Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jacques-Pierre Brissot de Warville, 22 December 1781
From: Brissot de Warville, Jacques-Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris ce 22 Xbre 1781
Je vous suplie de vouloir bien derober un moment à vos grandes occupations pour Jeter un coup d’œil sur le prospectus que J’ai L’honneur de vous adresser. Le desir d’ameliorer notre Législation si defectueuse preside à cette Entreprise, et Je suis fermement convaincu qu’on ne poura y parvenir qu’en rassemblant ce qu’on a ecrit de mieux sur cet objet. Ce Sera un foier commun où tous les raions Viendront Converger. J’ai taché de developer dans ma théorie Les principes qui devoient diriger cette reforme. Ici Je joins ma voix à des voix plus eloquentes. J’emprunterai surtout infiniment des constitutions de votre république qui doivent tant à votre sagesse. Quoique crées au milieu des orages, ce sont les plus raisonables qui aient paru, et ce monument fait honte à toutes nos Lois gothiques et barbares. J’aime à me persuader que si L’Europe est incurable comme des ecrivains fameux le croient, au moins tous ces ecrits ne seront pas Inutiles pour l’espece nouvelle qui va se former en Amerique. Elle profitera de nos Sotises et de nos Lumieres.
Vous deves bien penser, Monsieur, que L’extrait et L’Eloge de ces Constitutions tiendront dans ma Bibliotheque une place Importante. Je desirerois beaucoup y joindre d’autres pieces, que le peu que je connois ou etre guidé par quelque persone qui y soit versée et à cet égard permettés moi d’invoquer vos lumieres et votre apui. Vous aimés le bien, vous L’avés fait. Une Entreprise qui n’a pas d’autre but est donc digne de votre protection.
Je suis avec respect Monsieur Votre très humble et obt serviteur
Brissot DE Warvillehotel mayence rue de Seineprès Le nore [notaire]

P.S. Voulés vous me permettre de Vous Envoier un memoire fort court sur un plan fort simple d’accelerer La reforme des lois par toute L’Europe. J’aurois L’honneur de vous l’adresser, si vous pourrés y consacrer un moment.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Salisbury Franks, 23 December 1781
From: Franks, David Salisbury
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Brest 23d Decr. 1781
I have the Honor of your Excellency’s Letter of the 17th. and in Answer beg leave to assure You that I am fully convinced that the french are naturally polite to Strangers and at the same time that I have not been in any way treated as a Subject of a Country in Alliance with that Nation. I again with all defference, represent to Your Excellency, that I took every Step necessary on my Arrival here, and the first time I was summon’d before the Town Major, shewd & offered to Shew such papers as were sufficient to convince unprejudiced Men that I was a Gentleman, an American Officer & no Spy; the second time I was taken up, & out of the Play House, I shewd the same vouchers added to others, all which did not fully satisfy the Commandants of both departments; A woman of infamous Character had influence enough with them to make me further suspected & to continue those suspicions to this Moment. Permit me to add, that I have been guilty of no Indiscretion, — If I came here without the proper introductions, as an Officer of my Rank & on the Business I was sent might have expected, it was in consequence of Monsr. De Castre’s Promise of writing on my Subject & your Excellencys orders— this certainly was no fault of mine—
I know well, the duty of a military Man commanding in such a post as this, in parallel Cases, I am aware of all the ill Consequences of a remisness in it, but your Excellency will permit me to say that these Gentlemens proceedings were neither just or military, and such as in no other place, I have ever experienced or heard of—
I am happy on reflecting, that thro’ this whole Kingdom I have never before experienced any thing that look’d like disrespect, & I am so sensible of the many instances of politeness I have every where received, that I shall ever retain the highest Esteem, for a Nation which has been so particularly civil to me, & to which my Country owes so much—
’Tis not the hasty proceedings of Men (whom few people here speak well of) that can influence me in this, or my own Country, to think or say any thing ill of the French; but I do, with all submission to your Excellency, aver, that Mr. Hector & Monsr. Lanjeron have been wanting in proper & decent Respect to your Passport & to my situation here.
I beg your patience while I repeat, that I am now of an Age not to be liable to many indiscretions & I have too great a Regard to my Country & to myself to fall into any while in France; I hope your Excellency will do me the justice to think so—
The Affair is now over & I pray you would beleive me with all possible Respect Your Excellency’s most obt. & obliged humble Servant
Davd. S. Franks

Notation: Mr. Franks Brest. 23. Dec. 1781.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Mary Hewson, 23 December 1781
From: Hewson, Mary (Polly) Stevenson
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Cheam Decr. 23. 1781
A whole year has elapsed since we received one line from you. Perhaps you mean to drop all correspondence with us, but we will not let you off quite so easy as you may think, for whenever an opportunity offers I shall send you a letter. Being this morning informed by an old friend of ours that a young lady would set out in a few days to Paris I take a little from sleep to give you a few lines: I could find no time in the day as Mr & Mrs Viny came while we were at dinner and my mother being unwell was obliged to retire in the afternoon, she was well enough to return to us but left us again soon after supper. My mother has been much indisposed of late, and her spirits are extremely low. She has taken up the idea that she has a dropsy, tho’ no one can discern the least appearance of it in her. I wish she were with you, for you could raise her spirits, and reason her out of this notion; but I fear you are not destined ever to meet again.
I wrote to you last April, and in that letter I asked you if I might send the books to your grandson at Geneva, as I imagined I could more easily convey them thither than to you. Having received no answer from you, and not being in London long enough to make a choice, I have done nothing about them, except giving my son two volumes of Dr Percivals which are to make a part of the collection. My son was pleased with finding your name there, and no doubt that circumstance will stamp a value upon them in your grandson’s mind. I think likewise of getg: some Miscellanies published by Dr Enfield. You see I do honour to the Heads of the Warrington Academy. I have a kind of partiality for that seminary, and look forward with the intention of placing my sons there when they are of an age to be admitted. I think it seems more calculated to give useful knowledge than our Colleges are, and less exceptionable in many respects. At this early period I am very well satisfied with the school they are in; I flatter my self that they are tolerably informed, and are very good boys. Your grandaughter elect I can assure you is not inferior to her brothers in understanding, as to person I think she will be a tolerably comely Brunette. Contrary to fashion, and consequently to the opinion of most people (you know in some points I am very obstinate) I keep her without stays, by which means her shape retains its natural grace; being unconfined, and her motions free, her health too is preserved. Thank God! all my dear children are free from disease.
By the time you have read thus far you will be pretty well tired of my motherly prattle so good night to you—tho’ I fancy you are almost come to your postscript by your being something nearer day than I am.
Believe me Dear Sir your affectionate
M H

Notation: Hewsme, Decr. 23. 1781.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jaume, 23 December 1781
From: Jaume, Guillaume
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Lyon 23. Xbre. 1781.
Je suis bien flaté de la lettre que vous m’avés fait l’honneur de m’ecrire le 7. de ce mois. Le Jeune Johonnot m’ecrit quelque fois. Il me temoigne toujours le plus grand desir d’etre elevé dans l’academie d’Ecully. Il se persuade que Mrs. ses Parents ne lui sçauroient refuser cette satisfaction si interessante et que vous y joindrés celle de ne pas le separer de Mr. votre petit fils. Il est certain que si mr. son grand Pere etoit instruit de quelle maniere cette pension est dirigée, les Progrés qu’on y fait, que Mrs. Les Protestants y envoyent leurs enfants avec une entiere confience il seroit le premier à y desirer son petit fils. Je souhaite qu’il y vienne par l’attachement, et le vif interest qu’il m’a inspiré, et à ma famille.
Touts les Maitres sont payés sur les 1000. l.t. prix de la pension, ainsi que le Blanchissage—
Le trousseau consiste
En un habit d’uniforme d’ecarlate, revers, et Parements verds, veste, et culottes vertes
deux douzaines de Chemises dont 18 de jour, et 6. de nuit 3. Douzaines de cols
12 Paires de Bas en fil, oû en Soye, dont 8 Paires Blancs, et 3 Paires gris

2 Douzaines de mouchoirs
un couvert d’argent
2. Douzaines de Bonnet de nuit de cotton, oú fil
2 Peignoirs.
Touts les eleves ont un fusil, giberne, ceinturon et guetres qu’on achete icy aux frais des parents: c’est de peu de valeur, et on rembourse à la fin de l’education, suivant que l’on laisse ces sortes de choses en bon etat.
Ces enfants aprenent les evolutions militaires. Ils font l’exercice les dimanches, et les Jeudi, et ils montent en grades, suivant leur age, et leurs progrés.
L’envie d’etre utile à quelqu’un qui interesse votre Excelence, egale les sentiments de devouement, et de consideration avec lesquels Je suis Monsieur Votre tres humble, et tres obeissant Serviteur
Gme. Jaume
Place des terreauxMonsieur de franklin

Notation: Jaume 23. Decr. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benyowzky, 24 December 1781
From: Benyowski, Maurice-Auguste, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Excellence.
a Passy le 24. Xbre. 1781 au soir/.
Le Comte de Benyowzky a l’honeur, de Lui envoier la premie partie de son memoir en Francois et le Journal de son voyage de Kamtsattka il souhaite que la Lecture Soit agreable; Le Comte de Benjowzky, aura ensuitte encore l’honneur, de Comuniquer a Son Excellence, la suitte de son memoir, et son journal de Madagascar.

Il prie encore Son Excellence de vouloir bien Lui donner un jour quand il poura avoir l’honeur de Lui presenter Md. la Comtesse de Benyowzky sa femme;
De votre Excellence le tres humble & tres Obeissant serviteur
Le Comte DE Benyowzky

Notation: le Comte Beniousky Decr. 24. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon et al., 24 December 1781
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur.
Nice le jour de la Callêne, Cest la veille de Noel [December 24, 1781]
Permettez, qu’une famille qui vous fut chere, se rappelle à votre souvenir dans ce premier jour de L’année, et reclame, Monseigneur, des bontés de votre Grandeur, une portion d’amitié que vous voulutes bien lui accorder; Cette famille que vous oubliez si complettement; Monseigneur, n’a rien fait qui la mette dans le cas d’etre traitée si rigoureusement de votre part, elle vous a vouée une tendresse sans bornes, elle a chanté Le Te deum pour la continuation des Succéz des Ameriquains, elle a bue à votre Santé, de maniere à vous faire vivre Sain, et Sauf plus de Cinquante ans, et malgré les rigueurs de votre grandeur, Monseigneur, dans ce premier jour de L’an, elle ne cesse d’adresser des vœux au ciel, pour la conservation de votre Excellence, et de celle de Monsieur votre petit fils, qui dans ce moment fait peut être un entre chat, tandis que vous embrassez une, où deux jolies femmes, sans penser ni L’un ni L’autre à la tristesse, et à L’abandon ou nous sommes plongés; Veuillez donc, Monseigneur, vous souvenir un instant du passé, et si le present nous tient forcément Eloignés de vous, promettez nous, qu’à L’avenir vous nous r’aimerez. Sans cette esperance votre Grandeur, apprendra par le courier de L’Europe, qu’une famille honnête, et sincerement devouée à L’ambassadeur des etats unis, a eté reduitte au desespoir par ce même Ambassadeur, que L’on dit etre si grand philosophe, et si galant et qu’elle s’est noyée dans la mer, ou enyvrée à force de vins blancs, et rouges pour oublier Ses Chagrins.
D’hardancourt BrillonCunegonda BrillonAldegonde BrillonCoudougnanLe Pere PaginPaginet avocatBrillonini


