Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François-Jérôme de Foligné-Deschalonges, [after 9 August 1777]
From: Foligné-Deschalonges, François-Jérôme de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[After August 9, 1777]
  Mr. De foligné Ancien Capitaine Du vaisseau Le Marquis de la Challotais, Le vraie ami des Ameriquains et des états unies, qui arrives presantement de saint Domaingue, est venû à 4. heures de L’apres Midÿ pour rendre cest respects et cest hommages à son Excellençe Monsier frankelin, et lui rendres quelques comptes rélativement aux Interets de l’amerique. Il aura l’honneur De Révenir demain matin à 9. heures pour lui remetres une Lettre de Mr. William, et le prier de lui accorder un Quart D’heure D’audiançe.


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 10 August 1777
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Sirs
Bordeaux 10th Aug 1777
Having a small Sloop call’d the Mongomery Robt. Willis master, that I propose to send back to America Arm’d, not having a Commission for her which I apprehend lays in your power to grant, I take the Liberty to make application to you for One. I propose her to mount Six four pounders to carry thirty Men and otherways properly equipt. I am not determin’d if I shall employ the same master back. It may therefore be nessessary to have the Masters name in blank or with leave to indorse any other on the back. The property is all American including my Interest which I also regard the same tho’ I am at present settled in this City. To all such Rules, Obligations or Securities you are pleased to enjoin agreable to the usages I shall duely comply with. I had the honor to pay my respects to you at my Arrival from Philadelphia under date the 13th May last. I have two Vessels that will sail from hence direct for the Continent of America in fifteen Days. They are intended to make any harbour betwixt Cape May and Cape Hattaras. Any Commands you may chuse to transmit by their channel shall be duely attended to. I am respectfully your honors Most Obedient Humble Servant
John Bondfield
Paris Honble. Benj Franklin. Silas Dean. & Ar Lee Esqrs.

Addressed: To / The Honble. Doct. Benj. Franklin / un des Deputés du Congrés / a / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-François-Clément Morand, 10 August 1777
From: Morand, Jean-François-Clément
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris ce 10 Aoust. 1777.
  Le Docteur Morand a examinè l’état, que lui a fait passer Monsieur le Docteur Franklin, des descriptions ou des parties de descriptions des arts et metiers, qu’il trouve de manque dans son envoy; il a mis a chaque la note servant de reponse; M. morand veut lui meme porter a Monsieur le Docteur Franklin le cahier de l’art d’exploiter les mines de charbon de terres, portè dans cet etat, et qui n’a pas etè ajoutè, par oubli, dans la liasse de la derniere partie de cet ouvrage.
Le Docteur Morand profite de cette occasion pour informer Monsieur le Docteur franklin qu’il travaille a une collection deja avancée, de portraits gravès des Scavans qui ont composès, ou qui composent actuellement l’academie des sciences; celui de M. le Docteur franklin doit y figurer, et le Docteur morand le suplie de vouloir bien contribuer lui meme a cette entreprise, en lui faisant passer son portrait gravè.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur le Docteur / franklin, de l’academie Royale / des Sciences. / a Passy.


Title: Samuel Nicholson to the American Commissioners, 11 August 1777
From: Nicholson, Samuel
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Honorable Gentlemen
Nantes 11th Augst. 1777
I am just Setting off for St. Mallo where Mr. Williams thinks I had better spend about 3 Weeks, in order to be out of the way and give time for our new ship to be built. I Shall have Capt. Tanner here to overlook as much as is needfull, or we dare appear in. He is an Experienced man in Ship building and A Compleat Draughts man. I shall send you the draught of the Ship, drawn by him when finished. I make not the least doubt but he will make A Good Officer. I have promised, and he has excepted, the Masters Birth. Capt. Wickes and my Self have promised Mr. Dillaway, who went out Master of the Dolphin to get him made Lieutenant the first Vacancy. Now Sir as he is A very deserving Young man, as any in the Service, and has been in the service the whole of the War; I hope You will think him Worthy and Send me A Commission for him, as I must have 3 Lieutenants to this ship, it makes A Vacancy for Capt. Tanner. I will be in want of Some blank Warrants at the same time, if You please. I have A prospect of getting more men than I expected if my ship was ready I cou’d nearly man her there is many Carolina Ships here. Some of their men run away from the Randolph. Cant take them up have no place to confine them in, when any of our Ships Arrive Can do it with proprietay. 3 of them have told me they left that Ship on Account of the sickness that was on board.
I have A Randavouse here for my people very private, they Vitual my Men for 30 sew per man per Day, which is cheaper than I cou’d Vitual them on board. I expect in the course of this Week to have 20 Men enter, six enter’d friday and Saturday, here is three or four Ships to Discharge their Men this Week on account of the high Wages at Carolina when they shiped which was 9 Guineas per month. I am Gentlemen Your Humble Servant.
Sam Nicholson

Addressed: To / The Honble Silas Dean Esq / A / Paris
Notation: Capt. Nicholson Augt 11th. 1777


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Bedout, 11 August 1777: résumé
From: Bedout, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Bordeaux, August 11, 1777, in English of sorts: I am a merchant captain, Canadian born, and have sailed in New England ships; my brother is in Washington’s army. I am therefore asking for a commission from Congress to cruise against the English tyrants. In expectation of it I have already bought here a Boston sloop, the Congress; her mate and some of her crew are American. She will be armed with twelve guns and loaded with war supplies, and I expect to sail late this month. So that I may destroy enemy ships on my way to New England, please send the commission in care of the Dutch commissary in this city.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis-Daniel Martin, 11 August 1777
From: Martin, Louis-Daniel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A La flotte Isle de ré le 11 aouest 1777
Comme Lieutenant du sinquaime Bataillon continental de La Caroline du Sud colonel Isaac huger, sous commandement du B: General Robet howe et en Vertu de sa permitions du 29 maÿ dernier je me suis enbarqué le meme jour sur le navire francois La Junon de la martinique capitaine ch. mare [?] du havre de grasse et mis en mer sullemant le 24 juin aÿant chaque jour decendu a terre.
Enpressé a remplir mon devoire autant qu’il et en moi j’ai l’honneur de vous informer monsieur de mon arivée depuis deux jours apres cinquante jours de traversée sans avoir fait aucune rencontre que trois vaisseau ferancois en croisier a travers l’isle dieu.
Mon colonel m’aÿant recomandé monsieur de vous instruire de mon voÿage qui a pour But le Traittement d’une phistule qui me fait Beaucoup souffrire je vai me resoudré a tout ce qui sera necessaire pour acceler mon retablisemant et celuÿ de mon retour pour lequel je sui chargé monsieur de recevoire les ordres que voüs auriéz a me donner. J’aurais donc l’avantage de vous prevenir du momant de ma convalaisance afin de me conformer a ce qu’il vous plaira de me presecrire.
Monsieur Le presidant Rodelet m’a aussÿ prescrit monsieur d’avoire l’honneur de vous ecrire et m’a chargé d’etre a vos ordre pour les cas ou Vous jugeriées avoirs bisoin de moi.
Etant ici dant le Sin de ma famille j’espere que mon Retablissemant ne peut qu’ên etre d’autant plus prompt et etre Libre de me rendre sous Les drapeaux du Congré et a vos ordre monsieur. Je sui avec Respec Monsieur Votre Tres humble et Tres obeisant serviteur
Lieutenant Martindu 5quaime Batallion Sud Carolina

Addressed: A son Excellence / Monsieur Le Docteur / franklein / à Paris
Notation: Martin 11. Aout 1777.


Title: The American Commissioners to Vergennes, 12 August 1777
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

After Wickes’s squadron was sequestered on July 15 and Conyngham sailed from Dunkirk two days later, the commissioners’ relations with Versailles might have been expected to improve. Instead they grew worse, largely because Conyngham disobeyed his orders and took prizes. When one was recaptured, and most of the prize crew turned out to be French, the British suspected official collusion by Sartine. On August 5 Stormont protested. Vergennes laid the blame on the Americans at Dunkirk, and ordered the arrest of William Hodge as their principal instrument. On the 11th Hodge was found in Paris and thrown into the Bastille.

Sir,
Versailles, Aug. 12. 1777.
We understand with great surprize that one of our Countrymen, Mr. Hodge, a Merchant of Philadelphia, is apprehended at Paris with all his Papers, and carried away by Officers of the Police.
As Mr. Hodge is a Person of Character, connected with the best Houses in our Country, and employed here by a Committee of the Congress for the purchase of Merchandise we cannot conceive him capable of any wilful Offence against the Laws of this Nation: and our personal Regard for him, as well as the Duty of our Station, obliges us to interest ourselves in his Behalf, and to request, as we do most earnestly, that he may be immediately restored to us. We have the honour to be, with the greatest Respect, your Excellency’s most Obedient and most humble Servants.
B FranklinSilas DeaneArthur Lee
His Excy. the Count de Vergennes


