Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 31 December 1782
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear sir,Paris, Decr 31, 1782.
I inclose you an extract of a letter from Dr. Priestley to my brother William, on the subject of his late supposed discovery.
At the same time I inform you that I have procured a small glass jar, for the purpose of observing the cause of the phœnomenon of the small bits of tea-leaves, which you find whirled to the centre of the bottom of your breakfast cup, when you stir your tea.
I had told you “at a hazard”, that as there were different velocities in the different ringlets of fluid that moved about the axis of your cup, if at any time the motion of your bitt of tea-leaf was checked, the different ringlets of fluid I thought might have an opportunity of exhibiting their difference of force, and that the outer ones might have balance enough in their favor to enable them to incline the tea-leaf inwards, towards the axis of the cup.— You then bid me observe bodies in the situation you described, and see whether my explanation would suit the fact.
I have accordingly made some observations by means of my small glass jar, as follows.— First, bodies whirling at the surface of a fluid, seem to move as carelessly as the fluid itself; generally proceeding circularly, sometimes where the motion is very slow yielding to the attraction of the glass at the side, and perhaps at other times after a long continued motion inclining to the axis of the jar. I observed a similar indifference in the motion of the particles whirling about, lower down, in the body of the fluid. Particles however which are heavier than the fluid, and which if stopped at the surface or watched in the course of their descent, appear indifferent in all their horizontal movements; yet, when they descend, and come to touch the bottom of the vessel, soon begin to shew an inclination to the centre.
This pretty sand of a blue color, which I inclose for you, will shew two of the cases which I allude to. Upon throwing it into the fluid which I had moved briskly round with the feather of a quill, a part of it remained at the top, where it moved round like a portion of the fluid; while that which descended, soon tended to the axis at the bottom of the jar. As the jar which I use, has a very steep bottom pointed upwards, this tendency to the centre lasts only while the whirl of the fluid is considerable; for afterwards & long before the fluid has lost its motion, the particles of sand will slide down the ascent and fall to the sides of the vessel, except in parts where it lodges.— To vary the experiment, I threw in pieces of a breakfast roll. The crusty parts will swim at the top, some pieces of the crum will descend, and a mixture of both will take any level of the water at pleasure, or change that level slowly enough for the purpose of observation. At the bottom I saw a great deal of your phœnomenon of the tea leaves; but it is only at the bottom.— At the bottom, when the water is first agitated, the crums and sand together, make an amusing appearance; for while some particles of the sand cover the apex of the bottom of the vessel, the rest of the sand flies about and above the apex, and the crums of bread fly round the whole, like birds darting and skimming round a little mountain that is laboring under some commotion.

On the whole, I am inclined to think that the principles which I guessed at, may turn out to be the right principles, for explaining all the appearances at the bottom of my jar.— If a boat is put in motion, and the moving power is made to act more on one side than the other, the boat will decline from the stronger moving power; that is, when the rudder by being turned to one side of the boat, clogs that side, and suffers the other side to move quicker, the boat in this situation declining from the greater force, turns inwards towards the retarded side.— Again. If I cut a round slice of cork, and place it on the surface of any fluid; and if I place a ruler in the direction of a tangent to the side of the round piece of cork, and draw a lancet swiftly along the edge of that ruler, the consequence will be, that the lancet striking the edge of the cork will drive it off nearly at right angles from the ruler.
A short application will shew perhaps, the action of these principles, in the case in question.— When the heavy body once touches the bottom of the jar, it loses some of that whirl, which it once had in equal degree with the fluid; and is therefore left liable to the impulse of the fluid which is still whirling. The blow it receives on its outer side, being greater than that which it receives on the inner side, its motion begins to acquire a tendency inwards, towards the center of the bottom. Being by its weight often sunk and rubbed against the bottom, the effect of this impulse is often repeated; and therefore if the impulse is strongly enough applied, the body will distinctly approach the axis, in spite of the slope upwards in the bottom.— Where the body is only a little heavier than the fluid, as in the case of the crum of a roll, the approach to the centre is less decided; because the body having a great tendency to swim while the water is moving swiftly, it touches seldomer, and with less force, than if it were heavier.
The form of the particles in question may likewise have great influence, as well as their weight; as in the case of your tealeaves; which, being usually oblong, afford a powerful lever to the action of the fluid.— It is also not to be forgotten, that the effect will always seem increased by the smallness of the vessel; because in small concentric circles taken at a given distance from each other, the difference of velocity will be much greater, than in large concentric circles, placed at a similar distance from each other.
At the surface of the fluid, there are yet two farther circumstances worthy of remark. First; if the swimming body projects out of the fluid, the resistance it will meet with from the air will a little retard its motion and when this motion is revived by the impulse of fluid placed at different distances from the axis, it may be seen to tend some little towards the axis, even at the surface. And next; at the surface, we see the operation of two other principles; namely attraction to the sides, and attraction between the swimming bodies respecting each other.— Perhaps there is a little attraction subsisting between the particles at the bottom; but it is less than at the top, where at best it is very feeble. The intangling of the particles one with another, may be of more consequence; for they may assume the form & nature of a lever, and in consequence become much more seriously acted upon, than when they are separate.
So much at present for these tea-leaves.— When we were talking on the subject of them, I remember some one stated an assertion that the heaviest bodies had always most disposition to quit the centre, in the case of centrifugal forces. I mention it by the by, that I suspect this position was not truly understood in the quarter whence it came. The heavy body does not tend to quit the centre with more velocity than the light body; but, in consequence of having more force to overcome obstacles, it eventually moves more effectually, & therefore faster.— If I tie one end of a string to the centre of a board and move that board swiftly round its centre, the momentum given to the particles of the string will not be sufficient to keep it stretched; but if I fasten a bullet to the other end of the string, the momentum of a heavy bullet not being to be put in comparison with the disposition of the string to remain curled & crooked, the string will become both straightened and stretched. In this situation however, every particle in the string gets as far from the centre, as its circumstances permit; but the bullet having most momentum from its contents, and most sphere of action from the parts of the string to which it is fastened, takes the most circuit in its motion.
There was another fact suggested in the conversation, not more difficult to explain than the above. If water and lead are supposed to be put into different tubes which have each one of their ends joined in a common centre, if the whole is put in motion from that centre, we expect that the lead will be found at the farther extremities of the tubes, instead of the water; and very properly so; for the bullet without tending to have a swifter motion than the water has nevertheless power to displace the water when the water becomes stationary, and to put itself in its stead at the farther end of the tube. If the tubes were indefinitely prolonged, the water or even a piece of cork in the water, would go on just as fast as the bullet, other things being equal; but the moment a stop is put to their progression, then the bullet, adding its force to that column of water of which it makes a part, overcomes all the other columns, and drives on to the obstacle, as the only way of securing its own rest.— In this, the bullet acts precisely as it would in a case of gravity. Where there is no resistance, it moves no faster than a feather towards the earth. But when resistance occurs, though it is only from a medium as thin as the air, a difference is immediately perceived in favor of the motion of the bullet. And the moment a bullet is put upon the surface of water at rest, though the bullet begins with being stationary, like the water, yet it will penetrate and displace the water, as long as it finds water and passage left for its motion.
As to a third supposed fact, which I think was mentioned, namely that of separating bodies of different gravities spread through a fluid, by including them in a vessel to which a centrifugal force is given, it seems only another consequence of these principles. The heaviest bodies without tending faster from the centre in their origin than the lighter ones, yet by moving more powerfully, will always (where fair play is given them) be found at the bottom of the vessel; that is, as far as possible from the centre of motion. And as the centrifugal force may easily be made more violent than the force of gravity, separations of the particles may possibly be made in this way, which gravity in the common way of its operation cannot effect.
None of these principles, I apprehend, will be found at all inconsistent with the fact of our tea-leaves. Originally, these leaves set out (not with a centrifugal force resembling the other cases,) but with much the same force that belonged to that precise ringlet of fluid in which it stood, when the parts received their first motion; and this force, as soon as gravity carried them to the bottom and exposed them to friction, they soon lost. The inclination they afterwards acquired towards the centre, depended on principles still more different from the common centrifugal force, than the first motion they had.— It is easy however to imagine this force combined with a centrifugal force, by supposing a whirling motion given to a fluid that has light and heavy particles immersed in it; and, when the phœnomenon of the tea-leaves &c. has begun to work, then to suppose the vessel and its contents swiftly swung round a common centre. The whirling and centrifugal motions will then be exhibited on the same bodies.
As I have seldom found any of these questions fail to yield, sooner or later, to a little patience and thinking, I should now turn to the discussion of the cause of the agitation attending the surfaces of oil & water, when they are in contact with each other in any quantity, and affected by a vibrating motion; but at present, the time of both of us is, I hope, better occupied. At some future moment of your leisure, and when you are less fatigued than at present, I shall beg to call your attention to this & other subjects, which you have started in your writings and conversation. In the mean time, I am, my dearest sir, your most devoted, affectionate, & grateful,
Benja: Vaughan


Title: Franklin: Proposed New Version of the Bible, [1782 or after]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

PROPOSED NEW VERSION OF THE BIBLE.
To the Printer of * * * *
Sir,
[1782 or after]
It is now more than 170 years since the translation of our common English Bible. The language in that time is much changed, and the stile being obsolete, and thence less agreeable, is perhaps one reason why the reading of that excellent book is of late much neglected. I have therefore thought it would be well to procure a new version, in which, preserving the sense, the turn of phrase and manner of expression should be modern. I do not pretend to have the necessary abilities for such a work myself; I throw out the hint for the consideration of the learned: and only venture to send you a few verses of the first chapter of Job, which may serve as a sample of the kind of version I would recommend.
A. B.

Part OF THE First Chapter OF JOB MODERNIZED.

Old Text.
New Version.

Verse 6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them.
Verse 6 And it being levée day in heaven, all God’s nobility came to court, to present themselves before him; and Satan also appeared in the circle, as one of the ministry.

7 And the Lord said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the Lord, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.
7 And God said to Satan, You have been some time absent; where was you? And Satan answered, I have been at my country-seat, and in different places visiting my friends.

8 And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?
8 And God said, Well, what think you of Lord Job? You see he is my best friend, a perfectly honest man, full of respect for me, and avoiding every thing that might offend me.

9 Then Satan answered the Lord, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought?
9 And Satan answered, Does your Majesty imagine that his good conduct is the effect of mere personal attachment and affection?

10 Hast thou not made an hedge about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? Thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land:
10 Have you not protected him, and heaped your benefits upon him, till he is grown enormously rich?

11 But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to thy face.
11 Try him; only withdraw your favor, turn him out of his places, and with-hold his pensions; and you will soon find him in the opposition.