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean de Neufville & fils, 24 December 1781
From: Neufville, Jean de, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam 24th. Decr. 1781
May It please your Excellency We should now Inform you that we have been so happy after Conferring sundry times with the Owners of the Dutch Ships to have settled that business so far as to have been enabled already to Offer the Goods to his Excellency Mr. Adams to whom they will be deliver’d the moment H. E shall please & find it convenient to receive them.
We Hope both your Excellencys—will be equally satisfied with the terms or Conditions we have made with the Owners of the Ships (whch. being to be sold at publick Sale) are to be indemnified for any loss there might happen and in Consideration of their loss of the Voyage Charges, Insurances &c. &c. Eight thousand Guilders is to be allowed for both Ships, to be divided in proportion this is so moderate a Sum, and so much more reasonable &.— than their first demand, that we could not but be highly Satisfied with having so Well Succeeded, and the more so, as the Honble. Thos. Barclay Esqr. Whose Commercial Knowledge must be indisputable was pleased to approve of the terms When we had the honor to wait on him after the Matter was settled.
As we are to pay the owners (unless you Will give orders to the Contrary) your Excellency will reimburse us as you Shall think proper, being as desirous to make every thing agreable & Convenient to you; as we are to remove every objection to the paymt of the bills though the honnor & Credit of America forbids as much that a doubt should be entertain’d thereon; as our own and Sooner would we take on us, the risk, & Consequence of the Engagemt we have enter’d into with the Owners, by advancing the Whole Money to them, and Wait the equity of Congress to Whom we would appeal for a decision; than not to Intervene in this Manner for the honor of both, as we have not a doubt, Its justice would cause us to be reimbursed of our advances, as much as if they had been made to Mr. Adams for the purchase of the Ships when we Offer’d him any sum for that purpose, in order to put it in his power, to Settle the business in any Manner he pleased.
We have only to reiterate now the Very great Respect, with Which we have the honnor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt Hble Servt.
John DE Neufville & Son.
His Excellency Dr B Franklin Minister plenipo: at the Court of Versailles


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Desouches de Varenne, 24 December 1781
From: Desouches de Varenne, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Toulouse le 24 Xbre. 1781
Mon départ précipité pour le Languedoc, où mon état m’appella immédiatement apres la première audience dont vous m’honorâtes, ne m’a pas permis de profiter de vos offres obligeantes et de vos lumieres: mais il me reste au moins la Correspondance que vous eûtes la bonté de m’offrir.
Qu’il me soit permis, Monsieur, de vous demander aujourdhui, et avant que le plan que j’eus l’honneur de vous mettre sous les yeux Soit plus avancé, si les faits Consignés dans L’ouvrage, ayant pour Titre; abrégé de la Révolution de L’amérique anglaise depuis 1774 jusques en 1778, par un Américain; Si ces faits, dis-je, Sont de quelqu’authenticité; et il ne me faut pas moins, Monsieur, qu’une autorité aussi respectable que la vôtre, avant que de Continuer cet ouvrage qui doit avoir pour baze la plus exacte vérité: les événemens étant à la Connoissance des Contemporains.
Les faits, dont L’authenticité m’importe le plus, Sont, la Conjuration Contre MM. Vasingthon et Gates, en L’année 1776; et le Projet de Séduction des Commissaires du Roy auprès du Congrès en 1778; L’époque exacte de ces deux événemens, et celle de L’évacuation de philadelphie par les americains, à peu près dans le meme tems.
J’ai eû, Monsieur, tout le regret possible d’avoir été obligé de quitter Paris, avant que d’avoir profité de vos lumieres Sur ces événemens dans les entretiens que vous aviés eû la bonté de me ménager; et de vous offrir moi même les sentimens d’admiration que vous m’inspirés depuis longtems; et que je partage, je puis le dire, avec tous les êtres pensans.
Je suis avec Respect Monsieur Vôtre très humble et obéissant serviteur
Desouches DE VarenneContrôleur général des fermes du Royau Département du LanguedocA Toulouse

Au milieu des affaires importantes et multipliées qui vous occupent, peut être auriés vous pû perdre de vuë que c’est un Parent de Madame sorin qui a eû L’honneur, Monsieur, de vous entretenir pendant quelques instants, et qui a aujourdhui celui de vous écrire: ayant bien voulû le lui permettre./.

Notation: Destouches de Varennes, Toulouse 24 Dec. 1781.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Madame Brillon, 25 December 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt

  à Passy, ce 25. Dece. 1782 [i.e., 1781]
  No 6.

Vous me boudes, ma chere Amie, que je n’avois pas vous envoyé l’histoire de notre grande Victoire. Je suis bien sensible de la Magnitude de notre Avantage, & de ses possibles bonnes Consequences; mais je ne triomphe pas. Sçachant que la Guerre est plein de Varieté & d’Incertitude; dans la mauvaise Fortune j’espere la bonne; & dans la bonne je crains la mauvaise: Ainsi je joue a ce Jeu avec presque la même egalité d’Ame que vous m’avez vû jouer aux Echecs. Vous sçavez que je renonce jamais à un Parti avant qu’il est fini, esperant toujours de gagner, ou au moins d’avoir un Pat;— & je me garde, quand j’ai bon Parti, contre la Presomption, qui est souvent trés nuisible, & toujours trés dangereuse. Et quand j’ai de Présomption je tache de la cacher, pour eviter la honte si la Fortune change. Vous voyez pourquoi j’ai dit si peu de cette Affaire, & que j’ai seulement remarqué, que rien ne pouvoit me faire parfaitement heureux en certaines Circonstances.
Comme vous avez toujours evité de faire des Connoissances nombreuses, vous ne pouvez pas imaginer la Quantité de Gens qui s’interessent de vôtre Bien-être. Je rencontre tous les jours quelques-uns dans toutes les Societés, en toutes les Parties de Paris & à Versailles, qui me demandent de vos Nouvelles, de vôtre Santé, &c. Et ceux qui m’aiment, disent quelques mots pour me consoler de vôtre Absence; que vous ameliorez votre Constitution, que vos Nerfs seront fortifiées, que vous vivrez plus longtemps, &c. Tous parlent de vous avec Respect, plusieurs avec Affection, & même avec Admiration. Cela est Musique pour mes Oreilles, & plus que compense ma perte des Noels charmantes que la Saison me fait souvenir.
Je passe souvent devant la Maison. Elle me paroit desolée. Autrefois j’ai brisé le Commandement en la convoitant, avec la Femme de mon Voisin. A cette heure je ne le convoite plus. Ainsi je suis moins Pecheur: Mais par rapport à la Femme je trouve tousjours ces Commandements bien incommodes, & je suis faché qu’on s’est avisé de les faire. Si, dans vos Voyages, vous vous trouvez chez le sainte Pere, demandez de lui de les rapeller, comme etant donnés seulement aux Juifs, & trop genantes pour les bons Chretiens.
Voilà arrivé le Jour de la Naissance du Dauphin du Ciel, & jusqu’a present nous n’avions eu la moindre Apparence d’Hyver. J’ai diné aujourd’huy a Chaillot; les Portes & Fenétres ouvertes comme en Eté, & je disois à moi-même, je ne crois pas qu’on a plus beau Tems a Nice; & j’etois prêt a chanter

Helas! pourquoi chercher sur l’Onde
  La Bonheur qu’on trouvoit au port.

Mais j’espere que tout sera pour le mieux.

Quoique j’ai dis que je ne triomphe pas, je serai bien aise d’avoir la Marche que vous avez la bonté de me promettre. Mais je crois que je ne l’entendrai bien jouée avant votre Retour.
J’ai lû la petite Memoire de votre Ami de Marseilles. Elle est plein d’Intelligence & de bon Sens. Je le communiquerai ou elle peut avoir quelque bonne Effet.
Dites quelques milliers de bonnes choses pour moi à chacun & chacune de votre heureuse Societé.

Addressed: A Madame / Madame Brillon / à Nice.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon, 25 December 1781
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce 25 xbre a nice [1781]
Réparation authentique mon chér papa, je ne vous appellerés plus n’y monseigneur n’y mesme monsieur; mon placét a réussi avant de vous estre parvenu, nos larmes sont éssuyées, vous nous aimés, vous nous le distes, vous vous portés bien et vous estes aussi coquin que par le passé, puisque vous projéttés de me voller a Brillon et de me menér faire un tour en amérique sans qu’il y paroisse, tout est dans l’ordre accoutumé, je vous reconnois beau masque et je suis tout a fait contente; mais mon bon papa pourqu’oi dire que vous écrivés mal le françois, que vos plaisanteries dans cétte langue sont des sottises; pour un discour académique il faut estre bon gramairien mais pour écrire a ses amis il ne faut qu’un coeur, et vous joignés au meilleur coeur mon aimable papa quand vous le voullés la plus saine morale, beaucoup d’imagination, et cétte coquinerie si drole qui laisse voir que le plus sage des hommes de ce monde possible brise a chaque instant sa sagésse contre les rochérs féminins. Ecrivés moi donc, écrivés moi souvent et beaucoup, ou par dépit j’apprendrai l’anglois, je voudrés le sçavoir viste et cela me fera du mal parcequ’on m’a déffendu toute application, et vous sérés cause de mes meaux pour m’avoir refusé quélques lignes de votre mauvais françois que moi et les miens qui ne sommes pas des sots trouvons pourtant fort bon; demandés a mes voisins, a mr D’éstaing, a mde hélvétius, a ses abbés s’il seroit honnéste de votre part de nuire au bien que le soleil me fait ici pour un petit point d’amour propre qui n’est pas fait pour Monseigneur l’ambassadeur Benjamin Franklin:

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin en / Son hotel / A Passy / contresignè


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edmund Clegg, 25 December 1781
From: Clegg, Edmund
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Decr 25: 1781
The Subscriber humbly hopes the importance of the subject proposed will plead his pardon for the want of all formalities of Address.
The Bearer Mr Henry Wild has some things to lay before you, of such a kind as it is humbly hoped, will claim your attention. He is a prudent and honest man, and with his connected friends, equal to the Proposed Undertaking.
If the Scheme is approved, it will be with the Utmost pleasure Promoted, in every thing within the Power, of Your &c &c &c &c
Edmund CleggNo 2 Wilkes Street Spitalfields London


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis Sazérac l’aîné & fils, 25 December 1781
From: Sazerac, Louis, l’aîné & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
angoulème Le 25 Dbre. 1781
Suivant Lordre que nous a Donné notre Digne amy, monsr. john Bondfield De bordeaux, nous avons mis hier a la diligence, une poule D’inde farçie De truffes, a l’adresse De Votre Excellence, et comme celuy qui a Ecrit Ladresse a mis Votre Demeure a Poissi au lieu de Passi, nous prions Votre Excellence de Vouloir bien envoyer retirer cette D’inde, au bureau De la messagerie Rue contrescarpe pres La rue D’auphine a paris, elle y Sera rendue Samedy.
Nous Sommes avec Respect De Votre Excellence Les tres humbles & tres obeissants Serviteurs
Louis Sazérac Lainé & FILS

Notations in different hands: Ansd. / Sazeral L’ainé et fils Mr. Louis Angouleme 25. Dec. 1781


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Edmund Burke, Matthew Ridley, and Vergennes: Three Unsent Letters, [before 26 December 1781]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Burke, Edmund,Ridley, Matthew,Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

On December 13, Franklin learned that Matthew Ridley was planning a trip to England to visit his wife. He proposed furnishing Ridley with powers to exchange Henry Laurens for John Burgoyne, and giving him instructions for the relief of American prisoners. Eight days later he promised Ridley a commission and instructions. Ridley was subsequently warned that travel to England was too risky, and on December 26 he informed Franklin that he had decided not to go. By that time, according to Ridley’s journal, Franklin had already prepared the papers. Only the drafts of those documents survive, all written on the same sheet. The letter to Burke, Letter (I) (with its postscript describing a variation to be sent to William Hodgson), came first, followed by (II), the letter and instructions to Ridley, and finally (III), the letter to Vergennes.

