Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Stephen Sayre, 21 March 1779
From: Sayre, Stephen
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Copenhagen 21 Mar: 1779
I did myself the honor of writing your Excellency a few Lines upon my return here from Stockholm; expressing my belief, that a freindly disposition prevail’d at that Court, & might be cultivated to advantage: but that I could not, with propriety, risque a communication of my Ideas on this subject, by the common post—
I shall shortly be in Amsterdam—the place of my abode, while there, will be known, by application to Messrs Hopes. I request, earnestly to have the favour of a Letter which may meet me there, communicating your Excellency’s opinion on my last, if thought of sufficient Import: but more particularly on the matter here offer’d—
In the course of last Summer, I employ’d my time, chiefly in Experiments, to know, & ascertain what shape or model of wood makes the quickest way thro’ the water; preserving the shape necessary for Ships: and upon a variety of models, I found, clearly, that the mode, hitherto used in construction, is extremely erroneous. Some Americans, who came from England to carry on the Sperma Cœti whale fishery from hence, were here. And tho’ they had their prejudices, as to the method in use, they were thoroughly & decidedly convinced, by various Experiments, that an astonishing improvement might be made; I mean in the Hull of the Ship: but still more as to the rigging—the complex mode of rigging, now in practice, when compared to a simple natural one, which I show’d them: struck them all with wonder.
The King’s Draughtsman here, Capn Gardner, who knew your Excellency in England, has acknowledged his astonishment on its appearance, and tho’ he had done a good deal towards such a simplicity, my Ideas had left him a great way behind. I remember to have mentioned his name to you on a former occasion, & indeed allow’d him the merit (whatever it may be) on this subject. Yet if appeal’d to he will—he must, acknowledge that the model I made surpasses any thing he had conceived. Indeed our acquaintance took place in consequence of my having shown it to another Gentleman here. I mention this that I may not be robb’d of the honor, should the world hereafter come universally into the improvement—
Had your Excellency’s answer to my proposition for sending a Ship to America come immediately, one of those Ships, lately built here, would most assuredly have been rigg’d & dispatch’d as hinted at—
But perhaps ‘tis best that no such improvement appears in Europe; for upon further contemplation & pursuit of this great Subject, I see not only the certainty of an infinite difference in point of sailing (under all possible circumstances)—not only less necessity for the same number of hands—less expence for outfit—less difficulty in repairs—less inconveniencies in battle &c &c. But, with half the bulk—half the number of guns—& half the number of men: she shall be sure, of victory. I will say more— She cannot be taken by any Ship now in use, of any burden or denomination whatever—But shall with certainty ruin the first rate Ships in the world, in a very few moments—nor is there the last probability of losing a single man in the Engagement— She shall not only sail faster, but be a better Sea Boat, in all weathers, & under all circumstances—In short, I can promise the immediate & utter ruin of all the British Navy, or will render it of no use; & this with a very few Ships. If then America can rise superior to G. Britain, in naval Strength, by obliging her to construct another I will say, if there is a hope of effecting this; I am confident your Excellency will immediately require some further evidence & communications on this Subject. I have not yet given the world any Instances of Insanity, therefore don’t suspect me of it till you hear what I have to offer. I can easily make your Exy. perfectly sensible of its practicability. Nothing can be more simple, or decidedly clear. I am exceedingly sorry, that I have open’d myself rather too far, in order to get the approbation of some Gentlemen here: yet I hope nothing will be absolutely put in execution, soon enough to disappoint our reaping the first advantages, from it—
Luckily, I have reserved one capital point, as to ships of war, within my own breast—nor will I hereafter open my thoughts, but on the last occasion—
If your Excellency can put any confidence in my Understanding, you will probably think proper to desire my attendance at Paris: from whence too I can, with more safety, get into America, by a Ship of force: for if the thing is to be adopted, it must be there, & immediate. I ask only to have my expences borne to Paris— I rest all Events on its own merits: and I am sure you will lend your utmost aid, when convinced of its practicability—
If I have no call to come to Paris, I shall sail from Amsterdam to St Eustatia—from thence take a passage for America in the best Ship I may find: or go down to St Croix: there stay with my old acquaintances till a good Opportunity offers—
I feel it somewhat hard to be so long, & so strangly neglected by Congress. For if I am taken Prisoner I may expect to suffer all the miseries of War, perhaps unnoticed. I have been cruelly sacrifised to the Enemies of America: but have hitherto found no countenance from her freinds to encourage such a principle of conduct. I hope the ruin of a certain disagreeable family, which they have brought on their own heads, will leave me the hope of meeting Justice in future. I suppose we have the same Opinion of them. It was with infinite difficulty, that I restrain’d myself from an open rupture with one of them, while at Berlin. I conceive he did us infinite prejudice there, tho’ he might have done great, & essential Service. I found myself too weak to support an opposition to him & too delicately circumstanced, even to complain—
If you think the Ideas I have suggested above, too visionary to require my coming to you, I request the favour of a Letter of Recommendation to the Governor of Martineco, or Dominica: for I would go from St Eustatia, for a few days, in order to recover an Estate I had in Dominica. &c &c—
I hear some Report that the French have abandon’d Dominica— I don’t beleive it: but pray give me your Opinion, whither you think they would put it under the protection of Sweeden. If so, it would not only gain that Power, but the Island would be, to all purposes of commerce, American—
I am now in Correspondence with the prime Minister of Sweeden, on a Subject somewhat of this nature. Perhaps this question leads to consequences of much more import than you will at first suppose—
If I can do any thing in Holland to promote our Interests, you may confide in me. I shall have such an acquaintance with the Hopes, as to secure their Influence, if they are not totally anti american.
I am with real respect & Esteem your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant
Stephen Sayre

P.S. If any Letters from America—pray convey them to me—

Notation: Stephen Sayee Copenhagen 21. mars 1779


Title: Edward Bancroft to William Temple Franklin, [between 21 March and 24 March 1779]
From: Bancroft, Edward
To: Franklin, William Temple

Dr. Sir
[between March 21 and March 24, 1779]
I have recd. the inclosed Lettres from Mrs. Bousie respecting the Passport— I have some Knowledge of Mr. Audibert Captain of the Port of Calais, & from his Letter have no doubt of Mr. Sartines having given the Pass port mention’d; however if the Doctor thinks it expedient he can make his Pass port conditional as suggested by Mrs. Bousie. I am Dr. Sir truly Yours
Edwd Bancroft

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsr. Franklin / Le Fils / a Passy


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Saint-Lambert, 22 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Saint-Lambert

a Passy le 22 Mars 1779
Je suis honteux, Monsieur, d’avoir été si longtems sans repondre a la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de mécrire au sujet du jeune Homme qui voudroit passer en Amerique. Deux Raisons ont occasionné ce Retard et m’excuseront aupres de vous. La premiere, est un nouvel Accés de Goutte qui ma repris le soir même du jour que j’eus L’honneur de vous voir. La seconde est que je n’avois jamais entendu parler du lieutenant Colonel Maeu ou le Chevalier de Ville-pré. Je n’en ai rien pu decouvrir et je ne connois pas non plus aucun Officier au service des Etats Unis qui se dispose a partir pour Boston. S’il en est quelqu’un qui veuille emmener son Neveu avec lui, ma Permission est inutile et je n’ai pas Droit de m’y opposer. Toute l’Amerique est ouverte aux Francois et ceux qui y passent peuvent m[ener] avec eux qui bon leur semble. Je crois cependant devoir vous prevenir, Monsieur, que si le jeune homme auquel vous vous interessez passoit en Amerique dans le Des[sein] de servir dans notre Armée, il se trouveroit desagreable[ment] detrompé a son Arrivée. Touts nos Corps sont plus que complets et d’excellens Officiers sont repassés en Europe faute d’emploi. Mais il me semble quil y a du lou[che] dans cette Affaire et que M. de Tressan n’a pas été bien informé. J’ai l’honneur detre avec l’estime la plus vraie etc.
M. de st. Lambert


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Conway, 22 March 1779
From: Conway, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
22d March 1779
The inclos’d is from our common friend Mr richard peters. I would have been the Bearer my self were it not for sudden and very pressing occupations. The Little tribulations I have met with are of a private Nature and did not alter my principles or opinion concerning the important cause which I Wish’d to Serve to the Best of my abilities. With Much regard I am, Sir your Excellency’s Most obedt servt
Tho. Conway


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Veuve Leleu & Cie., 22 March 1779
From: Leleu, Veuve, & Cie.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce 22 Mars 1779
MM Veuve Leleu et Coe. ont l’honneur d’adresser a Monsieur franklin Une Lettre qui Vient de leur parvenir par Voye de Londres.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Lenox Napier et al., 22 March 1779
From: Napier, James Lenox
To: Franklin, Benjamin

SirBayonne March 22d. 1779
Encouraged by your Universal Character for Charitable Excelence and humanity, Your love for the good & preservation of mankind in general, but the States of America in particular Permit me in the Names of the Subscribers hereto, to Subplicate Your Excellency, influance and Interest to Enter into the American Service, under whose Sanction & protection they Assure themselves Success, many of them being Natives, and the rest haveing families & Property there, wishing only for an Opportunity to Vendicate their much wronged, Injoured, & Oppress’d. Country.
The Chance of fortune throwing Many of them into the English power, in London, to Avoid the disagreeableness of being impressd Enterd on Board a privateer of London, was taken on the third of Jany Last by the Audatious of Bayonne—
Behold them Noble Sir imploreing for mercy at your feet as to the great daiety of heaven, Incline your ear to their Supplications, the french Court will Never deny the Request of a Nobleman repleat with knowledge, wisdom & understanding—Confirm, Your Greatness & Goodness by their Enlargment & their Posterety, & Country will have reason to Testifie with the Deepest Impression of gratitude your Emeniant & Excelent Goodness Conferd on them & Sir Your Most humble & Most Obedt. Servt.
James Lenox Napier

Addressed: To / The Hon: Benj Francklin Esqr / Secretary for America at / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 23 March 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
La Haie 23 Mars 1779.
Mes deux dernieres étoient du 3–9, & du 15 Mars. La derniere étoit partie, quand on m’apporta l’honorée vôtre du 12.
On ne m’a point défendu de vous nommer ceux que l’on croit être de faux amis: c’est ma propre délicatesse qui m’a retenu. Je ne voudrois nuire à personne, encore moins à ceux qui n’ont eu que de bons procédés pour moi. Mais puisque vous souhaittez que je parle plus clair, je vous dirai, Monsieur, qu’on m’a averti, que les secrets ni les affaires des Américains ne devroient point être confiés au Chev. G. & que c’est le sentiment de vos amis en France les plus intimes, qui se défient très-fort de lui. Par contre, on me dit constamment du bien de son frere, qui réside toujours en france. En général on se défie de toutes les maisons Genevoises établies tant en France qu’à Amsterdam. Ils sont tous, dit-on, partisans secrets de l’Angleterre, & trop interessés dans le Négoce des fonds Anglois, pour ne pas leur sacrifier l’Amérique s’ils pouvoient. Les Germany, Girardot, Tourton, Bour, Haller, &c.&c. ne sont, diton, rien moins, que les amis des Américains, détruisent tant qu’ils peuvent leur crédit, épient & trahissent leurs secrets. Voilà pourquoi l’on a été bien aise de vous lier avec Mr. De Neufville, après avoir fait les perquisitions nécessaires, pour s’assurer qu’il n’étoit en liaison ni correspondance réglée avec aucune des maisons susdites, mais, au contraire, ennemi déclaré des Anglois, & de leur parti en Hollande.