Title: Passport for Cartel Ships, [1782]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

To all Captains and Commanders of Vessels of War, Privateers, and Letters of Marque, belonging to the United States of America.
[1782]
Whereas an Act of the Parliament of Great Britain has been lately passed for the Exchange of American Prisoners; and in pursuance thereof, sundry Vessels are by that Government engaged as Transports to convey to America those Prisoners of War who have been confined in the Goals of England and Ireland; of which Vessels the [blank] is one, commanded by [blank] mounting [blank] Guns, navigated by [blank] Men, and bound for the Port of [blank]
THIS is therefore to require of you, or any of you who may meet with the said Vessel, either in her Voyage from England to America, or in her Passage from thence to any Port in the British Dominions, that you do not detain or molest her, or suffer any Injury to be done to her, or to the People belonging to her, or to their Effects; but that, on the contrary, you afford the said Vessel and People belonging to her, every friendly Aid or Assistance they may stand in Need of. And the same is requested of the Commanders of armed Vessels belonging to any of the Allies or Friends of the said United States.
GIVEN at Passy, this [blank] Day of [blank] 1782.
Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Court of France.

Notation by William Temple Franklin: Pass-port for the Cartel


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Cooper, [1782?]
From: Cooper, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,[1782?]
Before you left America, I believe I mention’d to you the great Losses I had sustain’d from the Enemy, in my Household Furniture, Books, Debts from Persons who took Refuge in Howe’s Army &c. so that take all together, I am perhaps, as large a Sufferer, in Proportion to what I possess’d, as any one in this Town; nor would two thousand Pounds Lawf: Money make me Whole. I had before full little enough to make me easy in my usual Manner of living, which was not excessive, and this Loss is the heavier in advancing Age. I have made no Application to any on this Side the Water, knowing the many Calls upon them for public Services & private Wants in this Time of great Exertion & common Distress. Many of my former Friends I honorably lost by my through, undisguis’d Attachment to the Rights of my Country & those who espous’d them. If they are establish’d I am still happy. But as you will have a principal Hand in Negotiations, Should Britain come to Terms with us, I hope she will be induc’d to make some Compensation to American Sufferers; On that or some similar honorable Occasion you may be of particular Service to your Friend.— This in Confidence.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Favier, [1782?]
From: Favier, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Bon Maître[1782?]
Mes malheurs ne vous Sont pas connus, et si l’on vous en a dit quelque chose, ce ne peut être que sous un paliatif. J’ai regret de ne vous en avoir rien dit dans le temps où je le pouvois, ou vous l’avoir donné par écrit et bien détaillé, ce tissu de miseres! Aujourd’hui on débite que vous m’avez renvoyé parce que je vous ai fait des torts, et cette calomnie m’a atteint à Senlis, où je travaillois paisiblement en attendant une paix prochaine. Je vous prie très-humblement de me donner un certificat qui démente une telle accusation, laquelle ne manqueroit pas de me faire un tort irréparable. Je Suis encore Sans ouvrage et manquant de tout; ma misere est telle, que j’ai cherché à m’engager, mais on n’a pas voulu de moi à cause de mon âge. On dit plus, on dit que je Suis un espion de police; mais qui est-ce qui me donne de Si mauvais noms? Des coquins et des espions eux-mêmes, payés pour ça. Pourquoi cherche-t-on à vous nuire de la Sorte? C’est ce que j’ignore; mais mr. Pierres, imprimeur de la police, n’est pas de mes amis; il protege l’auteur de cette calomnie, contre lequel je donna un placet, le 10 mars de cette même année, au Lieutenant de police, duquel je n’ai eu aucune réponse. Cette histoire diabolique est dans ma tête, Sans qu’il y manque une Syllabe, et elle Contient au moins Six feuilles in-40. de Saint-Augustin. J’ai l’honneur d’être, avec le plus profond respect, du meilleur des Maîtres, le plus humble et le plus obéissant et le plus zélé de Ses Serviteurs
FAVIER

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur le Docteur franklin, / Ministre Plénipotentiaire des Etat-Unis / de l’Amérique Septentrionale, à la Cour / de france, à Passy, en Son hôtel. / A Passy-les-Paris
Notation: Favier.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Anne-Catherine de Ligniville Helvétius, [1782?]
From: Helvétius, Anne-Catherine de Ligniville d’Autricourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce lundi [1782?]
Mon cher, ami je Comte vous avoire adiné mecredi, avec votre enfant, jespere avoire Mr. le Comte destin [d’Estaing] bonjour je vous embrasee de toute mes force, elle sont bien grande pour vous.
Proposé a Mr. de chaumon de venire je ne lui donnerai que du rie, et de la gelée.

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Mademoiselle ——— Juppin, [1782 or after]
From: Juppin, Mademoiselle ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[1782 or after]
Mon papa lon ma priée de vous demander, si les papiers que je vous envoyes ont quelque valeur, si la personne a qui ils appartiennent peut esperer en tirer quelque argent, et sil ne faut pas ladresser a Mr Jay.
Je vous presente mon papa, mes civilites, et amities et mes compliments a Mr votre petit fils.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy: Two Letters, [1782?]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
ce Lundy [1782?]
J’ai vu hier Mon Illustre Docteur a Versailles de belles Dames qui s’ont desoleès d’avoir èté Si Long-tems Sans avoir eu lhonneur de vous voir ce sont Made. Dangiviller et Made. De Flahaut cette jolie personne qui parle si Joliment anglois. Elles ont fait la partie d’aller vous demander du Thé Vendredy prochain à cinq heures du soir Et comme vous avez dans ce moment cy plus d’une chose à faire J’ai lhonneur de vous prévenir de leur projet afin que Si elles avoient mal pris leur tems vous ayez la bonté de me le mander pour que je le leur fasse Savoir. J’espere mon Illustre Docteur qu’on vous aura dit que J’ai été vous voir Vendredy dernier dans la Matinée on me dit que vous etiez allè à Versailles adieu Mon Illustre Docteur vous savez combien Je vous suis bien Véritablement et bien Sincèrement attaché pour la Vie
Le Roy

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin Ministre / Plenipotentiaire des Etats Unis / de LAmèrique Septentrionale / a Passy / LR maison du Notaire
Notation: Le Roy

II.
ce Vendredy matin [1782?]
Nos Dames viennent dapprendre mon Illustre docteur que vous allez dîner en ville elles craignent en conséquence que cela ne vous dérange de revenir aussi promtement chez vous pour leur donner du Thé avant cinq heures elles me chargent ainsi, sil est vrai, qu’elles n’ayent pas reçu un faux avis, de vous prier de ne pas vous gêner par elles elles attendront un autre jour où elles pourront prendre du Thé chez Vous sans vous déranger. Vous savez mon Illustre Docteur combien Je vous suis passionnément attaché
Le Roy

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur le Docteur Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbé Gabriel Bonnot de Mably, [1782]
From: Mably, abbé Gabriel Bonnot de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[1782]
La personne dont l’abbé de Mably a eu l’honneur de parler à Monsieur jay, et qu’il vouloit aussi avoir l’honneur de recommander à monsieur franklyn, s’appelle Rochas, c’est un jeune homme âgé de vingt quatre ans, il est bien né d’une famille de riches marchands de Romans en dauphiné. Il y a trois ans qu’il est à Marseille pour s’instruire et se former au Commerce de Droguiste-Epicier. Sa conduite a toujours été tres bonne, et ce qui donne à l’abbé de mably une tres bonne idée de son coeur et de son esprit, c’est l’envie extrême qu’il a d’aller s’etablir à Boston, et d’y porter une pacotille qui servira de fondement à son commerce. La recommandation de Monsieur franklyn et de Monsieur jay est du plus grand prix pour lui, et l’abbé de Mably sera penetré de la plus vive reconnoissance pour les bontés dont ces Messieurs voudront bien honorer le sieur Rochas.

Notation: l’abbé de Mably


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbesse Marie du Saint Esprit, 1782
From: St. Esprit, soeur Marie du
To: Franklin, Benjamin

	MonsieurDe notre Pauvre monastre De L’avé Maria de paris 1782
Le respect et La reconnoissance nous font également un Devoir de vous offrir nos vœux fasse Le Ciel que vous Jouissiez D’une santé aussy parfaite que nous Le Desirons. Nous Le Demandons avec ardeur. Daigné monsieur être persuadé De L’interest que nous y prenons. La Confiance que nous avons en votre Charité nous fait espérer La Continuation de vos bienfaits. Nous vous supplions d’agréer Le profond respect avec Lequel nous avons L’honneur dêtre Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissante servant
SŒUR Marie DU ST ESPRIT Abbesse


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Balthazar-Georges Sage, [c. 1782?]
From: Sage, Balthazar-Georges
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[c. 1782?]
Sage salue et Embrasse Monsieur francklin, auquel il envoye un ouvrage D’un de ses amis qui l’a prié de Lui offrir. La personne qui lui remettra Ce Billet est un medecin de ses amis qui accompagne Les princes de Carlath qui desirent avoir Lhonneur De Voir Monsieur francklin.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur francklin / De Lacademie des / sciences


Title: The Abbé Alessandro (Agostino) Beliardi’s Account of Franklin’s Remedy for a Cold, [1782 or after]
From: Beliardi, Abbé Alessandro (Agostino),Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[1782 or after]
M. Holcker a appris du docteur francklin qu’une petite cuiellerée à café de quinquinà jettée dans le fond d’un goblet où l’on verse un peu de lait pour Les bien meler ensemble, ensuitte remplissant le reste du goblet avec du lait, et en avalant un verre le matin à jeune, un autre en se mettant à table pour dinner, et un troisieme en se couchant, que çest un excellant remede pour guerir un gròs rhume en trois jours.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sarah Bache, 1[–2] January 1783
From: Bache, Sarah Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and Honoured SirPhiladelphia Jan 1st.[–2] 1783
I do not know how I could employ myself more agreeably on the beginning of the new Year, than by writing to my dear Papa, wishing him many happy returns of it, and that I may live to begin and end many of them with him is my sincere prayer, who knows what a Peace may produce— In Mr Bache’s letter you desire I would continue my histories of the Children, you could not have given me a more pleasing task, the Copies of my letters are filled with accounts of them, but when I come to write them fair I frequently leave a great deal about them out, in my last Copy “The Family are all well and love you as much as ever, little Deby sings dances and talks tho she does not walk yet, You are already acquainted with all the Clever things, that the rest of the little runabouts do” and I now can add with truth that I do not think there is a finer family of little Children in America, Will grows very handsome if I may judge by my own eyes, and my ears, he is a good english Scollar, he is now learning to dance which he likes very much, no boy ever posess’d a better memory, and I hope with a good education he will make a very clever fellow— Betsy goes to the same Miss Nancy Mash that I went too when a Child and hems pocket Handkerchiefs as well as any girl of her highth in Philadelphia, she shall send you one of her making very soon, her passion at present is dress, she loves fine waveing Plumes, and smart Sashes, and wishes for a Carriage, if it was only big enough to hold her Sister Deby, she says she should be satisfied, she desired me a few minutes ago, when I bid her hold her tongue that I was writing to her Grandpapa, Oh do tell him, if you wont take me to france to see him, that my little Mittins are almost worn out that he sent me and that I want a little fan, now I have got a Carolina hat to go to Church, Mrs Read ask’d her the other day where she got such Beautiful mitins, where do you think I should get them but from my dear Grand Papa, they dont make such beautifull Mittins any where but in France, I wish you could see her with all my heart, there is not a more brilliant pair of eyes in Philadelphia, Deby and Louis, are just Betty and Willy over again,