I.
  Sir,
Passy, Dec. [blank in MS; before December 26] 1781
Having receiv’d no Answer to the Letter I did myself the Honour of Writing to you the  of  last, I have requested the Bearer Mr M. Ridley to wait upon you in order to be inform’d what State the Proposition is in for the Exchange of [Gen Burgoyne against Mr. Laurens] & have empower’d him to do any thing in my Stead that you may advise relating to it, if you shall judge his appearing in the Business necessary or convenient. With great & sincere Respect, I have the honour to be
Mr Burk

The same as above, only instead of the Words between Crotchets, to put [our People; which in my Letter of the  of  last, I requested you to make]
  Mr Hodgson

II.
Sir
[before December 26, 1781]
In Virtue of the Powers I am generally vested with by Congress, for the Exchange of Prisoners, and particularly for the Exchange of General Burgoyne, I do hereby authorize & appoint you to treat of those Exchanges, in Great Britain in my stead, according to the Instructions herewith given you. And I promise to ratify & execute as far as in me lies, what shall be by you stipulated, in pursuance of those Instructions. Given at Passy, this  Day of  178

  To Matthew Ridley Esquire
Instructions to Mr Ridley
You are on your Arrival in England, to wait on Edmd. Burke, Esq; (to whom I have sometime since written on the Subject of General Burgoyne’s Exchange for the honble Mr. Laurens) and request to know whether he has done any thing in that Affair, what is its present Situation, and what Expectations there may be of its Success. If he is of Opinion that he can compleat it, and that your Appearance in it is not necessary you will follow his Advice. You will also take his Counsel, as to the Manner of your being announc’d to the Ministers, and of acquainting them with your Business & obtaining their Permission to reside in England till the Result of your Mission can be known.
You will also wait on Mr William Hodgson, Mercht in Coleman Street, Chairman of the Committee for the Relief of American Prisoners, to whom I sent some Weeks since a Proposition for the Exchange of all our People Prisoners, in England; viz. that on their Release I would give a Receipt, & engage that an equal Number of English should be discharg’d in America, &c. and request to know of him if that Proposal has been made by him to the Board of Sick & Hurt, or to the Admiralty, & what Answer, if any, has been received. If it is still under Consideration, you are to take his Advice as to your Proceedings in endeavouring to obtain a favourable Conclusion.
You are also to procure the best Acct you can of the present Situation of our People in the English Prisons. And if you find that they suffer for want of Necessaries, you will endeavour to obtain Leave for the Residence of a Commissary near each of those Prisons, for the purpose of taking proper Care of them.

III.
Sir;
Passy, [blank in MS; before December 26] 1781
Mr. Ridley, Agent for the State of Maryland, having a Wife and some Estate in England, which he is desirous of withdrawing from thence; and his Presence being necessary there to arrange his Affairs advantageously, he proposes going thither, if it might be done without public Inconvenience, and if he could be protected under Colour of some allowable Mission. To serve him in this, I have thought of furnishing him with the enclos’d Papers: But I first request that your Excellency would be so good as to cast your Eye over them, and let me know if you judge the Proceeding for any Reason improper, in which Case it will be dropt. I am, with great Respect,
M. le Comte de Vergennes

Notation by Franklin: None of these Drafts were used, as Mr Ridley declined going.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Searle, 26 December 1781
From: Searle, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hotel de Pettit Champs Rue Neuf de Pettit ChampsWednesday Morng. 26 Decr. 1781.
Mr. Searle’s respectfull compliments to Dor. Franklin— Mr. S begs leave to remind the Doctor of his kind promise of an introductory line to the Marquis de Castres which the Dor. will be so kind as to send to Mr. S. at the first leisure as Mr. S wishes to make the application he informed the Doctor off. Mr. Searle woud have paid his Duty to the Doctor in person but he has been confined for two or three days past with a fever—

Addressed: Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / A Passy


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [David Salisbury Franks], 27 December 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Franks, David Salisbury

Sir,
Passy 27 Decr. 1781
I received the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 20th. Inst, that from Mr. Jay, which you mention to have inclosed, is not come to hand. I can therefore form no Opinion of Mr. Jay’s Reasons for wishing you to return to Spain, & cannot advise you in the Affair. If you do undertake that Journey, I request you would deliver the Dispatches & letters I committed to your Care, to Capt. Truxton of the St. James.
By this time you will have recd. my Letter of the 17th. which answers the remaining part of yours.
Accept my Thanks for your Information relative to Mr. & Mrs. Dericks & believe me with a sincere Regard, Sir, Your &c—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 27 December 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir,
Passy Decr 27. 1781.
I received the Letter your Excellency did me the honour of writing to me the 21st Inst; and having understood from Mr Grand that he had lately obtained a Sum that would be sufficient for the present Month, I communicated your Letter to him, and desired his Opinion whether instead of the Million I had requested of your Excellency, it might not be well to take only 500,000 l.t. and leave the other 500,000 l.t. for Mr Morris. Inclosed I send his Answer to me, by which I am induced to continue my Application for the entire Million. And as I shall make no other use of it than to pay the Bills and Orders of Congress, I am fully satisfied of my being sufficiently authorised in applying their Money to that purpose; more especially as the protesting their Drafts would be attended with the most mischievous Consequences. I am with great Respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s, most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
Exy. Ct. de Vergennes

Endorsed: M. de R rep


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis-Guillaume Le Veillard, [27 December 1781]
From: Le Veillard, Louis-Guillaume
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[December 27, 1781]
Mr. Le Veillard prie monsieur franklin de vouloir bien luy faire savoir si le billet quil a reçu de mr. de sequeville marquait que madame la comtesse d’Artois avait reçu hier ses derniers sacrements; comme alors il n’y auroit pas de grand couvert mr. Le Veillard n’irait pas a versailles, mais mr. filleul y va a quatre heures et pourra porter la lettre a mr. de Vergennes; si le billet de mr. de sequeville ne porte pas que me. la comtesse d’artois a recu ses derniers sacrements et que mr. franklin ne Le sache pas avéc certitude d’ailleurs, mr. Le Veillard ira a versailles et se chargera de la lettre.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Webb, 27 December 1781
From: Webb, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir!
Pent decr. 27th: 1781.
Having so convenient an Opportunity to pay my Respects to you through the Gentleman who is so Kind to deliver this into your Hands (Mr Pigott) I could not help embracing It—as more expressive of that Respect & Honour I have ever held your Character in—& which no Subsequent Circumstances have diminished in my Opinion—but Otherwise.
You have probably heard long since through our mutual Friend Dr. Price, that I was with my eldest Boy in Switzerland. His dear Mother (Mr. Curteis’s daughter) who you will recollect has partaken of the pleasures of your Society has been never well in Health since the birth of my youngest Son, now seven years old. Indeed her disorder has render’d her incapable of further Happiness from Society at present—But she is not unhappy in herself—Which is One Comfort in hand—and the Hope of her restoration, as she is still young—will I trust prove Another, in Reversion.—
Pray excuse that my former Acquaintance with you in the more private Walks of Life, has induced me thus to interupt you, when your Time & attention is employ’d about & actually a Sharer in, deciding the Fate in order to promote the Happiness of Millions—born & unborn. I am with the highest Respect Dear Sir Yr most obed: hble Servant
Benj. Webb

Hitherto I have lived in Basil Canton with my dear Boy in the most retired way—but at present by the very friendly politeness of Mr. Pigott I am at his House. One of the most delightful situated Villas certainly on this earthly Globe.

Notation: B. Webbe Pent Nov. 25. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Pigott, [after 27 December 1781]
From: Pigott, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hotel de York Rue Jacob, Saturday morng[after December 27, 1781]
Mr Pigott presents respectfull compliments to his Excellency Dr. Franklyn & has the Honor to send Three Letters which He brought from Geneva. Mr. Pigott hopes his Excellence will permit Him the Honor to make his personal respects as soon as may be.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 28 December 1781
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam Decr 28. 1781
I do myself the Honour to introduce to your Excellency Mr William Cheever, a Citizen of Boston who proposes to Spend Sometime in France and will be very much obliged to you for your good Councils. Any Civilities you may shew him, will be so many obligations, conferred on, Sir your most obedient and respectfull humble Servant
J. Adams
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr

Notation: John Adams Decr. 28. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Michael Hillegas, 28 December 1781
From: Hillegas, Michael
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored Sir
Philada: Decr. 28th. 1781.
After congratulating you (and every friend to American Liberty) on the Capture of Lord Cornwallis with his Army &ca. the particulars of which I doubt not you have reced some weeks past, permit me to add, That this will be handed to you by Captn. De Frey, who has been in the Continental service; The Certificate he has obtained from his Excellency Genl: Washington of his good conduct while with the American Army is such, That any thing I could say would scarcely add thereto— notwithstanding which I can’t help saying from what knowledge I have had of him, That he has always behaved as a Gentleman; And knowing the goodness of your heart to all good Men, I doubt not of your rendering him such civilities & services as may be in your power.
I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s most obedt. as well as most affectionate humble servt
M. Hillegas
His Excellency Doctor Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esquire / Minister plenipotentiary from the / United States of America, at the Court / of Versailles. / Passy
Endorsed: M Hillegas