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles Carroll, 12 August 1777
From: Carroll, Charles
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
Douhoragen Anne Arundel County12th. August 1777.
I lately received a letter from Mr. Carmichael, to which the inclosed is an answer; his letter was without date, nor could I certainly gather from any circumstances contained in it, the place of his residence. As the business in which he is engaged may occasion him to shift frequently his abode, I request the favor of you to forward to him the inclosed letter, or to deliver it, should he be in Paris. I left the letter open for your perusal, as it relates principally to public concerns: when you have read it, please to seal it. No doubt the Secret Committee will give you a full and true account of the present situation of our affairs, and of our wants; they may not, perhaps, enter into the causes of our miscarriages on lake Champlain: the loss of the posts of Tionderoga and mount Independance, and of our stores must be imputed to the dilatoriness of the new England States in not sending sufficient forces to defend the lines: to an unhappy difference between Generals Schuyler and Gates, the foundation of which was laid before you left Congress, and lastly to the improvidence of Congress in not giving positive orders for evacuating those posts, and the removal of the stores before the arrival of the enemy at Crown point. The campaign hitherto has been inactive: Gen. Howe must have been [more] weakned than we imagined, or must have wanted some essentials, otherwise his remaining cooped up at Brunswick all the spring must appear to every military man a strange piece of conduct: the temperature of the weather at that season, and the weakness of G. Washington’s army were strong incentitives, one would think, to action: it is their interest to be active and enterprising in order to finish the war with the utmost expedition; it is ours to procrastinate and avoid a general battle. Perhaps the Enemy mean to worry us into slavery by a lingering and expensive war, and despair of succeeding by open force, viribus et lacertis. The Enemy will probably direct their whole force this fall against the State of New York with a view to reduce it entirely, and thus open a communication with Canada, and render difficult and hazardous the communication between the eastern and middle States: whether they will succeed in this plan, time must discover; the chances, I think, are against them, if the eastern and middle States exert themselves, and as their own preservation depends on speedy and vigorous exertions, we may hope the Enemy will be baffled in their attempt. I flatter myself, our struggles for Independence will in the end be crowned with success, but we must suffer much in the mean time, and unless we continue to receive powerful assistance in arms, ammunition, and cloathing and other warlike stores, and supplies of cash, or a credit in Europe equivalent thereto, we must sink under the efforts of a rich and inveterate Enemy, mistress of the Ocean, and determined, it seems, to run every hazard in subduing these States to unconditional submission. My greatest apprehensions arise from the depreciation of our paper money. If we emit more bills of credit, they will fall to nothing; we cannot tax to the amount of the charges of the war, and of our civil establishments; we must then raise money by lotteries, and by borrowing; but the adventurers in lotteries will be few, and the monied men will not part with their money without a prospect of having their interest paid punctually and in some thing that deserves the name of money and will serve the uses of it. If the annual interest of the sums borrowed could be paid in gold and sylver, it would be a great inducement to monied men to lend their money to Congress; where one pound is now lent, forty pounds would then be lent. If bills of Exchange drawn by Congress on some house in France would be accepted to a certain amount, considerable sums proportionable to the obtained credit might be speedily raised by the sale of such bills, particularly if advantage were taken by the Public of the Exchange. But of these matters I shall say no more, as the secret Committee will certainly write fully on the subject, and in a more masterly manner than I am capable of. I hope you continue to enjoy your health and that flow of spirits, which contributed to make the jaunt to Canada so agreeable to your fellow travellers: Mr. John Carroll and Chase are both well; the latter is now at Congress, and has been so fully and constantly employed, that I believe he has not had leisure to refute your reasons in favor of the old ladies. I often think of you and wish for your company; this I own is selfish as it would be depriving you of those pleasures which you enjoy in the company and conversation of the litterati in Paris, and these States of your abilities and those services you have rendered, and may render them in your present station: if the important occupations of it will permit, I shall be extreamly glad to hear from you: I wish you health, a long continuance of it, and success in your negotiations, and remain Dear Sir, your most obedient humble Servant
Ch. Carroll of Carrollton

P.S. In reading over my letter I find I have omitted some things, which you may be desirous to know; probably you will be informed of them by others, but lest you should not, I shall mention such as I think will be most interesting; indeed to a person 3000 miles off the most trifling circumstances are interesting. We have not yet confederated, but almost every member of Congress is anxious for a Confederacy, being sensible, that a Confederacy formed on a rational plan will certainly add much weight and consequence to the united States, collectively and give great security to each individually, and a credit also to our paper money: but I despair of a such a confederacy, as ought, and would take place, if little and partial interests could be laid aside: very few, and immaterial, alterations will be made in the report of the Committee of the whole house; this is only my opinion, for we have made but very little progress in the house in that important affair; immediate and more pressing exigencies having from time to time postponed the consideration of it to this day, when, I am informed, it is to be again resumed. If this war should be of any considerable duration, we shall want men to recruit our armies: could we engage 5 or 6 thousand men, Germans, Swiss, or the irish Brigade? I have mentioned this matter to several members of Congress, but they did not seem to relish the introduction of foreign mercenaries; I own it ought to be avoided, if possible. Handycraftsmen would be very serviceable to us, such as black Smiths, nailors, Shoemakers, weavers and persons skilled in the management of Hemp and flax. One of the greatest distresses we have yet felt, is the want of salt: but, I hope, we shall not be in so great want of that essential article for the future, as we have been: a bushel of salt some months ago was sold at Baltimore Town for £9. Necessity is said to be the mother of Invention, it surely is of industry among a civilized People. Many private persons on our sea coasts and Bays are now making salt to supply themselves and neighbours; these private, and the public salt works together will in a few months, I hope, yield a tolerable supply to our People and at pretty reasonable rates compared with those which have obtained for some time past: perhaps the private Saltmakers may afford to sell salt at 30s. per bushel; the undertakers of the public salt works in this State are under contract to sell what salt they make at 5s. We are casting salt pans: but they cost £100 per Ton, and are subject to crack: when our plating mills get in full work, it will be better to make the pans of plate iron, altho’ they will come considerably higher: a large importation at this time from Europe of salt pans would be very serviceable: they would sell high. The necessaries of life, except wheat and flour, are risen to an amasing nominal price, owing to an encreased demand, and great depreciation of our currencies: wheat sells at 6.6 in this part of the country; the market for flour is very dull at present: the price of live stock of all kinds is prodigiously advanced; a cow, for instance, which a year ago would have sold for £6 only, would now sell for £18, or 20: cloths, linnens and woollens, are excessive high; I have a coat on, the cloth of which is not worth more than 10s. a yard and would not have cost more 18 months ago, which lately cost me £4.10.0 a yard. Rye sells as high as 10s. per bushel; the distillers give that price to distill it into whisky; stills are set up in every corner of the country; I fear they will have a pernicious effect on the morals and health of our people. The months of June and July were pleasant and seasonable; the spring was very cold and dry with late frosts: we had a frost here the 28th. May which destroyed our european grape vines and apples: the crops of flax throughout this State are bad: the crops of wheat and rye in general good. The 1st. instant the weather set in very hot, and has continued so ever since; yesterday was the hottest day I ever felt; this is almost as bad. I have not a Thermometer or I would let you know the exact degree of heat. This postscript is longer than my letter; excuse the length of both, and believe me to be, Dear Sir, Your affectionate humble Servant
Ch. Carroll of Carrollton

Addressed: To / Doctor Benjamin Franklin / Paris
Notation: Cha Carrol 12th. August. 1777.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr.: Two Letters, 12 August 1777
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
Dear and honored Sir.
Nantes Augt 12. 1777.
In one of my Letters some time since I mentioned that an application had been made to me in behalf of Monsr. De Kerguelin to fit out a vessell of war in the Service of the united States, for which he wants in the first Place a Commission from the Congress, and such pecuniary assistance as you may think proper to give; if you do not choose to advance anything, he will do it at his own Expence; I gave you previous notice because as in the Memoire the Count D’Estain was quoted, I supposed you might gain some Information on the Subject. The Memoire is given me again today, with particular Desire to forward it to you, and as I think it my Duty to do everything that may tend to the Increase of our Marine and to distress our Enemies, I have given a Letter which will be delivered you by the Baron de Gessé, who will open the whole plan and you will judge by that and the Reccommendations of the Count D Estain and monsieur D Boyne late minister of the marine of France (as says the Memoire) how far it deserves your attention. For my own part I do not undertake to reccommend what does not belong to my present Department, only think, that if good to ourselves and injury to our Enemies can be procured with only the trouble of granting a Commission, the advantage may be considerable, the disadvantage can’t be much. I am ever most dutifully and affectionately Yours
J Williams.

I recd your Favr of the 26 July by a Sailor, I will try to settle the Business between Capt Wickes & these men without giving you any farther Trouble.
Are we to have the pleasure of seeing you here?

Addressed: a monsieur / Monsieur Franklin LLD / a Passy / prés / Paris.

II.
Dear and Honored Sir.
Nantes Augt. 12. 1777.
This will be presented to you by the Baron de Gessé who will explain to you the plan which Mr. De Kerguelin intends to pursue if he can obtain your Countenance and approbation. I inclose to you by this Days post the Memoire which contains the proposals and beg leave to refer you to it for particulars. I am ever with the greatest Respect most dutifully and affectionately Yours &c.
J Williams J

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin LLD / chez Monsieur De Chaumont / a Passy / prés / Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Jefferson, 13 August 1777
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honorable Sir
Virginia Aug. 13. 1777
The bearer hereof Mr. Thomas Shores is a native of Virginia and having lately, in conjunction with some others established a partnership for the purpose of carrying on a trade to Europe, he comes to France on behalf of his house to establish a proper mercantile correspondence. I am less acquainted with him than his partners whom I know to be able, punctual, and of great genius for trade; and their appointment of him to transact for the house, I consider as a certificate of his character. During the unknown footing on which an American may stand in Europe at present I thought it proper at his desire, to make him known to you, hoping that you would be so kind as to extend your good offices and protection to him should he need them during his stay.
I forbear to write you news, as, the time of Mr. Shore’s departure being incertain, it might be old before you receive it, and he can in person possess you of all we have. With respect to the state of Virginia in particular, the people seem to have deposited the monarchical and taken up the republican government with as much ease as would have attended their throwing off an old and putting on a new suit of clothes. Not a single throe has attended this important transformation. A half dozen aristocratical gentlemen, agonizing under the loss of preeminence have sometimes ventured their sarcasms on our political metamorphosis. They have been thought fitter objects for pity than punishment. We are at present in the compleat and quiet exercise of well organized government, save only that our courts of justice do not open till the fall. I think nothing can bring the security of our continent and it’s cause into danger, if we can support the credit of our paper. To do that, I apprehend one of two steps must be taken. Either to procure free trade by alliance with some naval power able to protect it: or, if we find there is no prospect of that, to shut our ports totally to all the world, and turn our labourers into manufacturers. The former would be most eligible, because more conformable to the habits and wishes of our people. Were the British court to return to their senses in time to seise the little advantage which still remains within their reach from this quarter, I judge that on acknoleging our absolute independance and sovereignty, a commercial treaty, beneficial to them, and perhaps even a league of mutual offence and defence might be approved by our people, not seeing the extent or consequences of such an engagement, if nothing in the meantime done on your part should prevent it. But they will continue to grasp at their desperate sovereignty, till every benefit short of that is for ever put out of their reach.
I wish my domestic si[tuation had rendered it possible for me to have joined] you in the very honorable [charge confided to you. Residence in a polite court,] society with literati of the [first order, a just cause, and approving god will] add length to a life for whi[ch all men pray and none more than your most obedient and humble servant].