Pour revenir au Chev., j’ignore la force & la nature des preuves qu’on peut avoir, pour soupçonner sa fidélité & sa solidité: on m’assure que vous pourrez en apprendre davantage là-dessus de vos meilleurs Amis. Je sai seulement, que ce Colonel Prev——, qui vient d’envahir la Géorgie, est son gendre, qu’il reçoit très familierement dans sa maison un Marchd. Anglois établi à Amsterdam nommé Rich, qui est l’Espion de Sir J. Y; qu’il a déjà fait faillite une fois à L—— en Suisse, où il étoit Banquier; & l’on dit que, s’il prenoit fantaisie à Mr. H——a de retirer tout de bon ses fonds, comme il en a quelquefois l’idée, il ne resteroit rien à lui ni à Mr. F——x. Il m’a assuré lui-même, qu’il étoit en liaison intime avec le Minre. des affaires étrangeres; que vous-même, Monsieur, n’aviez rien de caché pour lui, & qu’entre autres il lisoit toutes mes Lettres à Passy.
Mr. De N—— ne se pressera pas quant à la souscription; & il a raison: le moment actuel n’est pas favorable. Les mauvaises manoeuvres du Comte d’Estaing, l’invasion de la Géorgie, &, tout récemment, la prise de Pondichery &c. aux grandes Indes, ont effrayé & refroidi les esprits pour un temps. Il ne veut point risquer, comme d’autres ont fait, le crédit de l’Amérique. Mais comme il ne veut pas non plus manquer son coup, il m’assure qu’il prépare dès à présent ses opérations; & j’ai opinion qu’il réussira.
Mr. Sturler, témoin de mon zele ici pour le service non seulement de l’Amérique, mais aussi de la France, m’avoit pressé de lui raconter tout ce que j’avois fait depuis le commencement, & promis de me faire connoître à cet égard aux Ministres, mieux que je ne pensois de l’être, par de petits mémoires qu’il dresseroit. Je ne savois, Monsieur, ni leur contenu, ni qu’il vous en remettroit un, encore moins qu’il insisteroit sur une augmentation de salaire pour moi dans ces circonstances: au contraire, je croyois lui avoir suffisamment fait connoître, avec ma situation, la discrétion que je me suis prescrite à cet égard. J’accepte cependant l’addition des 25 Louis par an, que son zele officieux me procure de votre part, avec d’autant plus de plaisir, qu’elle termine fort à propos, au gré de ma femme, un différent facheux survenu entre elle & moi: je la pressois de se transporter avec son ménage au fond d’une de nos provinces; ce qui la chagrinoit beaucoup, parce que certaine infirmité, & l’éducation de ma fille, lui rendent le séjour de cette ville préferable. Du reste, je limiterai les dépenses comme vous le souhaitez; je ne solliciterai aucune augmentation ultérieure, & attendrai avec résignation les futurs contingents. Quant aux Papiers Anglois & François que j’envoie en Amérique, je ne fais que suivre les ordres du Committé.
J’avoue, Monsieur, que l’Amérique, non plus que la France, n’a guere lieu d’être contente de cette Rep. Permettez-moi seulement de vous faire remarquer, par la conduite de la France-même avec cet Etat, qu’il est important d’y avoir correspondance avec l’opposition, & de la soutenir & encourager tant que nous pourrons: car c’est réellement affoiblir vos ennemis. Quant à moi, si vous jugiez mes services plus utiles auprès de vous, ou par-tout ailleurs qu’ici, disposez-en selon votre gré & sagesse. Je ne plaindrai jamais ma peine ni mon temps, s’ils sont utiles à l’Amérique & à ma petite famille.
Comme la copie du Projet est un peu trop volumineuse pour l’envoyer par la Poste, que cette affaire ne presse pas actuellement, & que je dois encore la montrer à notre Ami, qui a d’autres affaires plus pressantes pour tout le reste de ce mois, je la laisse reposer, pour le présent, dans mon pupitre.
J’espere, Monsieur, d’apprendre que votre santé est parfaitement rétablie, & que vous avez reçu de bonnes nouvelles de l’Amérique. Je languis d’en avoir, pour rabattre l’insolente joie que les dernieres nouvelles donnent à vos ennemis ici.
Je suis avec un très respectueux attachement, Monsieur, Votre très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur
D
Passy à S. Exc. M. Franklin

Notation: Dumas la haie, March. 23. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr.: Two Letters, 23 March 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
Dear & honoured Sir.
Nantes March 23. 1779.
Before I recvd your Favour of the 16th Instant I saw yours to the American Gentlemen of the 13th, and as some of the Persons named were gone to Painbeuf, I sent an Express immediately with your Letter & one from myself of which No 1 is a Copy.— The next Day I was honoured with your above mentioned Favour and I immediately wrote a Letter to all the Gentlemen, of which No 2 is a Copy.— My Express returned on Saturday Evening, and Mr Wharton returned with him to offer in Person all in his Power for the Support of Justice and the Good of the Public. Mr William Blake sent an answer in the Style of an honest, independant Gentleman, of which No 3 is a Copy. The remainder of the Painbeuf Gentlemen did not condescend to answer either your Letter or mine.
Your kind Intentions are thus frustrated, as the whole Number being appointed without mentioning that a Majority might Decide, no number short of the whole would be (in the opinion of the Gentlemen) competent. I therefore request you will send down another order to the Gentlemen who remain, of whom you have inclosed a List No 4,—and please to impower any number of the said Gentlemen (not less than three) to decide, & if it should happen that the number remaining is an even Number, impower them to appoint another for a casting Vote if there should be occasion. I am thus particular because the Gentlemen, are, most of them, on the Eve of their Departure. Please at the same time to signify to Mr Lee that if his Objections are not furnished by the Time your new Order is received here the Gentlemen will go into the Accots on the ground of his accusations as they Stand, please to say also whether I may produce Billys Copy of the Indorsements on my accounts as an authentic Paper, if you do not choose Billys name should be thus brought forward, please to send me an attested Copy of these Indorsements that nothing may be wanting.—

I earnestly request also that this Letter, the Copies No 1. 2. 3. & 4 inclosed, my Letter to Mr Adams & yourself, Copies of your Letter to the American Gentlemen and of that to Mr Lee, may be all inclosed in the File of my accounts, and so annexed to those which have Mr Lees Indorsements on the Back as to be forever inseperable; so that your Successors may see, how cruely I have been treated & how industriously my accuser avoids any Explanation.—
I am ever with the greatest Respect Your dutifull & affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams J

Since writing the above I have received the inclosed Letter from Mr. Fendall which shows this Gentlemans Love of Justice & willingness to appear in support of it but for the Objections he mentions. It is No 5. and I request it may be put with the other Numbers.

Addressed: The Honourable / Doctor Franklin.
Notation: Mr Williams’s Accts.

II.
Dear & Hond Sir.
Nantes March 23. 1779
I have already answered your Favour of the 16th in mine of this date, but I confined that answer to the Subject of my accts, meaning the Letter to be a public one.
Mr Schweighausers ill Health has yet prevented my receiving the Case, when I do I will send you such Papers relative to Mr Simeon Deans Goods as appears to me in strict impartiality just.
I thank you for your attention to my Request about Bills in favr of Mr Dennie. I have written to Mr Moylan also on the same Subject, so as to have a ready Detection in Case there should appear to be a Fraud.
I have this day received your Favour of the 19th Instant with the Papers inclosed, which shall be carefuly returned to you next Post,— Ignorance is the mother of Suspicion, & when added to a malignant Disposition, makes a Man equaly ridiculous & detestable.

The words Copper Ore is probably a mistake in my Translation, the words in the original are Cuivre en Rosette which I supposed to be copper in unwrought Lumps, or Ore, but I find on Searching the Dictionary that it is red Brass or molten Copper. This Explanation I hope will put the matter right.
By the Zeal of the best of them &c I meant that Mr Wharton had endeavoured to get your Letter to the Memorialists answered, & had twice drafted one for that Purpose, the first was refused because it contained a congratulation on your appointment, and after modifying it all in his power to make it go down, it was declined without a Reason, thus, these forward complainers, and (after an attention to their Complaints) servile adulators, refuse you a single Honour tho’ you will find 18 repetitions of this enchanting Word in the Letter written to the 3 Commrs. By these Gentn I mean the Painbeuf Gentlemen excepting Mr W. & Mr W B.— One of these Gentn Mr L—— has it seems written to London to get Certificates from two or three members of Parliament that Mr Fox quoted the Treaty in the House from a Letter of yours, this Mr Wharton tells me, and he has accordingly written to D Bancroft. I refer you to that Letter for the particulars.—
As I don’t know the particulars of Mr Beaumarchais affairs, I can say nothing about it, nor is it of consequence to me whether I can justify Mr Peltier or not, but I am pretty certain that he acted only as he was ordered, & indeed being only a Factor in the Business He could not act otherwise.—
I am ever with the greatest Respect most dutifuly & affectionately Your
J Williams J
The Hon. Doctor Franklin

Notation: Jona Williams Mar. 23. 1779 (Private)


Title: John S. Harmanson to Franklin and Arthur Lee, 24 March 1779
From: Harmanson, John S.
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
Northampton County Eastern Shore Virg. March 24. 1779
Mr. George Kindall a Neighbour of mine, being bound to France, & not provided with Letters to Paris, I have taken the Liberty to request the favor of Your Civilities shoud he visit Paris— I hope you’ll excuse this Liberty, & also the Liberty to inform you that as I am situated on the Eastern Coast of Virginia oposite to Sandshoal [Island?] abt. 20 Miles North of Cape Charles, that If Any of Your Friends shou’d have Occasion for a Correspondent situated as I am, that I shall do all in my Power to serve them—Goods in general being in request & Tobacco abt £ 10 Virga. C.Y. [Currency] per Ct— I am with much Esteem Gentn. yr. Mo. Obt Srt
John S. Harmanson

P.S. I request my Compts to Mr. Franklin Junr.

Addressed: To / The right Honorable / Benj. Franklin & Arthur Lee Esqrs. / Ambassaders for the united States / of N. America. / at the Court of France: / Mr. Kindall
Notation: Harminson March 24. 79—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 24 March 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Brest. March 24. 1778 [i.e., 1779]
I had the Honour of a Letter from, your Excellency at Nantes, but as I was setting off for this Place could not then acknowledge it.

