross & Bingham. As to Mr. Holker, if the Debt you mention as due to him is for Cloths &c. sent to him by Mr. Chaumont, it may as well remain unpaid, Mr. Chaumont having refused to pay me about 70,000 Livres on Acct of the Neglect of Congress to discharge a Demand he holds agt. them, made by Mr. Holker. Goods of his delivered at Charlestown to General Lincoln for the use of the Troops, are mentioned by him as still unpaid for.
I congratulate you on the Success of the Banks. I have wrote to Mr. Bache to interest me in a Share.
You will see by the English Papers which I send to Mr. Secry. Livingston, that the Sense of the Nation is now fully against the Continuance of the American War. The Petitions of the Cities of London and Bristol were unanimous against it; Lord North muster’d all his Force, yet had a Majority against him of 19. It is said there were but two who voted with him, that are not Placemen or Pensioners; and that even these in their private Conversations condemn the Prosecution of the War, and lay it all upon the King’s Obstinacy. We must not however be lull’d by these Appearances. That Nation is changeable. And tho’ somewhat humbled at Present, a little Success may make them as insolent as ever. I remember that when I was a boxing Boy, it was allow’d after an Adversary said he had enough, to give him a rising Blow. Let ours be a Douser.
With great Regard & Esteem, I have the honour to be, Sir &c

P.S. Your fine Boys are well and just by me.
  M Robt. Morris Esqe. S. o. F.