Addressed: To / Doctor Benjamin Franklin / at / Paris.
Endorsed: Jefferson Thos. Augt. 13. 1777.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 14 August 1777
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
De mon Désert 14e. Août 1777
La Lettre de Mr. Carmichael, du 25e. Juillet, est la derniere faveur que j’aie eu le plaisir de recevoir de votre part Messieurs. J’ai eu celui de lui écrire depuis; mais j’étois si pressé, que je n’ai pu garder copie de ma Lettre, et j’ai même oublié d’en noter la date. Tout ce qui m’en est resté dans l’esprit, c’est que j’y ai parlé au long de l’anecdote de La haie touchant Messieurs Adams, et que j’ai demandé une courte notice concernant leurs personnes, naissance et demeure; afin de pouvoir confondre l’imposture en temps et lieux propres.
J’avois écrit au Facteur le 2e. Août une Lettre assez intéressante, où je lui disois entre autres ma nouvelle conjecture sur l’anecdote de Flessingue, savoir, que l’on voudroit peutêtre y préparer une sédition (pareille à celle qui commença dans le même lieu en 1747, et gagna de là toutes nos provinces) pour obliger ces Etats à prendre parti pour l’Angleterre, en cas d’une rupture entre l’Angleterre et la France. Je l’avois aussi averti, qu’à la dernière fête qu’il avoit donnée, un certain Chevalier y avoit été si distrait et si décontenancé qu’on en avoit été frappé. Je lui avois appris, que j’avois si bien profité du voyage que j’ai fait avec l’Epouse de Mr. Van Berkel, Premier Conseiller Pensionnaire de la ville d’Amsterdam, que j’étois sûr d’être bien reçu de son mari quand je pourrois aller à Amsterdam. Enfin je lui avois envoyé copie de la Lettre de Mr. Carmichael.
Il me fit écrire le 7e. Août le billet suivant: “On a reçu la derniere Lettre de Mr. D―, et on lui fait mille complimens”. Ce billet fut suivi d’un autre du 8e. “Mr. D― est instamment prié de vouloir bien se rendre à Amsterdam demain Samedi au soir, ou dimanche matin, toute affaire cessante. Il s’adressera aux Armes d’Amsterdam.”
Il me fut un peu difficile de me dépêtrer d’ici, ou depuis quelque temps on me chicane beaucoup. Je partis cependant. A mon arrivée, je ne pus voir le Facteur, qui, étant incommodé, s’étoit couché. Le dimanche matin, étant admis, il me pria de commencer incessamment à me lier avec le Pensionnaire et de l’avertir en confidence, comme de moi-même, que je savois de bonne part que le Ministere Anglois minutoit un projet d’alliance avec la Russie et le Roi de P―, dans lequel on tâcheroit de faire entrer cette république, sous prétexte que, vu l’Alliance de la M― de B― avec l’Empereur, non seulement l’équilibre étoit détruit, mais l’avantage et la sûreté, qui résultoient pour la république du Traité de Barriere, rendus précaires et même nuls, et la république constituée dans un danger manifeste: que le voyage en Hollande du Comte de Weldern, l’Envoyé de la rép[ublique] à la Cour de Londres, à laquelle il est tout dévoué, paroissoit avoir cette négociation pour objet.” Je passai tout de suite chez le Pensionnaire, qui prévenu déjà par les ouvertures que j’avois faites à Madame son Epouse, lorsque je me fis annoncer à cette Dame pour qu’elle me présentât me reçut lui-même sans cérémonie, et fort amicalement. Nous eumes une longue conférence ensemble, dans laquelle je lui découvris la relation où j’avois l’honneur d’être avec le Congrès. Je lui produisis les deux Commissions que j’en avois reçues dans les deux dernieres années, et je lui montrai de chacun de vous, Messieurs, une de vos dernieres Lettres, afin qu’il puût voir jusqu’à quel point j’avois l’honneur d’être initié dans les affaires et dans la correspondance des Etats confédérés. Enfin, en vertu de tout ce qu’il venoit de voir, je lui demandai au nom du Congrès, l’amitié de la Ville d’Amsterdam et ses bons offices, pour coopérer, avec les autres Régens bien intentionnés, à la cimenter et consolider, et notamment pour s’opposer à toute démarche contraire, dans laquelle on voudroit engager la république. Il me promit tout ce qui dæpendroit en cela de lui, et des bons patriotes (dont il est le coryphée), avec une abondance de coeur digne d’un ancien Batave, et de me présenter aux Bourguemaîtres du parti, quand je pourrois revenir et séjourner assez pour cet effet à Amsterdam; qu’on seroit même bien aise qu’il y eût d’abord un Agent secret de la part de l’Amérique unie dans le pays, avec qui l’on pût conférer dans l’occasion, et se faire parvenir réciproquement les intelligences utiles que les occurrences pourroient offrir, en attendant que les affaires eussent acquis une maturité, qui permît plus de publicité; que dans l’intervalle, trop d’éclat feroit plus de mal que de bien; que la plupart de ceux qui pensoient bien, ne laissoient pas d’être encore un peu trop timides et circonspects; et que c’etoit dans cet esprit que, consulté ci-devant sur le voyage en ce pays de Mr. le Dr. Franklin, il avoit conseillé de le différer; enfin il me dit aussi, que lorsqu’on délibéra sur la réponse qu’on feroit au sujet de la lettre de Messieurs Franklin et Deane à Mr. de Berkenrode, il avoit parlé haut au Grand-Pensionaire, l’avertissant de prendre garde à ce que cette réponse fût telle, qu’elle ne portât aucun préjudice à la tranquillité et aux vrais intérêts de cet Etat et de son Commerce; car qu’il prendroit cette réponse en note pour l’en rendre responsable en temps et lieux, si ces intérêts en souffroient. Je lui donnai alors l’avis ci-dessus, de la maniere concertée avec le Facteur. Il me remercia, et me dit que cela lui étoit aussi revenu d’un autre côté; que quant à Mr. Weldern, s’il étoit chargé d’une commission pareille, ce qui ne le surprendroit pas, il n’en avoit au moins rien transpiræe, et encore moins en avoit-il été question jusqu’ici dans l’Assemblée générale, ni provinciale; mais que si quelque chose de tel s’y proposoit, Amsterdam certainement n’y consentiroit pas. Lorsque je voulus prendre congé de lui, il me pria de revenir dîner. J’acceptai avec plaisir. Nous bumes au bon succès des armes Américaines; ce fut lui qui débuta par ce toast; nous associames dans les autres la prospérité des Provinces de l’un et de l’autre côté de l’Atlantique, d’Amsterdam et de vos bonnes cités, du Congrès et du Magistrat d’Amsterdam, de Papa Franklin et de Papa Temmink (qui est Bourguemaitre d’Amst[erdam]) de Mr. Deane et de Mr. le Pensionaire Van Berkel. Il me fit promettre de lui communiquer des Extraits de ce qui me parviendroit de votre coté, Messieurs, et du côté de l’Amérique; et nous nous séparames contents l’un de l’autre. Je rendis compte au Facteur de tout ce qui s’étoit passé: il en fut extrêmement satisfait, et me pria fort de lui communiquer tout ce que je pourrai savoir ou découvrir.
Je vous dirai à présent, Messieurs, mon sentiment. Je n’ai jamais douté d’une guerre prochaine en Europe: Mais il s’agit de savoir qui la commencera. Voilà la vraie clé des lenteurs et des irrésolutions apparentes dont les Lettres de mon cher Ami, Mr. Carmichael, m’ont tant fait de plaintes. Mr. Carmichael me dit dans sa derniere, que l’Angleterre sera l’agresseur. Tant mieux: voilà ce que la F[rance] cherche; j’en suis plus sûr que jamais; et sa grande raison, c’est d’empêcher que cette République ne soit obligée, selon la teneur des Traités, de secourir l’Angleterre. Cette République, si vous voulez, a ses côtés foibles; elle n’est plus, ce qu’elle fut jadis, en état de faire la loi aux Monarques; L’Etat est chargé d’une énorme dette, le peuple accablé d’impôts, sa Flotte médiocre, et délabrée; le coeur de la Cour, et des rentiers créanciers de l’Angleterre, est dévoué à cette puissance, tremble pour elle, et se croit perdu avec elle. Mais la masse de la nation n’est plus enthousiasmée, comme autrefois, de la Cour; elle est indifférente sur ce que peuvent perdre quelques rentiers, et tout-à -fait aliénée des Anglois, qu’elle hait: il y a beaucoup de richesses en détail entre les mains des particuliers; ils sont embarrassés pour les placer: l’Etat a sur pied une bonne Armé, bien disciplinée, de 30 à 40.000 hommes effectifs, qu’on pourroit facilement et considérablement augmenter; les fonds publics au-dessus du pair de beaucoup, et par conséquent, le crédit public très grand. Il est donc certain, surtout quant au crédit, au nervus rerum gerendarum, que l’Alliance de cette République seroit capable de rendre à la Grande Bret[agne] toute la supériorité qu’il lui faudroit pour se promettre le succès d’une guerre en Europe; et qu’au contraire sa neutralité, si l’on peut lui aider à la conserver, achevera la ruine de l’énorme puissance de l’Angleterre en Europe, que vous avez déjà si bien ébranlée en Amérique. Voilà , Messieurs, pourquoi la F[rance] ménage et courtise cet Etat d’une maniere qui frappe tout le monde; et en cela elle a, comme vous voyez, la plus grande raison. Quelque estime personnelle qu’on ait pour les Seigneurs de l’opposition en Angleterre, on se moque de ce que, dans leurs derniers discours au Parlement, ils étoient d’avis de déclarer la guerre à la France. On dit tout haut, que cette démarche couronneroit toutes les folies que le Gouvernement Br[itannique] a faites depuis la derniere paix; et que la seule mesure sage qui lui reste, pour se sauver, c’est de se réconcilier avec vous, sur le plan le plus généreux de sa part et le plus de votre goût, de chasser ses Ministres actuels, réformer son Parlement, et préférer la paix à toute prétention de supériorité. Quant aux Américains, toute personne sensée, et non préoccupée, voit, juge et décide, que si la guerre continue comme elle a fait jusqu’ici, si vous ne vous rebutez pas, si vous persistez dans cette étroite union qu’on admire, elle ne peut que finir à votre avantage, et au désavantage de la Gr. Br., et que, de gré ou de force, vous resterez libres et indépendants. A cela je dis de tout mon coeur Amen.
Un mot encore du Pensionnaire. Vous comprenez, Messieurs, qu’il donnera connoissance de ma conférence avec lui à ceux des Bourguemaîtres et autres Magistrats d’Amsterdam, qui pensent comme lui, en attendant qu’il puisse m’introduire chez eux. Il ne dépend à présent plus que de vous que cette liaison devienne de plus en plus interessante et utile, non seulement directement mais aussi, et surtout dans la conjoncture présente, indirectement en servant la F[rance]; ce qui est la même chose que de vous servir vous-mêmes.
J’ai enfin réponse au sujet de Flessingue. On écrit de Middelbourg, que c’étoit au commencement de cette année qu’on avoit acheté quelques maisons à Flessingue pour le compte de quelques Marchands de Dunkerque, afin de pouvoir, en cas de rupture entre la France et l’Angl[eterr]e, se retirer là avec leurs effets, et continuer leurs affaires avec les Anglois. Cependant mes amis d’Amsterdam ont encore écrit à Middelbourg, pour qu’on s’informe des noms des achetteurs, parce qu’il se pourroit fort bien, qu’au fond tout cela ne fut que masqué.
Le Courier du Bas Rhin, si assidu ci-devant à m’écrire, garde maintenant un profond silence avec moi. Il continue cependant de m’envoyer sa Gazette pour le Congrès, et d’insérer ce que je lui envoye de temps en temps, comme vous pouvez voir dans le No. 64 page 511 et 512; comme on s’étoit beaucoup plaint dans ce pays de la perte des Lettres du paquebot, j’ai pensé qu’il étoit bon d’apprendre au public comment ces Lettres ont péri. J’avois entendu dire en très grande compagnie, que monsr. de Berkenrode avoit écrit dans ses nouvelles, que vous montriez, Messieurs, ces Lettres des particuliers à qui vouloit en voir, et que vous en faisiez des sujets de plaisanteries: ainsi j’ai été charmé que Mr. Carmichael m’ait mis en état de détromper le public. Mais Manson brode toujours, un peu trop à mon gré, ce que je lui envoie. Ma Lettre à lui étoit moins longue et plus simple. Quant à son silence, je ne doute pas qu’il ne soit forcé; et je le lui ai dit dans ma derniere.
J’envoie aujourdhui un paquet en Amérique.
Encore une fois, Messieurs, il est temps de travailler et intriguer à Amsterdam. Je ne suis pas seul de cet avis: le Facteur l’est très fort, le desire, et me l’a si souvent dit, que ce seroit pêcher par un excès, peut-être nuisible, de discrétion, si je ne vous en avertissois. Vos ennemis intriguent de leur côté, depuis longtemps, et beaucoup. Je suis prêt à quitter pour toujours mes fonctions présentes, pour ne m’occuper entierement que de vos intérêts ici, dès que vous m’en aurez donné l’approbation et l’ordre. Je suis, avec tous les sentimens de respect et d’attachement que vous me connoissez, Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
D