I Staid, no longer at Nantes, than just to look about me, before I determined to see Captain Landais, that I might know, the state and Prospects of his Frigate.
As you was so good as to desire Mr schweighauser, to consult with me, and Mr Schweighauser wrote to Mr Berube du Costentin, to take my Advice, I have ventured to give him and Captain Landais, my opinion in Writing that it will be most for the public service, for Mr Costentin to apply to the Intendant of the Marine for Such Materials and Workmen as are absolutely necessary to repair the ship, and after this shall be done and the Prisoners, put on shore, that he proceed for Nantes.
I have had the Honour twice to wait on the Intendant and this afternoon, he very politely promised to take the Prisoners on shore, and furnish the Necessaries forth with.
I must confess, that I am not very well pleased with putting all the Prisoners on shore— But the Captain is sanguine that the ship would not be safe with any of the Ring Leaders on Board.
With a very little alteration of our naval Code, three or four of these might have been punished, and the rest would have made the better Men. For I am inclined to think, that altho the Conspiracy was bad enough, it has been made more of than was necessary.
The Midshipmen and some other Petty officers, have been with me, to solicit the same favour which you have granted to the Commission and Warrant officers, a suit of Cloaths proportional to their stations. And as these perhaps have more need of it than the others, and as I thought it not probable that it was your Intention to exclude them, I have promised them to interceed with your Excellency in their Behalf.
Congratulate you on the Capture of Senegal, which is all the News I have heard. I return to Nantes, tomorrow, or next day—there to wait the Motions of the Frigate.
I have the Honour to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant
John Adams
His Excellency Dr Franklin

Notation: Jonh Adams Brest 24 mars 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chardon, 24 March 1779
From: Chardon, Daniel-Marc-Antoine
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
A Brest le 24. mars 1779.
Vous pouvez precher l’admiration; c’est un sentiment que vous inspirez; mais je me rends trop de justice pour croire mériter tout ce que vous voulez bien me marquer de flatteur sur mon requisitoire. J’ai fait parler le Langage de la vérité; c’est le devoir de tout magistrat, et je ferai parler celui de mon cœur, et je me joindrai à toute la france, quand j’exprimerai l’admiration pour la nation américaine et ma vénération pour votre Génie, vos vertus et vos talents.
Je suis avec Respect, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
Chardonprocureur General Des prises
M. frankelin.

Notation: Chardon Brest 24 Mar 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 24–25 March 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Lahaie 24[–25]e. Mars 1779
La ci-joint d’hier étoit prête à partir, lorsque je me vis honoré de la vôtre du 18. J’ai remis à Mr. Stockton, qui dînoit chez moi, celle qui étoit pour lui. Il me charge, avec ses respects, de vous en témoigner sa reconnoissance. Comptez, Monsieur, que je vous obéirai, & que vous serez informé du succès quelconque de la souscription de Mr. De Neufville. J’ai tout lieu de croire qu’il se fera un point d’honneur de la faire réussir: mais, je le répete, il faut laisser passer la mauvaise impression que viennent de faire ici d’Estaing, la Géorgie & Pondicheri. L’affaire qu’il a conclue avec vous, Monsieur, n’est ni l’unique ni la plus considérable qu’il ait faite dernierement en France. Quand j’aurai l’honneur de vous voir, je pourrai vous en dire davantage de bouche. Je prévois que sa Maison deviendra la maison de la F——ce & de l’Am——e à Amsterdm. Lui-même ignore que j’en sais tant.
Le Congrès Allemand, dont on vous a parlé, se tient depuis le 10 de ce mois à Tesschen dans la Haute-Silésie. On assure qu’il ne durera que 6 semaines, & qu’en attendant les Armées gardent leur position, pour recommencer à s’entretuer si l’on ne s’accommode pas. Mr. Lee n’auroit donc guere le temps d’arriver avant sa séparation. Je ne vois pas non plus ce que sa présence pourroit produire là de bon. J’ignore d’ailleurs jusqu’à quel point il peut compter sur la solidité de ses liaisons avec les Ministres de Vienne & de Berlin. Ce qu’il dit des 20,000 mercenaires, que la paix d’Allemagne mettra les Anglois à même de prendre à leur solde contre nous, est trop vague & trop général. Je demanderai 1º. Sera-ce un nouveau Corps de troupes? 2º. qui le fournira? Hesse-Cassel, Hanau, Brunswick, Anspac, Waldeck & Anhalt Zerbst, ont assez de peine déjà à livrer les recrues pour les Corps déjà vendus. L’Empereur, ni le Roi de Prusse, ni la Saxe ne fourniront rien. Le Roi de Prusse, comme on sait, voit de très-mauvais oeil les Princes ses Alliés s’affoiblir par ces émigrations, & s’est déclaré ouvertement là-dessus avant la guerre d’Allemagne. Le Wurtemberg ne fournira rien; les Etats du pays s’y opposent; Bade, Deuxponts, Palatin, Hesse-Darmstad, ne fourniront rien; ils sont trop interessés à menager la France. Il n’y a que le Pays d’Hanover, d’où le Roi d’Angle. peut en tout temps, sans qu’on puisse l’en empêcher, faire partir 20,000 hommes qu’il y a. Le fera-t-il? dégarnira-t-il ainsi sa derniere ressource? Je l’ignore. On lui a fait faire déjà tant d’autres extravagances, que je ne saurois répondre de rien de sa part.
Je demanderai 3º. quels sont les moyens qu’auroit Mr. Lee, s’il se trouvoit, contre toute apparence, quelque prince prêt à vendre de nouveaux Corps aux Anglois, to prevent it? Je ne puis en imaginer qu’un: ce seroit de pouvoir renchérir sur les Anglois à ce marché-là; mais Mr. Lee ne l’a pas; & si je l’avois, je voudrois l’employer mieux pour le bien de l’Amérique. La vertu, la constance, & la concorde des Etats-Unis, seront, j’espere, avec l’aide de Dieu, des moyens plus sûrs & plus honnêtes, qui les feront triompher des derniers efforts de la tyrannie, comme des premiers; &, grace à Dieu, ils sont en leur puissance mieux que l’argent ne l’est en celle de leurs ennemis. Mr. Stokton m’a dit, que Mr. Lee avoit su empêcher que le prince de Darmstad n’ait fourni des troupes à l’Angleterre. Les vraies causes qui l’ont empêché, sont 1º. le Roi de P——, à qui cela ne convient pas; 2º. les terres considérables que ce Prince de Darmstad possede en Alsace; 3º. son second fils, qui est au service de france dans le Regiment d’Anhalt.

du 25e. Mars
Les Etats d’Hollande sont rassemblés depuis hier. Le dernier avis qu’un grand personnage avoit proposé à l’Assemblée précédente, porte en substance, de continuer d’exclure des convois les bois de Construction, jusqu’à-ce que la rep. se fût mise dans un état complet de défense, tant par terre que par mer, c’est-à-dire, jusqu’à-ce qu’elle eût sur pied une armée de 50 à 60 mille hommes, & 50 à 60 vaisseaux de Ligne. Amsterdam & son parti, au contraire, protestent de vouloir s’en tenir à l’Armement des 32 Vaisseaux résolu en Novembre dernier, & à la résolution du 26 & 28 Janvier quant aux Convois; & pour des troupes de terre, qu’on n’en a pas besoin. Notre Ami pense que cette fois la pluralité l’emportera sur l’avis ci-dessus du gd. personnage. Nous verrons.
La Chevalier Gd. vint hier au soir me faire une courte visite, revenant de Paris par Breda. Il m’a paru ignorer, ou faire semblant de ne rien savoir du tout de ce qui concerne Neufville. Nous ne nous sommes tenus de part & d’autre que des propos généraux. Je l’ai mis sur le chapitre de Mr. D’Estaing, pour lequel il paroît s’intéresser & vouloir le justifier en tout. “L’affaire, dit-il, de Pondicheri, on s’y attendoit en france depuis 3 mois, & elle ne signifie rien: celle de Géorgie est encore moins de conséquence: quant à l’emprunt en Hollande, il n’y a rien à faire; il ne faut point y penser présentement.” De Mr. De Neufville, nous ne nous en sommes pas dit le mot l’un à l’autre. Il me quitta, pour aller passer le reste de la soirée chez Mr. l’Ambr. de France; & il est parti ce matin à 6 h. pour Amst.
Je ne suis point surpris, Monsieur, que vous trouviez la situation des affaires ici interessante. Elle l’est effectivement. Quant aux Partis dont vous parlez, & à leurs Intérêts, je ne puis vous en donner une idée plus claire que celle-ci— Il y a d’un côté le grand personnage, avec l’influence que lui donnent dans toutes les provinces & villes, excepté la Régence d’Amsterdam, la disposition qu’il a des emplois civils & militaires, de l’Armée, des Amirautés, & de la Compe. des Indes. Ce parti est encore fortifié par tant de rentiers interessés dans les fonds Anglois; il est tout dévoué aux Anglois.— Le parti républicain, qui est en même temps celui du Commerce, est aujourd’hui concentré principalement à Amsterdam; & c’est ce parti qu’il importe à la France & à l’Amérique de ménager & encourager, parce qu’il empêchera l’autre de faire déclarer la rep. pour l’Angle. Le Palladium de ce parti, c’est l’unanimité requise pour que la Rep. fasse une telle démarche.
Je suis avec le respect & le zele qui vous sont connus, Monsieur Votre très humble & très obéissant serviteur
D——

P.S. Ce que je dis concernant les voyages que Mr. Lee voudroit faire, &c. ne provient nullement de mauvaise volonté de ma part. Je lui souhaite sincerement toutes sortes de succès en Allemagne. Mais vous me demandez mon sentiment, Monsieur, & je le dis sincerement. A moins d’être bien sûr de réussir, il faut éviter, ce me semble, tout éclat, comme d’être tympanisé dans les gazettes; & là où il y a quelque chose à faire, s’adresser tant qu’on peut aux sources. Après l’éclat fait à Vienne, il est impossible que Mr. Lee soit incognito au Congrès de Tesschen.
Passy à Son Exc. Mr. Franklin

Notation: Dumas la haie March. 24. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 24 March 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & honoured Sir.
Nantes March 24. 1779
This will be presented to you by Mr Samuel Bradford a young Townsman of mine, warmly reccommended to me by my Friends, & by his deportment & agreeable Manners, he appears to deserve all they have said of him.
I take the Liberty to introduce him to your notice & am with the greatest Respect Your dutifull & affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams J

Addressed: The Honourable / Doctor Franklin / minister Plenipotentiary of / the United States—/ Passy
Notation: Jona. Williams 24 Mar 79.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Comtesse Conway, 25 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Conway, Françoise-Antoinette-Jeanne Langlois du Bouchet, comtesse de

Passy March 25 1779
I find, Ma chere fille, that you and I have been very unlucky in our Endeavours to oblige Mr. Mullens: for on the Contrary we have grievously offended him. I understood he had been taken Prisoner and stript by the English, and had not wherewith to pay the Expence of his Journey to his Regiment. I sent him an Order on my Banker for ten Guineas. He returns me the Order, and to make it & me & the Congress look ridiculous, he tells me “I sent it him as a Gratification” for his Services “in the name of the Honble. Congress.” I had no such Idea. I had declared that I had no Authority to make Gratifications to Officers, nor any Money put into my Hands for such Purposes; and he could not but see that the real Intention of the Order was expressed in the face of it; whereby his Claim, if he has any, to a Gratification, is left open. If his intention was to obtain it from me, he was mistaken in the Application: He shou’d have apply’d to the Congress. They might know him & his Services. But I was totally unacquainted with both; I had only heard, as you may remember I told you that he spoke his sentiments very freely in Paris against the Congress and America, which however did not prevent my offering him the little Aid I thought he stood in need of. I am glad he has no Occasion for it.
I join heartily in your Joy on the Return of your Husband; as I was a Witness to your perpetual Anxiety for his Welfare during his Absence. I wish your Happiness together may not again be interrupted, but continue during your Lives—being ever your affectionate Father (as you do me the Honor to call me)
Madame Conway


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edward Bancroft, [on or after 25 March 1779]
From: Bancroft, Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Chaillot Thursday Evening [on or after March 25, 1779]
Dr. Bancroft presents his most respectful Compliments to Dr Franklin & sends him inclosed the desired Passport.