Januy 2d.
General Chataleux will bring you this, I spent last evening with him at Mr Morri’s who gave an Eligant Ball, I hope he will get safe, he is a very Valuable Man, and has a sincere regard for you, we were in hopes he was going to stay the Winter with us, and had no Idea he was going till last night— Mr Bache join in duty and Love with Your afectionate and dutiful Daughter
S Bache

Addressed: The Honble. / Doctor Benjamin Franklin / Minister Plenipoy: from the United States / of No America—at the Court of / Versailes / Favored by General Chastellux


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Cooper Johonnot, 1 January 1783
From: Johonnot, Samuel Cooper
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Respected SirGeneva 1st Jan 1783
Among your political Occupations I take the Liberty of troubling you with a french Letter wrote in English. Peace has been made this long time in the Mouths of Politicians, tho’ unhappily for Humanity it does not actually exist any where else.
We however in this Part of the World have a calm after all our Storms & are pursuing quietly thoug with Ardour our Studies. Our Endeavours have been crown’d with Success & in a few Days Benny & I shall each of Us receive a Prize from the Hands of the President of the College. I have the first of the 2d Band, & Benny has the 3d of the same. I am to be put in the 1st after the Delivery of the Prizes, & then we are to apply ourselves to have others at the Promotions. If I gain another my Ambition will be satisfied & shall hope that a speedy Peace may facilitate, according to my Friends Desire my Return to my native Country. In the mean Time I beg my venerable Friend to accept of the Tribute of Gratitude & of the sincere Wishes of your Prosperity Haelth & Happiness for many succeeding Years that are offer’d You by Your most humble Servant
Saml. Cooper Johonnot
His Exellency Dr Franklin

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre plenipotentiare des Etats unis / de l’Amerique auprés sa Majesté / trés chrétienne A Passy / pres Paris
Notation: S. Cooper Johonnot 1er. Janvr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sarah Bache, 2 January 1783
From: Bache, Sarah Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and Honoured SirPhiladelphia Jan. 2d 1783
Mr Restiff called to let me know he was going to France, I allways promiss’d him a letter when he return’d: he is an exceeding good Young Man, has been often at our House and can tell you how we all look—as I have just wrote you a long letter, and shall write you again in a few days by Coll Cambray, shall only add the Love and duty of an Afectionate Daughter
S Bache

Addressed: The Honble. / Doctor Benjamin Franklin / Minister Plenipoy: from the United / States of No: America / at / Passy / favored by Monsr. Restife


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dominique-Louis Ethis de Corny, 2 January 1783
From: Corny, Dominique-Louis Ethis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,Paris the 2d. january 1783.
I Would be acquainted if the Washington american Ship has already sailed for its destination. Mr. De Veimerange Who goes to morrow at versailles desires some Knouledge about it, Before his departure. I Was Disposed to Wait on your Excellency in this after noon, in order of Renewing my Best Wishes for the happiness and good health of your Excellency, during this new year. But I am told that it Was not certain that you must Spend the Evening at home; consequently I chuse the Way of Writting on this matter. Be so Kind, Excellency, as answer me a single Word concerning the Departure of this ship, the Washington, Which advice I may send Directly, to Mr. De Veimerange.
I am With the most Everlasting, faith full attachment and Respect Dear sir your Excellency’s the most obedient and humble servant
De Corny

Mrs de Corny Desires you Will agree thousand compliments. She shall be Extremly pleased, if your Excellency Will chuse a Day, to Drink tea, and make some Music. Mrs. De Corny, and Mr. De Corny too, present his Best compliments to his Excellency’s son

Notation: De Corny Paris 2nd January 1783


Title: Draft of a Declaration to Be Made by the American Peace Commissioners, 2 January 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: American Peace Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John,Jay, John,Laurens, Henry

Projet de Declaration1783. Janr. 2
Nous soussignés Ministres Plenipres. des Etats unis &a. Déclarons qu’en agréant et consentant a fixer par notre signature des articles qui avoient été discutés entre nous et M. Oswald muni de pleins pouvoirs a cet effet par S. M. le R. [Sa Majesté le Roi] de la grande Bretagne pour être inserés dans le futur traite de paix, nous n’avons eu pour objet que de faciliter et de constater la negociation dans laquelle les interets de nos souverains devoient etre préalablemt. Traités. Quoique le preambule de ces articles stipule positivement qu’ils n’auront d’effet que dans le cas ou le Traite de paix entre S. M. T. C. [Sa Majesté très Chretienne] et S. M. Brite. [Britannique] sera conclu, nous croyons devoir manifester plus spécialement les intentions de nos souverains a cet egard parceque nous appercevons que le titre de Traité preliminaire dont on qualifie ces articles soit en Angleterre soit dans les papiers publics de l’Europe peut induire en erreur sur la nature de l’acte que nous avons signé le 30. du mois dernier.
Les Etats unis de l’amérique septe. jaloux de faire connoitre leur fidelité à remplir leurs engagemens et leur reconnoissance pour S. M. T. C. regardent leur cause comme inseparablement unie a celle de S. de. [dite] M. c’est la base des instructions qu’ils nous ont données et aucune de nos demarches ne peut s’ecarter de ce principe. Nous remplissons donc un de nos plus pretieux devoirs en declarant que les articles arretés et signès entre nous et le Plenipre. de S. M. Brite. ne changeront rien a la position des Etats unis envers l’Angleterre tant que la paix entre S. M. T. C. et s. M. Brite. ne sera pas conclue, et que nous rejettons toute interpretation des ds. [dits] articles toute induction de la signature que nous y avons apposée qui seroient contraires a cette assertion. Nous esperons que ces verites bien connues dissiperont tous les soupcons qu’on pourroit chercher a repandre sur les sentimens d’une Republique naissante dont l’honneur et les interets demandent égalemt. qu’elle s’etablisse dans l’opinion generale comme mettant au dessus de tout la fidelite et la constance dans ses engagemens.
Fait a Passy ce


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Michel-Guillaume St. John de Crèvecceur, 3 January 1783
From: Crèvecœur, Michel-Guillaume St. John de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Chès Mr. Le Marquis de Blangy Lieutt. Gènéral Caën— Normandie 3d. Jany 1783.—
I have been Wittness whilst I was in America of a Cir Constance which I think it Imports Your Excellency to Know; my Good Intention will I hope, apologyse for the Liberty I am taking, if your Excellency is acquainted With it; if unknown, it is Certainly my duty as a good Cytysen of that Country to Inform you of what Follows—
In the Year 1775 Samuel Bayard Junior dèputy Sècretary of, the then Province of New York, was ordered by the Convention to the house of Nicholas Bayard a Mile out of Town, in order to watch over the records of the Province, then under the Guard of a Capt. & 30 Men; Some Time after, they were Transported to Kingston on the North River, Vulgarily Called Eusopus; under the Guard of the Same Person, & the Same Military Party;—18 Months after the Said Samuel Bayard, Contrary to the oath he had Taken to the Convention, found Means of Sending that part of those Records which Contained the Grant of Lands &ca. to Govr. Tryon then on board the Dutchess of Gordon; Since that, they have been Conveyed to the Tower of London, Where they now are;—those papers, fortunately become useless to Gr. Britain; at the return of the Peace must be of the Greatest Consèquence to that State; because, as you well know, they contains not only the Title of Lands but the Copy of Wills &ca.

I cannot Terminate this Letter Without taking the Liberty of Congratulating your Excellency, non only as a Man, an European, or Gaul, but as an American Cytisen, on the happy, Thrice happy rèvolution, which you have began Conducted & Terminated with So much Wisdom; hence forth Will begin a new Era in the annals of Mankind, far more Intèresting than those absurd rèvolutions which have hitherto Stained the Earth with Blood Without meliorating it; May nature Extend your days to the utmost Verge, to the End you may See the Misfortunes of War repaired, the Energy of this new people, the Wisdom of their Laws the Industry of those new States admired & respected by all nations.— Permit me to add that I am the Person who under the name of St. Jean de Crèvecoeur had the honor of dining with your Excellency Last March, with the Contesse de Houdetot & who last July Sent you, by the hands of Mr. Target a Book Intitled, Letters of An Américan Farmer.
I am with the most unfeigned Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant
H. St. John

Notations in different hands: H. St. John Caen Normandie 3rd. January 1783 / De Crevecoeur


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand, 3 January 1783
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurParis ce Trois Janvier 1783
L’Idée de Mr. Rt. Morris de se procurer des Piastres de la Havanne est bien bonne, mais je ne puis en dire autant de ses dispositions pour les faire payer ici. Je présume qu’il comptoit allors sur les fonds qu’il esperoit que vous obtiendriez, mais come ils se reduisent à Six Millions qui suffiront à peine pour faire face au courant des payemens ordinaires, je ne pense pas qu’on puisse rien détourner de cette somme, sans courrir risque de se mettre dans des Embarras dont le moindre Seroit de compromettre la signature de Mr. Rt. Morris & la confiance publique. Voilà, Monsieur ce qu’un examen refléchi de vôtre position financiere actuelle me dicte; mais en refléchissant sur l’Idée de Mr. Morris je me suis rappellé que nôtre administration achetta pareillement l’année précedente de la Cour d’Espagne des Piastres prises à la Havanne, par le canal d’un Négocient qui consentit à recevoir en payement des Valleurs de finance à 12 Mois de terme & qui en fit son Affaire avec la Cour d’Espagne. Je suis si ignorant sur les secrets politiques qu’il peut m’être permis de faire des sillogismes sur cette matiere; mais si vous pensiez qu’il put convenir aux Interrets politiques de vous aider & quil n’y eut que la rareté de l’argent qui y mit obstacle on pourroit le lever par ce moyen puisqu’avec de pareilles valleurs de finance jespererois pouvoir procurer à Mr. Morris des Piastres à la Havanne, si comme j’en suis persuadé la Cour d’Espagne ne se refuse pas d’en vendre.
Je vous soumet, Monsieur, cette Idée pour en faire l’usage que vous croirez convenable, n’aiant pas besoin de vous faire observer que par ce moyen la Cour vous aideroit, sans dèbourser pendant une Année & que vous pourriez remplir par là les besoins de Mr. Morris.
Je suis avec un profond Respect Monsieur Vôtre très humble & très obeissant Serviteur
Grand


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, 3 January 1783
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

De Paris ruë de Seine ce Vendredy 3 Janvier 1783
Voulez vous bien Mon Illustre Docteur que J’aye Lhonneur de vous recommander M. Envier de Dunkerque que j’ai deja eu l’honneur de vous présenter L’annee derniere et qui Souhaite prendre vos ordres pour Nantes, et M. Williams qu’il compte voir dans cette Ville sous peu de Jours. Je vous Souhaite, Mon Illustre Docteur, et de grand coeur la meilleure Santé dans cette année cy, et qu’elle vous mette à portée de Jouïr, pleinement de vos Succès, et de vos triomphes. Il n’y a plus de Souhaits à vous faire pour L’indépendance reconnuë, et la liberté de L’Amèrique. Cette Grande affaire est terminée aux Yeux de ceux qui Savent lire dans l’avenir, au milieu de tous les delais des Negociations, et de tous les nuages dont une politique peu eclairée pourroit l’envelopper.