J’embrasse bien cordialement Messieurs Deane et Carmichael. Je laisse le premier en compagnie de ma Moitié, qui a voulu absolument lui écrire: et ma premiere Lettre s’adressera au second.
Paris à Mr. le Dr Franklin

Addressed: Monsieur / Monsieur le Docteur Franklin / Paris.
Notation: Dumas. 14 Aout 1777.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Rudolph Erich Raspe, 14 August 1777
From: Raspe, Rudolph Erich
To: Franklin, Benjamin

  Sir
London. Aug. 14. 1777. At Meadens circulating LibraryMargaret Street Cavendish Square.
I have attempted to keep me in Your Kind remembrance by a Letter from Germany sent to London and dated Apr. 18. 1775 and by several others, directed from this place to Philadelphia under Aug. 31. 1775. and under March. 1. and 4. of last year.
With these last I took the liberty to present You a copy of one of my last literary productions, to which I added some accounts of my misfortune in Germany, and the undeserved ill use I have met in this Kingdom from people, whom I should have thought it a disgrace to myself to suspect of their dull, servile, and despicable meanness. I am sorry Sir! to say, that Your and my former friend Sir John Pringle stands foremost amongst them, some people are of opinion with true Scotch leaden and brazen head and heart, but I am rather inclined to think that he brought that disgrace upon himself in a fit of his crazy drowsiness.

I do not know whether the above letters are come to Your hands. Give me leave therefore to desire You the favour of a line, whether I have leave to wait on You at Paris? and whether my coming over can in any means procure to Your benevolent heart an opportunity of rescueing me from that ruin, which Knaves have attempted to bring upon me? I Strugle against it with manly coolness and audaces fortuna juvabit.
It is very material and will prove a great satisfaction to me, to give You some authenticated nearer account of that cruel German Court, which has sacrificed me, and of those Philosophers, who in spite of their antiquated Motto: Nullius in verba but in consequense of those degenerated illiberal times by superior cruel command could debase themselves to the villainous part of mastifs, let loose upon a defenceless injured man, to bite―when lo! they can but mumble and disgrace themselves. I heartily despise them as a body of Slaves, and muster up what Philosophy I can, to put theirs to the blush. A copy of my late english edition of Born’s mineralogical letters, and especially my Preface and Index to them, which will be delivered with these lines, will prove You that I am not entirely lost to myself, or absorbed in the Sense of undeserved unhappiness; and I desire You to receive them as the least mark of that true and warm regard, wherewith I wish You Success and have the honour to be Sir Your most obedient humble Servant
R E Raspe

P.S. The bearer of this Mr. Whitchurch an ingenious Mapengraver, and of an excellent character, wishes and aspires to be introduced to Your personal acquaintance and notice.

Notation: Raspe


Title: Lambert Wickes to the American Commissioners, 15 August 1777
From: Wickes, Lambert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen,
St. Malo 15th. August 1777.
This will be delivered by my very good Friend Mr. Beaugear, who has been very kind in rendering me every Service in his power since his Arrival, as I have recommended his House here in a former letter have but little to add on that Subject, they Continue to do every thing in their power to Assist me and makes my detention as Agreeable as possible. As their influence here is very Considerable, they have been of Great Service to me, in procuring permission for us to proceed in Arming and fitting as fast as possible, which is now happily Compleatly and I have been Waiting Some time for your Orders. I beg leave to recommend Mr. Beaugear’s son, who Attends his father to Paris as a Very discreat Young Gentleman and has been very Active in Serving me here. Capt. Nicholson is Just returned from Nantes and informs me, he has a Very fine Ship purchased for him at Nantes. As he will want a Marine Officer I take this Opportunity to recommend my Lieut. Marrines as a Very proper person for Captain of Marines for Capt. Nicholson, As I think him entitled to perferment in prefference to any other person, as he has been in the Service from the Commencement of the reprisal’s being Armed and behaved himself Very Well. I have recommended him at the Joint request of Captain Nicholson and himself and if it is Agreeable you will furnish Capt. Nicholson with a Commission for him. In a former letter have ask’d your Sentiments on my present situation. As they have not been received, now beg the favour of them by the first Conveyance, as I think them highly Neccessary and esential in order to regulate my conduct and proceedings here, as Some New Demand is made Almost every day derogatory to our honour As free and Independant States, which Cannot be reasonable complied with on my Part, unless ordered by You, who are the best Judges of the Matter. I beg you will inform how far you think I may be justifyable in Complying with the orders of Administration for my Governance and thereby enable me to Justify my proceedings to my Superiors, when Call’d on So to do. I remain, Gentlemen, with the Utmost Respect Your most Obedient Humble Servant
Lambt. Wickes

Addressed: To / the Honble. Dr. Benja. Franklin / at / Paris. / per favour of / Mr. Beaugear
Notation: Capt Weeks St Malo’s 15 Augst 77


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Gardoqui & Sons], 16 August 1777
From: Gardoqui & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honoured Sir
Bilbao the 16th Augt. 1777.
Our last salutations waitted on you the 9th. ultimo with a memorandum of goods shipt on the Schooner Neptune and also with advice of her, as well as of the Success’s departure hence, to which are sorry to say have had no repply: Butt as on the 13th. Instant appeared safe in our River loaden with Seal oyl and whale Fins to our address the Schoner Lively Capt. Nicholas Dupee in 27 days from New Buryport, we have the pleasure to informe you that by sundry letters from our freinds in that Quarter have had the satisfactory advice that boath Capts. Sinclair and Williamsome arrived safe at Boston after short and prosperous passages: and as most part of the Navall Stores went by them, suppose they just gott in Time to be of great service in that part of the World: butt must needs say that we greatly wonder at not haveing had a line from the Honourable Elbridge Gerry Esqur. as the whole went directted to him. The Inclosed for your good self came by Capt. Dupee to our Care and as suppose you’l be informed therein that the English Troops had evacuatted Brumswick with presipitation and that it was suspectted that Generall Howe had some thoughts of proceeding against some of the New England settlements with every thing else worthy your Notice, we Salutte you very Respectfully and Remmain Honour’d Sir your most affectionatte &c.
We also forward you herein one of the last News papers Received from America. At present, there is plenty of Vessells with us, what apitty that we have no further orders to ship off Navall stores, blanketting &c.
Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: To / the Honble B: Franklin Esqr. / at / Paris
Endorsed: Correspondant at Bilbao 16 Aug. 77.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from George Washington, 17 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Head Quarters Cr[oss]rd [?] Augt. 17th 1777
I have been honord with your favour of the 2d. April by Monsieur De Cenis written on behalf of that Gentleman on the credit of Monsr. Turgot’s recommendation.
I should have been happy had it been in my power, in deference to your recommendation, founded upon that of so respectable a character as Monsr. Turgot, to afford Mr. De Cenis the encouragement, his zeal and trouble in coming to America to offer his services give him a claim to; but such is the situation of things in our army at this time, that I am necessarily deprived of that satisfaction. Our corps being already formed and fully officered, and the number of foreign gentlemen already commissioned, and continually arriving with fresh applications, threw such obstacles in the way of any future appointments, that every new arrival is only a new source of embarassment to Congress and myself and of disappointment and chagrin to the Gentlemen who come over. Had there been only a few to provide for, we might have found employment for them, in a way advantageous to the service and honorable to themselves; but as they have come over in such crowds, we either must not employ them, or we must do it at the expence of one half the officers of the army, which you must be sensible would be attended with the most ruinous effects, and could not fail to occasion a general discontent. It is impossible for these Gentlemen to raise men for themselves; and it would be equally impolitic and unjust to displace others who have been at all the trouble and at considerable expence in raising corps, in order to give them the command. Even where vacancies happen, there are always those who have a right of succession by seniority, and who are as tenacious of this right as of the places they actually hold, and In this they are justified by the common principle and practice of all armies, and by resolutions of Congress. Were these vacancies to be filled by the foreign officers, it would not only cause the resignation of those who expect to succeed to them; but it would serve to disgust others, both through friendship to them, and from an apprehension of their being liable to the same inconvenience themselves. This by rendering the hope of preferment precarious, would remove one of the principal Springs of emulation, absolutely necessary to be upheld in an army.

Besides this difficulty, the error we at first fell into of prodigally bestowing rank upon foreigners, without examining properly their pretensions, having led us to confer high ranks upon those who had none or of a very inferior degree, in their own country; it now happens, that those who have really good pretensions, who are men of character abilities and rank will not be contented, unless they are introduced into some of the highest stations of the army, in which it needs no arguments to convince you it is impossible to gratify them. Hence their dissatisfaction and the difficulty of employing them are increased.
These obstacles reduce us to this dilemma: either we must refuse to commission them at all, and leave all the expence trouble and risk that have attended their coming over uncompensated; or we must commission them without being able to incorporate or employ them, by which means enjoying the public pay and an unmeaning rank, they must submit to the mortification of being mere cyphers in the army. This last to some of them, may not be disagreeable; but to men of sentiment and who are actuated by a principle of honor and a desire to distinguish themselves, it must be humiliating and irksome in the extreme.
From these considerations, it would be both prudent and just to discourage their coming over by candidly opening the difficulties they have to encounter; and if after that they will persist in it they can only blame themselves. I am sensible, Sir, that it is a delicate and perplexing task to refuse applications of persons, patronised (as I suppose often happens) by some of the first characters in the Kingdom where you are, and whose favour it is of importance to conciliate; but I beg leave to suggest whether it would not be better to do that, than by compliance, to expose them to those mortifications which they must unavoidably experience, and which they are to apt to impute to other causes than the true, and may represent under very disadvantageous colors. Permit me also to observe to you, that even where you do not promise any thing; but simply give a line of recommendation they draw as strong an assurance of success from that, as from a positive engagement and estimate the hardship of a disappointment nearly the same in one case as in the other.