Addressed: To the Hon’ble / Dr. Franklin / Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Marat, 25 March 1779
From: Marat, Jean-Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce jeudy 25 Mars 79
Le répresentant de l’auteur des experiences nouvelles sur le feu, apprend avec bien de la mortification, Monsieur, que vous Soyes incomodé; et il fait des voeux pour que la goutte vous quitte au plutot: il espère avoir lhonneur de vous recevoir Samedy prochain, Rue Bourgogne hotel de M. le Marquis de lAubespine. MM. les Comissaires Sy rendront a neuf heures et demi du matin, pour profiter du Soleil.


Title: Franklin et al.: Report to the Académie Royale des Sciences, [26 March 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[March 26, 1779]
M. Lavoisier ayant demandé à LAcadémie au nom des Regisseurs des poudres son avis sur la meilleure manière de reconstruire le magazin à poudre de L’Arsenal et La Compagnie nous ayant nomme M. Franklin M. D’arcy M. De Montigny M. Perronet M. Lavoisier et moi Commissaires à ce sujet Nous allons lui faire part de nos observations sur cet objet important et de ce que nous croyons qu’il seroit le plus avantageux de faire pour le remplir.
Pour qu’un Magazin à Poudre soit le mieux construi, non seulement il faut le mettre autant qu’il est possible à l’abri des accidens extérieurs et intérieurs du feu et de l’eau, mais encore qu’il le soit de maniere que ces accidens arrivans, surtout par rapport au feu, il en résulte le moins de maux et de dommages possibles car on ne sait que trop, que malgré toute la prudence humaine, ces accidens arrivent.
Dirigés par ces vûes, après avoir conféré avec Messieurs les Regisseurs sur l’Endroit le plus propre à établir le nouveau Magazin nous étions convenus quil seroit bati en saillie sur le fossé de l’arsenal en dessus des plus hautes eaux comme on le voit dans le dessein, et qu’il seroit construit de la manière suivante:
D’une forme quarrée, chacun des côtés devoit avoir, pris intérieurement, 24 pieds; ses murs devoient avoir 12 pieds de hauteur du Rez de chaussée du jardin au dessus de l’entablement, leur epaisseur devoit être au moins de 7½ pieds; les paremens intérieurs de ces murs devoient être en ligne droite mais leur face inclinée à l’horizon en sorte que le magazin devint par là évasé ou plus large en haut qu’en bas dans une certaine proportion, afin de faciliter par cette forme d’entonnoir la sortie du fluide de la poudre en cas d’explosion. Au lieu d’être en ligne droite les paremens intérieurs de ces murs devoient être en ligne courbe. Sur le sens horizontal la concavité tournée en dehors ou bien en arc de cercle dont la corde seroit de 24 pieds ces murs elevés à plomb devoient être flanqués à chaque angle, par un corps quarré de maçonnerie de 14 pieds 2 pouces. Enfin comme dans un pareil magazin on n’a point à craindre les bombes, La couverture devoit être en ardoise et legere, afin qu’en cas d’accidens, le tout fut enlevé facilement, comme on sait que cela se pratique, dans les moulins à poudre. Tous ces détails sont sensibles dans le dessin des plans, et élevations de ce magazin qui sont sous les yeux de L’Académie.
Telle étoit la construction que nous nous proposions de lui donner et les différentes dimensions que nous avions reglé pour les épaisseurs de ses murs, d’aprés celles que M. De Vauban a décidées autrefois et qu’on suit encore aujourdhui.
Mais lorsque nous avons cherché à approfondir ce qui avoit donné lieu à la détermination de ces dimensions, sur quoi elles étoient fondées; les Expériences que l’on avait faites sur la résistance des pierres, la force que la Poudre exerce dans son explosion Enfin les différents elemens sur lesquels il est nécéssaire d’avoir des apperçus déterminés jusqu’à un certain point pour fixer quelque chose de certain sur la forme des magazins à poudre, les dimensions de leurs murs etc. nous nous sommes bientôt apperçus que nous n’avions pas assez de données pour résoudre d’une manière convenable un problème de cette importance.
En effet Dans les dimensions que M. De Vauban a prescrites pour les magazins à Poudre, ce grand homme paroît n’avoir suivi que ce que son expérience et le bon sens lui dictoit à ce sujet et surtout par rapport aux effets de la bombe mais sans avoir pu se déterminer par la connoissance des données qui étoient requises necéssairement pour la solution de ce problème.
D’après ces considérations, et les diverses réflexions que nous avons faites à ce sujet, nous avons pensé que nous ne pouvions répondre dignement à la confiance que L’Académie nous a témoigné dans cette occasion, que nous n’ayons acquis de connoissances plus certaines et plus étendues sur les élemens dont nous avons parlé; Qu’il seroit à souhaiter en conséquence que le gouvernement ordonne qu’on fit les expériences necéssaires pour les acquérir; Qu’il en resulteroit un grand nombre de connoissances nouvelles et utiles dans un sujet entièrement nouveau sur lequel on n’a tenté jusqu’ici aucune expérience; Que les épreuves que l’on a faites pour mesurer la force de la poudre, et particulièrement l’un de nous, M. D’Arcy, donnoient lieu d’espérer de réussir dans ces recherches et qu’enfin la matière etoit d’une si grande Importance pour L’artillerie et pour La sureté du public par le grand nombre de magazins à poudre répandus dans le Royaume; Qu’il étoit de la plus grande Conséquence de déterminer par les faits Tout ce qui pouvoit mener à la solution du problème de la meilleure manière de construire les Magazins à poudre. Fait dans L’Académie des Sciences le 26 mars 1779

Le Roy
Lavoisier
Le chev. d’Arcy

B Franklin
Perronet
De Montigny


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 26 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Monsieur
A Passy Le 26 Mars 1779
Votre Excellence voudra bien recevoir mes Remerciemens pour La Reception favorable dont elle a honoré le Commodore Gillon qui en est on ne peut plus satisfait.
Il est echoué sur Les Cotes de France dans Le Mois de Janvier dernier un Vaisseau Anglois nommé l’Amphitrite. Il y avoit a bord de ce Vaisseau trois Matelots Americains qui s’y etoient embarqués a Londres pour se soustraire a La Presse et se rendre en Amerique. Ils ont été mis dans Les Prisons de Calais et j’espere que V. Ex. ne me refusera pas la Grace de Les faire elargir. Ils serviroient sur le Vaisseau du Capitaine Jones. J’ai L’honneur d’etre avec Le plus grand Respect et l’estime la plus parfaite de votre Excellence &c.
His Excy. M. de Sartine


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Arthur Lee, 26 March 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris March 26th. 1779
Mr. A Lee presents his Compliments to Dr Franklin, & has the honor of enclosing to him one of Mr Schweighauser’s Accounts, which he has found among his Papers.

Addressed: The Honble. / Dr. B. Franklin / minister plenepotentiary / of the United States of / America / at / Passy
Notation: A Lee 26. March 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, [26 March 1779]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Vendredy Matin [March 26, 1779]
Mon Illustre Docteur recevez mon Compliment. J’ai appris avec grand plaisir que la goutte vous ayant laissé plus tranquile vous etiez enfin allé à Versailles Mardy. Je crois qu’actuellement malgré votre éloignement pour les complimens vous ne vous opposerez plus a ce que L Académie vous fasse une députation aussi Je compte bien qu’elle la décidera définitivement aujourdhui qu’elle se separe, pour ses vacances de paques. Je ne vois pas les raisons qui pourroient vous engager a mettre opposition à son desir la dessus. Cependant marquez moi un petit mot de réponse sur cet objet pour me mettre plus en liberté vous savez combien je serois fâché de faire quelques choses qui vous fut désagréable.
Le temps étant si beau sil continuë de même demain samedy nous irons voir les Experiences du fluide igné à neuf heures et demie dix heures—ce n’est plus au gros Caillou mais ruë de Bourgogne maison de M. Le Marquis de L Aubespine au dessus du Corps de Garde des gardes françoises. J’imagine et j’espere bien que nous aurons lhonneur de vous y voir; M. De Maillebois le désire beaucoup, il compte même aller diner chez Mde De chaumont dimanche [dans] l’esperance de vous voir l’aprés Midy soit chez elle soit chez vous si vous y dinez. Adieu Mon Illustre Docteur. On ne peut vous etre plus veritablement attaché que Moi
Le Roy

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire des / Etats Unis de L’Amérique / en son hôtel / a Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Rudolph Erich Raspe, 26 March 1779
From: Raspe, Rudolph Erich
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honourd Sir
London. March. 26. 1779.
Mesrs Waiz V Eshen, nevews of the Minister of that name, whom Your Excellency was acquainted with at Cassell in Germany, will have the honour to deliver those lines, in testimony of the profound esteem, which animates them for Your Excellency. They have travelled through the greater part of Germany, Sweden, Norway, and England in order to acquire usefull Knowledge in whatever relates to Mountains, Mines and Foundaries; and I am very happy to have an opportunity of assuring Your Excellency that I am with the truest and warmest and highest admiration and esteem Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant
R. E. Raspe.
At Mr. Lockyer David Bookseller Holbourn.

Notation: R. E. Raspe Londres 26 mars 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Landais, 27 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Landais, Pierre

Sir
Passy March 27, 1779
I received your favour of the 17 inst.—with the List inclosed of your Ships Company. I am concerned to see the Number so small, But it is not in my Power to enlarge it; as you do not chuse to have french Seamen, and Americans are not to be had; and If I shou’d procure a Permission for you to enlist Volunteers from among the British Prisoners in France, there is Danger of their Treachery, and that you may be as much embarrassed with them as with the Villains of the same Nation that shipt themselves at Boston.
I had no Intention of offending you when I mentioned my having no Concern in projecting the Voyage of the Flamand. On my Arrival I found M. Deane in Possession of all that sort of Business which I left to be continued with him, because he best understood it.— As you say you remember the Transaction, I have no Doubt of his communicating to me what had passed between you & him on the Subject, and that, relying on his Judgment, I might say I approved of it. My not giving my Attention then to such Affairs, is I suppose the Reason of my having totally forgot it. But it is my Opinion that whatever Agreement he had made with you before my Arrival or even after it, as I made no Opposition ought to be honorably comply’d with, whether I approved of it or not; And I make no Doubt but the Congress when acquainted with the Circumstances, will do what is just & proper.
I am glad to hear that you have got the Caulkers and Smiths at Work: I hope you will now soon be ready. M. Schweighauser has had for some Time all the Orders necessary from me. The sending to Paris for Orders in such Business is very inconvenient; it occasions great Loss of Time; and is the more perplexing to me, as I do not understand it. Merchants in the Ports are the only Men fit to manage it. The Navy Board directed very properly the Application to the Commercial Agent.
I hope the Delay of receiving the Mutineers is over and that you are at length clear of em. I have the Honor to be with great Regard, Sir, y. m. o. h. s.
BF
If M. Adams is with you, please to present my Respects to him.Honble. Capt. Landais


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 27 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Monsieur Le Comte
Passi ce 27 mars 1779.
J’ai l’honneur de remettre a votre Excellence une Lettre que jai recu de M. Gratien Lieutenant Gal. de L’amirauté de Morlaix avec une copie de la reponse que j’y ai faite, et un Exemplaire du reglement du 27. 7bre 1778 concernant les prises faittes par les corsaires Français et Americains, permettez moi de vous observer, Monsieur Le Comte, en ce qui concerne les corsaires Americains, que les Capitaines ont ordre dans leur commission de se conformer aux loix des pays ou ils conduiront leurs prises, et en Consequence je prie votre Excellence d’obtenir de sa Majesté, que celles qui sont dans le cas d’etre jugées en France le soient comme celles faittes par des corsaires Francais, et sans aucuns retards, attendu le deperissement qui en resulte, et les domages qui en pourroient resulter, si les Vaisseaux amenes n’etaient pas de bonne prise. Je suis avec respect Monsieur Le Comte Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
B Franklin
a Son Excellence M. Le Comte de Vergennes.