J’ai l’honneur dêtre Monsieur et Illustre Docteur avec les Sentimens de L’attachement le plus vrai et le plus Sincère et pour la vie Votre très humble et très obeïssant Serviteur
Le Roy

Notation: Le Roy, 3 Janr. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris, 3 January 1783
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

SirOffice of Finance 3rd. January 1783.
I do myself the Honor to enclose to your Excellency under flying Seal a Letter to Mr Grand which I pray you to peruse. To what is said in that Letter I need add but little. The Bill to Messrs. Wadsworth and Carter is in Payment of what our Army have eaten during the last two Months and an half, and you will see by the Correspondence on that Subject which will be transmitted in my next Letter what a Situation I was drawn to. Be assured my dear Sir that nothing but extreme Necessity shall induce me to distress you but be also assured that unless a considerable Sum of Money is obtained for us in Europe we are inevitably ruined and that too whether a Peace takes Place or not for we must keep our Army together and we must prepare for war or we do Justice neither to ourselves nor our Allies. The Expence therefore is inevitable and I have no means of defraying it but the Sales of Bills. I shall write you more particularly as soon as my Leisure will admit and only repeat for the Present once more that money is indispensible.
I am Sir With Esteem and affection Your most obedient & humble Servant.
Robt Morris
His Excellency. Benjamin Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Sargent, 3 January 1783
From: Sargent, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear DoctorLondon 3d Jan 1783.
The Moment is come when I may safely assure You of my constant Esteem, affection & Veneration for Your Character, & may congratulate You on the Services You have renderd Mankind—!
I dared not write You before,—some Officious Sycophants had represented me to the late Ministry as an Active Instrument of America,—&, if I had written You but a single Line, by virtue of the Suspension of the Habeas Corpus, regarding Those that should hold Correspondence with That Country, or any belonging to it, I was informed, I might be shut up, & distressed by the vile Miscreants that have brought on all the late Calamities to each Country— So I desisted addressing You— my Innocence being a poor Shield against Power in such Hands— For you know, I afforded nothing to America but my Good Wishes—nor was more in my Power but a little private Relief to the Distressed not worth mentioning—
My Wife & The Old Lady Her mother ardently pray for Your Health, & still many happy Years to You— Hardly a day has passed since We parted, We have not thought & talked of You— My Sons are in the same Sentiments— The Eldest single yet, with me at Halsted— The Youngest Father of Four Boys— Two Living—marryed to a Lady of Family & Fortune in Sussex—turned Country Gentleman, residing wholy there—improving His Estate by the Study of Country affairs, Planting &c & endeavouring to mend & improve His Nieghbours by the acting a Justice’s Part,—which He is happy to be highly approved by Them in— I who am upon my Save-All, near the last Bitt of Candle left,—and only fit to save a better from being expended to the Purpose, remain in The Track You ever knew me,—being among the greatest Sufferer’s in point of Fortune by the unhappy Breach with America—to try what I can save from the Ship wrecks.
But I will not enter farther into that disagreable Subject— Let me embrace You, & wish You all Happiness, having but just Time to seize the opportunity offerd, & assure You once more I am Dear Sir Most unalterably & affectly Yours
J Sargent.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Antoinette-Thérèse Melin Dutartre, 4 January 1783
From: Dutartre, Antoinette-Thérèse Melin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce 4 janvier 1783
Mon papa, voila encore mon abbé, pour qui vous avez eu des bontés; voulez vous en avoir encore? Et à ma consideration, écouter ses demandes? Voulez vous aussi recevoir l’assurance de mon amitié? Et voulez vous bien aussi ne me pas oublier en 83, comme vous avez fait en 82? Car ce pauvre arbaletre ne vous a pas vû! Je ne Suis pas en bonne santé, j’ai été une fois à passy, et des affaires que vous aviez, m’ont empechée d’avoir le plaisir de vous voir: venez dont me dedomager de cette perte, en venant diner avec moy? Car je vous aime toujours: et j’aurrai grand plaisir a vous le dire
Melin Dutartre
Comment va vôtre enfant?

Addressed: A monsieur / monsieur franklin / à Passy
Notation: Dutartre.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 4 January 1783
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond sir.Nantes Jan. 4. 1783.
I beg leave to reccommend to your kind Notice Mr Purviance son to a Respectable Merchant in Maryland. This young Gentleman proposes to make a Tour to Ireland with a View of reestablishing his Health & visiting some Relations. I shall be much obliged by your giving him the necessary passport, and whatever Civilities you may think proper to show him you may depend he will be worthy of, & I shall esteem them as a favour done to me.
My Friend Mr Nikson [Nilson?], an Irish Gentn but an american in his Heart, goes with Mr Purviance, & I equaly reccommend him to your notice. I am as ever most dutifully & affectionately Yours
Jona Williams J
His Excelly Doctor Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand, 5 January 1783
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurParis ce 5 Janvr. 1783
La lettre dont vous m’avez honoré me demande mon Opinion sur celle qu’elle renfermoit de Mrs. Lecouteulx &c qui desirent scavoir si vous pouvez vous engager de leur fournir jusqu’à Deux Millions & demi pour les Achats de Piastres quils ont à faire pour M. Morris. Je ne puis ni ne dois avoir d’Opinion à ce sujet, mais pour fixer la vôtre, Monsieur, je dois vous éclairer sur la situation des Finances du Congrès en mes mains en conséquence & Suivant la situation actuelle de ce compte chez moi, Il resulte que mes payemens ou mes acceptations à ce Jour Sans y comprendre celles des votres dont je n’ai pas la Notte montent à L5.720 / m. & que le crédit n’est que de 4,548,880 l.t. 15 s. 4 d. & qu’à ce deficit d’environ 1200 / m l.t. Il faut ajouter les dépenses courantes qui, quoique peu considerables, etant repetées font un objet. Vous voyez par là, Monsieur, que le premier Quartier de L1500 / m qui echoit au premier d’Avril prochain, réduit à 900 / m l.t. à cause des L600,000 reçues & envoiées à L’Orient, est plus qu’absorbé & que je Serai obligé d’y Supléer de ma caisse. Il faut même que je me premunisse d’avance en conséquence, puisque dans l’Etat ci dessus je ne comprends que les traites de M. Rt. Morris avisées qui vont jusques à N 429 & qu’il m’en a deja été presenté sous le N 602 puisqu’ etant sans avis de cette suite de Numéros je ne peux en evaluer l’objet. Si d’après cette situation il m’est permis d’avoir une Opinion elle me porteroit à me refuser à la demande de Mrs. Lecouteulx &ce. & je la fonderois Sur ce que ces Messieurs ont deja tiré de Hollande & pourront tirer encore de l’Emprunt qui y est ouvert; Sur ce qu’il me paroit que l’acceuil des traites de M. Rt. Morris doit être preferé à tout, & Sur ce qu’enfin nous pourrions ègalement lui procurer des Piastres si la suite offre le même avantage & nous laisse des fonds libres, aiant pour cela tous les moyens possibles par mes relations intimes à la Cour de Madrid— Voila, Monsieur, mes reflexions puisque vous les avez Souhaitées, je les subordonne avec plus de confiance encore aux vôtres. J’ajouterai qu’avant de faire une réponse à M M. Lecouteulx il conviendroit peut être davoir celle de M. de Vergennes sur ma lettre que vous vous proposiez de lui communiquer parceque s’il goutoit mon Idée M. Morris ne manqueroit pas de Piastres & plus convenablement que par tout autre Voye.
Je suis avec un profond Respect Monsieur Vôtre très humble & très obeissant Serviteur
Grand

Depuis cette Lettre Ecritte je recois une remise de Mrs Willink & Van Staphorst d’amstd de 360 / m l.t. qui figurent bien dans L’Etat de situation cydessus.

Son Excellence M. Bn. Franklin Passy.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Franklin Bache, 7 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bache, Benjamin Franklin

My dear Child,Passy, Jany. 7. 1783.
I received some time since, and sent to your Father, the Samples you had sent to me of your Drawing, particularly the Copy of the Print of your Grand Father, which appear’d to be well done.