Notations: Doctor Franklin Augt 17th. 1777. / Dr. Franklin


Title: William Lee to the American Commissioners, 18 August 1777
From: Lee, William
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
Nantes 18 Augt. 1777.
Yesterday arrived here The Brig Liberty Capt. Herbert with 108 hogsheads of Tobacco on Account of the State of Virginia consign’d to J. Gruel & Co. She left Virginia July 10th runing the fire of 5 Men of War that guards the mouth of the Bay of Chesapeak. The Capt. is a true Tar, has not bro’t any papers or letters but what relates to his vessel and cargoe, however he in great measure confirms the news recd. some time since from Bourdeaux of Lord Cornwallis being defeated in the Jersies. He says he heard about the begining of July a letter read in Williamsburg from Genl. Washington mentioning the defeat of Lord Cornwallis, who lost, in kill’d Wounded and Prisoners about 1500 Men, that Genl. Scot and another whose name he forgets commanded the Americans. He does not recollect the date of the Letter or the day when the action was said to have happen’d, but he speaks of the fact in General as universally beleived and being the Subject of conversation in all companies; also that all the British troops were driven out of the Jersies. This day two Privateers arrived here with two valuable West India Men prizes. The Privateers are The Brig Fanny, John Kendrick, 14 4 pounders 104 Men, belonging to Adam Babcock and Archd. Blair left Bedford N.E. July 10, and Genl. Mercer, Jas. Babson 14 4 pounders 87 Men, belonging to Winthrop Serjeant & Co. of Cape Anne, Sail’d July 1st. Of the Jamaica Fleet consisting of 160 Sail, they took two small prizes of no great value near Newfoundland which they sent to Boston, the two they have bro’t in were taken the 8th. instant in the mouth of the channel tho’ the fleet was convoyed by two 28 Gun frigates. Their Names, The Hanover Planter Capt. Luny from Jamaica to London with 360 hogsheads Muscovado Sugar, 87 punchions of rum, some Logwood 8 6 and 2 4 pounders and The Clarendon Capt. Cowell from Jamaica to London with 386 hogsheads Muscovado Sugar, 106 punchions of rum and 6 3 pounders. The Captive people say 11 of the Fleet were missing when they were taken. Capt. Kendrick has one paper which is on board at Pambeuf, he left Bedford 10 July and confirms the defeat of Cornwallis in the Jersies, but says the last accounts made his loss about 600 Men only. His account is, that the whole British Army some time in June, (the date he also forgets) was put in motion in 3 divisions to go against Phila. when the first division was attack’d and defeated, on which the others retreated with great precipitation and embark’d at Amboy as fast as possible, from whence it was expected they would go up the North River. They say there was upwards of 6000 Men at Ticonderoga where they think Sullivan commanded and Gates was station’d at Albany to take care of that quarter. This is all the News and you will judge best how much is proper to be given to the public, I mean with regard to the Privateers, and their Prizes, since we have an ugly report here, of which we should be glad to know the Truth, that an American Agent was the other day put into the Bastile, on account of some transactions with, or for, Cunninghame. I am with all due respect, Gentlemen Your most Obedient and very Humble Servant
W: Lee

Addressed: To / The Honble Benja. Franklin / Silas Deane & Arthur Lee Esqrs. / at Paris
Notation: L’. business at Nantes from the Passy Papers


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François de Rabier de La Baume, 18 August 1777
From: La Baume, chevalier François de Rabier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
De portsmouth le 18 aoust 1777.A bord du Vaisseau la princesse amelie.
Aÿant eû l’honneur de me presenter ches Monsieur dean et luÿ aÿant montré Mes Breverts et certificats de serviçe, ainsi qu’un passeport du Roÿ comme un ancien major de ses troupes; je fûs accepté de sa part au serviçe du Congrés, et me donna des lettres pour vous Monsieur et Monsieur le general en Chef et pour des correspondants de Bordeaux et Marseille; je partis un mois aprés et ai eté pris prisonnier aupres de philadelphie, le 28 Mars par deux fregattes angloises qui me transporterent a Newÿorck. Apres deux mois de prison j’ai ete envoÿé a Londre, et puis isci, ou je suis prisonier.
Je ne sai Monsieur quel sera mon esperançe et mon sort.
Les anglois m’ont tout pris, et j’ai depençé conssiderablement.
J’ose me flatter que le Congrès et vous Monsieur travaillerés a ma liberté de meme que pour mon avançement et dedommagemment de ce que j’ai perdeu et dépençé et de ce que j’ai soufert et je soufre depuis cinc mois que je suis prisonnier. J’ose me flatter que vous voudrés bien vous interesser pour moÿ, et me faire savoir vos intentions par le Canal de mon frere et de ma soeur qui auront l’honneur de vous voir. J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec Respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Le CHR Franc DE Rabier DE La Baume.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur frankelin / [in another hand: dans la maison de M. chomau / à passy] / A paris
Notation: Baume. on board Princes Amelia. aout 18. 1777.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jane Mecom, 18 August 1777
From: Mecom, Jane
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Brother
Philadelphia 18th Augt 1777
I have several times mentioned to you my son in law being taken and in my last that there was a master of a vesel gone to Exchange for Him. He is since got Home, and has the Prospect of a nother vesel for France, and desiers a Leter to you. I am willing to gratifie him tho I wrot but last week and have nothing more new to write which I was in hopes I Shuld by this time, however we are all well and you will no doubt hear from us in a more Direct way when any change happens. When I wrot last I had not heard of Dear Mrs. Franklins Death but as Mr. Bache had, I sopose he Informed you of it. I have heard no perticulars but Sincearly Greve for her. She must have Suffeered much in her mind how atentive soever those about her might have been to do all that was nesessary for her. She has I think a very Just charecter given her in the Philadelphia Paper Said to be writen by Mr. Hopkinson, among my other concerns She is Seldom out of my mind. I loved her gratly. Temple will mourn for her much. We have never had a Scrape of a pen from Him, nor have I recd. more than won leter from you which was from Nants. I do not Sopose Mr. Collas will see you if he gits saif there but he thinks the mention of his wifes being a Relation of yours was the means of her giting her Petion ansured in sending a person to Exchange for Him, and prehaps He thinks the Apearance of your name may befriend him on Some other ocation. I can hardly Say I hope but I wish for his Suckses. I think there was hardly Ever so unfourtunate a Famely I am not willing to think it is all oing to misconduct. I have had some children that seemed to be doing well till they were taken off by Death.
That the Blesing of God may atend you in Boath your Publick and private Affairs is the Prayer of your Affectionat Sister
Jane Mecom

Addressed in another hand: The Honble / Doctor Benjamin Franklin / near / Paris
Notation: Jane Mecom Phila. 18. Augt. 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste-Xavier Joyeuse, 19 August 1777
From: Joyeuse, Jean-Baptiste-Xavier
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Baudina, Terroir d’Aubagne le 19. Août 1777.
L’interêt que j’ay toujours pris, Monsieur, aux succés des Colonies unies de l’Amerique, vû la bonté qui m’a paru dans leur cause, me donne le desir de tâcher d’y contribuer, si je le pouvais. Le déperissement de l’Armée Anglaise en Amerique, attribué principalement a la mauvaise qualité des Vivres qu’on leur distribüe, dont je lisais le détail, il y a quelque temps, dans les Papiers publics: Biscuit rongé des vers; Eau corrompüe sur les Vaisseaux, etc.: tout cela m’a fait penser de vous proposer quelques travaux que j’ay, dont les suffrages de l’Accademie Royale des Sciences de Paris, semblent garantir l’utilité. Vous recevrés d’abord, cy joint, l’histoire des Vers du Biscuit, qui est deja imprimée; et si cet échantillon vous paraissait fournir des vües utiles relativement au service des colonies, j’auray l’honneur de vous faire passer successivement, l’histoire des charençons qui devorent le Bled, qui est aussi imprimée; et j’y joindray, s’il le faut, un Memoire manuscrit encore, sur la conservation de l’eau commune, et les moyens de l’empêcher de se corrompre. J’ay l’honneur d’être, Monsieur, avec la consideration la plus parfaite Vôtre trés humble et trés obéissant serviteur
Joyeuse l’aine

Notation: M. Fayenberg [sic] Worms in Biscuit See Pamphlet 19. Aout 1777.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre, 19 August 1777
From: Bernardin de Saint-Pierre, Jacques-Henri
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A paris ce 19 aoust 1777
Un de mes freres cadets vient d’entrer au service de votre république et j’ai cru cette occasion favorable en vous demandant le service de lui faire passer une lettre (dont je vous prie de prendre lecture) de me procurer l’honneur de vous connaitre personnellement. Il y a longtems, Monsieur que je vous connoissois comme grand phisicien, comme grand orateur, et ce qui passe tous les talents parce qu’il exige touttes les vertus, comme grand patriotte. J’aurois pu aisement dans les relations que vous donnent vos travaux trouver ici des personnes de votre connaissance et de la mienne, mais j’aime les sciences et je frequente peu les sçavans car il me semble qu’il y a des choses a acquérir plus estimables que les lumieres.
Si dans quelques uns de vos moments de loisir vous voulés bien m’en indiquer un pour une entrevue je tacherai de vous interesser en faveur d’un frere qui est allé partager la gloire de votre cause et qui me paroit penetre pour vous des memes sentimens que moi. Agrées, Monsieur, les sentiments d’estime et de respect avec lesquels j’ai l’honneur d’etre Votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur
De Saint Pierre. ancien Captne. ingenieur du roy.
  A l’hotel de bourbon ruë de la magdelaine st. honoré.