Notation: M de Rayneval …


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 27 March 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 27 Mar 1779
I am honord with your favor of the 18th Inst. We have had no arrivals on this Coast from the United States since my last, a Brig arrived at Brest somedays past that left Edenton 5 feby. The intelligence she brought has not reachd this City.

Captain Jones arrived here last Week in quest of Seamen and Cannon. The Ship Buckskin Capt. Johns took on her passage from Baltimore a Privateer having on board sixty hands that he set at liberty taking their parole which parole the Captain gave to Captain Jones and will entitle you to an equal Number in the Exchange or Cartel. I suppose he will transmit you the Parole per Post. He was not able to procure the Cannon the sizes he wanted as early as he desires—exprest great desire to have them I have Casting by your order I expect he will apply to you for them agreable to your Instructions I shall duly attend.
I receivd yesterday from Ferol a Note of a quantity of Cannon lodged there for Sale. I inclose you the list and Conditions should you have occation for all or any part of them.
I have the Honor to be with due respect Sir Your very hhb & Obedient Servant
John Bondfield
His Excellency Benj. Franklin Esq

Addressed: To / His Excellency B. Franklin / Esqr. / Plenipotentiary from Congress / a / Paris
Notation: John Bondfield 27. Mar. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comtesse Conway, 27 March 1779
From: Conway, Françoise-Antoinette-Jeanne Langlois du Bouchet, comtesse de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

mon cher papa
ce 27. mars 1779
Je ne puis vous exprimer Combien je suis fachée d’être La Cause innocente, du désagrement que vous èprouvés, pour avoir voulu m’obliger en La personne de mr mullens; ce n’est que d’aprés ses instances que je vous ai engagé à reparer Les pertes qu’il a faites dans sa traversée, et lorsque je lui ai remis La petite lettre de change de votre part je lui ai dit que ce n’etoit pas au nom du Congrés, mais de votre poche que partoit cette Legere somme pour L’aider et que vous L’aviés donnè purement pour moi il m’en parrut trés Content, et je vous assure que ce n’est pas de son propre mouvement qu’il vous en a fait La remise, C’est par ordre de ses superieurs: Lorsqu’il m’en a parlé je lui ai dit que j’etois au désespoir de mettre meslée de ses affaires, et que je me broullerois avec lui s’il n’etoit pas un ami de mon mari, j’ai crû cher papa qu’il étoit moins malhonnette de vous rendre moi même votre billet que de vous Le Laisser renvoÿer par mr mullens. Mon mari m’a grondè, de m’être chargée de cette Commission ce n’est pas de son aveu que son ami vous a êcrit; et quand aux propos que vous croÿés que mr mullens a tenus, je puis vous jurer que ce n’est pas en ma présence, et que mon mari le désaprouveroit fort d’en tenir; il pense que pour des désagrements particuliers un officier ne doit jamais décrier la puissance qu’il a servie avec tant de zèle; à son premier moment libre, il aura L’honneur de vous voir, et moi mon cher papa j’irai bientôt déjeuner avec vous, et vous prier de me Conserver Le titre et L’amitié de pere que je mèritte par mes sentimens inviolables
votre fille Conway

Addressed: Monsieur / Monsieur franklin ministre / plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de / l’amérique / A passi
Notation: Made Conway.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from George Washington, 27 March 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
Camp at Middlebrook March 27th. 1779.
This letter will be delivered to you by Mr. Mason, son to George Mason Esqr. of Virginia, a Gentn. of fortune and influence in that state—a zealous & able supporter of the liberties of this Country—and a particular friend of mine.
The young Gentlemans bad health induces him to try some other clime, probably the air of Montpelier, while inclination may lead him to Paris, in which case, I take the liberty of recommending him to your friendly countenance & civilities; give me leave at the sametime to assure you, that with the greatest esteem & regard I have the honr. to be Dr Sir Yr. Most Obedt. Hble Servt
Go: Washington
The Honble. Benjn Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 27 March 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & honoured Sir.
Nantes March 27. 1779
I send you enclosed Messrs Horneca Fitzeau & Cos Invoice with such an order on them as appears to me equitable on all Sides, if you think so, please to sign it & return it with the Invoice. It will be proper for you to keep Copies of both these Papers.

I return you enclosed the papers you so kindly communicated to me.— I shall observe your Directions about how I came by them, but I suppose you have no objection to my mentioning the Fact, where I may have occasion of showing the great Skill & ability of my Calomniator.—
I am ever with the greatest Respect most dutifully & affectionately Yours
Jona Williams J
My Love to Billy.

P.S. to assure yourself that these Goods were delivered by me to Mr Schweighauser, please to see the marks & numbers in sd Mr Schweighausers Receipt transmitted to the Commrs in my Letter dated Jan. 23. 1779.—

JW
The Hon. Doctor Franklin

Notation: Jona Williams March 27. 1779—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 28 March 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Lahaie 28e. Mars 1779
Mes dernieres sont du 15, & du 23–25 de ce mois. Jeudi l’assemblée d’Hollde. fut longue; & l’on ne put en venir à une Résolution. Des Villes d’Hollande les principales furent de l’avis d’Amsterdam, ou en firent semblant: les autres, au nombre de 10, furent de celui du Prince. Il faut savoir, que l’Assemblée consiste en 19 Membres, savoir le Corps des Nobles, qui n’a qu’une voix, & 18 villes, dont chacune a sa voix: or la voix de la moindre se compte comme celle de la plus grande. Le corps des nobles est de 8 têtes; le Stadhouder fait la 9e. Quatre de ces Nobles, savoir Mrs. Vanderduyn de Maasdam, Wassenaar Obdam, Wassenaar Sterrenburg, & Aarssen de Sommelsdyk, n’approuvent point la proposition. Les quatre autres, savoir les 2 Boetselaar, Nordwyk & Catwyk, opinent pour la proposition. J’ai dit à notre Ami, que je voulois parier qu’on ne résoudra rien: il n’a pas osé me prendre au mot. L’effet seul du Reglement françois pourra amollir à la longue ces coeurs endurcis. Ils sont dans l’opinion, que la France n’est pas dans son sérieux, & qu’elle ne peut se passer d’eux. D’ailleurs ce qui vient de se passer aux Indes or. & occid. & en Géorgie, fait que tous les Anglomanes se rengorgent ici de nouveau. Je suis avec un grand respect, Monsieur
Votre très humble & tres obéissant Serviteur
D——
Passy à S. E. M. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr., / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats-Unis de l’Amerique / à Passy./.
Notations in different hands: Dumas la haie. March. 28. 79 / Holland / Dumas


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Gellée, 28 March 1779
From: Gellée, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Chaalons sur Marne 28 Mars 1779.
J’esperois de jour a autre pouvoir faire le voïage de paris, ou une affaire importante m’appelle. J’aurois eû l’honneur, Monsieur, en vous presentant mon respectüeux hommage, de vous faire de vive voix mon compliment sur votre nomination a la place de Ministre plenipotentiaire a la cour de françe. Abstraction de toutes autres raisons qui ont pû determiner le Congrés dans son choix, il en est une, Monsieur, que je regarde comme un trait de politique des plus adroits de sa part. “La premiere attention a faire dans le choix d’un Ambassadeur (dit Wiquefort) est qu’il soit agreable a la nation auprés de laquelle on l’envoit.” Vous emportez personellement, Monsieur, l’estime generale de la nation françoise; et cette estime generale des françois pour Monsieur franklin doit etre pour le Congrés un sûr garant du succès de votre Mission.
Puisse mon fils se rendre digne, Monsieur, de votre confiançe! J’ai remis en vos mains tous mes droits sur lui; et, ce qui sera a jamais pour moi un motif de la plus vive reconoissançe, vous eûtes la bonté de me dire que vous en prendriez soin. Jai L’honneur d’etre avec respect Monsieur Votre tres humble, et tres obeïssant serviteur
Gellée

Notation: Gellée 28 Mars 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Landais, 28 March 1779
From: Landais, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Please Your Excellency
Brest March 28th. 1779
I landed the day Before yesterday the Eight and thirty mutiners, I am getting Ready for to Sail for Nantes as fast as Possible and Expect to be ready in Eight days thence. I have had here all the Iron work repair’d and nothing but the most necessary things have been done or had. I shall wait for your orders at Nantes in a forteen night if the wind Permits.
I am with the Greateast Respect Your Excellencys Most Obeidaint humble Servant
P: Landais.

P.S. The Honnble John Adam is here I hope he will Go to Nantes in the Ship.
To his Excellency Dr franklin

Notation: P. Landais 28. Mar. 79.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [Marat], 29 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Marat, Jean-Paul

Sir
Passy. Monday March 29.—79.
I am extreamly sorry that I could not be present at your curious Experiments on Saturday, and that indispensible Business will prevent my waiting on you to-morrow: I shall be at liberty the rest of the Week, if some other day may be convenient to you; and will then attend them with Pleasure, being very sensible of the honour done me in your obliging Invitation. — I am, with great Esteem, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 29[–31] March 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Lahaie 29[–31]e. Mars 1779
Ma Lettre d’hier vous expose la division qu’il y a dans le Corps des Nobles de cette Province: voici celle des villes.
Pour la derniere proposition du Stadhr. se sont déclarées les villes suivantes: Gouda, Brielle, Hoorn, Enkhuysen, Edam, Monnikendam, Medemblick, Purmerende.— Contre la Proposition: Dort, Harlem, Delft, Leide, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Schiedam, Alcmar.— Les deux Villes de Gorcum & de Schoonhoven ont pris la chose ad referendum; & l’on croit qu’elles se rangeront du côté d’Amsterdam.— Les Députés de Rotterdam ont déclaré, non seulement au Stadhr., mais à l’Assemblée-même, que leurs Bourgeois commençoient à perdre patience, c’est-à-dire, qu’il y avoit des émeutes à craindre. Le Grand-Pensre., pour les tranquilliser, leur a dit Samedi dernier, que Mardi 30e. tout sera ajusté à leur gré. C’est ce que disent aussi certains Torys modérés. Notre Ami me l’a confirmé.