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-François Richard, 28 December 1781
From: Richard, Jean-François
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
paris ce 28 xbre 1781
Je Vous demande mille pardons si Je ne suis point venu vous rendre Compte plutôt de mon arrivée et de la perte de L’alexander, prise faitte le 6 7bre dernier par l’Indien présentement la Caroline du sud, Commandé par Mr. le Commodor Gillon et le sr. John Joyner, mes blessures et le deffaut d’argent m’ont fait une Nécessité de rester pendant quelque tems à Dunkerque. Je profite de L’occasion de quelques soldats pris avec moi le 14 7bre pour vous Ecrire et vous assurer de mes très humbles respects; sous peu de Jours J’auray lhonneur moi même de Vous salüer et de prendre avec Votre Excellence des mesures pour La Conservation et la subsistance de quelques prisonniers américains qui ont combattu avec moi. Parmy ces derniers Je Vous supplie de distinguer les nommés Daché, sergent Major, Collet, Caporal, Verroquet, Caporal, Démazi, soldat, Le Duc, Caporal, qui se Sont conduits avec une bravoure singulière dans L’affairre de 4 heures et demie que j’ay soutenuë sur les Côtes d’Espagne contre le heart-of-oack trois fois plus fort que Nous en Canon et en Equipage.
Je suis avec respect Mon seigneur Votre très humble et très obéïssant serviteur
Jean FRANÇOIS RichardCapitaine dans les Volontaires de Luxembourgdétaché sur la Caroline du Sud et demeurant présentementà paris ruë de la Vieille monnoye,hôtel de Vienne vis à vis un perruquier

Addressed: Monseigneur / Monseigneur Benjamin francklin / Ambassadeur Plénipotentiaire du Congrès / à Passy
Notation: Jean François Richard 28 Decr. 1781


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Castries, 29 December 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Castries, Charles-Eugène-Gabriel de La Croix, marquis de

Monsieur,
Passy, le 29. Decbre. 1781. xd
Permettez moi de presenter à votre Excellence Monsr. le Colonel Searle de la Province de Pensilvanie où il est fort respecté et dont il est l’Agent en France. Cet officier ayant quelque chose à proposer concernant les Intérêts de cet Etat, Je prie votre Exe. de vouloir bien lui accorder une Audience favorable.
Je suis avec Respect, Monsieur, De votre Excellence Votre &c
Monsr. De Castries


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Martha Laurens, 29 December 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Laurens, Martha

Madam
Passy, Dec. 29. 1781
I received your very sensible Letter of the 14th past. Your Brother Col. Laurens being here when I received the former, I informed him of the Steps I had then taken respecting your good Father, and requested him to answer your Letter for me. I did suppose he had done it; but his great and constant Occupation while here, might occasion his omitting it. The Purport was, that on a Report of your Father’s being harshly treated, I wrote in his Behalf to an old Friend, Sir Grey Cooper, Secretary of the Treasury, complaining of it; whose Answer was, that he had enquired, and found the Report groundless; and he sent me enclos’d a Letter he receiv’d from the Lieutenant of the Tower, assuring him that Mr Laurens was treated with great Kindness, was very sensible of it, thankful for it, & frequently express’d his Satisfaction. On this I became more easy on his Account; But a little before I receiv’d your Letter, I had one (from Mr Benja Vaughan, who is connected with the Family of Mr Manning) which inform’d me that Mr Laurens was really in Want of Necessaries; and desired to know if no Provision was made for his Subsistence. I wrote immediately to Mr. Hodgson, in whose Hands I had lodg’d some Money, requesting him to hold 100£ of it at the Disposition of Mr Laurens, & to acquaint Mr Vaughan with it. About this Time I received two Letters; one from Mr Burke, Member of Parliament, complaining that his Friend Gen. Burgoyne, (in England on his Parole) was reclaim’d & recall’d by Congress, and requesting I would find some means of permitting him to remain. The other was from the Congress inclosing a Resolve that impowered me to offer General Burgoyne in Exchange for Mr Laurens. Perceiving by Mr Burke’s Letter that he was very desirous of obtaining his Friend’s Liberty, & having no immediate Intercourse with the British Ministry, I thought I could not do better than to enclose the Resolve in my Answer to his Letter, & request him to negociate the Exchange. When I received yours, I was in Expectation of having soon an Answer from Mr Burke & Mr. Hodgson, which would enable me to give you more Satisfactory Information. I therefore delay’d writing to you from Post to Post till I should hear from them; and fearing from the length of time, that my Letters had miscarried, I sent Copies of them. It is but yesterday that I received an Answer from Mr Hodgson, dated the 21st Instant in which he writes me, “I received your favour of the 19th ultimo. I immediately acquainted Mr Vaughan with your Directions concerning the Supplying Mr Laurens. He has been acquainted therewith; but hitherto no Application has been made to me for the Money: Whenever it is, you may be assured it shall be complied with.”— No Answer is come to my hands from Mr. Burke; but I see by a Newspaper Mr Hodgson sends me, that he has endeavoured to execute the Commission. I enclose that Paper for your Satisfaction, together with a Copy of your Father’s Petition to Parliament, on which I do not find that they have yet come to any Result: but observing that he makes no Complaint in that Petition, of his being pinch’d in the Article of Subsistance, I hope that part of our Intelligence from London may be a Mistake. I shall however, you may depend, leave nothing undone that is in my Power, to obtain his Release; and I assure you that the thought of the Pleasure it must afford a Child, whose Mind is of so tender a Sensibility, & fill’d with such true filial Duty & Affection, will be an additional Spur to my Endeavours. I suppose Mr. Adams has inform’d you that he has order’d another 100£ Sterling to be paid Mr Laurens: and I hope you will soon have the Happiness of hearing that he is at Liberty. With very great Regard, I have the Honour to be, Madam,
[In William Temple Franklin’s hand:] Miss. Lawrens.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Bery: Receipt for Brass Stencils, 29 December 1781
From: Bery, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[December 29, 1781]
Monten des caraters fourni par bery a Son eclence le docteure flanklin Savoire

2 caracteres magescule
16
  l.t.

2 dite a..12 l.t.
12

11 caractere ten romint quitalique a 4 l.t
44

2 caracteres de lettre orené
16

6 boredure a 1 l.t. 10 s.
9

4 baton dencre de la chine a 2 l.t.
8

6 brosse a 12 s.
3
  12

pour la boite
8

le biet de visite
6

toto
122
  l.t. 12 s.

3

119
  ” 12

Chiffres

  8

120
  0

Reçu le montant à Passy le 29 Décembre 1781.
Bery

Notation: Bery’s Acct for brass Caracters 120 l.t. Pd. 29 Decr 81


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas-Simon Bérard, 31 December 1781
From: Bérard, Thomas-Simon
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris 31: Xbre: 1781.
Je Prends la liberté de vous remettre l’Incluse du Capne: John Angus Americain qui commande Le Brig Antonia appartenant à Messrs. La Case & Mallet Negts: à Philadelphie et qui est arrivé à L’orient par ma maison Messrs: Jn: Jes: Berard & ce. Vous priant de vouloir accorder à ce Capitaine une Commission en guerre telle quil la desire et pour laquelle Je vous fournirai le Cautionnement que vous Jugerez Convenable soit chez Messrs: Le Couteulx & ce. ou Messrs. Girardot haller et ce. Banquiers. Permettez moi de vous observer que ce Navire devant Partir de l’orient Sous très peu de tems Pour proffiter d’un Convoy fixé au 15 Janvier Pn: [Prochain] Je vous Prie de vouloir me faire remettre laditte Commission le plutot que vous le pourrez et pour cet effet Je me rendrai chez vous le Jour que vous voudrez bien m’indiquer: et vous donnerai tous les éclaircissements & détails que vous pourrez desirer Sur le dit Navire.
J’ai l’honneur d’Etre avec Respect Monsieur Votre très Humble & très obeissant Serviteur
S. BerardConsul General de SuëdeHotel des trois Evechés rüeneuve des fills St: Thomas.
Son Excellence Mons. Franklin

Notation: Berard 31. Xbre. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Marie-Thérèse Jogues Le Ray de Chaumont, 31 December 1781
From: Chaumont, Marie-Thérèse Jogues Le Ray de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Chaumont ce 31 Descembre 1781
Je désire Monsieur, que ma lettre arrive aussi mâtin que j’aurois eu le plaisir de vous embrasser, de vous souhaiter une bonne année,  a se souhait j’en joint bien dautres et sur tout la durée de la vie de Guillaume Pen; cest bien en meme tems souhaiter le bonheur du monde, a propos de bonheur je ne trouve pas de paroles pour vous exprimer ma joye sur vos succes, en apprenant la prise de Cornwalis, mon premier crit fut, bon Dieu, quelle joye pour Monsieur, franklin, quels regrets de ne le pas voir, les gérémiades des Anglois quoi que trés bonnes ne m’en console pas, enfin l’Amérique na plus rien a craindre jouissez longtems avec elle du fruit de vos travaux, mille et mille remerciemens, Monsieur, du désir que vous avez marqué de me venir voir, je vous jure que je n’en ai pas douté un instant, et ci cest une erreur ne me l’otez pas je vous prie, il m’est si doux desperer toujours le plaisir de vous voir, conservez-moi aussi votre amitié je m’en sens digne et quoi que le mot ne soit pas modeste, je ne m’en dédit pas non plus que de mon trés tandre, et trés respectueux attachement pour vous Monsieur, Votre trés humble et tres obbeissante Servante
Jogues DE Chaumont