Title: The American Commissioners to William Lee and Thomas Morris, [c. 20 August 1777]
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To: Lee, William,Morris, Thomas

This letter was almost unquestionably not sent. It was to be in answer to a now missing one of the 16th, in which Lee and Morris claimed, according to Arthur Lee, that the powers given to Jonathan Williams to handle prizes were incompatible with their own agency and should be withdrawn. Deane and Franklin were ready to do so, as they say here, but proposed to put Lee in sole charge. That step, Arthur Lee objected, would destroy the harmony that they had enjoined on Morris in their letter of July 31; far better to cancel Williams’ authority and say nothing about trusting Lee and distrusting Morris. Although the other commissioners disagreed, they withdrew the letter and sent none in its place. The objection to it was well grounded: antagonizing Morris would merely have added to the difficulties of William Lee, who had already confided to Arthur that he could not “make anything of this strange unhappy man.” But the commissioners in effect washed their hands of the whole situation, and it went from bad to worse. They left Williams in partial control of prizes, furthermore, although they had momentarily agreed to sacrifice him; and his position furnished the Lees, much later, with plausible ground for accusing Franklin of nepotism.

Gentlemen
[C. August 20, 1777]
We have received yours of the 16th Instant. We think Mr. Morris would have done well in communicating to us the Orders from the Committee when he receiv’d them: But had we been acquainted with them, he must be sensible that his Conduct has been such as to justify our Interfering for the Safety of the Interests under the general authority we had receiv’d to instruct Capt. Wickes in his Proceedings while in Europe: and as we have been called upon for considerable Sums in fitting out the Vessels who have taken the Prizes, it seem’d the more necessary that they should be put into some hands on whose Care, and Attention to Business we could place some Confidence for the Reimbursement. Had Mr. Lee been present at Nantes or in France when the Orders complained of were given by us, they would certainly not have been given. As the Case stands we think we had a Right to give them, and desiring to avoid Disputes withdraw them.
And as by the Committee’s Letter to us of Oct. 24. 76. we are inform’d in the following words that Orders were given to Capt. Wickes to “send his Prizes into such of the French Ports as are most convenient, addressing them at Dunkirk to Messrs. Stival & Son, at Havre to M. Limozin, at Bourdeaux to Messrs. Delap, at Nantes to Messrs. Pliarne, Penet & Co. and at any other Ports in France to Such other Persons as you may appoint: and the Brigantine in question having been sent in to Port L’Orient, we as far as the said Letter authorizes us, do desire that Mr. Lee alone may take the Charge of disposing of her.
It is proper you should be informed that Mr. Morris, by his Letter of Feb. 4. acquainted us that he had remitted us 90,000 Livres, in part of the £10,000 Sterling he was ordered to pay us, which sum of Livres we should find in the Hands of M. Sollier, who at the same time inform’d us that he had receiv’d it, and held it ready to be paid to us on our Order. We suffer’d it to remain in his Hands as a Deposite, drawing for Parts of it as we had Occasion: But now he refuses to pay any more of our Drafts, and detains the Money alledging that he has Orders from Nantes for so doing. This Conduct towards us, must make us cautious how we advance hereafter for the armed Vessels, as we ought not to hazard the leaving ourselves destitute of Cash, and will oblige us to write to the Congress to provide for our Expences with greater Certainty.
We desire, Gentlemen, a full Copy of your Instructions with the Dates, that we may compare them with such as we have receiv’d and regulate ourselves accordingly, having not the least desire, to impede the Operations of Mr. Lee, tho’ we have abundant Reasons to be dissatisfied with the Conduct of Mr. Morris. We are Gentlemen, Your most obedient humble Servants
Letter to Messrs Lee and Morris


Title: Lambert Wickes to the American Commissioners, 22 August 1777
From: Wickes, Lambert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen,
St. Malo 22d August 1777.
I should be very glad to know my future destination and how I am to Act in regard to the proceedings of the Admiralty Officers at this port. If I am not dispatched Soon think it Will be Necessary to hawl the Ship on Shore again and Clean her as She is very Dirty and will not Sail without being Clean. I am informed Capt. Green of Philadelphia is Now at Nantes unemployed. As he is Married and has a Wife and family in Philada. If you have any Employ for him, think you may Safely Confide in him, as I am perswaded he will do every thing in his power to Serve the American Cause and is Very Capible of commanding either a Merchant man or Vessell of War. Please let us have all the News you Can. I remain Gentlemen, with Much respect Your Most Obedient humble Servant
Lambt. Wickes

Addressed: To / The Honble. Doctor Benja. Franklin / at / Paris
Notation: Capt Weekes St Malo’s 22 Augt 1777


Title: Lambert Wickes to the American Commissioners, 24 August 1777
From: Wickes, Lambert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
St. Malo 24th. Augt. 1777.
I received your favour of the 19th. Instant which in some Measure has given me releaf in respect to Complying with orders from the Minester at Paris, which will be Strictly attended to, on my part, but am very Sorry our Necessities obliges us to Submit to our present hard Fate. However hope you will Contrive to get me away as soon as possible, as I Can Assure you it hurts me very Much to be treated in the Manner I am here by the Admiralty Officers of this Port and think if ever live to get back to America, they will never perswade me to return again to France, untill our Unhappy Troubles are in a better Situation than they are at present, which I hope will Soon be. The Gentlemen of this place continue to shew me all the Civilities in their power and Should be very happy if our present unhappy detention proceeded from more favourable Motives than they do, As I flatter myself a long time they did and am very Sorry to find myself so much Mistaken in my Conjectures. I am well pleased With your Approbation of my Conduct for which Acknowledgment please Accept my hearty thanks, as you may rest satisfied that I shall do ever thing in my power to make my Conduct and proceeding Agreeable at all times, as your orders Shall be the line of my Conduct. I remain Gentlemen with due respect Your Most Obedient Humble Servant
Lambt. Wickes

Addressed: To / The Honble. Dr. Benja. Franklin / at / Paris
Notation: Capt Weeks St Malo’s 24 Augt 77


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from C[S?]. P. Heltier [Geltier?], 24 August 1777
From: Heltier [Geltier?], C[S?]. P.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A paris Le 24 aoust 1777
Un curieux seroit charmé d’avoir de vous L’explication de la contrariete suivante car vous seul avés parle raison sur L’éléctricité qui vous est si redevable.
Tout le monde convient que le tems sec et froid donne le plus d’energie a L’Electricite, au petit tonnere que nous avons entre les mains depuis environ 40 ans: d’un autre coste tout le monde convient qu’un tems tres chaud et tres humide produit les plus grands orages et leurs est propre: d’out peut venir cette contrarieté car l’identité du tonnere avec L’electricite est bien prouvee. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec la plus grande consideration Monsieur Vottre tres humble et tres obeïssant serviteur
C. P. Heltier
demeurant ches mr. junot vis a vis La rüe au maire rue st. martin A paris

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Benjamin / franklin ameri / quain a passÿ proche / paris / a passÿ


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ――― Rolland, 24 August 1777: résumé
From: Rolland, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Bellême au Perche, August 24, 1777, in French: Because I have been to America several times, two families have asked me how to emigrate and settle there. The head of one is a retired pilot; the other wants to farm the rich land of Pennsylvania. They ask for recommendations and a free passage to Philadelphia. Unless the war prevents your obliging them, they will go with their small nest eggs to Nantes, the port nearest them, as soon as they have arranged their affairs and obtained passports.>


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to ――― Brillon, [before 25 August? 1777]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Brillon, ——

[Before August 25, 1777?]
M. Franklin fait bien de Compliments a M. Brillon, et desire d’être informé ou demeure M. Hennet.

Addressed: A Monsr / Monsieur Brillon


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François-Auguste-Pompée Hennet, 25 August 1777
From: Hennet, François-Auguste-Pompée
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Paris le 25 aout 1777.
J’ai donné, aussitôt la demande que vous m’avez faite des 4000 sabres, les ordres pour qu’on les disposat le plus promptement possible. Je recois dans l’Instant la réponse et on me marque qu’ils seront prêts dans deux mois, mais qu’on ne pourra en fournir que 2000 semblables au modele que jai eu l’honneur de vous remettre; qu’on pourra, si cela vous convient, en fournir Deux mille autres à lames droites. Je vous en porterai demain un modele. Pour plus de solidité au lieu du fil de laiton qui est à la poignée il y aura deux viroles de cuivre.

Je joins à ma lettre des modeles en papier de hallebardes, espontons, lances et piques. Il s’en trouve actuellement dans notre manufacture. Savoir.

hallebardes de differentes forms
231

Espontons idem
172

Lances ou Piques
120

Je pourrai fournir le tout rendu à Nantes, sur le pied de 4 l.t. 10 s. pieces les hampes ou manches compris. S’il falloit les faire exprés, les hallebardes et espontons couteroient 8 l.t. les Lances ou Piques 5 l.t. 10 s. a 6 l.t.
J’aurai l’honneur de me rendre demain chez vous, Monsieur, avec mon frere interessé comme moi dans la manufacture Royale d’armes de Maubeuge où il doit retourner incessamment, il suivra lui meme l’execution de ces armes et fera en sorte de remplir avec toute l’exactitude possible vos intentions. J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec des sentiments respectueux, Monsieur, votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Hennet