I have also just now receiv’d your Letter written to wish me a happy New Year; but you should nevertheless have put a Date to it, and to all your Letters. It was accompanied with several to your other Friends, all without Dates. I shall forward them by the first Opportunity.
You should also, when you write, acknowledge the Receipt of Letters that have come to your Hands, mentioning their Dates. I sent you some time ago a Parcel containing several English Books, and I have not yet heard that you receiv’d them.
I am glad to learn that you have obtain’d another Prize. Present my best Respects to Madam Cramer, & to Mr & Made. Marignac. I am ever, Your affectionate Grandfather
B Franklin
Mr. Benja. F. Bache

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur B. F. Bache / chez M. Marignac / à Genéve
Endorsed: Grandpapa Passy Jan 7 1783 Benjamn. Franklin Geneva 16 Jan 1783
Notation: Benjamin Franklin 7 Jany 1783


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Samuel Cooper Johonnot, 7 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Johonnot, Samuel Cooper

My dear young FriendPassy, Jany. 7. 1782 [i.e., 1783]
I received your kind good Wishes of a Number of happy Years for me. I have already enjoy’d and consum’d nearly the whole of those allotted me, being now within a few Days of my 78th.— You have a great many before you; and their being happy or otherwise will depend much on your own Conduct. If by diligent Study now, you improve your Mind, and practice carefully hereafter the Prompts of Religion & Virtue, you will have in your favour the Promise respecting the Life that now is, as well as that which is to come. You will possess true Wisdom, which is nearly allied to Happiness; Length of Days are in her right hand, and in her left hand Riches & Honours; all her Ways are Ways of Pleasantness, and all her Paths are Peace!
I am glad to hear that you are intitled to a Prize. It will be pleasing News to your Friends in New England, that you have behav’d so as to deserve it. I pray God to bless you, and render you a Comfort to them and an Honour to your Country. I am, Your affectionate Friend
B Franklin
Mr. S. C. Johonnot


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sarah Bache, 7 January 1783
From: Bache, Sarah Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Honoured SirPhiladelphia Jan 7th: 1783
Yesterday which was your birthday—and which I allways keep in the most festive Manner in my power—Willy & Eliza invited their Friends to a little dance, and made about sixty young folks, as happy as twas possible for People to be in this World. My children quite in an extacy, even little Deby had her share in the beginning of the evening— I have not the least doubt but they wish Grandpa’s birth day would happen once a week— This will be delivered to you by Major Franks, whom I recommended to you last Year, I have given him a memorandom of some things I want, which Mr Bache has desired Mr Williams to pay for, if there is any thing that he cannot get in Nantz, I have desired him to call on You. I gave last year a small Memorandom to Mrs Barkly which I requested her to give Mr W: or You, but she went to LOrient. I hear she is to spend the Winter in Paris, I hope you will see her often, she was a real Friend to me, and Mr Barkly as good a little Man as ever lived. I shall write to them by this opportunity—
Last Assembly I introduced a God daughter of mine Miss Deby Donaldson, she bids fair to be one of our greatest Beauties. Mr Bache would tell you she was one already— I am going this afternoon to sitt with Mrs Francis, who has lost her darling Sister Dolly Stirling, whom you knew and loved. Of all my Friends Mrs Francis, is the most attentive when any thing is the matter, in ones gay moments every body is ready and Willing to come, she is not a common acquaintance and I would not neglect her for the world, and have this day refused two very agreable engagements to go to her— Since I began to write I have had the pleasure of a Visit from you—a French Man from on Board the Danie Frigate, brought me a minature picture, which he said was drawn by a Lady in Paris from a large one, and sent a Venture by him, he asked eight Gunies, I am no great judge of painting, but I did not think the likeness good, not half so strong as the one the Minister gave me, done with a black lead pencl, by the Young Man who was kill’d by litening— You will not I think find fault of the scaricetty or length of my letters, I have began the Year a meer scribler— Mr Bache and the Children join in love with your Afectionate daughter
S Bache


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joshua Barney, 7 January 1783
From: Barney, Joshua
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr SirLOrient Jany. 7th. 83
I recd. your Dispatches last night Accompanied with the Money, which is all onbd & Shall Sail in the Morning if the Wind is fair, as it is at present— I am Sorry I could not carry the News of Peace as expected, But console Myself with its being effected very soon. I cannot help observing as you mention the Curosity of my pasport, the Name of the Ship and the Bitter pill of United States, however it is what we have Been long Struggling for, Wishing You health and happiness am Sir Your Most Obt Servt
Joshua Barney

Addressed: His Excellency Benn. Franklin Esqr. / Passy, near / Paris
Notation: Jos. Barney, L’orient Jany. 7. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James and Charles Hill, 7 January 1783
From: Hill, James,Hill, Charles
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,Bourdeaux the 7th Janry. 1783
When we were at Paris we took the Freedom to Call on your Excellency at Passe to request your Kind Assistance in giving us a letter of Recommendation to some Friends of yours in Philadelphia or Boston; and your Excellency was Kind Enough to Promise us; Provided you receiv’d a Letter from Doctor Percival of Manchester Certifying that we were the Men we Seem’d to be.
Inclos’d you’l receive the Letter of Doctor Percival’s as well as the Letter from my Brother which hope will be Satisfactory Enough for your Excellency to Assist us; as at this Time we are in very great Need of Friends; and are going into a Strange Country with a very little Money and not one Acquaintance; We have took our Passage in an American Ship Call’d the Minerva, of 12 Guns and about 50 Men we Part from here in about 12 or 14 Days at the Farthest, for Philadelphia must therefore Solicit your Excellency’s Letter as Soon as Possible for fear of its Coming too late and your Excellency will Confer a lasting Obligation on us, who begs leave to Subscribe Ourselves Your Excellency’s most Obedient and most Devoted Hum Se
James & Chas: Hill

NB Please to direct for us at Messrs. Jacobs & Stevens a lHotel d’Angleterre a Bourdeaux

Addressed: A Son Excellency / Benjn. Franklin M. D / Ministre Plenipotentaire / Des Etats Unis / a Passe. / pres / Paris
Notation: Hill, Mess. James & Charles, Bordeaux 7. Jany. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Antoine-François Prost de Royer, 7 January 1783
From: Prost de Royer, Antoine-François
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurLyon 7e. Janvier 1783
Je n’ai point oublié le bonheur que J’ai eu de vous voir à Paris et l’accueil que vous m’avez fait. J’ai lu avec transport les premieres loix que vous avez donné à La Pensilvanie, et c’est à ce double titre que j’ai l’honneur de vous faire hommage des deux premiers volumes du Dictionnaire de Jurisprudence et des arrets.
Je ne vous propose point, Monsieur, de lire en entier ces deux tomes: Les tables placées a la fin, vous indiqueront les matieres. Mais Il est des articles qui peuvent des à présent fixer votre curiosité.
Tels Sont en général l’article administration, qui n’avoit eté fait par aucun Juris consulte, et l’article accusation qui renferme tout le droit criminel.
Dans cet article accusation Il y a une notice interesante et neuve de la procedure criminelle de tous les etats de l’Europe et même de l’amerique unie.
Tome 2 page 414 vous trouverez la procedure criminelle de l’angleterre et page 419 la procedure de l’amerique unie dont la base est votre ouvrage. Vous y verrez de suite le proces de Zinger libraire de New york si bien deffendu par votre compatriote hamilton. Ce morceau ma paru d’autant plus interessant qu’il renferme un des germes de la revolution actuelle et de l’independance americaine. Je desire beaucoup que vous Soyez content de la traduction et de l’extraite, et de ce que J’ai dit de votre confederation.

Les mots acte et action me paroissent pouvoir encore fixer vos regards en ce qui concerne la Jurisprudence angloise page 662 et 693 du To. 2. J’y ai parlé avec franchise de la procedure civile angloise, qui certes ne vaut pas la criminelle.
Si Je desire une aprobation, Monsieur, c’est la votre. Vous avez donné a votre patrie la liberté et des Loix. Vous avez plus de droit que qui que ce soit de juger celles de tous les peuples, et les Juris consultes, qui, comme moi, rendent le service penible et delicat de les rassembler, de les comparer et de les évaluer.
S’il m’etoit permis de former encore un vœu, ce seroit celui de voir passer mon ouvrage à Philadelphie, de l’y voir accueilli et recherché par raport aux bons principes que J’ai taché d’y jetter sur la liberté, la sureté, la tranquillité et toutes les parties qui constituent la félicité publique dans la societé politique.
Je ne borne point, Monsieur, ma lettre à l’hommage de mon livre, permettez moi le desir de vous etre utile ici, d’avoir avec vous une correspondance suivie, et d’etre en quelque sorte a vos ordres pour tout ce qui peut dependre de mon personnel, de mon zele, et du desir que J’ai de mériter votre estime.
Je Suis avec respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
De Royergeneral des monnoïes, ancien Lieutenantgeneral de police, des academies deLyon et de Bordeaux et de Rome.
M. Franklin

Endorsed: De Royer 1783


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to David Barclay, 8 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Barclay, David Junior

Dear Sir,Passy, Jan. 8, 1783.
I received yesterday your favor of the 27th past, which I immediately answer, as you desire to know soon my opinion respecting the publication of a certain paper. I see no objection, and leave it entirely to your discretion. I have had several letters from our inestimable friend that would do him honor, as they generally contained some schemes and plans for the public good; but they were left among my papers in America, and I know not how those have fared in our troubles. If I live to get home, I will send you what I can find; they may perhaps serve in a second edition of the work, which I am much pleased to hear is undertaken by so good a hand, and that it will have the benefit of your inspection. I thank you for the pamphlet you sent me. It is full of good sense, and I doubt not had great effect, as the sentiments it contains soon after became general. Your friends on both sides the Atlantic may be assured of whatever justice or favor I may be able to procure for them. My veneration for William Penn is not less than yours; and I have always had great esteem for the body of your people. With great and sincere respect, I am, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant,
B. Franklin.

P.S. As possibly your wet harvest may have in some places produced a quantity of what is called grown corn, I send you enclosed a pamphlet published here on that subject, which may contain some useful hints.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Mary Hewson, 8 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hewson, Mary (Polly) Stevenson

My dear dear Friend,Passy, Jany. 8. 1783
I sent you sometime since 11 Pamphlets of the same kind with the enclos’d, supposing, as I had heard them well spoken of, that you who are so laudably attentive to the Education of your Children, might possibly find in them some Hints worth your Notice. I find the Work is to go on, and I will send you what comes out for the present Year, if you desire it.
I receiv’d a Letter last Summer from my excellent old Friend your good Mother. I was soon after taken ill with the Gravel & Sciatica, which together harrass’d & confin’d me till very lately. I am now, Thanks to God, freed from both; but the Sciatica has left me Weak on the left Side, so that I go up & down Stairs with Difficulty. I am in other respects at present well & hearty.— Present my sincere Love to her. Nothing would give me greater Pleasure than to see you both once more, well & happy. But you, who are truly sagacious, & honest, & can give good Advice, tell me frankly your Sentiments, whether, in case of a Peace, it will be prudent in me to visit England before I return to America. I have no other Call there, but the Pleasure of seeing my Friends of whom I must again soon take leave; and my Appearing may perhaps exasperate my Enemies. If you think this not of serious Consequence, tell me whether I may come right through London to Kensington, with the View of finding Room in your House; or whether I should take a Lodging in the City, to return to. Don’t let me in the least incommode you.
I forget whether I ever acknowledg’d the Receipt of the Prints of Mr Hewson. I have one of them fram’d in my Study. I think it very like. I believe I acquainted you with good M. Dubourg’s Death. He had enlarg’d his little Piece which you translated; and in respect for his Memory, I have had it printed. I enclose a Copy.
I am sorry to learn the still unsettled State of Mr. Wilkes’s Family. Mrs Wilkes is undoubtedly well qualified to teach English here, but I cannot think it would be worth her while to come hither for that purpose. It is true that our Language is in vogue here, and many learn a little of it. But the Instructors are poorly paid, & the Employ precarious and uncertain: the Observation is so general as to have given Rise to a Proverb, Pauvre comme un Maitre de Langue.
I have not yet quite determin’d about sending Bache to England. If I do, he will certainly be plac’d under your Care; for I am much pleas’d and oblig’d by the Readiness with which you kindly undertake to inspect his Education.
I am concern’d to hear of poor Peirce’s Misfortunes. People are rarely fortunate that quit the Profession they were bred to. I believe he was an excellent Farmer, and I think it a pity that he quitted that Calling. I intend sending him Ten Guineas, by a Friend who talks of going soon to London. They shall be left with you, so that if his Necessities should press before my Friend arrives, you may safely advance & afterwards deduct such part as you judge proper. I know not how otherwise to help him.
You know how much I love you, and that I am ever, My dear Friend, Yours most sincerely
B Franklin
Mrs Hewson