J’ai trop d’amitié, Monsieur, pour votre enfant, et de reconnoissance du plaisir qu’il ma fait en venant ici, pour loublier il ma bien confirmé l’oppinion que jai toujours eue de lui, j’en avois il est vrai un bon garant dans son vif attachement pour vous, celà me donne envie de vous embrasser ensemble pour ne vous point separer, recevez les tendres respects de mes enfants.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / Ministre plénipotensiaire / des Etats Unis de L’amérique / A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 31 December 1781
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Sir
Madrid 31 Decr. 1781
I learn from Marqs. DYranda that my Letter to You of the 21 Ult. has reached You. The Want of a good Opportunity has for some time past prevented my writing to You so particularly as I could have wished.
Things remain here exactly in Statu quo, except that your Aid daily becomes more necessary, and will soon be indispensable.
These are matters that require no Explanation.
I have recd. two Letters dated the 26 & 28 Novr. from Mr. Adams, on the Subject of certain Instructions passed the 16 Augt., which he had lately recieved, and of which I was ignorant ’till the arrival of these Letters. I think them wise.
A courier from France arrived here two Days ago. By his Return I hope to write you particularly—
Mrs. Jay joins me in presenting the Compliments of the Season to you and your grandson
To Dr. Franklin 31 Decr. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 31 December 1781
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 31. Xbre. 1781. xd
J’ai reçu, Monsieur, la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire le 27. de ce mois. Je n’examinerai pas la variation et l’augmentation qu’ont éprouvées les demandes successives que vous m’avez faites de fonds pour l’acquittement de vos traites; je me bornerai à vous marquer que dez que vous vous croyez suffisament autorisé à disposer, pour le compte du Congrès, des deniers provenant de l’emprunt de hollande, je proposerai à M. de fleury de vous fournir le million que vous demandez lorsqu’il aura été versé dans le trésor royal. Mais je crois devoir vous prévenir que si M. Morris fournit des traites pour ce même million, je ne pourvoirai pas à leur acquittement, et que je les laisserai protester. Je dois vous prévenir également, Monsieur, qu’il ne sera décidément plus rien fourni audelà du million dont il est question, et que si les traites que vous pouvez avoir acceptées, passent cette somme, ce sera à vous à aviser aux moyens de les acquitter. Je n’excepte que celles de M. Morris en tant qu’elles n’outrepasseront pas le réliquat de l’emprunt de hollande, déduction faite du million qui vous sera remis, et des frais que l’emprunt peut avoir occasionnés.
J’ai l’honneur d’être très-sincèrement, Monsieur, votre très-humble et très-obéissant serviteur. /.
De Vergennes
Je vous renvoye ci joint, Monsieur, la lettre du Sr. Grand.M. francklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre-André Gargaz, [1781]
From: Gargaz, Pierre André
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
[1781]
Avec un profond respect, Pierre André Gargaz du lieu de Theze, et Regent d’Ecole du dit lieu, prend la liberté de representer, a votre Grandeur, que le 11 mars 1761 il fut (par les causes resultantes d’une procedure prise contre lui, en acusation d’assassinat, a la Requete de Monsieur le Procureur du Roi) condamné par le Parlement d’Aix aux Galeres pour vingt ans. Le 11 mars 1781, son terme aïant fini, on lui dona son congé. Presentement il ne lui reste pour tout bien que le seul talent de savoir montrer a lire a ecrire et a chifrer, et il se trouve extremement a plaindre, parce qu’etant noté d’infamie, il ne peut trouver de emploi que dans son Païs natal, où sa probité est parfaitement conuë, et où il n’y a pas de quoi gagner assez pour vivre. Cela est cause qu’il vous suplie tres humblement, Monseigneur, de vouloir bien, par un pur efect de charité (vous aparoissant des certificats de bone vie et moeurs, et de la convention de Regence de la dite Ecole, ci humblement joints) lui faire doner des Letres de Rehabilitation a la consideration desqueles il trouvera certainement l’Emploi ailleurs que dans son Païs, pour gagner de quoi s’entretenir honetement, en travaillant selon son Etat, sans etre a charge ni faire aucun tort a persone.
Quoique le tres humble representant sache dans son ame, que, pendant vingt ans aux Galeres, il a fait une rude penitence, pour un crime qu’il n’a jamais comis (et qu’il ose se flater que, par les dits certificats et convention, Votre Grandeur, sera persuadée de son inocense) il avouë nëanmoins que la charité et la bienfaisanse, auxquelles vous etes naturelement porté, sont les seuls titres sur lesquels il fonde sa trez juste demande, le plus respectueusement qui lui est possible. Il avouë de plus, que les Juges n’eurent aucun tort de le condamner, quoi qu’inocent, parce qu’ils ne peurent pas conoitre la fausseté de quelques depositions sur lesqueles ils furent obligez de le juger, et parce que, s’apuïant trop sur son inocense, et ne conoissant pas alors le respect que tout accusé doit a ses Juges, il leur ecrivoit trop souvent, et meme trop sechement, de lui rendre la Justice qui lui etoit duë, sans leur faire aucune suplication, ni leur produire aucun certificat de sa bone vie et moeurs, ni doner aucun mot de defense par ecrit.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from D. P. Granchez, [1781?]
From: Granchez, D. P.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[1781?]
Granchez prie Monsieur Le Docteur franklin de Vouloir bien examiner La boussole qu’on lui a renduë Ces jours derniers au petit Dunkerque, qui n’est pas la même que Celle qu’il avoit donnée pour faire raccommoder. Comme Elle appartient a une autre personne, Granchez Le Supplie de vouloir bien la faire renvoyer, on remettra au porteur Celle qui appartient veritablement a Monsieur Le Docteur franklin.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur Franklin / A Passy / Petit Dunkerque.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, [1781 or after]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Thursday [1781 or after]
Accept my Dear Doctor of my best Compliments and Send me word whether you will have a game at Chess This evining. Be So good to Send me for some moments The Volue [Volume] of The Dictionary of Physicks, I lent you, where is the article of The fire Engine.
Be so good My Dear Doctor to add The courier de LEurope received last.

Addressed: M. Le Dr Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Oliver and Emanuel Miles, [1781]
From: Oliver, John,Miles, Emanuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

To the Honble. Stepn. Franklin
London. Newprison Clerkenwell [1781]
The humble Petition of John Olliver and Emanuel Miles Most humbly Sheweth
That your humble Petitioners being Americans born and being also Employd by the Merchants of Dunkirk to Cruize against Great Brittain under a French Commission and was unfortunately taken in Decr. 1780 and having being Confined and treated in every respects like Fellons We your unhappy Petitioners most humbly implores your Honor to use your Interest at the Court of France for your Distressd Petitionrs as we most humbly beg leave further to inform your honor that your humble Petitioners are Married and setled at Dunkirk and humbly conceives themselves in every respect Subjects to the King of France. Therefore your humble petitioners humbly prays that your Honors Wisdom will exert your self in your Petitioners behalf & by that means it will relieves the Distress of we your Unhappy Country Men who are now Languishg in a Loathsome Goal— and we your humble Petitioners will in Duty be ever bound to Pray.
The Humble Petition of John Olliver and Emanuel Miles

Addressed: To the Honble. Stephen Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbesse Marie du St. Esprit, 1781
From: St. Esprit, soeur Marie du
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
De L’avé Maria de paris 1781
Lon ne peut rien ajouter aux souhaits que nous formons pour vous monsieur ils renferment tous ce que vous pouvez Desirer: recevez Cet hommage Comme un temoignage de notre vive gratitude pour vos bontéz. Nous osons vous supplier monsieur de nous en accorder La Continuation et d’être persuadé du profond respect avec Lequel nous avons L’honneur D’être Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissante servante
SŒUR MARIE DU ST ESPRIT Abbesse

Notation: Seur Marie du St. Esprit abbesse. De l’avé Maria De Paris, 1781.


Title: Franklin’s Journal, 1–3 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

  Jan. 1. 1782
[January 1–3, 1782]
Went to Court; which was full, as usual on New-Years day. Visit with the other Foreign Ministers, the King, the Queen, and all the rest of the Royal Family separately, even the little Dauphin. Spoke with the Minister of War, M de Segur, who assur’d me of his Readiness to forward every Operation that might be [torn: in?] the Service of the United States. Did not meet with M. de Castries, Minister of the Marine. Din’d with M. de Vergennes. Near 40 Foreign Ministers at Table, among whom one might have found Interpreters for every Language in Europe. [Lear]n that Holland will have 22 Sail of the Line at Sea [in] the Spring. The Display of Porcellane from the Royal Manufactory at Seve, very magnificent; among the [rest], two Vases near 5 feet high, of exquisite Workmanship.—
Etrennes to Domestiques des Ministres &c [torn] Louis

Jan. 2.
A Mr Wyld comes to me from England with Propositions in writing from a Number of Manchester Manufacturers, who desire to go over and establish themselves in Pensilvania. Promis’d to consider the Propositions, and give him an Answer before S[torn]day.
Col. [Bolts], an Englishman at present in the Imperial Service, employ’d in establishing an East India Commerce from Trieste, visits me. Much Discourse about a Trade from America to that Port & with the Emperor’s Dominions. I gave him Hopes of it upon a Peace. He talks of ordering a Ship directly from China to Philadelphia under the Imperial Colours.
Count Beniousky, a Hungarian Gentleman, (who being a Prisoner taken among the Confederates in Poland, fighting for the Liberties of that Country, as he represents it, and sent by the Russians to Kamshatka, escaped from thence by seizing a Ship and putting to Sea, where after wandering down the Back of America they pass’d at length to Japan & China;) came to see me, & presented his Lady. He proposes going to America to try if he can be useful there as an [torn: one word missing] of Horse. He has an Estate he says in Hungary, and if he likes the Country, will sell it and establish himself with his Family among us. He is a Lieutenant Colonel in the French Army; and I have dissuaded him from the Voyage, but he is determined, and tells me he has Re[commen]dations to Congress from the Ministry. He has the Character of [torn: a?] brave, active & enterprizing Man.
Receiv’d a Letter from M. de Vergennes, agreeing to furnish the Million [torn]ately requ[este]d out of the Dutch Loan, but acquainting me at the same time that if Mr Morris draws for it as he expects will be the Case, his Bills must go back protested.— I see but little Difference, whether the Bills drawn by Order of Congress on Messrs Laurens, Jay, Adams and myself, or those drawn by Mr Morris, are protested. If there is any, it [see]ms to be [in] favour of paying those first that first become [due?]: The public Credit by that means is kept alive a little longer.— I shall therefore take [the] Million and apply it as far as it will go. If there is any left to pay Mr Morris’s Bills, well and good. I shall be happy to see them dis[charg]ed.
Mr R. off[torn] with my recommending a Marylander to him for Assistance after [torn]ken up 25 Louis on my Acct. without Leave, & wanted [torn]. It is on [torn] of the Eastern Shore.

  Jan. 3. 1782
Mr Grand demands an Order for remitting 150,000 l.t. to Fizeau & Grand, to answer Mr Adams’s Acceptations. I demand first an Acct. of what has been remitted since Nov. 1. 81.
Mr Andrews with [torn] Bostonians from Holland, comes to see me. I [torn: several words missing] Saturday—
Etrennes [to ser]vant of M. L[a Li]ve de Breche, Introducteur des Ambassadeurs 24 l.t. Postman 6 l.t. Monastere 6 l.t.
Capt. McNeil borrows 7 Louis, to go to Nantes. Pro[mises?] to repay in three Weeks.?