Endorsed: Proposal of M. Hennet


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Benjamin Sowden], 25 August 1777
From: Sowden, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Holland Augst 25 1777
I seize the opportunity of the first post to give you some intelligence which I accidentaly picked up t’other day at the Hague.
Being there in company with an old English acquaintance, who is a Man of Character, a zealous advocate for the British Ministry, intimate with all the Dutch Ministers of State, nor less so with Sir Joseph Yorke, American affairs, as usual, became the Subject of our warm, tho’ not unfriendly debate.
In the Course of our conversation he told me he had lately met with one Mr. Wentworth, a Person of Fashion, who was born in America, had lived there many Years, and been in most parts of it, but who on account of the present troubles there, had for a Year past resided in England, to which he was now upon his return thro’ this country from Paris, where he had lately made some considerable stay, and was intimately acquainted with You. He added that this Gentleman was an Anti American, and as a proof of it told me he had given him a Copy of Your last Memorial to Count Maurepas, to excite the French Court to declare openly and immediately in favour of America. In answer to my request that I might see it, he said it was in the hands of the grand Pensionary, and that he expected it every moment. While we were engaged in conversation it arrived, and was soon after dispatched to Sir Joseph Yorke, who, he said, had heard nothing of it till he informed him the day before, and was extremely curious to see and copy it. I had it however long enough in my hands to run it twice over and make myself Master of its contents. It was in English, and the General purport of it as follows.
After a short preamble shewing that France had already gone too far not to go farther, it sets forth that the present inactivity of that Court is founded on two reasons both equally fallacious: the first is, that Great Britain, if this war continues, will sometime hence become weaker, and less able to resist the Power of France, than if attacked now. This is confuted by shewing that the strength, and particularly the maritime Strength of England will by long and habitual exercise, notwithstanding the increase of her national debt, become more formidable, and that this was remarkably the Case at the End of the last war. The second reason was, that should France withold her publick interference, the war between Great Britain and America would continue much longer than the present Year. The futility of this was evinced by shewing it was much more probable that the British Ministry, if unable to accomplish their schemes against America this Year, would be for treating with them as Friends and Confederates, If they could not recover them as Subjects; that this might be concluded from some things lately thrown out in the upper house by several of the Peers, and particularly by Lord Campden, that England ought on any terms to have peace with America, tho’ she had war with all Europe, and that Lord Germaine, in the lower house, grounded his hopes of success either to conquer, or gain America by treaty, on the continued inactivity of France. The memorial then continues to shew, that should England and America become Friends again, either on their former footing, or as Confederates, France will not only loose one of the fairest opportunities she ever had of humbling her haughty rival, but that Britain, unable to forget or forgive the covert assistance France has thus far given the Colonies, will attempt to revenge it, in which case the French will have to contend with the united force of both Countries, which in the Event would probably prove fatal to her West Indian Islands.
Such, Sir, was the general purport of the memorial. If You have realy presented any such, you will by this outline easily recognize the Authenticity of the Copy in question. To me it is incomprehensible that Mr. Wentworth can be an Anti-american, and at the same time your real Friend, and that knowing his real political tenets, You should Entrust him with a Copy of Your memorial. If he got it from any of Your people by finesse, You will perhaps be able to trace and detect it, and thereby prevent any further communication; or if deceiving You under specious pretences of friendship he has violated Your confidence, You are hereby put upon Your guard against his Wiles for the future; so that in either case this communication will not be fruitless.
About Six weeks since I was not a little distressed with accounts from France that our Friend Mr. Rumsey was taken on his way to America, but within these few days I have had the pleasure of hearing from Nantes that the report was groundless, and that they have authentic tidings there of his safe arrival at Baltimore.
I hope You received my large Packet for him and Mr. Gordon jointly, that was to be delivered to You by a french Young Gentleman on his travels, who lived some Years under my roof, and that it is forwarded. A Leyden French Gazette was inclosed in it for your perusal. I have nothing at present to transmit either to Mr. Rumsey or Mr. Gordon, except the inclosed, which came from England, and for the forwarding of which I must be indebted to Your good offices.
Tho’ I have reason to think You are no longer at Paris, or in its neighbourhood, I have ventured to address this to your old Lodgings, to which it will be sent, or perhaps brought in person, by the above mentioned Young Gentleman. As it goes inclosed to him I must seal it with a Wafer, which will be a white one. As I told You in my first Letter, I shall not add any signature, whether feigned or real, by which easily recollect my name and particular place of abode.
Wherever, or whenever this reaches You let me beg the favour of a Line informing me of its safe arrival.
By the English papers of last post, it seems certain that Genl. Prescot is taken Prisoner by Genl. Arnold, and that Genl. Howe has embarked his Army, and left the Jerseys free, and only 6000 Men at New York and in its neighbourhood. There is a rumour propagated by the Friends of the Ministry that Genl. Burgoigne, who lately published a Manifesto in a kind of drunken Prose, has taken Ticonderagoe, and dispersed the Provincial Army in those parts, but it does not seem to obtain much credit even amongst the ministerialists. The British Ministry seem to be almost at their Wits end. Their Friends give out that by some Papers lately taken it appears the Colonies have made a proposal to the French west India Islanders that in Case they will assist them, they in their turn, when their contest with England is ended in their favour, will assist them to throw off their subordination to France and become independent. This is a finesse to instill Jealousies into the French Court concerning the Colonists, but surely that Court is too wise to be imposed on by such a shallow artifice. With great respect and attachment, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obliged Friend, and very humble Servant
The Hble Dr Franklin

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur le Docteur Franklin / à / Passy / pres de / Paris


Title: The American Commissioners to Ferdinand Grand, [26 August 1777]
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand

On August 21 Vergennes answered the commissioners’ letter of the 12th by a note to Grand. They would be well advised, the Minister said, to write him about Hodge and the retention of the American privateers. Franklin did not know what to say in the letter, he remarked to Lee three days later, because he had had no part in the business of Conyngham, which had been entirely Deane’s doing. Deane in turn complained that he had been left to act alone, “Dr. Franklin being generally occupied in philosophical studies, and Mr. Lee absent,” and was now saddled with the blame. On the 26th, nevertheless, Franklin drafted, and his colleagues agreed to, this reply to be transmitted to Vergennes through Grand. They decided not to sign it because, according to Lee, Vergennes had not signed his of the 21st to Grand.

Dear Sir
[August 26, 1777]
We are much oblig’d by the sketch of a Letter you were so kind to offer us as proper for the Commissioners to write: but our Situation being critical; and being convinc’d by Experience of the Inconvenience of writing in a Language we do not well understand ourselves, or in one that is not well understood by those who are to read, we at present decline doing what by a late Instance we find is so subject to Misapprehension.
Upon Enquiry and Consideration we are satisfy’d of the Irregularity of the Proceedings at Dunkirk, and are sincerely and extreamly concern’d that they have happen’d, as they have given just Cause of Offence to the King, for whom we have the highest Respect. The Remarks made on those Proceedings, which you have communicated to us, appear full of Reason, and there is nothing that can be objected to them. We hope, however, that the Punishment Mr. Hodge has received for the Misconduct of his Friend Cunningham and his own, will be thought sufficient for him, and that he will be discharged; which we wish principally on this Account, that we fear the Enemies of both France and America will take Advantage of his Confinement and the Detention of the arm’d Vessels, to promote Suspicions and Misunderstandings, and obstruct in America the growing Friendship for this Nation, which we are most earnestly desirous of cultivating and confirming.

As to the Vessels, it is our purpose, if they may be permitted to Sail, to load them with Merchandize, and order them directly to America: For tho’ we see the great Effect their Cruizing in these Seas has had in raising the Insurance in Britain to a Pitch that would ruin much of her Commerce, we think that Advantage to us not equivalent to the Loss of the King’s Favour, and the Prejudice to his Honour if permitted.

Notation: Letters to M. Grand concerning, Hodge and Cunninghams Affair at Dunkirk. 1777.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Peter Allaire], 26 August 1777: résumé
From: Allaire, Peter
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<London, August 26, 1777: He reports intelligence, gathered from one of Germain’s secretaries, about Howe’s and Burgoyne’s forces, the impact in England of the Battle of Trenton and of the capture of the Fox, friction between North and Germain, public puzzlement at the number of officers returning from America, and the likelihood of an insurrection in Britain. Gen. Prescott is undoubtedly a prisoner, and the fall of Ticonderoga is unconfirmed; Capt. Manley has been taken in the Hancock. Signed, “An American whom You have seen at Paris.”>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jan Ingenhousz, 26 August 1777
From: Ingenhousz, Jan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Hotel de Montpensier, rue de Richelieu Aug. 26. 1777
I Stay’d a day longer in the Country as I had proposed. I recieved now my lettres from London, and can set out for an excursion, whenever you pleas. As I have some business to perform to day in town, I can’t have the pleasur of seing you. I intend to Come to morrow at three o clock at Dinner in purpose to consult you upon the intended sell of my stock and our excursion. If it Should happen, that you are invited some where tomorrow, I should like to know it by a line sent by the pennypost. In such case I will Come towards six in the afternoon. I am Your most obedient humble servant
J Ingen Housz
Mr Tourton told me to day, that he expects an answer upon his lettre, which inclosed the lettre of Nantes.

Addressed: a / Monsieur B. Franklin / chez mr le Roy de chaumont / Passi
Notations: Inganhaus Augt 26. 77 to BF. / Ingenhousz Aug. 26. 1777.


Title: The American Commissioners to Henry Johnson, 28 August 1777
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To: Johnson, Henry

The matter-of-fact tone of this letter, and of the virtually identical one to Wickes that follows, conceals the fact that the commissioners had sustained a major defeat. Conyngham’s cruise infuriated Whitehall: on August 19 Stormont delivered a demand that Wickes’s squadron leave port, and Vergennes expected a British declaration of war. Naval patrols were recalled to port, the Newfoundland fishing fleet was ordered home, officers’ leaves were canceled, and a shipping embargo was imposed. The crisis passed when Maurepas, four days later, agreed that the squadron should sail without a French escort. On the 27th orders to that effect went to Morlaix and St. Malo.

Sir
Paris 28th. Augt. 1777
We conclude that by this orders are arived permitting the Lexington to sail directly for America, if not they will be with you in a few days. We therefore advise you to settle the concerns of the Lexington at Morlaix, and engage a quantity of Provisions sufficient to carry her crew to America. You will make out an estimate of every thing necessary and make the purchase to the best advantage. You are to pay particular attention to the fitting your Vessel in the best manner for sailing as you may probably be charged with some dispatches of importance. The conditions of this permission are that you are not to cruize in these sea’s nor return into the ports of France but to proceed directly for America. You will inform us if the Lexington is capable of carrying any quantity of Merchandise without prejudice to her sailing and how much that we may give orders accordingly. You must have ballast at least. Let us know what Quantity for as Salt Petre and other heavy Articles are wanted in America they may serve the purpose to advantage. We are fully sensible of your abilities and Zeal in the cause of America and sorry that you are prevented from further exerting them in these Sea’s at present. But we hope this Prohibition will be but Temporary and that you will be soon in a way to renew your attacks on our Enemies with greater advantage. The expences of your repairs and equipment will be duely paid to the order of the Gentleman on whom you value yourself at Morlaix. We are &c.

P.S. Write us by the first Post. We are in effect Guaranties for your complying with the Conditions and rely on your Honor not to violate them.
Capt Johnson


Title: The American Commissioners to Lambert Wickes, 28 August 1777
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To: Wickes, Lambert

Sir
Paris 28th. Augt. 1777
We conclude by this orders are recd. for permitting you to depart for America on condition of not cruising in these Sea’s nor returning into the Ports of France with the reprisal. We therefore desire you to put your ship into the proper state for sailing, and to supply her with the Provisions necessary for the Voyage. We must wait to know from you what quantity of Heavy Articles the reprisal will carry without prejudice to her sailing. The Goods we have in view are Salt Petre Anchors Large Cordage &c. We have wrote to Capt. Johnson to the same purpose and hope he will be ready by the Time you are. Your Letter of the [blank in MS: 24th] inst. is before us and your sentiments correspond with ours on the Subject. We are fully convinced that the previous measures are merely temporary and that affairs must soon take a very different turn but at all Events the reprisal and Lexington may be of as much or more service to America by returning with some necessaries as by continuing in Europe. We hope for your Answer by the return of this Post after which we shall write you more particularly. In the mean time we are &c.,

P.S. As we are in effect guaranties for yr. Complying with these conditions we rely on yr. honor not to break them
Lambert Wickes Esqr.