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Coffyn, 9 January 1783
From: Coffyn, Francis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurDunkerque ce 9 Janvr 1783.
J’ai l’honneur de vous ecrire la presente laquelle vous Sera remise par le Sieur Thomas Connoly Americain Lequel a eu le malheur d’Etre pris dans le navire Le Blear Mc Clanaghan a Son Passage de L’orient a Philadelphie par un corsaire de Guernsey auquel endroit il a été conduit prisonnier. Il a trouvé le moyen de S’echaper & de Se rendre ici, & Comme il s’est trouvé dans le cas d’avoir besoin de quelques Secours, Je lui ai payé pour le Compte de votre Excellence une somme de £96. contre son double récépicé pour l’aider a payer les frais de sa route.
J’ai l’honneur d’etre tres respectueusement Monsieur Votre tres humble & tres obéissant Serviteur
F. Coffyn

Addressed: A Son / Excellence Monsieur Bin. Franklin / Ministre plenipotentiare des Etats unis de / L’amerique Septentrionale a la cour de france / a Passi pres Paris
Notation: Coffyn Dunkerque 9 Janv 1783
Endorsed: give 5 Louis to this Gentleman taking his Notes &c with Directions to go via Orleans


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Filangieri, 11 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Filangieri, Gaetano

Sir,Passy, Jany. 11. 1783
The Letter you did me the Honour of writing to me in August last, came to my Hands when I lay ill of two painful Disorders, which confin’d me near three Months, and with the Multiplicity of Business that follow’d oblig’d me to postpone much of my Correspondence. I have yesterday receiv’d a second Letter from you, and I now without farther Delay sit down to answer them both.

The two first Volumes of your excellent Work, which were put into my hands by M. Pio, I perus’d with great Pleasure. They are also much esteem’d by some very judicious Persons to whom I have lent them. I should have been glad of another Copy for one of those Friends, who is very desirous of procuring it, but I suppose those you mention to have sent to M. Pio did not arrive. I was glad to learn, that you were proceeding to consider the criminal Laws. None have more need of Reformation. They are every where in so great Disorder, and so much Injustice is committed in the Execution of them, that I have been sometimes inclin’d to imagine, less would exist in the World if there were no such Laws, and the Punishment of Injuries were left to private Resentment. I am glad therefore that you have not suffered yourself to be discouraged by any Objections or Apprehensions, and that we may soon expect the Satisfaction of seeing the two Volumes on that Subject which you have now under the Press.
With regard to your Project of removing to America, tho’ I am sure that a Person of your Knowledge, just Sentiments, and useful Talents would be a valuable Acquisition for our Country, I cannot encourage you to undertake hastily such a Voyage; because for a Man to expatriate himself is a serious Business, and should be well considered, especially where the Distance is so great, and the Expence of removing thither with a Family, & of returning if the Country should not suit you, will be so heavy. I have no Orders or Authority of any kind to encourage Strangers with Expectations of Employment by our Government, nor am I impower’d to be at any Expence in transporting them, tho’ our Country is open, and Strangers may establish themselves there, where they soon become Citizens and are respected according to their Conduct. Men know, because they feel the Inconveniencies of their present Situation; but they do not know those that may, if they change, attend the new one. I wish therefore you could see that Country by your self, before you carry thither the Lady with whom you propose to be united in marriage. You will then be able to form a good Judgment how far the Removal is likely to be advantageous, and may proceed on surer Grounds. England has now acknowledged our Independence, and the Sovereignty of our Government; and several States of Europe who think a Commerce with us may be beneficial to them are preparing to send Ministers to reside near the Congress. It is possible to establish a profitable Trade between the Kingdoms of Naples and America. Should your Court be of that Opinion, and think fit to employ some one to visit our several States, and take Information of our Productions and Wants, the Nature of our Commerce &c. &c. perhaps it could not find a fitter Person than yourself for such a Mission: I would afford you all the assistance in my Power towards its due Execution; and by this means your Voyage would not only be without Expence to you, but might afford you some Profit.
With great & sincere Esteem I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant,
B Franklin

Endorsed: 1783 Franklin 11. Geñajo


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris, 11 January 1783
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

SirOffice of Finance 11th. January 1783
On the ninth Instant, from an Investigation of Mr. Grands Accounts, then lately received, I found that after making due Allowance for Loan Office Bills &ca. which might still come upon him, my Drafts (and those which I have directed) would exceed, by Something more than six Millions (exclusive of the Interest payable by him in November on the Dutch Loan) any Funds which he could be possessed of. It appeared also by indirect Information so late as in the Month of September, that the Loan opened by Mr. Adams had not produced above three Millions, so that unless he had met with further Success, there would be a Deficiency of three Millions. Had the Court granted us twelve Millions in the first Instance, Had Mr. Adams’ Loan produced six Millions, had Mr de Beaumarchais Bills been provided for, without Recurrence to the American Banker, or finally had the heavy Deduction made by those Bills been replaced, this disagreeable Thing would not have happened. Presuming that the Loan of the last Year was exclusively at my Disposition, I drew during the Year to the Amount of it, and I am convinced that all my Bills, and those drawn by my Authority will have been paid. Rely on it, that as I told you in a former Letter, I have acted under the Influence of dire Necessity, and this you will be convinced of by a few out of many Circumstances. Enclosed you have a general State of the public Account, until the end of 1781: On which you will observe, that the Army was fed principally (tho scantily) by the specific Supplies called for at different previous Periods; and that there remained in the Treasury near three hundred thousand Dollars, being Part of the Money which Colo. Laurens brought with him from France. I also enclose you the Copy of a Letter written to Congress, on the twenty first of October, and of its several Enclosures whch. will need no Commentary, or if it did, I would only add that I have been obliged to sell part of the Goods which arrived here from Holland, in Order to raise so much Money as would save my sinking Credit from Destruction. I would go into a Detail of the various Measures pursued to stimulate the Exertions of the States, but to do this with Accuracy would be to give a tedious History of my whole Administration. Whatever Expedient could suggest itself which might have that desirable Effect, I have tried: and I do assure you that when I look back at the Scenes I have passed thro, they strike my own Mind with Astonishment. As soon as I can get the Accounts made up, I will transmit you the Total of our Expenditures, but to transmit, or even relate, our Hazards and Difficulties would be impossible.
Even at this Moment I am making farther Exertions to bring our unwieldy System into Form, and Ward off impending Evils, but what the Success may be Heaven knows. Imagine the Situation of a Man who is to direct the Finances of a Country, almost without Revenue (for such you will perceive this to be) surrounded by Creditors whose Distresses, while they encrease their Clamors, render it more difficult to appease them. An Army ready to disband or Mutiny. A Government whose sole Authority consists in the Power of framing Recommendations. Surely it is not necessary to add any Colouring to such a Piece, and yet Truth would justify more than Fancy could paint. The Settlement of Accounts, long and intricate beyond Comprehension, becomes next to impossible, from the Want of that Authority which is on the Verge of Annihilation from those Confusions which nothing can disipate except the complete Settlement of Accounts, and an honest Provision for Payment.
Upon Discovering the Situation of our Affairs, in the manner already mentioned, I laid them before Congress. You will know the Result. The Secretary of foreign Affairs will doubtless transmit their Act, to which I must add this farther Communication, that I expect my Bills will amot. to a Million, within a Month from this Date. There are Cases where Nothing worse can be apprehended from a Measure, than what would inevitably happen without it, and our present Position is one of them. An immediate Command of Money is alike necessary to our present Existence and future Prospects. In Europe, when this Letter arrives, you will know decidedly whether we are to expect Peace or War, but in America we must prepare for the latter; for by so doing we may forward Negotiations for Peace, and at the worst will only have incurred some additional Expence whereas by neglecting it, we risk the Chance of being taken unawares, and paying very dearly the Penalties of Neglect.
But Sir, notwithstanding these Reasons and many others which will justify every Counsel and every Act (however irregular in other Respects) I would not draw one more Bill, and I would boldly hazard every Consequence of the Omission, if I were not persuaded that they would be paid. On this Occasion your Sovereign will expect your most vigorous Exertions, and your Country will, I trust, be indebted to you in a Degree for her political Existence.
I am Sir your most obedient and humble Servant
Robt Morris
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esquire1st.

Endorsed: Mr Morris Jan. 11. 83 Money— Money—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Grubb, 13 January 1783
From: Grubb, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hotel de Valois Monday Morng. 13 Jany. 1783
Mr. Grubb presents his respectful Compliments to his Excellency Dr. Franklin, & requests him to grant him a passport for England via Callais.
Mr. G. ill state of Health is the cause of the demand, & hopes his Excellency will in consequence, order one to be made out