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Cooper Johonnot, 1 January 1782
From: Johonnot, Samuel Cooper
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Respected Sir
Geneva 1 Jan 1782
I recd your last Favour dated 5 November 1781 favd by Master Robert Montgomery. I must reiterate my Acknowledgements of Gratitude to you for your kind Offices to me & for your good Advice. Give me Leave to address you a Letter for my dear Grandfather your sincere Friend. Your Grandson is in good Health as well as myself. Please to remember me affectionately to your Grandson & the Brillon Family, & believe me to be with a fervent Wish for a Continuance of good Health & the Favours of Providence during the Course of the ensuing Year Your Excellency most obedt & humble Servant
S. Cooper Johonnot

Addressed: A Monsieur / Son Excellence le Docteur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiare / des Etats unis de l’Amerique / au prés de sa Majesté tres chretienne / a Passy / prés Paris
Notations in different hands: Cooper Johonnot Geneva 1. Janr. 1782. / Recommandée à Mr. Jaume de Lyon


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Claude-Mammès Pahin de Champlain de La Blancherie, 1 January 1782
From: La Blancherie, Claude-Mammès Pahin de Champlain de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

  Monsieur le Docteur,
1er. Janvier 1782 hotel Villayer rue st. André des arcs
J’ai engagé les artistes qui ont exposé des ouvrages aux assemblées depuis le mois de juillet d’en réunir les principaux dans tous les genres à l’assemblée du Vendredi 4 de ce mois qui aura lieu à cinq heures de l’après midi jusqu’à neuf. Je suplie Votre Excellence de Vouloir bien l’honnorer de sa présence et donner aux artistes cette recompense de leurs Travaux, de l’en rendre juge et protectrice. Il me seroit glorieux, Monsieur, si Je pouvois rapporter à la protection de Votre Excellence quelques uns des avantages qu’offre au public de Tous les pays l’établissement de la correspondance générale et gratuite pour les sciences et les arts. Je n’aurai rien à desirer, Monsieur, si mes soins pour seconder les vues de Votre Excellence pour les progrès des connoissances peuvent, pendant de longues années, me mériter de plus en plus les Témoignages de sa protection. Tel est l’objet de mes vœux. Je prie Votre Excellence de l’agréer, particulièrement en ce renouvellement d’année ainsi que les hommages du profond respect avec lequel je suis, De Votre Excellence Monsieur Le très humble et très obéissant serviteur
La Blancherie

P.S. Les Dames seront reçues sans distinction d’heure.
  M. franklin Ministre Plénipotentiaire des Etats unis d’amérique

Notation: La Blancherie 1. Jan. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 1 January 1782
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond sir:
Nantes Jan. 1. 1782.
Permit me to express my sincere Wishes for your Health & Happiness with every other possible Blessing for this and many succeeding Years, and at the same time to renew my gratefull Thanks for the Friendship & assistance you have so long & so often honoured me with, which I assure you it shall always by [be] my utmost Endeavour to merit by a steady attachement to the Principles I know you approve. Mrs Williams desires me also to assure you of the same Wishes & Sentiments.

I have received another Letter from Mr Moylan in which he says. “It is not necessary that you take any Notice of the subject of my Note to you, you will see the Person it regards in the Course of the next month on his return here, & then the matter you may be assured of it will come from himself.”
From this Declaration it appears probable Mr B. will speak to you first on the subject, which will I dare say be more agreeable to you as well as me.
I am as ever Dear sir Your dutifull & Affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams J
Je souhaite une bonne & hereuse Année a mon cher Cousin Billy.

Notation: Williams Mr. Jona. Nantes Jany 1. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 2[–8] January 1782
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Friend,
London, Jan. 2[–8], 1782.
I have recieved the favour of yours of the 15th of December by Mr. Alexander. I most heartily join with you in the wish that we could find some means to stop the spreading flames of this devilish war. I will not despair. The communications which he has imparted to me from you, have revived my hopes of peace. I laid them before the minister immediately. We are at a suspense for the present upon a very material preliminary. I did intend writing to you at the present pause, that we might make our ground good as we go on, but an incident which has happened obliges me to do it without delay. For having had a most essential question transmitted to me from Lord North for explanation, when I would have applied to Mr. Alexander I could not hear of him; and now I find that he has left his hotel these four or five days, and his return uncertain, I must apply to you. I will state to you what has passed.

Upon my first interview with Mr. Alexander, he told me that the late events would make no difference in the prospect of peace; that America had no other wish than to see a termination of this war; that no events would make them unreasonable on that subject, which sentiments likewise your letter expresses; and that no formal recognition of independence would be required. I thought this a very fair opening, but the next point which he explained to me seemed to be still more material towards peace, viz. that America was disposed to enter into a separate treaty with Great Britain, and their allies were disposed to consent to it. I believe that it has been the unfortunate union of common cause between America and France, which has for the last three years turned aside the wish of the people of England for peace. I verily believe (so deep is the jealousy between England and France) that this country would fight for a straw to the last man, and the last shilling, rather than be dictated to by France. I therefore consider this as the greatest rub out of the way. I have often argued this point with you upon former occasions, having at all times foreseen that it would be the greatest rub in the road to peace, and I have often stated it to you as an act of justice due to America from her allies, not to drag her through a war of European resentments and jealousies beyond her original views and engagements, and moreover I think the separation of the causes in the negociation promises much the shortest road to a general peace.
Upon Mr. Alexander’s opening thus much to me, I told him I would apply for the earliest opportunity of laying these matters before the minister. Accordingly on Friday morning (December 21) I applied through the means of the Earl of Guildford (father to Lord North) a nobleman of a most respectable character, advanced in years, and attached by every possible tie to a son now in a most arduous situation. I therefore requested the favour through his hands, as giving me the most conciliatory access to the minister, to whom I was preparing to make an application for peace. After the appointment was made with Lord North for Friday evening, I returned to Mr. Alexander to consider the specific manner and terms in which I should make my application. It had occurred to me from what Mr. Alexander had stated to me, that the conciliatory bill which I had moved in the last parliament, on June 27, 1780, would still serve as a foundation to proceed upon. I therefore carried it with me. He told me that he and you knew the sense of the bill very well, and that it would be entirely consonant to your sentiments, that I should state it to Lord North, as drawing an outline for negociation of peace. However to avoid all errors, I read the bill through to him, and explained the view of each clause, viz. the style of provinces of North America—a general phrase to avoid any term denoting dependence or independence. The truce—for an indefinite term. The articles of intercourse for ten years certain—to restore an amicable correspondence—and to abate animosities. The suspension of certain acts of parliament—to avoid every possible question of dependence or independence. And to finish the work by a ratification of each article of intercourse as agreed to, thereby to prevent all possible return of war. I compared the articles of intercourse for a short term, and their ratification into a permanent peace, to a well known mode of proceeding in the laws of England, by lease and release, from temporary to perpetual amity and peace. Upon these grounds I took my commission from him for Lord North, viz. the question of dependence or independence sub silentio—a separate treaty with America, and to state the conciliatory bill of June 1780, as the outline of negociation. I saw Lord North in the evening, and stated the foregoing propositions to him, as I have now stated them to you. After having stated the compromise sub silentio and the separate treaty, I left with Lord North the copy of the bill of June 1780, together with a paper entitled Conciliatory propositions, as explanatory of that bill (both inclosed with this). The next morning (viz. Saturday, December 22), I saw Mr. Alexander and reported to him what I had stated to Lord North, and shewed him a copy of the paper entitled conciliatory propositions. He told me that I had executed my commission perfectly to his intelligence of the matter. I should tell you that at the conclusion of my conversation with Lord North, we both settled jointly the result thus, “I recommend to your Lordship the propositions which I have had the honour of stating to you, as general grounds of a proposed negociation leading towards peace, under liberal constructions.” Lord North said in answer, “so I understand them.”
Upon this footing matters rested for some days. On Sunday last (December 30) I received a message from Lord North, through the means of Lord Guildford, requesting an explanation of this point, viz. “Who is authorized to treat on the part of America? whether you or Mr. Adams, or both jointly, and whether the propositions above stated would be acknowledged as general grounds of negociation towards peace, by the person or persons authorized to treat, because it was necessary before he could lay a matter of so great importance before the cabinet council, that he should be entitled to say, These propositions and general outlines come to me from responsible and authorized persons.” The moment I received the request of Lord North I agreed entirely with the necessity of an explanation on that head. I had partly expected such an enquiry, and it gave me satisfaction when it came, as I thought it the first reply towards a parley. If the propositions had not gained some attention it would have been of very little importance to have enquired whence they came. As to the caution itself, it appears to me not only prudent but indispensable. The forms of caution in such cases are the essentials of caution. I had determined on my own account before this message to have writ to you, that I might have received your sentiments directly from yourself without any other intervention, that we might proceed with caution and certainty in a matter of such infinite importance. This message has only quickened my dispatch. The two points of explanation requested, I take to be these; whether the outline above recited are properly stated, always considering that they imply no farther than general grounds of negociation towards peace, under liberal constructions; and secondly by what authorized person or persons any answer on this subject would be accepted; in short a requisition of credentials preparatory to a formal answer which is so much the more necessary on the supposition of a favourable reception of the first hint towards negociation.
When I last saw Mr. A. viz. about four or five days ago, he had met with some desponding impressions, as if the ministry were indisposed to peace, and that things would not do, &c. He did not tell me upon what ground he had formed such apprehensions, however, lest he should have imparted any such by letter to you, I will state that point to you, because it may have infinite ill consequences to be too touchy on such suspicions. A premature jealousy may create the very evil it suspects. The ministry in this country are not every thing. The sense of the people when really expressed and exerted, would be most prevalent. Suppose then it were a proved point that every man in the ministry were in his heart adverse to peace. What then! withold all overtures! By no means. I should advise the very contrary in the strongest manner. I should say, let the overtures be made so much the more public and explicit, by those who do wish for peace. It is the unfortunate state of things which has hitherto bound the cause of France to any possible treaty with America, and which has thereby thrown a national damp upon any actual public exertions to procure a negociation for peace with America. I have the strongest opinion that if it were publicly known to the people of England that a negociation might be opened with America upon the terms above specified, that all the ministry together, if they were ill disposed to a man, would not venture to thwart such a measure. But why should it be supposed that the ministry to a man are ill disposed to a peace? Suppose them to be half and half, and the public wish and voice of the people in favour of negociation, it is evident on which side the balance would incline. But why should we seek to throw a damp prematurely upon any chance? Why presume even against any individual? I grant that it would be a bitter trial of humility to be brought to a formal recognition of independence at the haughty command of France, and I believe every part of the nation would proceed to every extremity before they would submit to that. But if that touchy point can be provided for sub silentio, and if the proposed treaty with America may be carried on free from controul by France, let us give the cause of peace a fair trial; at the worst we should but be where we were if we should fail. But why should we expect to fail when the greatest rub is removed by the liberty of entering separately into a treaty? I think it a most favourable event leading towards peace. Give us a truce with its concomitants, and a little time so given for cooling will have most excellent effects on both sides. Eternal peace and conciliation may then follow. I send this to you by the quickest dispatch, that we may bring this point to a fair issue before the meeting of parliament. God prosper the blessed work of peace. I am ever yours most affectionately,
D.H.

CONCILIATORY BILL
In the title and preamble of the bill the words provinces of North America are used as general words, neither implying dependence or independence.
Clause 1. The Truce is taken from the conciliatory act of 1778, and is indefinite as to the proposed duration of the truce. Under this clause it might be proposed to negociate three points, viz. the removal of the British troops from the thirteen provinces of North America, and connectedly with this article a stipulation for the security of the friends of the British government. The third article might be a stipulation that the respective parties during the continuance of the truce should not either directly or indirectly give assistance to the enemies of each other.
Clause 2. Articles of intercourse and pacification. Under this clause some arrangements might be settled for establishing a free and mutual intercourse, civil and commercial, between Great Britain and the aforesaid provinces of North America.
Clause 3. Suspension of certain acts of parliament. By this clause a free communication may be kept open between the two countries, during the negociation for peace, without stumbling against any claim of rights which might draw into contest the question of dependence or independence.
Clause 4. The ratification by parliament. The object of this clause is to consolidate peace and conciliation step by step as the negociation may proceed, and to prevent, as far as possible, any return of war, after the first declaration of a truce. By the operation of this clause a temporary truce may be converted into a perpetual and permanent peace.
Clause 5. A temporary act. This clause creating a temporary act for a specific purpose of negociation in view, is taken from the act of 1778.