Title: The American Commissioners to Jonathan Williams, Jr., 28 August 1777
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To: Williams, Jonathan Jr.

Sir
Paris Augt. 28 1777
Having obtained permission for the Dolphin to sail for america on condition of her not Cruising in these sea’s nor returning again to the Ports of France you will equip her for sailing with all the Expedition Possible. We have agreed to appoint Capt. Brown to the Command of her, if agreable to him, let him take the Charge of her and put her in a proper State to perform the Voyage. We shall put as many heavy goods on board as she will carry without damage to her sailing: We say we have obtained permission, being assured orders to that effect are gone from the Minister, but should they not be arrived inform us by the return of the Post and at the same time say how early the Dolphin may be ready for Sea. We are &c.
Jonathan Williams Esq.


Title: Jonathan Williams, Jr., to the American Commissioners, 28 August 1777
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Honorable Gentlemen.
Nantes Augt. 28. 1777.
I have this day drawn on you two drafts the first in favor of L Escuyer at one usance for 3801.15. the second in favor of Peltier Du Doyer at four Usances 2764.7: 6566.2. The first of these drafts is in payment for some Lining for the Soldiers Cloaths, and the last in payment for some Sail Cloth for the Lions Sails. I have recvd. part of the Soldiers Cloaths from Paris, and I have recvd. advice of some Shoes being on the Way; what are arrived are properly stored and all shall be taken care of as fast as they come. I have a Letter from Major Lutlock who went out Passenger in Capt. Young, it is dated at Phila. 18 June and at that Time speaks of the State of our Army as far superiour to his expectations. The Vessell who brought this is arrived at Bordeaux and Mr. De Lap writes me confirms the Evacuation of the Jerseys but brings no other news. The Vessell is the Brig Industry Capt. Hugh Lyle from Sinepuxen in Maryland. Mr. Delap says it was imagined that Howes Intention was either to go up the North River or to the Delaware.
Advices from England also confirm an account of this Embarkation and of the Capture of Gen. Prescot who commanded at Rhode Island. I have the honour to be with the greatest Respect Your most obedient Servant
Jona Williams
The Honble the Commissioners of the United States.

Addressed: The Honble / The Commissioners of / The United States.
Notation: Mr. Williams 28 Augt. 1777


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 28 August 1777
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and honored Sir.
Nantes Augt. 28th. 1777.
I did not intend to trouble you any more about Capt. Wickes’s Sailors, but the only obstacle to the Settlement, now is whether they as deserters are intitled to their prize money, and Capt. Wickes does not think (as you will see by his Letters inclosed) that he can do it without an order from you; the Fact is that Capt. W has given these men a sort of certificate which intitles them to their part and their plea relative to Desertion is that they were prevented from returning by the Commisary: The Prize money is 180.11 each man. I shall be obliged if you will either give the order above required or direct me to turn the Fellows off, if I do the latter it will be with the Loss of 30 Livres which the extremity of their poverty induced me to advance them. You reccommended a Mr. Gueznet a German Surgeon some time since and gave him a Letter of Credit on Mr. Bache. He staid here some time without being able to get a passage ’till I at last intended to take him as Surgeon of the Lion. He was reduced to necessity and came to me for relief. I thought him an honest Fellow and lent him 4 Louis to keep him out of Goal on a promise of repayment in a Week, as in that Time he was to have a remittance from his Relations. He left me and has not since appeared and as it is now 5 Weeks since in all probability never will. The last man Lieut. Shineman had but one Shirt in the World and that was half rotten on his back, nor had he a Sol to buy him a Dinner, his Relations here as he thinks them, do not choose to know him as one; I have however persuaded them to give him 36 l.t. and I have sent him on board a privateer.
I have recvd. a Letter from my uncle who I hear is now at Paris, he has at last found out what I told him 3 year ago, Viz. that all the ministry are a set of wicked deceiving men, and he seems to wish now to return to his own Country and do all in his power to serve her. I confess I had rather make a rebel of him than have him again dangling at a corrupt court, and allow me to request you to lend him your Ear for a quarter of an hour, and if you are convinced of his Sincerity, put him in some way of returning home so as to regain the Confidence and Love of his Countrymen. He once lent me some money when I wanted it, and I think the favour could not be more seasonably returned. I shall therefore be obliged if you will send him twenty Louis on my account, and when I know the sum Mr. Vaughan has taken I will endeavour to replace all together. I have at length recvd. My Things from London and among them have your and the provincial Papers. The Laws being Bulky I shall keep, but I shall send the Papers by the first safe private opportunity.
My Letter to the Commissioners will inform you of Lutlocks safe arival.
I have followed your advice in respect of my lovely Girl. I am prodigiously mistaken if I am not at least as well with her as any other man. I discovered my attachment the other Day to the Father, the answer did not [carry] a refusal with it, but it was rather discouraging on account of [my] present uncertain Situation, reccommending me not to think of entering into that State ’till I had made a better foundation. I would not make a Demand of his Daughter because I do not know whether in all Circumstances my Situation would justify a proposition, and because I should be exceedingly piqued at [a] Refusal; but still my passion gets the better of all kind of Reason and Reflection and every time I see her I feel more and more that I should either gain some determination in my favour or change the Scene. Excuse Sir the hurry and the irregularity of this and believe me with the most perfect Respect most dutifully and affectionately Yours
J Williams

An officer from the most nothern part of Russia has arrived here by Sea with the foolish Expectation of being at once employed in our Service. He has made his application to me, and met with a Refusal of Course.


Title: The American Commissioners: Certificate for a Supercargo, [29 August 1777]
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To:

[August 29, 1777]
To all Persons in Authority in any of the United States of America.
The Ship Harmony of Bordeaux, Francis Barboutin Captain and M. Duler Supercargo being bound to the Continent of North America with Merchandize, and uncertain under the present Circumstances what Port she may be able to make; we hereby request that you would Favour the said M. Duler with your Protection and Advice, for the Benefit of the Voyage and the Encouragement of Commerce with this friendly Nation, treating him with the Hospitality and Regard that is everywhere afforded by civiliz’d People to Strangers who arrive among them with amicable Intentions.
Given at Paris this 29th Day of August 1777.
B. FranklinSilas Deane
In Franklin’s hand: General Recommendation of Ship & Cargo


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Friedrich Barnzen, 29 August 1777: résumé
From: Barnzen, Friedrich
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Hamburg, August 29, 1777, in German: Your exalted qualities, well known even here, lead me to offer myself as a useful American subject. I was born in Hamburg, have fluent German and Dutch and a reading knowledge of French, and was trained to commerce from my youth; my money is gone, through misfortune, but my good name remains. I was in the Prussian commissary in 1756, then for the rest of the war in British employ under Ferdinand of Brunswick, learning about supply magazines; I am now a civilian in the Hanoverian government. Nothing would please me more than to serve the United States in America or Europe, in commerce or supply as you may prefer.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ――― Bedot Fils Ainé, 29 August 1777
From: Bedot, ——, fils aîné
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Montpellier 29e Aoust 1777
Il m’est aussi doux qu’honorable de vous offrir mes Services dans la partie des Souliers que j’ai toujours traitée. Mes amis de Montauban Ms. Revellat freres m’ont assuré qu’il entroit dans Vos combinaisons d’en commettre: je vous offre de La Marchandise Solide et bonne d’aprés les modeles qui vous seront envoyés, et pour lesquels Vous Vous deciderés. J’en ferai Exploiter la quantite qui Vous conviendra, je les rendrai au lieu que Vous indiquerés, et vous presentant des comptes sinceres je demande pour mes avances dix Sols par paire de Commission un mois aprés la livraison. Si mes offres peuvent Vous plaire mes Jours seront heureux, car ne vous connoissant que par la renommée et les faits les plus sages je bouillonne de desir d’avoir les ordres d’un Savant et d’un philosophe Americain qui se fait autant admirer dans l’Europe par l’Etendue de Ses Connoissances, sa sublime politique, son admirable patriotisme, que par l’Equité de ses demarches et le resultat de ses actions. Puissiés vous distinguer icy dans la foule de Vos admirateurs celui qui formé de longue main a des principes cosmopolites contemplera en paix et sans interruption Votre merite réel en desirant de luy prouver qu’aux Lumieres prés il est son egal, son amy, son frere et son serviteur
Bedot fils ainenegociant de Montpellier
Monsieur Le docteur Franklin a Paris

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur franklin / A Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jan Ingenhousz, 30 August 1777
From: Ingenhousz, Jan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Hotel de Monpensier Rue de Richelieu Saturday august the 30th. 1777.
I found a coach, very easy and very strong, which can keep 4 persons. The bargain, which I was able to make, is to pay 9 livres a day till the 18th and than 6 Livres a day afterwards. Thus if we stay on our journey 16 days, it will cost us only 6 louis d’ors. I am sure it will be impossible to meet with a more reasonnable bargain, as commonly I am assured a four weel carriage is double in price in comparison with one of too wheels. It will be ready in 24 hours warning. I expect an answer to morrow morning by a servant, as the penny post seem to be uncertain. I am respectfully your most obedient humble servant
J. Ingen Housz

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur B. Franklin / a l’Hotel de Mr le Roy de chaumont / a Passy.
Notation: Ingenhouss Augt. 30th. 1777.


Title: Lambert Wickes to the American Commissioners, 31 August 1777
From: Wickes, Lambert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
St. Malo 31st Augt. 1777.
I this day received orders from the Minester of Marine at Paris, Notified me by the Comissary and Judge of Admiralty to depart the port imeadiately and not to enter again on any Consideration. I was much surprized to receive those orders without a line from you. I told them I would Sail the first fair Wind and am now preparing for Sea, as fast as possible, but shall endeavour to gain time, to receive your Orders. As I Apprehend those orders will be very Strictly executed here, think it will be Neccessary to Send yours by the first oppertunity, unless you Can prevail on the Minester to let us Wait your [?] time, as I am now permited and have promised to Sail the first fair Wind. I hope you will order Me imediately to America. We purpose Sending the Sloop Dolphin Round with a French Captain and Crew, as I dont think it Advisable to Send Capt. Nicholson’s Officers and Men round in her, As I am Creditably inform’d that there is 10 to 12 sail of Brittish Ships of Warr and privatiers Cruizing off Nantes. If your orders are not already dispatch’d hope you will dispatch them, as Soon as possible. Please give me all the News you have both from England and America. I Remain Gentlemen, with Much respect Your Most Obedient and Very humble Servant
Lambt. Wickes

Addressed: To / The Honble. Dr. Benja. Franklin / at / Paris
Notation: Capt Weeks St Malo’s 31 Augt 77