du 31e.
Enfin la derniere proposition du Stadhouder succomba hier à l’Assemblée provinciale d’Hollande, par une pluralité de 10 villes contre 7 à 8. Gouda & Gorcum se rangerent du côté d’Amsterdam. Schoonhoven se joignit aux 6 villes de la Nordhollande du côté du Stadhr. La Brielle biaisa. Le Corps des Nobles, partagé, ne pencha du côté du Stadhr. que pour autant qu’il en est le 9e. Membre. La résolution fut donc prise de convoyer incessamment tout ce qui n’est pas expressément déclaré contrebande par les Traités. On essaya de faire faire une protestation au Corps des Nobles contre cette résolution; mais comme il se trouvoit partagé également, il n’y eut pas moyen. Au défaut de cette protestation, qui ne peut plus avoir lieu, le Pce. fera faire aujourdhui par la noblesse une nouvelle proposition: démarche inutile, qui ne pourra rien changer à la resolution, ni à son exécution. Cette résolution de la province d’hollde. devra être communiquée aux Etats-Généraux: ainsi il se passera encore quelque temps avant qu’on ait la résolution générale des provinces: mais on n’a pas besoin de l’attendre pour convoyer les vaisseaux. Ce qui augmente l’embarras de la Cour c’est que de toute la pétition pour l’état de guerre pour cette année, les villes n’ont encore consenti qu’à la levée de l’impôt, au moyen du quel cet état de guerre des provinces sera entretenu, & nullement à l’application des deniers provenants de cet impot. Ainsi elles n’ont proprement pas encore consenti à la pétition de guerre pour l’an 1779.
Les Etats d’hollde. se separeront Samedi, pour se rassembler dans la quinzaine.
Je suis avec un grand respect, Monsieur Votre très humble & très obeissant servit.
D
Passy à Son Exc. M. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Ministre plenip. des Etats-Unis / de l’Amerique / à Passy./.
Notation: Dumas la haie March. 29. 80


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Marie-Nicole Grossart de Virly Gérard, 30 March 1779
From: Gérard, Marie-Nicole Grossart de Virly
To: Franklin, Benjamin

a versailles ce 30 mars 1779
Je me suis adressée a vous, Monsieur, pour vous prier de faire rachetter une boëte que j’avois envoyée a M. Gerard, vous avez eu la bonté de me promettre de faire faire les démarches necessaires pour cet objet. Comme il y a déjà un peu de tems que je vous ai importunée, permettez moi de vous en demander des nouvelles, je sçais Combien les affaires interressantes dont vous etes chargé doivent éloigner de votre memoire la promesse que je reclame ici. Je prends le parti de vous la rappeller pour faire raison a la bonne volonté et a l’obligeance que vous m’avez marquées.
J’ai l’honneur d’etre, Monsieur, avec la plus haute Consideration, votre tres humble, et tres obeissante, servante
Devirly Gerard
Mr. Franklin

Endorsed: Mad Gerard, 30 Mar 79—concerning a Snuff Box


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 30 March 1779
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
London March 30 1779
Yours of March 21st received. I have in my own private thoughts been very much displeased with the delays wch we have met with in the affair of the Exchange of prisoners. I had before the receipt of yours, made some strong remonstrances upon the Subject, and yesterday I went again to the Admiralty with my Complaints. Mr Stephens the Secretary did assure me, upon his honour, that the delays have been unavoidable; that the transport was beat back twice, or I think three times, between the Downs & Plymouth; that so far from any wish of delay that they had appointed a Lieutenant to command the Cartel ship, and not a trading owner, who might be tempted to make a job of delay. He gave such full assurances of the intentions of government, that I really hope that they mean to proceed with the quickest dispatch. You may be assured that I will do every thing in my power to press them on.— Every incident, both great and small, concurs in my opinion to make peace most desireable. I know full well that our wishes are in perfect unison, And I assure you that my thoughts & labours are constantly employed upon that subject. If any favorable moment shd happen, even of any chance of talking about peace, I am constantly upon the watch. The principles alone upon wch I shall act (if ever I shd have the opportunity of putting my good wishes in to action) are Confidence, certainty, National safety and honour.—Your affecte
DH
To Dr Franklin—

P.S. The following note just this moment recd. from the Admiralty—
“Mr. Stephens presents his compts. to Mr. Hartley & acquaints him that the Milford Cartel Vessel sailed the 25th. instant from Plymouth, with American prisoners for France.”

Notation: D. H. London March 30. 1779.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Marat, 30 March 1779
From: Marat, Jean-Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce mardy matin 30 Mars 79
MM. les Comissaires seront libres de tenir Seance jeudy, vendredy et Samedy prochains. Monsieur Franklin voudra bien me fixer celui de ces trois jours qui lui conviendra le mieux. Moins il differera lhonneur de Sa visite, plus j’en serai flatté.
  Le Representant de l’Auteur.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Stephen Sayre, 31 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sayre, Stephen

Sir
Passy March 31 1779
I have just received your Favour of the 10th inst from Copenhagen. The Account you give of the Disposition of the Swedish Court is very agreeable. I saw in the News Papers that a Deputy of the Congress was at Stockholm; did you obtain the Audiences you mention by assuming that Character? The Informations you did not chuse to venture by the Post from Copenhagen may be safely sent from Amsterdam.
I am not, as you have heard the sole Representative of America in Europe. The Commission of Mr. A. Lee, M. Wm. Lee, & Mr. Izard, to different Courts still subsist. I am only sole with Regard to France. Nor have I Power to give any Employ worth your Accepting.
Much has been said by the English about Divisions in America. No Division of any Consequence has arisen there. Petty Disputes between particular Persons about private Interests, there are always in every Country: But with Regard to the Great Point of Independence, there is no Difference of Sentiment in the Congress; and as the Congress are the annual Choice of the People, it is easy to judge of their Sentiments by those of their Representatives.
The taking of Savannah makes a Noise in England & helps to keep up their Spirits; But I apprehend before the Summer is over, they will find the Possession of that Capital of Georgia of as Little Consequence as their former Possessions of Boston & Philadelphia; and that the Distempers of that unwholesome Part of the Country will very much weaken, if not ruin that Army.
The principal Difficulty at Present in America consists in the Depreciation of their Currency, owing to the over-quantities issued, and the diminished Demand for it in Commerce. But as the Congress has taken Measures for sinking it expeditiously, and the several Governments are taxing vigorously for that Purpose, there is a Prospect of its recovering a proper Value. In the mean Time, tho’ an Evil to particulars, there is some Advantage to the Publick in the Depreciation, as large nominal Values are more easily paid in Taxes, & the debt by that Means more easily extinguished.
I have the Honor to be, Sir &c
Stephen Sayre Esq;


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 31 March 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
[Brest] Harbour March 31. 1779
When I arrived at [this place] I found nothing done. Mr Costentin, it is said waited for orders.— And the officers of the Port, expected orders.— But Since my Arrival, as Mr Schweighauser wrote to Mr Costentin to take my Advice, he readily engaged in the Business, and the officers of the Port have afforded Us every facility, consistent with the Kings Service.
Mr Costentin and Captain Landais, I find are both very attentive to Articles of Expence; and do their Utmost to save. The Captain, in this View, has determined neither to sheath his ship in Copper, nor to lay her down to clean, but has applied for proper Instruments to hog her, as their Phrase is, and this operation is now finished so that her Bottom is at present very well cleaned. The Main Top Mast and rigging, is also preparing, the Water will be got on board as soon as possible, and I hope We shall be ready to go from this Port in six or Eight Days.
But there are still a Thousand Difficulties, on board the ship, and every Body is discontented, except the Captain who is as cool a Man as ever I saw.
I have had Petitions to me, from all the Crew, and personal applications from most of the officers. Little Misunderstandings have arisen on Account of the Purser, who is thought to keep the officers to too strict Allowance. But upon the whole I fancy, that Peace may be made and tolerable Content [word or words missing] allowing to the officers and Men a small Gratification in Money.
I have the Honour to inclose a List of the petit officers on Board, who are judged by Mr Schweighauser and Mr Costentin to be excluded, by your Excellencys order, from the Benefit of Cloathing which is granted to the Commission and Warrant officers. This is such a Grievance, or at least is considered so, that I cannot avoid interceeding, most earnestly with your Excellency in their Behalf, and intreating that your orders may be given, on this Head, as soon as possible.
Another Thing, I cannot avoid requesting, because, I think the service will be much promoted by it, and without it, I know not what may be the Consequence. It is that Mr Schweighauser, may be ordered to Allow, a small sum of Money to officers and Men, at least to such as the Captain who I am sure is a prudent & frugal Man shall point out.
The Captains Parcimony in other Things will render this less difficult, and the Badness of the Pay, and the little Prospect of Prizes, considering the weak state of the ship in Men, render it an Act of Humanity, of Justice and indeed of Necessity. Many have families at home, and a little sum of Money well laid out here, in Articles of Cloathing, would be a vast Encouragement.
The Punctuality with which [word or words missing] as well as the Agent at Nantes and Brest, insist [word or words missing] explicit orders for every Thing, make it necessary, that I should request of your Excellency an order to Captain Landais, to give me a Passage in the ship, and to the Agent to furnish me with sea stores. They have all been very complaisant but I see they want, orders.
The Number of Men on Board the ship are not half enough to fight her. If the Prisoners should arrive from England I hope that Captain Landais will be permitted to recruit out of them. I like Captain Jones very well, but I cannot but hope that he will not have all those Men. Landais is very averse, to taking french or English sailors, for my own Part I wish he had an hundred of each, and We would find a Way to suppress Conspiracies.— But He is afraid of Complaints of Partiality to his Countrymen, and of the Treachery, of Britons.
I have the Honour to be sir, your most obedient humble servant
John Adams
His Excellency Dr Franklin

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur, Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire des / Etats Unis De L’Amerique / a Passy / Pres Paris—
Notation: John Adams Mar. 31. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Bannerman, 31 March 1779
From: Bannerman, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Most Honourable Sir.—
City of Roann March 31th. 1779—
I having the agreable happiness of being in your compeny several years ago in America although you may have forgoat me. I also knowed Governer Franklin in the jerseys. I having been a resedenter in that country, 16 years, being Obliged to Advertize to leve the countray for alittle time to go to britain to satle a Smal Estate belonging to a brother. I took a passige in a Vessel going to London and was taken, and brought in to havre de [grace] the judge of the Admiralaty detened all my clothing [word or words missing] velluable and has also destroyed lost, or mislead bonds [and obligations] to the Amount of Eight hundred pounds Sterling— I have petitioned the Lords of State On this Occesion but having permition granted me to go to England about my intended besiness before any Answre coud be given induces me to give your honnour the truble of this letter, On my way, Praying you to favour me with your Intrest on the Occesion. I am desird to take my passige to america by the way of Nantz and shall dou my selfe the honour of seeing you at paris in my way I have derected my petition to Monseignear De Sartine Ministre and Secretaire d Etat—deted the 17th of March. Your aditional favour in giving the inclosed letter a passige derected To His Excellency Patrick Henry Governer of Virgina will be ever acknowledged. Honourable Sir I am with due regard and Esteem your most Obedt. humble Servant—
Benjamin Bannerman