P.S. January 8, 1782.
Since writing this letter I have seen Mr. Alexander, and shall see him from time to time to communicate with him. I do not suppose I shall have an answer from Lord North ’till the preliminary points are so settled as to enable him to give an answer in form. Ministry might undoubtedly give a short negative if they thought proper, but I do not expect that. You may be assured that I have and shall continue to enforce every argument in the most conciliatory manner to induce a negociation. I am very sorry for Mr. A.’s confinement on his own account, and on that of his friends, and because probably in the future state of this business, his personal exertions may be very serviceable in the cause of peace. Every assistance and every exertion of mine will always be most heartily devoted to that cause. I have nothing farther to add, either upon my own reflections or from my subsequent conversations with Mr. A. to what I have stated in the foregoing letter. If we once make a good beginning upon the plan there stated, I should hope that such a negociation, founded on such principles, would promise fair to produce every salutary and pacific consequence in the event.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris, 2 January 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Office of Finance 2. January 1782
The Bearer of this Letter Capt. Archibald McCallister has been an Officer of Merit in the Army of the United States; And I am sorry to add that unlucky Circumstances has made him a Sufferer in the service of his Country. The loss of his Health obliges him to make a Voyage to France and upon the Settlement of his Accounts a balance of four hundred spanish silver Dollars and seventy four ninetieths of a Dollar has been found due to him. The State of the Treasury did not permit the payment of this balance, therefore it is put on Interest at six per Cent from the twenty sixth Day of December last. Now Sir as this Gentleman is going to France he is apprehensive of wanting Money there and I give him this Letter as the Ground on which he may make an Application to you for the whole or Part, at the same Time I assure him that it is uncertain whether you will be able to releive him. If the Monies at your Command will enable you to do it consistently I wish it may be done and in that Case you will be pleased to transmit me Copies of his Certificate and the receipts you take thereon for the Payments you make to him in Order that I may have them duly entered in the Treasury Books.
I have the Honor to be Sir your most obedient & humble Servant
RM
His Excelly Benja. Franklin Esq


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henry Wyld, 2 January 1782
From: Wyld, Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Most Excellent Sir
Late from near Manchester now in ParisJanuary 2nd. 1782
The Inditer hereof, void of Formalities in which he confesseth himself no Adept; with the greatest veneration for your Character, and the highest Esteem for that Government which you represent, being deputed to communicate to your Excellency, the resolves of a few persons who are Manufacturors, in the most lucrative Manufactures of Europe, and which they desire to Transplant, into the United States of America; and being equally Jealous of both the two great Belegerent Powers, with the greatest humility desires your Excellency to grant him a speedy and confidential Audience, and is with the greatest respect your Excellencies most humble servt.
Henry Wyld

Addressed: To his Excellency Benjn. Franklin L L.D. / Plenepotentiary from the United States / of America, / At the Court of his most Christian / Majesty Louis the 16th. of / France
Notation: Wyld. Henry, Paris— 2. Jan. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles B. Cochran, 3 January 1782
From: Cochran, Charles B.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Passy ce 3. Janvier 1782
Je Serai venu vous rendre plutot mes devoirs mais jen ai été empeché par une grosse maladie Causée par le trop grand chagrin que jai eu ces jours passés: jai été saigné trois fois, et je prendrai ma troisieme medecine demain; aussitot que je pourrais sortir comptez, Monsieur, que je ne manquerai pas de venir deposer à vos pieds mes humbles hommages; daignez, en attendant agréer les vœux et les Souhaits que je fais sans cesse pour votre personne et me croire avec le respect le plus profond Mon cher Monsieur Votre très humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
C B.E Cochran

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin ministre / Plenipotentiaire des etats-unis / de lamerique / A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Salisbury Franks, 3 January 1782
From: Franks, David Salisbury
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
L’orient 3d. Jany. 1781 [i.e., 1782]
I now inclose to your Excellency the Letters mention’d in my last & hope you will favor me with your opinion on the Subjects.
The St. James will sail by the 15th. Inst. & as soon as I receive your Excellency’s Instructions I shall be ready either to take rout of Spain or embark—in the former Case pray inform me whether I am to call for your Commands. I am Sir with the Highest Respect Your Excellencys obt. humble Sevt.
Davd. S. Franks

Notation: D.S. Franks Jany 3. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean de Neufville & fils, 3 January 1782
From: Neufville, Jean de, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Amsterdam 3d. Jany. 1781 [i.e., 1782]
  May It please your Excellency

That Agreable to the Contents of our last letter in date of the 24th. Ulto. we now inform your Excellcy. that the Honble. Thos. Barclay Esqr. Consul Genl. in France for America has received all the Continental Goods out of Messrs Van Arp & Co (the Ship Directrs) Warehouses, Which has relieved us from the Conseqce. [Consequence] of the Very disagreable situation we were in lately. Which was Worse than that of a Man that is Stopd on the High way for his purse as he ceases to be in Jeopardy when he delivers it; but though we offer’d to surrender ours with a good grace, we were told we could not save ourselves, unless we deliver’d that of other people. And these were so careful of theirs, that they would not even hazard them to the Chance of an Arbitration, because we had determined to leave the Choice of the Arbitrators to his Excy. Mr. Adams without any objection whatever on our part so that even by our Wishes to make every Concession on both sides, yet we could not make every party agree. It would have made us happy that His Excy. Mr. Adams had been also obliged in that particular by the other Gentlemen’s being as ready as we were, but it was not our fault if they were not better disposed to grant him all he wished, some of them having, as well as ourselves, been Injured by Mr. Gillon’s departure; it may have caused them to have unfavourable prejudices, we Cannot create in all, that Confidence in America &a, we have ourselves.
We Cannot help expressing how much we are Oblig’d to the Honble. Thos. Barclay Esqr. for adjusting with so much ease What was a difficulty to others tho’ so Simple in itself, & to men of Business: And we can Assure with truth Your Excellency that we are less Mortified at having those goods taken out of our hands to put them in those of God knows who; than we were at the Commissions we obtained for the two Ships that were to carry them being of no Avail; As by them only It is evident, that; tho’ our States do not yet publickly declare the Independance of America It was more than a tacit acknowledgement of it; not only the granting them as letters of Marques for America at a time there was a General Embargo for every where else; but that the orders of the Captns., by permission of the Courts, Should Express that those Armed Ships should have the liberty of Joining any of those of France, America (Whom they term a power in Friendship though not in Alliance with our Republick), or Spain, in any Combined Attack upon the Common Enemy. The last resolves granted in favor of our Memorials to the States for the American Captains, empower’d them to Confine the prisoners they had brought here, and those that should be brought hereafter; until exchanged for Americans in prison in England or otherways, may be Considered as a further Mark of the good Will of this Republick towards America; Which if Wished it should be Cultivated. Notwithstanding the great obstacles still in the Way, we believe much may be done by proper address & influence. How be it we cannot help Continuing thus sanguine in these our hopes of a Union we so much Wish for.

With very great respect we have the honnor to remain Your Excellency’s Most Obedt. & Most humble Sert.
John DE Neufville & Son
His Excellency Dr. B Franklin Minister plenipo: at the Court of Versailles


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 3 January 1782
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dearest sir,
London, Jany. 3, 1782.
A person has been named to me for some time past, as about to depart for Paris, by whom I designed writing in preference to the post; but as he delays, and you will think me dilatory in the mean time, I write under cover to M. le Grand.
I communicated with Mr. Burke on the subject of your letter. He said that he had received it, but knowing that ministry wished ill both to Mr Laurens & Mr Burgoyne, he did not choose to double bar the door on Mr Laurens; he waited therefore for some news to give him weight, and kept his proposal secret; that since Lord Cornwallis’s capture; he had made some introductory overtures; and whenever he could answer you discreetly and to purpose, he then would find a proper channel.— Since my visit, I understand (I think from Mr Crichton) that he has named Mr Burgoyne as the subject of his intended proposition.— What passed, I do not pretend to say; but the result I presume was not favorable.— What follows my letter, will explain some events more particularly concerning Mr Laurens, and which I receive from a channel of the highest authority. This gentleman seems in good spirits, but he can scarcely stand, though in little pain; and proposes on Saturday going to Bath, to stay a week or a month according as it does him service.— Can I ask at what date you received the Congress Resolve, and how much (if at all) it was prior to the receiving Mr Burke’s letter? — So much for Mr Laurens & Mr Burke.
As to the Lisle business, you may recollect perhaps that I spoke of interference with the magistracy there. At all events, such a trifle was only meant for you to take part in, if you pleased, to shew the Laurens family attention.— I believe the business was settled by the persons I named; but I fancy the poor servant may have been lost in the pacquet—in which your letter was not included; both the original and copy arriving safely; which puts me in mind to say that Mr Laurens has got Money from his debtor Mr Nutt or others, and not from me.
If we have got to the step of considering you as enemies, and not as rebels, it is all we have done; and that not without much danger of relapse. I think no minister is changing; unless Lord Sandwich, against whom I think some of the others combine; perhaps as being an acquaintance of yours.— I conceive Jamaica is likely enough to be saved for this campaign, but I do not say so for the smaller islands.
These are innocent politics; I wish all politics were as much so; and that there were no risque in proclaiming to the world here, how much I am in all things your follower. My ever dearest sir, god bless you, and believe me with the most devout respect, your most affectionate faithful, and obliged
BV.
I have not read what is to be copied on the other side. Your papers will come in a few days.