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin. / Passy
Notation: Mr. Grubb Paris 13th. Jany. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris, 13 January 1783
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear SirOffice of Finance 13th January 1783,
I have received, in Addition to those already acknowledged, your Letters of the twelfth of August, twenty sixth of September, and fourteenth of October. I should therefore, regularly, have received two Copies of the Contract entered into on the sixteenth of July between you and the Count de Vergennes; but I suppose it has been omitted, thro’ Mistake, in both the Letters which refer to it. I lament this the more, as no one Copy of it has yet arrived, and consequently the Congress cannot do what I am perswaded they would, on the Occasion. But altho’ they (from this Circumstance) do not make Professions, yet as far as I know the Sentiments of that Body, they are penetrated with Gratitude. And you hazard Nothing in making to the King the fullest Assurances of their Desire to repay the Obligations they have received, and gratify their Affection for his Person and Family, by Services and Benefits. You will oblige me much if (together with the Contract in Question) you will send a State of the farmers-generals Account, and of the Agreement with them.
You tell me that the Losses in the West Indies prevent you from obtaining farther Aid. It is therefore to Us a double Loss. As to the Caution you give me about my Banker, you will find that before the Receipt of Mr. Grand’s Accounts, I had valued on him beyond his Funds. I have this Day entered into an Explanation with the Minister on that Subject, and I inclose you the Copy of my Letter, as also of another Paper deliverd him which may be worth your Attention. In my Turn, I rely on your Promise of Exertion to pay my Drafts. If one Bill should be protested, I could no longer serve the United States.
With Respect to the Apprehension you express as to my Bills, I do not perceive the Matter in the same Point of Light with you. The Lists of my Bills are transmitted to Mr. Grand, by various Opportunities, and they will check any which might be forged or altered.
I shall take due Notice of what you say about your Salary, and will enclose the Bills to you, the Amount will depend on the Course of Exchange: during the War you will be a Gainer, and after the Peace you may perhaps loose some Trifle but not much, because Remittances might then be made in Specie should the Exchange be extravagantly high. You will readily perceive, that altho the Fluctuations of Exchange are in themselves of very little Consequence to the Individuals who may be connected with Government, they become Important at the Treasury, partly from the Number of Payments and consequent Amount, but more so because they would introduce a Degree of Intricacy and Perplexity in the public Accounts, which are generally either the Effect or the Cause of Fraud and Peculation. Besides, there is no other Way of adjusting Salaries than by a Payment of so much at the Treasury, unless by rating them in the Currency of every different Country, as Livres, Dollars Guilders, Rubles &c. The late Mode of rating them, in Pounds Sterling, required a double Exchange. For Instance, the Number of Livres to be given in Payment of one hundred Pounds Sterling, at Paris, on any given Day, depends on the then Rate of Exchange between Paris and London, and the Value of those Livres here, depends on the Exchange between Paris and Philada.
I pray you, Sir, to accept my sincere Thanks for the kind Interest you take in the Success of my Administration. The only Return which I can make to your Goodness, is by assuring you that all my Measures shall be honestly directed towards the good of that Cause which you have so long, so faithfully, and so honorably served.
I am with the Sincerest Respect & Esteem Sir Your most obedient & humble Servant
Robt Morris
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Minister plenipotentiary of the United States of America

Endorsed: Mr Morris Jan 13. 1783 Salaries


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Servin, 13 January 1783
From: Servin, Antoine-Nicholas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieura Rouen 13 Janvier 1783
Je n’ai reçû qu’avant hier La Lettre Que Vous avez bien Voulû m’Ecrire le 16 novembre dernier. Ce retardement etonnant a fait Que mon libraire n’a pû Vous Envoier de Basle l’Exemplaire Que Je Vous ai prié d’Agréer. Mais j’irai a paris dans Quelques Semaines et j’aurai l’honneur de Vous presenter en personne Mon hommage. Je desire d’autant plus Qu’il Vous Soit Agréable Que Je releve dans Mon Ouvrage les Vices de La Législation Criminelle d’angleterre Que Vous Connoissez Mieux que tout Autre.
Je Suis Avec Respect, De Votre Excellence Monsieur Le Trés humble & Trés obéissant Serviteur
Servinavt au parl.

Notation: Servin, Rouen 13 Janvr. 1783


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Richard Oswald, 14 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Oswald, Richard

Sir,Passy, Jany. 14. 1783.
I am much oblig’d by your Information of your intended Trip to England. I heartily wish you a good Journey, and a Speedy Return; & request your kind Care of a Pacquet for Mr Hodgson.
I enclose two Papers that were read at different times by me to the Commissioners; they may serve to show if you should have Occasion, what was urg’d on the part of America on certain Points; or they may help to refresh your Memory. I send you also another Paper which I once read to you separately. It contains a Proposition for improving the Law of Nations, by prohibiting the Plundering of unarm’d & usefully-employ’d People. I rather wish than expect that it will be adopted. But I think it may be offer’d with a better Grace by a Country that is likely to suffer least & gain most by continuing the antient Practice, which is our Case, as the American Ships laden only with the Gross Productions of the Earth, cannot be so valuable as yours fill’d with Sugars or with Manufactures.— It has not yet been consider’d by my Colleagues; but if you should think or find that it might be acceptable on your side, I would try to get it inserted in the General Treaty. I think it will do honour to the Nations that establish it.
With great & sincere Esteem, I am, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
R. Oswald Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sidney Lee, 14 January 1783
From: Lee, Sidney
To: Franklin, Benjamin

SrNewgate Street Chester January 14th. 1783.
I hope the enclosed will meet with your Excellency’s approbation, and that I am not guilty of an impropriety in requesting of you the favor of transmitting it to his Excellency General Washington. I am Sr with great respect your most obedient humble Servant
Sidney Lee

Addressed: His Excellency Benjamn Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Earl of Shelburne, 15 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Shelburne, William Petty, Earl of

As Jonathan Williams, Jr., requested on January 9, Franklin appended this note to the letter Williams wrote to Shelburne regarding the mutinous seizure of his merchantman Trio. The vessel had been brought into Kinsale and was awaiting condemnation as a prize.
The British government’s encouragement of mutinies on American-owned ships had long enraged Franklin. His writings on the subject were expressed in language so strong, however, that they were not made public in the early years of the war. When Congress passed a resolution on privateering in response to the Prohibitory Act, Franklin drafted a strongly worded preamble; this was never entered into the record, either because Franklin himself held it back or because Congress voted it down. After the first cases of mutinies were reported in August, 1776, and the British rewarded the captors by allowing them the full value of the cargo, Franklin was appointed to a congressional committee to investigate the reports. Once in France in early 1777, Franklin and Silas Deane drafted a stern memorial to Lord George Germain declaring the policy a “violation of all moral obligation” and threatening to retaliate. This they did not send. In 1782, he finally did publicize his true feelings on the subject, though not under his own name. His letter, purportedly from John Paul Jones to Sir Joseph Yorke, was published in the London press at the end of September.
Franklin sent the present note to Benjamin Vaughan along with Williams’ papers on January 15. That evening Vaughan rushed to Passy to discuss the matter. Vaughan recounted their conversation in his cover letter to Shelburne, written the next day. Franklin had told him about the Prohibitory Act and about the “strong paper” he had been prepared to send to London in 1777 (which he had held back because Vergennes advised him that it would do no good), and then discussed the general issue of “treachery.” It was, said Franklin,
a shocking thing to encourage for the world; it went into people’s families and houses; and good men should try to render it detested. Force was the proper implement of war; and that was bad enough; but bringing in fraud over and above force, was making things worse and worse for the world, instead of mending them. He then gave a deep sigh, and an exclamation marking some anxiety.— They talk said he, of man’s growing better: I wish he may not be growing worse, and I do not know how it should be accounted for; but you see said he, one thing, How the ties of religion are every day wearing out.

Passy, Jan. 15. 1783
Mariners are the hired Servants of Merchants, entrusted with their Property.
The corrupting of Servants, & hiring them to betray the Trust reposed in them, & rob their Masters of the Property confided to them, by sharing the Plunder among them, was one of the infamous Modes of making War against America adopted by the late Administration, which ought to render them for ever detestable among good Men, who wish to see the Mischiefs of War diminished, and not augmented.
B F.

Endorsed: Dr. Franklin note on the Case of his Nephew Jonathan Williams respecting the Brig Trio.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Léonard Appée, 16 January 1783
From: Appée, Léonard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

	MonsieurCe 16 jenvier De la presente anée 1783De la tournelle à paris
Les Bonté que vous faite regallire [rejaillir] Sur un umbre [nombre] infinie De malhureux Et la justice Du congrés donc vous En nette [êtes] le digne réprésentant me fait prendre la liberté de vous adressé la présante pour imploré Votre protections, de plus Monsieur la justice de ma Cause me fait tout Esperé De Votre imtegrittée je reclâme dont monsieur 3 mois de gage quil mest dus pour mon Service En Callité [qualité] de Vonlontaire Sur la frégate amériquaine nommé la providence a raison de dix Ecus par mois En narmement [armement] á pinbœuf [Paimboeuf] avec la frégate la Bostonne toute deux destinée pour Boston ou nous arrivame a la fin dotobre De la née [l’année] 1778 lescadre francaise alors muilliée En rade de Boston manquaÿ de monde, Et monsieur le Comte Destainstg optin [obtint] la permisions du Congrés de prendre toute les francois qui estoit abort de la fregate ámériquaine. Cest alors que je me Vie forcé de quitté une nation de quï javais recut mille Bienfait pour Servire a ma patrie je fut my abort du languedoc Vaisseaux amiral. Lors ce que je fut á bort je demanda a monsieur le comte destin ce quil pouvais me revénire de mon Service a vec les ameriquin ausy Bien que ma pard des 3 prise faite dans notre traversé consistant En une Caiche corsaire portant 12 canon un Bric Et un Brigantin chargé de Vain Et autre marchandise. Monsieur le comte D’estainstg promis de me faire payé Et man Voÿat [m’envoyat] a mr. de Bordat major de lescadre mais les affaire qui Survinre [survinrent] tant a la grénades qua Savannat ou il recut plusieur Blessure lon pechat [l’empêchat] de pansé a moy nous Somme revenut a Brest ou ont [on] me delivrat un Congés pour revénire á paris ce quil fut mon malheur par un differant que Jut [j’eus] avec un de mes Supperieurs Et je fut Condamné á 5 ans de gallere mon triste Sort ma Enpéché de pouvoir Vous adresseé mes representations plutot.
Jose donc Esperré que Vous aurés Egard a mes representations Et que touché Du deplorable Etât de mon Sort Vous Voudre Bien ma cordér ma demandes. Je joint a la presante lettre une autre que jay recut Du Commissaire ordonnateur De la marine de pinbœuf qui Vous Convaincra Monsieur de la réallité De mes juste representa[tions.] Jose tout esperré Monsieur De votre justice Et Suis de Monsieur le tres humble tres obéisant Serviteur
Léonard APPÉE

Notation: Jan. 16. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Curson, 16 January 1783
From: Curson, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

SirMarseilles 16th. January 1783
I have some time had in veiw the intention of fixing myself in Lisbon, for the purpose of transacting business for my countrymen,— This seems a favourable moment, if credit is to be given to the report, of that place being lately opend, to American vessels,— Am induced to think your Excellency will be acquainted with the truth of this; my reason for troubling you with this letter;—at same time to ask your opinion, whether an American will be permitted to establish a house, where an English factory has so much influence.— If you think Sir! I might be assisted in my object, by the French Ambassador, dare say you will not deem it too much trouble to give me a line to him on the subject, with a passport, which propose to make immediate use of.—
A few days ago the Ship Hawk, Ca. Bull arrived here from Philadelphia,—she saild the 21t. Novr. but brings nothing new.—
I beg my best comps. to your grandson and remain with perfect respect.—Sir Your most humble and obedient servant
Sam. Curson
His Excel. Ben. Franklin Esqr. Minister Plenipoy.