derect at Capt Robert Beadnall Parish of Shadwell No. 25 Dean Street London

Addressed: To / The Honourable Docter Franklin / Menester for the United States / of America In Paris
Notation: Benjamin Bannerman City of Roann 31. mars 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 1 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Passy April 1st. 1779
Commodore Gillon has shown me a Project for reducing the English Force in Georgia, by the Help of some Ships from hence. I am not sufficiently a Judge of Military Operations to speak positively of it. I can only say that in my Opinion the Advantage arising from its Success would be very great to the Common Cause; and that the extensive Confidence which appears by his Papers to be placed in Mr. Gillon by the Government of Carolina to whom he is well known, prejudice me much in favour of his Judgement and Abilities in planning such an Undertaking. I therefore beg leave to recommend it to your Excellencys Consideration; and am with the greatest Respect, Your Excellency’s, most obedient and most humble Servt.
(signed) B. Franklin.
His Ex. M. De Sartine.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Brault and ——— Demezandré, 1 April 1779
From: Brault, ——,Demezandré, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
A Saint Malo 1er. Avril 1779.
Travaillant depuis plusieurs années dans le commerce, jeunes & pleins d’Ambition, cherchant partout la liberté, nous resolûmes de passer dans les Etats unis pour y etablir une maison. Par le secours d’Amis & de Protecteurs que nous avons a Paris, nous armâmes deux navires considerables. L’un de nous eût alors l’honneur de se presenter devant vous & la satisfaction de recevoir vos avis sur son voyage; enfin, d’obtenir des Lettres de recommandation de Mr. Dean.
Nous partîmes, mais nous ne fumes pas entierrement heureux, un des navires fut pris par les Anglais a l’entrée de la baie de Chezapeack; nous arrivâmes a Charles-Town, in South Carolina, sur l’autre; mais le haut prix des Indigos & des Tabacs en ce port ne nous a pas permis de realiser ici, il y a eû de la perte. Nous etions repassés pour entreprendre une nouvelle affaire qui put nous dedommager, mais nous avons trouvé les interessés degoûtés & ne voulant pas armer dans le moment present.
Comme les Denrées de l’Amerique sont a valleur égale, beaucoup plus volumineuses que celles qu’on y porte de france nous ne pûmes rapporter que très petite partie de celles qui nous appartenaient en propre, & nous laissâmes le reste a Charles-Town. A la persuasion de MM Parker, Gervais, Thimothy & autres de nos amis, nous en plaçâmes une forte part sur le Trésor de la Caroline-meridionnalle. Mrs. Le Couteulx de Paris ont actuellemt. entre les mains deux contracts de vingt mille sept cens pounds, dont ils ne trouveront probablement la négociation qu’avec difficulté.
Cependant le placement de ces fonds, l’espérance de réüssir a etablir notre maison, exigeraient que nous repassassions au plustôt dans le continent, n’importe en quel endroit. Nous ne saurions le faire avec trop de sureté et c’est pour cela, Monseigneur, que nous nous addressons a vous pour vous demander passage sur la frégate L’Alliance, avec quelques effets necessaires a notre etablissement. Car il nous est impossible de faire un armement ni par nous qui n’avons pas eligé nos fonds, ni par nos amis qui ont été degoûtés par les pertes que le Commerce vient d’eprouver depuis quelque tems. M Lelandais qui est le Capne. de la fregate l’Alliance, est notre compatriotte, et il nous a promis son agrément si vous vouliez nous accorder notre demande.
Nous espèrons, Monseigneur, qu’animé du plus grand Zèle pour le bien de votre patrie et porté, par Carractère a la bienfaisance, vous ne refuserez pas deux jeunes gens qui vont y porter de l’industrie & des secours.
Nous ne vous ferons point fatiguer par la sollicitation des grands dont nous pourions eprouver la protection en ce moment. C’est a votre Philosophie a votre empressement a repandre les bienfaits que nous en appellons.
Nous sommes connus particullierement de Mr. Le marquis de la Royerie qui sert encore les Etats unis et de tout saint Malo; si vous voulez des informations Monseigneur, nous emploierons nos amis auprès de vous.
Nous sommes avec le plus profond respect Monseigneur De votre Excellence Les très humbles et très obeïssants serviteurs
DemezandréBrault

Notation: Demezandré & Brault St Malo 1 ap. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jan Ingenhousz, 1 April 1779
From: Ingenhousz, Jan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

April 1. 1779
a Franklin, que le volume des Trans. philos. contains two papers of mine. That another paper is read upon a new theory of gunpowder which I have imagined. That I desire that his nephew should send me what money he has in hand for that I think trade is too precarious in the present circumstances of time.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 1 April 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir
Nantes April 1. 1779.
I have recvd a Letter for Mr Moylan relative to the Bills payable to Mr Dennie, & therefore request you to make no opposition to the Payment of them.—
It is said that a Cartel with the american Prisoners on board is arrived in the River— I am not sure of it, but have no reason to doubt it.—
The american Gentlemen are almost all of them near their Departure— I hope your Order for the Settlement of my accot is on the Road.—

I hope the News from Paris to day about the Success of the French in the West Indies & of the americans in Georgia is true.
I am ever most dutifully & affectionately yours &c &
J Williams J
Dr Franklin

Notation: Jon. Williams ap 1. 79.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from D’Acosta frères, 3 April 1779 [i.e., 2]
From: D’Acosta Frères
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Paris 3 [i.e., 2] avril 1779./.
Nous prenons la liberté de vous remettre ci-joint un mémoire dont nous vous supplions de prendre lécture: Il a pour objet les fournitures que nous devions éxpedier pour l’Etat de Virginie, d’après les demandes qui nous avoient été faites par M. Lée, & qu’il n’a plus voulu recevoir lors qu’elles ont été prêtes. Nous désirons, Monsieur, que vous nous mettiez à même de donner aux états de nouvelles preuves de notre Zéle par l’envoy de marchandises de premiere qualité dont ils doivent avoir le plus grand besoin.
Nous sommes avec un profond respect, Monsieur, Vos trèshumbles & Très-obeissants Serviteurs
D’ ACOSTA FRERES


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 2 April 1779
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear friend
London April 2 1779
I writ you word in my last that the first hundred of the American prisoners were sailed, therefore I hope that business is in a fair way of getting forward— Peace you know is always my object. If any advice of mine may be influential I assure you it is not, nor ever will be wanting. I am just at this moment more anxious for the depending events than I can express. If the State of things in Europe shd plunge us all in to a general war, I know not when the end wd come. The misery & destruction wd be universal, and America itself might think the assistance of France dearly bought, if they are to have no settled peace, till a war originally beginning in America, & from American concerns, but afterwards becoming a general European war, shd come to its termination. I think that it is the object of all parties to stop the farther madness of war: But where shall we find sense enough to do it? I think it might be practicable nearly upon the grounds wch I have stated in some of my former letters to you. If any negotiation cd be opened by the intervention of any person or persons, in whom the respective parties cd have Confidence, that wd afford the best, and I shd hope, some probable foundation. Good faith & a national Confidence must lay that foundation. As to myself I can only say, that if that office shd ever be offered to me, consistently with those principles of Justice, and sound policy, (as I think them) wch have been and allways will be the rule of my conduct, I shall be ready to devote the utmost of my labours & attention, towards procuring for all parties a just, safe, honorable & permanent peace. Your affecte
DH
To Dr Franklin

Addressed: To Dr Franklin
Endorsed: M Hartley
Notation: April 2. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Lee, 2 April 1779
From: Lee, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
Paris Apl. 2. 1779.
I have recd. your favor of this days date in which you mention a complaint from the House of Penet Da Costa Freres & Co. that the Arms prepar’d in consequence of an agreemt. with me thro’ my Br. were refus’d because they were not furnish’d at the time agreed.—
This complaint on the face of it gives its own answr. since they confess that they did not comply with their agreemt.— Why they have thus offended Justice & good Faith they must answer.
That house sign’d an agreemt. the first of July 1778 to send over for the State of Virga. good fusils & a variety of other Articles in the following words— “Et pour plus prompte expedition les Sieurs Penet Da Costa Freres & Ce. s’engagent de les expedier, au plus tard, a la fin de Septembre au déffaut de quoi, ce que n’aura pas èté executé en sera regardé comme non avenu, et les susdits conditions de nul effet.”
Not an Article was ship’d agreeable to this engagemt. Some months after they said the Fusils were ready for shiping. The Governor of Virginia havg. expressly directed them to be insur’d & that from the delay which they had made, having then become impracticable from the general change in Circumstances, it was proposed to them to enter into a new engagement to send the goods on their own risk & be paid in proportion if they got safe. Their former breach of Agreemt. made it necessary to add a penalty on non compliance without which being express’d, it seems according to the Laws of this Country none can be recover’d.
This agreemt. they refus’d to enter into & therefore no farther notice was taken of them.
I have had too much experience on other occasions of the conduct of this house to waste a moments time in making any farther propositions relative to them, because I am sure it wou’d be only time lost, but perhaps Mr. Johnson who is on the spot may be more fortunate & may for the State of Maryland get those arms which they say they have provided for the State of Virga.
As this Company had engaged to ship these Articles my Brother did not enumerate them in what he applyed for to this Governmt.—Therefore I must request that you will apply to the Governmt. here for those of which I gave you a list two days ago & that you will as soon as possible let me know the issue of your application, that if they are obtain’d, I may loose no time in endeavoring to procure freight for them.
A Letter for me sent to Mr. Grands will be duely forwarded.
I have the Honor to be with the Highest Consideration Sir, Your most Obedt. and Most Humble Servt.
W: Lee
His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esq. Passy—

Notation: Wm Lee 2d Ap. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Antonio Francesco Salucci et fils, 2 April 1779
From: Salucci, Antonio Francesco, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My lord
Leghorn the 2th April 1779
By This Post, We have been honoured, with Your Excellency favours, dated under the 18th: Last. The containing of the Same has Confirmed Us, in the good hopes We have conceived, about our Expedition to America, which Sailed out of Cadiz on The 2th: March, with a Convoy for 200. Leigues of a French Fleet comanded by Sir Espinosa Together with 4. American, and 4. French Ships. If The said convoy, might reach as far as America, we had room, to be more Tranquil.
In The mean while, we Give to Your Excellency our most Sincere thanks, for The happy wishes, that Your goodness advances to Us for the good Success, of this undertaking; and We humbly beg Your Excellency in case of receiving any anticipate advice of the Arrival Theither of this tuscan Ship, to order one of your Secretarys to acquaint us with it. We beg also respectfully of you, to permit us, of Sending to America, Some Letters to our Captain, under the Pacquet of your Excellency, and for Such an Objet, we Took the Liberty to Send one, to Your Secretary by the Last Post, and we advance another in this which is for us equally Important.—
We are with all respect and Submission My lord Your most humble, obedt: and respectble servants
Antony Francis Salucci & SON