[in another hand:] Saturday 29 Decr. 1781 Mr. Chamberlain Solicitor to the Treasury called on Mr L at the Tower, informed him he came from Government, to signify that he might be enlarged on bail. Mr L asked in what amount, replied it would be very easy, and that he might be out that very Evening. Mr. L represented the impossibility of his then moving (the Goal &c) but he would strive to attend on Monday.
On Monday, Mr L was carried to Serjeants Inn, where he informed Mr Chamberlain, that he did not understand the nature of the obligation to be required of him, that he was totally unassisted except by the suggestions of his own mind—had not had the benefit of advice from Counsel, nor even from judicious friends, and was no Lawyer; therefore as it might tend to save or prevent trouble, he begg’d leave to intimate that he would not do or perform any act which might involve him acknowledgement of subjection to this realm, & that he saved and reserved to himself all the Rights of a Citizen of the United free & independant States of North America. Mr. C replied that it was of no importance whether he was a foreigner, a Frenchman, Spaniard or Turk; having been committed to the Tower as he had been, he must be liberated in the manner now intended, & then added, somewhat signifying that some violence had been done to the Laws for his enlargement, and that it would be better to say nothing More about it. Mr. L concluded with having premised as he had done and esteeming himself a Prisoner, he was content to submit to what should be proposed—a Verbal Recognizance followed Mr. HL in £4,000 two Surities in £2,000 each. Ld. Mansfield was polite and condescending through the whole business.
Monsr. De Grasse is arrived at Martinique.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Henry Royle et al., 4 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Royle, Henry

Gentlemen,
Passy, Jan. 4. 1782
I received the Propositions you did me the Honour to address to me by the hand of Mr Wild.
There is no doubt but that a Body of sober, industrious & ingenious Artisans, Men of honest and religious Principles, such as you and your Friends are describ’d to be, would be a valuable Acquisition to any Country; and I am certain you would meet with a kind & friendly Reception in Pensylvania, & be put into Possession of all the Rights and Privileges of free Citizens: But neither that Government nor any other in America that I know of has ever been at any public Expence to augment the Number of its Inhabitants. All who are establish’d there have come at their own Charge. The Country affords to Strangers, a good Climate, fine wholesome Air, Plenty of Provisions, good Laws, just and cheap Government, with all the Liberties civil & religious that reasonable Men can wish for. These Inducements are so great, & the Number of People in all the Nations of Europe who wish to partake of them is so considerable, that if the States were to undertake transporting People at the Expence of the Public, no Revenues that they have would be sufficient. Having therefore no Orders or Authority either from Congress or the State of Pensilvania to procure Settlers or Manufacturers, by engaging to defray them, I cannot enter into the Contract proposed in your second Article. The other Articles would meet with no Difficulty. Men are not forc’d there into the Public Service, and a special Law might easily be obtain’d to give you a Property for seven Years in the useful Inventions you may introduce.
You will do well to weigh maturely the following Considerations. If you can establish yourselves there during the War, it is certain that your Manufactures will be much more profitable, as they sell at very high Prices now, owing to the Difficulty and Risque of Transporting them from Europe. But then your Passages also will be more expensive, & your Risque greater of having your Project ruined, by been taken, stript & imprisoned. If you wait till a Peace, you will pass much cheaper & more securely, and you have a better Chance of settling yourselves & Posterity in a Comfortable & happy Situation. On these Points your Prudence must determine.— If I were to advise, I should think it rather most prudent to wait for a Peace; and then to victual a Vessel in some Port of Ireland, where it can be done cheap, & to which you might easily pass from Liverpool.— There are I understood some Apprehensions that your Ministers may procure a Law to restrain the Emigration of Manufacturers: But I think that, weak & wicked as they are, & tyranical as they are dispos’d to be, they will hardly venture upon an Act that shall make a Prison of England, to confine Men for no other Crime but that of being useful & Industrious; and to discourage the learning of useful mechanic Arts, by declaring that as soon as a Man is Master of his Business he shall lose his Liberty, & become a Prisoner for Life; while they suffer their idle & extravagant Gentry to travel & reside abroad at their Pleasure, spending the Incomes of their Estates, rack’d from their laborious honest Tenants, in foreign Follies, and among French and Italian Whores & Fidlers. Such a Law, would be too glaringly unjust to be borne with!
I wish you Success in what you may resolve to undertake; and you will find me ever, Your assured Friend & humble Servant


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Nesbitt, 4 January 1782
From: Nesbitt, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir!
L’Orient Janry: 4th: 1782—
When I had the honor last of waiting on your Excellency at Passy, you were pleas’d to promise to give orders at Nantes for the Release of Captain Kinnear in Exchange for Captn Bell. The Death of Mr: Schweighauser no doubt is the Cause that nothing has hitherto been done in this affair, and unless your Excellency will please to give fresh orders to the Person you mean shall replace Mr: Schweighauser, or to some person properly authoris’d by you, to release Captn Kinnear; Captn Bell may yet be detain’d a Considerable time, which will be of the utmost disadvantage to his Private affairs. At his desire I transmit you herewith an extract from a Letter he lately receiv’d from Limerick— give me leave Sir! with great Sincerity to wish you many happy returns of the New Year & to subscribe my self with the Utmost Respect— Your Excellencys most Obedt humble Servt—
Jonatn: Nesbitt
His Excellency B: Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency Doctor B Franklin / Minister Plenipotentiary from the / United States of America to the Court / of Versailles / at Passy / Pres Paris
Notation: J. Nesbitt L’Orient. 4. Janvr. 1782


Title: List of Persons to Whom Passes Have Been Given, [5 January – 3 October 1782]
From: Franklin, William Temple,Mumford, Gurdon Saltonstall,L’Air de Lamotte, Jean
To:

[January 5–October 3, 1782]

    List of Persons to whom Passes have been given in the Year 1782.

Names.

    where going to
    Date

Henry Wyld

Ostende
5. Jan. 82.

Robert Gray

L’Orient
Do

Aaron Dexter &Thos Winthrop
}
Nantes & L’Orient
  Do

Benj. Parker & Jos. Winthrop
  }
  Nantes & L’Orient
  Do—

Isaac Smith, Bellimy Kan,& Alexr Thomas.
  }
  Nantes & L’Orient
Do.—

Capt. Silas Talbot.

Nantes
Do

Gurdon Bill

Do—
6 Jan. 82

John Hunt

Ostende—
7 Do—

Isaac Brown.

Nantes
9. Do

William Moran,
}
Nantes
14 Jany 82

Jesse Breed,

Andrew Floyd,

Ephraim Wales,

Robt. Smallpiece,

Alexr. Ore,

James Hamilton &

Edward Harper.

Thomas Munro
}
Nantes
  22 Jany 1782

Peter Price

John Cowin

Uzal Woodruff

Robert Haddock
}
  Nantes & L’Orient
  16. Feby.1782

Joseph Veeseley

Theodore Hopkins
}
  Nantes
  31. Mars 1782

George Harrison

Mr. Searle

Nantes & Bordeaux
3. Avril 1782.

Saml. Smidley

Amsterdam
11. Avril 1

Moses Young

Ostende
14. Avril 1782.

Courtauld

Brest
Do.

Myers

Amsterdam.
Do.

Chever

Do
21. Do

Mr. Ridley

Do
5 May 82

Mess Rawle et Walker

Ostende
8 Do

Mess Ming & Norcom

Nantes
9 Do

Murow & 2 others

Do
8 Do.

Alcock William & five others

Do.
15 May Do.

William Stephenson & Georg Cabit

Do
22 May Do.

Mrs. Henderson & Williams

Nantes
29. May do.

Mr. & Mde. Bacon

L’Orient
3. Juin 1782.

Mr. Manifold

Nantes
5. Juin 1782.

La Demoiselle Richards

Ostende
8. Juin 1782.

Mr. Browne

Nantes
15. Juin 1782

Mr. Tho: Munrowe

Ostende & d’ostende à Nantes
18. Juin 1782

Mr. Henry Mitchel

Amsterdam
Do.

Mde. Mary Adams

Ostende
26 Juin 1782.

Messrs. Dawes & Vaux—

Ostende
24 Juillet 1782.

Mr. Mayo

Geneve
Do.

Mr. Simonds: avec deux matelots

Nantes
le 2 aout 1782.

Mr. Bell et La Delle. Beckwith

Ostende
le 16 août 1782.

Messrs. Smith, Mansfield & Porter

Nantes
le 26. août 1782.

Made. Lavau

Rochefort
le 3. Oct. 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Madame Brillon, 6 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt

No. 7.
à Passy, ce 6. Janvier 1782.
J’ai reçu hier le Placet d’une certaine Famille, ecrite en toutes les formes, grande & beau Papier, beau caractere, titres flatteuses, &c. Aprés en avoir lû les deux ou trois premieres Lignes, qui “réclame les bontés de ma Grandeur,” je le jettois sur la Table, disant, Toujours des Placets! toujours les Demandes de l’Argent! C’est une mauvaises Reputation, celle d’etre charitable; cela nous sujette à milles Importunités, & beaucoup de Depense, en punition de notre amour-propre, ou de notre Vanité, qui a permis nos petites Benefactions d’etre connues, contraire au conseil bonne & politique que nous a donné notre Seigneur, de ne pas laisser sçavoir la main droite ce que la main gauche a fait.— Mais quand j’avois lû la charmante Epitre de mon Amie, que je reçois au meme tems, & qui faisoit mention d’une Placet, je le reprenois, & lisois jusqu’a la fin, ou je trouvois les chers Noms de toute la Famille, que je baisois d’Affection sincere;—Peutétre avec un peu plus de Plaisir, trouvant que la Placet au lieu de l’Argent ne demandoit que l’Amitié. Je fais cette Remarque pour aller au devant le grand Voisin, qui est assez mechant à la faire si je l’avois omise.
Vous etes donc en bonne Santé, ma chere Fille, puisque vous etes gaie, puisque toute la bonne Famille est gaie, & puisque vous pouvez plaisanter si agreablement. J’en remercie bien cordialement le bon Dieu.
Vous m’enhardis par l’Accueil favorable que vous accordez gracieusement à mes mal-ecrites Epitres, de vous en envoyer une que j’ai esquissé il y a deux Semaines; mais que je n’ai pas finie, parceque je n’avois pas le tems de chercher le Dictionnaire pour regler les masculins & les feminins, ni le Grammaire pour les Modes & les Temps. Il y a soixante Ans que les choses masculins & feminines (hors des Modes & des Temps) m’ont donné beaucoup d’Embarras. J’esperois, autrefois qu’à quatre vingt on peut en etre libre. Me voici à quatre fois dix-neuf, qui est bien prés: & neantmoins ces feminines francoises me tracassent encore. Cela doit me faire plus content d’entrer en Paradis, ou on dit tous ces Distinctions seront abolies.
Vous avez des Anglois à Nice, qui peutetre ne sont pas fort content de nos Successes; par consequent ils seront fachés d’entendre que M. Bouillé a repris le St. Eustache, ou il a fait 750 Prisonniers & beaucoup de Butin. Mais c’est vrai, & cette Nouvelle balance bien la Perte de nos Transports. Grand Ridicule pour leur Amiral Rodeney & leur General Vaughan qui alloient avec 22 Vaisseaux de Ligne & 6000 de Troupes Angloises, prendre une Isle, que 3 Fregates & 400 François ont reprise, avec toutes ses nouveaux Fortifications.
Le Soleil commence à retourner; les jours a s’allonger, le Printems viendra, quand, si je suis encore en vie, je reverrai ma chere Amie. Alors Passy sera gaie, les Arbres & les Jardins resumeront leur Verdure, toute la Nature rira, & moi je serai heureux.
Je vous aime toujours trop, ma Fille; j’aime aussi les bonnes Enfans, le bon Pere Pagin, le bon Paginet, le bon Brillonini, & en bref tous les bonbons qui sont autour de vous. Je vous aime quoique vous etes si eloigné! C’est étonnant quand il y a tant d’Aimables si près. Mon petit Fils vous aime tous aussi. C’est que vous étes destiné d’etre aimé tendrement par tout le monde, & on ne peut pas s’empeche de le faire.
Je me rend tous les Mercredis chez la bonne Voisine. Nous parlons de vous, nous nous communiquons vos Lettres, nous sommes aussi heureux que nous pouvons etre sans nos cheres Amis.
Revenez donc vite. Jusqu’a present nous n’avons point d’Hyver: peutétre nous n’en aurons pas. Mais venez avec une Santé parfaitement retablie.

Addressed: A Madame / Madame Brillon / à Nice