Notation: Curson Saml. 16 Janvr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 16 January 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 16. Janver. 1783
J’ai l’honneur, Monsieur, de vous envoyer la copie d’un Mémoire qui m’a été adressé par les Srs. faure Donneau et Compagnie de Marseille propriétaire du Senaut l’Elégante. Vous avez déjà connoissance de cette affaire, puisque ces Négociants vous ont transmis leurs représentations sur cet objet, et vous avez été à portée de juger combien est juste la réclamation qu’ils font de la Somme effective de cent mille livres, argent de France, qui leur a été allouée par le Conseil de Williamsbourg en dédommagement de la perte de leur Navire et de sa cargaison.
Je vous prie, Monsieur, de prendre cette affaire en considération et de vouloir bien employer vos bons offices les plus efficaces pour procurer aux Srs. faure Donneau et Compagnie l’entiere satisfaction qui leur est düe. Les faits tels qu’ils sont exposés vous convaincront surement de la légitimité de cette demande, et vous sentirez, Monsieur, combien il seroit injuste et contraire au droit des gens que nos Négociants fussent les malheureuses victimes d’une conduite aussi repréhensible que celle dont le Commandant de la milice à Carterscreek s’est rendu coupable envers eux.
J’ai l’honneur d’être très sinceremt. Monsieur, votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
De Vergennes
M. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comtesse d’Houdetot, 17 January 1783
From: Houdetot, Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

paris Le 17. jer 1783.
J’ay Eté Bien affligée de voir hier a ma porte Le nom de Mon Cher Et Respectable Docteur, je le prie D’Estre persuadé de mes Regrets Et Du Desir que j’ay depuis Longtems de le Voir Et de le feliciter De L’heureuse paix qui Va Couronner sy heureusement Et sy Glorieusement ses Voeux Et Ses traveaux; puisqu’il Vient quelques fois a paris je puis me flatter De L’Esperance De L’y Voir Et je luy propose De Venir Entendre De la Musique Chez moy avec Monsieur Son fils Le jeudy trante de Ce Mois Depuis un peu avant huit heures jusqu’a dix; je Scay qu’il a du Goust pour Ce Genre D’amusement Et je ne puis me Consoller De ne M’Estre pas trouvée Chez moy hier ou je l’aurais Retenu a ma Musique qui a lieu tous Les quinze jours; je Voudrais Scavoir L’heure Et Le moment ou je pourrais trouver Chez luy Mon Cher Docteur Et Luy porter mes hommages Et mes plus tendres Sentimens
La Ctesse DHOUDETOT

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / Des Etâts Unis D’Amerique / A Passy / pres paris
Notation: D’Houdetot la Cesse. 17 Janr. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, 17 January 1783
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

De Paris ce 17 Janvier 1783
Il y a des siécles Mon Illustre Docteur que je n’ai eu lhonneur et le plaisir de vous voir et je m’en ennuye beaucoup. Tous ces jours cy Jai voulu Aller à Passy mais incertain de vous y trouver j’ai differré Jusqu’a ce que ce tems des visites fut passé. Enfin pour etre plus sur de passer quelques momens avec vous jai cru qu’il etoit mieux de vous demander à dîner le Jour qui vous conviendra, de Dimanche, lundy ou mardy, car Mde Le Roy desire également d’avoir Lhonneur de vous voir faites moi donc le plaisir mon Illustre Docteur de mander par un mot si vous acceptez ma proposition et pour quel Jour. Je suis bien impatient de vous renouveller dans cette nouvelle année tous mes Voeux pour votre santé et pour tout ce qui peut vous être agreable.
Je me flatte que je n’ai pas besoin de vous dire Mon Illustre Docteur combien je vous suis sincèrement et veritablement attaché pour la Vie
Le Roy

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin Ministre / Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de / L’amèrique auprès de la Cour de France / en Son hôtel / à Passy
Notation: Le Roy 17 Janvr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 18 January 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Versailles le samedy Soir 18. Janr. 1783
Il est essentiel, Monsieur, que Je puisse avoir l’honneur de conferer avec vous, avec M. Adams et avec ceux de Mrs. [Messieurs] Vos Collegues qui peuvent se trouver à Paris. Je vous prie en consequence, Monsieur, de vouloir bien inviter ces Mrs. à se rendre a Versailles avec vous Lundi avant dix heures du Matin. Il seroit bon que vous amenassiez M. votre Petit fils avec vous, il pourra nous être necessaire pour rendre plusieurs choses d’Anglois en François et même pour écrire. L’objet dont J’ai à vous entretenir est très interressant pour les Etats unis vos maitres.

J’ai l’honneur d’être avec une parfaite Consideration, Monsieur, votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur.
(signé) De Vergennes.
à M. Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 18 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir,Passy, Jany. 18. 1783 at 10 P.M.
Agreable to the Notice just receiv’d from your Excellency, I shall acquaint Mr Adams with your Desire to see us on Monday before 10 aClock, at Versailles; and we shall endeavour to be punctual. My other Colleagues are absent: Mr Laurens being gone to Bath in England to recover his Health; and Mr. Jay into Normandy. With great Respect I have the honour to be, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
I shall bring my Grandson as you direct.M. le Comte de Vergennes.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 18 January 1783
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dearest sir,Paris, Jan. 18, 1783.
I cannot but in the most earnest manner and from recent circumstances, press your going early to Versailles to-morrow; and I have considerable reason to think, that your appearance there will not displease the person whom you address. I am of opinion that it is very likely that you will have the glory of having concluded the peace, by this visit; at least I am sure if the deliberations of to-morrow evening end unfavourably, that there is the strongest appearance of war; and if they end favourably, perhaps little difficulty may attend the rest.
After all, the peace will have as much that is conceded in it, as England can in any shape be made just now to relish; owing to the stubborn demands principally of Spain, who would not I believe upon any motive recede from her conquests. What I wrote about Gibraltar, arrived after the subject as I understand was canvassed, and when it of course must have appeared impolitic eagerly and immediately to revive it.
You reproved me, or rather reproved a political scheme yesterday, of which I have heard more said favourably by your friends at Paris, than by any persons whatever in London. But do you, my dear sir, make this peace, and trust our common sense respecting another war. England, said a man of sense to me the other day, will come out of the war like a convalescent out of a disease, and must be re-established by some physic and much regimen. I cannot easily tell in what shape a bankruptcy would come upon England, and still less easily in what mode and degree it would affect us; but if your confederacy mean to bankrupt us now, I am sure we shall lose the great fear that would deter us from another war. Your allies therefore for policy, and for humanity’s sake, will I hope stop short of this extremity; especially as we should do some mischief first to others, as well as to ourselves. I am, my dearest Sir, your ever devoted, ever affectionate, and ever obliged,
B. Vaughan.
(Private)


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Vaughan, 19 January 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vaughan, Benjamin

My dear Friend,Passy. Sunday morng. Jan. 19. 83.
I should have been at Versailles this Morning as you desired, tho’ I had no clear Conception, from what you said to me, how my going could be of Use; but late last Night I received a Note from M. de V. [Vergennes] which postpones the Interview till tomorrow at 10 aClock. Your Brother tells me that you would have come out here to day if you had not imagined I should be at Versailles. I dine at home without Company, and shall be glad of yours; being ever Yours most affectionately
B Franklin
B Vaughan Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from René-Georges Gastellier, 19 January 1783
From: Gastellier, René-Georges
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur et trés illustre docteurMontargis 19 janvier 1783.
Recevés, je vous supplie, mes actions de Graces trés humbles de l’honneur que vous voulés bien me faire en recevant la dédicace d’un ouvrage qui vient d’être orné du sceau de la societé royale de médecine à la quelle j’ai l’avantage d’appartenir, votre nom à son frontispice sera un témoignage aussi flatteur qu’honorable pour l’auteur.

Mademoiselle de fay vient de me faire part des entraves que votre modestie m’impose, et Conformement à vos désirs je viens de changer l’épitre dédicatoire que vous trouverés cy incluse. J’ose me flatter que celleci n’affectera point votre délicatesse, car il n’est pas possible de dire moins à quelqu’un qui merite autant. Au surplus j’obeis à vos ordres qui ne font qu’accroître mon admiration et le respect avec lequel je suis Monsieur et trés illustre docteur votre trés humble trés obeissant serviteur
Gastellier

P.S. Comme l’impression du petit ouvrage que j’ai l’honneur de vous presenter, est absolument finie, je vous serai infiniment obligé, Monsieur, de vouloir bien me faire parvenir au plutôt votre acceptation et de me faire part de vos observations sur vos titres, si j’en ai omis quelques uns.

Notation: Gastellier. 19 Jan 83


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris, 19 January 1783
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,Office of Finance 19th. Janry. 1783
His Excellency the Governor and the Honorable the Delagates of Virginia have applied to me for my Assistance in obtaining from France certain Arms and Ammunition said to have been furnished by the Court for that State according to an Agreement entered into between Mr. Harrison a special Agent appointed by the Legislature and Monsr. de la luzerne the King’s Minister. These Articles wheresoever they may be deposited are (according to my Informants) in the Care and Custody and Subject to the Direction of Mr. Thomas Barclay the Consul General of the United States who is also the agent of the State of Virginia in France. I have accordingly written to the Consul directing him to cause those Goods to be shipped along with those belonging to the United States and at the repeated Instance of those Gentlemen I am now to address your Excellency upon the same Subject. Going upon the Supposition that the Arms &c. may still be in Europe I take the Liberty to mention that if the War continues the necessity of a Convoy necessarily continuing with it Monsr. de Ville Brun who has long been in the Chesapeak and is well acquainted with the Coast would not only feel himself happy in being charged with that Business but has even assured me that he would gladly take them on Board of his own Ship and at the same Time act as Convoy to the Trade which might be bound to the Chesapeak. Your Excellency will undoubtedly obtain every Information which may be useful on this Subject and your Zeal and Talents will prompt and direct to what is best. I can only add that I shall be happy if you can render any Service on this occasion to the State of Virginia and shall esteem as a Favor the Efforts which you may make—

Before I close this Letter it is well to observe that I have received another Copy of your Letter of the twenty sixth of September in which I find a Copy of the agreement entered into between you and Monsr. de Vergenes.
I have the Honor to be Sir Your most obedient & humble Servant
Robt Morris
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr. Minister plenipotentiary of the United States of America.Copy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 19 January 1783
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris, Jany 19, 1783.
B V: presents his most affectionate respects to Dr. Franklin, and is unfortunately so engaged to day, as not to be able to accept of his kind welcome. B V’s brother acted for the best, but not being privy to circumstances, misunderstood him.— Tomorrow evening B V will however call at Passy, unless inconvenient to his friend, and directed otherwise.

Addressed: A Monsr / Monsr Franklin, / a Passy.