Notation: Ant. Frs. Salucci & Sons Leghorn 2. Ap. 79.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 3 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Passy April 3d. 1779.
I received the Letter you did me the honour to write to me of the 24th past. I am glad you have been at Brest, as your Presence there has contributed to expedite the Operations of Capt. Landais in Refitting his Ship. I think with you, that more has been made of the Conspiracy than was necessary; but that it would have been well if some of the most guilty could have received a proper punishment. As that was impracticable under our present Naval Code, I hope you will on your Return obtain an Amendment of it. I approve of cloathing the Midshipmen and petty Officers, agreable to their Request to you, and hope you have order’d it, without waiting to hear from me; and I now desire that whatever else you may judge for the good of the Service, our Funds and Circumstances consider’d, you would in my Behalf give Directions for; as the great Distance makes it inconvenient to send to me on every occasion; and I can confide in your Prudence, that you will allow no Expence that is unnecessary.
My Gout continued to disable me from walking longer than formerly; but on Tuesday the 23d past, I thought myself able to go through the Ceremony and accordingly went to Court, had my Audience of the King in the new Character, presented my Letter of Credence, and was received very graciously. After which I went the Rounds with the other Foreign Ministers, in visiting all the Royal Family. The Fatigue however was a little too much for my Feet, and disabled me for near another Week. Upon the whole I can assure you that I do not think the good Will of this Court to the good Cause of America, is at all diminish’d by the late little Reverses in the Fortune of War; and I hope Spain, who has now 49. Ships of the Line, and 31. Frigates ready for Service, will soon, by declaring, turn the Scale.
Remember me affectionately to Master Johnny, and believe me with great Esteem, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
Honble Jn. Adams Esqre—

Endorsed: Dr Franklin. Ap. 3d. 1779 Ans. Ap. 13. 1779


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee, 3 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Arthur

Sir
Passy, April 3. 1779
As I had no Knowledge of the Gentleman, & he said he had lived in Virginia, I referr’d him to you, imagining you might know something of his Character, and whether it would be proper to give him the Pass he desires. If upon conversing with him you apprehend it may be safely done, I would do it on your Recommendation: But as the Use of it is to be in America and not here, I imagine it would be as well for you to give it as me.— I have the honour to be with great Respect, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
Honble Arthur Lee Esqr

Notation: April 3d. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Lawrence Boyd, 3 April 1779
From: Boyd, Lawrence
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Most Worthy Sir/
Brest Road April 3rd. 1779 On Board the Sloop Kingston
I hope you will pardon the Freedom I take in addressing myself an entire Stranger to you, but I havg: had the Pleasure of seeing you in London & very well acquainted with your Universal Character & ever Distinguished Mark of Lenity & Compassionate Disposition towards the distressed & this being only on the Behalf of 3 Distress’d Captains & 2 others on Board the Patience Brigg here, whom since I havg: acquainted them of the Cartell for the American’s being settled, have applied to me for a Passage to England which I am ready to give them, as havg: large Families & entirely expended what Money they had with being confin’d for near these 12 Months. Therefore most certainly will find it a great Hardship in travelling to St: Maloes, whither I can assure you she is station’d from Plymouth, her Name is the Milford, Captn: Levitt, Mr: Nox Lieutenant on Behalf of Governmt: both of whom I am very well acquainted with & with whom I parted in the Downs which I acquainted the Prisoners with at Plymouth. I hope Sir you will take their Case into Consideration & favor me with an Order directed to Mr: Riou to whom I am ready to give any Discharge you think proper; I have already applied to Adams who informed me you were the only Person that had that Power in France. Therefore I made bold to address these few Lines to you; I shall esteem it a particular Favor of an Ansr: as soon as possible as I am in Expectation of sailing every Day as the Nobleman whom I had the Honor of conveying from England is expected here hourly therefore I hope Sir you will pardon the Haste of Sir Your most Obt: & Hble Servt:
Lawce: Boyd
1779

Addressed: The Honourable Benjn: Franklin—/ Minister Plenipotentary—of the / United States of America—/ at Passy / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 3[–13] April 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
3[–13]e. Avril 1779
Les Etats d’Hollande se sont séparés, pour se rassembler dans 15 jours ou 3 semaines. Il ne se passa rien mercredi, qu’une espece de protestation des quatre Nobles dévoués au St——: dernier soupir, qui ne fait que confirmer la défaite; car 1º. il n’étoit plus temps de protester, il falloit le faire au moment que la résolution passa; & 2º. le partage rend la démarche nulle; on ne peut protester à demi voix.
13e.
L’article ci-dessus ne valant pas la peine d’être envoyé seul, j’ai attendu de pouvoir vous marquer quelque chose de plus. Je sais depuis samedi, de très bonne part, que Sir J. Y. a présenté un Mémoire ici, dans lequel sa Cour déclare à la rep. que malgré les Convois elle fera saisir les Navires chargés de bois de construction. Comme cette menace vaut une déclaration de guerre, je ne doute pas qu’elle ne soit concertée avec certains personnages ici, pour que ceux-ci aient un prétexte de ne pas accorder de convoi.
J’ai vu ici Mr. De N——. Je vous réitere, Monsieur, que j’ai lieu de croire qu’il réussira dans ce que vous savez, pourvu que l’on ne s’impatiente pas & qu’on ne le presse pas. Ce qui est certain, c’est qu’il opere avec le secret requis, & de maniere à ne point commettre indiscretement & prostituer, comme on a fait, le crédit de l’Amérique. Une des causes qui pourront retarder encore quelque temps l’affaire, c’est l’Emprunt considérable que fait actuellement l’Impe. Reine.
Je suis, Monsieur, avec mon respectueux attachement connu, Votre très-humble & très obéissant serviteur,
D

P.S. S’il est vrai, comme le dit le Courier du Bas-Rhin, que la France veut faire stipuler au congrès de Tesschen, par un article séparé des Traités, que les Puissances Allemandes reconnoissent l’indépendance de l’Am—— unie, & que ces Puissances n’ont pas montré d’eloignement à cela; Mr. Lee pourroit avoir bientôt de la besogne dans son département: mais je crois toujours, qu’il ne faut hazarder une démarche de ce côtélà, que de concert avec le Ministere de France. Autrement on risque de perdre beaucoup de peine & d’argent pour un éclat vain & nuisible.
J’ai tiré le 10 de ce mois, à l’ordre de Mrs. J. De Neufville & Fils, une Lettre de change sur vous, Monsieur, de £2700 tournois, montant de 112½ Louis d’or, que vous m’allouez selon votre Lettre du 12 Mars dernier & selon nos anciennes conventions de 6 en 6 mois; Ceci étant pour les premiers 6 mois de cette année 1779.
Passy à Son Exc. Mr. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Ministre Plenipe. des Etats-Unis / de l’Amerique / à Passy./.
Notation: Dumas April 3d. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Vernon, Sr., 3 April 1779
From: Vernon, William, Sr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Boston 3d. April 1779
Permit me Sir. to duplicate my Letter of the 7th. Decr. last, by the Continental Frigate, Alliance Capt. Landais, who Sail’d from hence the 14th Jany. being appointed by the Honable Congress, to carry over the Marquis de la Fayette, who I hope you have long since had the Pleasure of seeing?
Inclosed is a second Letter from Govr. Greene. I made him a Visit, not long since, at his Seat at Warwick, where I had the pleasure of seeing, your Sister Mrs Mecom, in perfect health, gay as the Young Ladies, with whom she was incircled. The air, situation diet, and every thing that is agreeable, is to be found at Govr. Greenes Seat? Can you wonder Sir that old Age is renued & Health abounds, I began to feel my self at Twenty five, until disappointed upon mounting my Horse, perceived the want of a horse block.
The good Family wish to Eat hasty Pudding with you at Warwick?
I am with perfect esteem Your Excellency, Most devoted Hble Servt.
Wm Vernon
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Notation: Vernon Wm. 7 Xbre. 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Duc de la Rochefoucauld’s Secretary, 4 April 1779
From: Secretary of Louis-Alexandre, Duc de La Roche-Guyon et de La Rochefoucauld
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce 4 Avril [1779]
Monsieur Franklin est supplie de vouloir bien faire dire au secretaire de Mr. Le Duc de La Rochefoucauld ladresse de M. le Chevalier de Varaigne Officier d’Artillerie; il à une Lettre pour luy et ne sçai ou le trouver. Il supplie aussi Monsieur franklin de vouloir bien recevoir lassurance de son respectueux hommage.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / Ministre Plénipotentiaire / des Etats-Unis dAmerique / A Passi—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Longwell et al., 4 April 1779
From: Longwell, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond. Sir
Calais Prison April 4th. 1779
I Hope you will Excuse my freedom of troubling you with these few lines as I Have Been in this Prison Ever since the first day of January and have aplied to the Comissary here for to get me my Releasment but all in Vain my name is James Longwell an american was born in the Upper part of Merryland Joining Chester & newcastle County and did Belong to the Oliver Cromwell Privateer and fitted out a Phildelphia Captn. Carter Commanr. and was taken by the bever Sloop Captn. Jones in the West Indias and sent to England as a Prisioner but I Being Ill was sent to St. Thomas’s Hospital from which I Made my Escape and Hearing that There was a fleet of ships Going to America in the Victualing trade I Entered on board of the Amphitrite with a View of getting Home to my Native Country but unfortunately was Cast on the Calais Shore January the first and Ever since that time been in Prison. Honord. Sir I hope you will as it is in your Power alone to Procure me my Liberty and send me to my Native Country once more. Hond. Sir Likewise there is two more Americans besides my self there names are Jacob Good & Willm. Griffiths. Sir I Hope you will be so kind as to Send a answer as soon as possible and we will be in Duty bound and Ever Pray
James LongwellJacob Good.Willm. Griffiths

Addressed: To / Dr. Franklin / American Agent at / Paris / France


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis Tardy, 4 April 1779
From: Tardy, Louis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris 4 April 1779
Louis Tardy presents his respects to Mr Franklin begs the favour that he will be so obliging as to give him the address, in town, of the purser of the ship of war, the Alliance.
If you have any thing Bulky to send to Nantes I shall deliver it safe thither. I set out for that place in one day or two.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / a Passy
Notation: L. Tardy 4 avril 1779. Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 4 April 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir.—
Nantes April 4. 1779
This will be presented you by Mr Wilkinson the ingenious Director, and indeed the projector, of a very fine Foundery on this River.—
I am under particular obligations to this Gentleman for his Civility to me and many americans I have conducted to see his Works, the last was Mr Adams, who was much pleased at the Simplicity & Ingenuity of his Machinery.
I beg leave to reccommend him to you & shall esteem every Civility you may show him an obligation confered on me. The Wife of our respected Friend Dr Priestly is Sister to Mr Wilkinson.

I am most dutifully & respectfully Your affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams

Addressed: The Honourable / Doctor Franklin. / Passy
Notation: Jona Williams ap. 4. 1779—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Bondfield, 5 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bondfield, John

Sir
Passy April 5 1779
I received your favours of the 18 & 27 past and have honoured the Draft you mention.
Capt. Jones has not yet apply’d to me for the Cannon you are providing. If he is willing to give for them what they cost, I believe I shall consent to his having them. I will consider about those you tell me are to be sold at Ferrol: Do you know why they were not received for the King’s Use? I am glad to hear of the 60 Prisoners on Parole. There is no News here but what you will see in the Papers. I have the Honor to be &c
M. Bondfield.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Landais, 5 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Landais, Pierre

Sir
Passy April 5. 1779
I am glad to hear that you are at Length clear of your Mutineers; and that your Iron Work is repaired. I hope you will have a good Passage to Nantz.
The Bearer of this, Mr. Joseph Wharton, is a friend of mine, a Merchant of Philadelphia who is about to return thither. If you can conveniently accomodate him with a Passage in the Alliance, you will oblige me. I do not mean to propose that he should have his passage free. He does not desire it; but will make a proper Compensation. I recommend him to your Civilities & have the honor to be, Sir &c
Capt. Landais