Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Cuming, 8 September 1780
From: Cuming, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
L’Orient 8th. Septr. 1780
I have the pleasure to inform you that the Ship Jay, Harman Courter ship Independence, Thos. Truxtun and Brigt. Patty Thomas Reads arrived here yesterday. The Public despatches by the Jay I am informed were forwarded from Brest the despatches by Captn. Truxtun were sent under care of a Mr. De Mattey/ I have forwarded you a packet of Newspapers by this post that came by Truxtun. He and Read left the Capes the first ulto. You will have all the news in them.
The Jay and Independence are fine Vessels. The first carries 18 nine pounders and came in with upwards 60 men. I shall augment the Crew if men are to be had— The Independence carries 12 French four pounders and seventy men. If you can oblige me with Freight I shall be able to give the Vessels such despatch as may encourage my friends in America to carry on a more considerable Trade to this Country than they have hither to. The Jay may take from 250 to 300 Tons and the Independence about 100 Tons on Freight more than I at present propose shipping on board them.
I have the Honour to be Sir Your most Obdt. Hble Servt
Jas. Cuming
The Hble. Benjamin Franklin Esqr. Passy

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur Benj: Francklin / Ministre plenipotentiaire des / Etats unis de l’Amerique / à Passy / prés Paris.
Notation: Jas. Cuming L’orient 8 Sept 80


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 8 September 1780
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

London 8 Sept 1780
In Consequence of this passport Mr Robt Temple Charterd The Brig Temple 120 Tonns, no Guns, Capt. Jno Fletcher, 11 Seamen From Mr Tracey at Newbury Port, & binds Himself to Tracey that the Vessel shall be put in safety into a French or Spanish Port—which Mr Temple thought could be effected as a Flag of Truce. This has been refusd Him by Lord G. Germain, the Admiralty, & the board of Sick & Hurts. The papers of the vessel has been seiz’d & lodgd wth the Commissioners of the Customs but the Admiralty have given an order for their restoration & that the Ship shall not be stopd or molested but permitted to depart. But where She is to depart to no one can tell at present. A few British Seamen was permitted to Navigate the vessel home on Condition a like number of Americans here were releasd— These Seamen have been pressd on board Men of War, There are only three persons left on board, & no British Seamen will engage to go in her either to America or a port of France & Spain. As She is allowd to depart, I think the best way to clear Her empty for one port & go into another. We want to get Her to Bilboa, & if She is taken by a French or Spanish Cruiser, Going there, I suppose You will be troubled to get Her releasd— Her flag papers & the vessels being known will secure Her from American Privateers & the English Clearance from all British Cruizers—most likely the vessel will go & trust to these risques.
None of the English Parole Prisoners Passengers in Her, can obtain the terms for “releasing here Americans of equal rank or return to Boston in six months” of the People in Office here. They have been assiduous to do it but meet with flat refusals at the Secys. Office, the admiralty, & the board of Sick & hurt. Either the Capn. or one of our frds. who came in Her will be with you soon & state the whole Case.
You have been informd of the State of Mitchells case (the Cartel to Bristol in Decembr last) He obtaind a gratuity for his loss of time, & the price of his Ship wch was seizd, 2900£ this was paid Him by acceptances of his own bills of Mr J. Jackson a Secy of Lord Sandwichs at the Bank of Engd 3 mos after date. I was obligd to indorse two of 500£ each to help him away. When these bills became due the 29th Augt. they were noted for non Payment & are still unpaid tho the acceptor is amply able & must discharge them— I guess the money being just at this period useful to his Electioneering Schemes at Huntingdon is the cause of delay, but they are fairly promisd for payt the 14th.
You will see by the inclosures what has been done about your matter between Jones & Mr Goddard. Both in his letters to me & to Jones (wch I forward you herewith) He acknowledges the acceptance therefore He is liable & must pay. If you will indorse the bill to me I think I can get it (at least as much as You have advancd thereon) but your letter covering it must express that value has been given therefor. I can pass it as a Credit to Your accot. & this will be as value to me. Your name has never been mentiond or hinted at. Goddard can know nothing of me, & I wrote to Him about this bill as at the desire of a frd in France who had given money on it. You will therefore act as you think fit in this matter.

It is a little extraordinary that Mr Goddard can never be seen, & that they still say at the Office He is in the Country but they know not where. By these appearances, as well as from the tenor of His Letter to me & Mr Jones I am apt to think it has been some jumble between Jones & Him to raise a little ready Cash & that it is not convenient now for Him to pay His acceptances, & wch. He can be obligd to do by Law provided He has effects. I think of giving him a line or two in ansr. to his Letter to me (a Copy of which I annex) saying that I had forwarded Jones’s Letter to my frd. at Paris, who having advancd money on the strength of His acceptance which is not denyd by Him, that He certainly would expect payment for such advance when the bill became due, & that it would be regularly presented & prosecuted for in case of failure. Expecting to hear from You further on this head by return of Post, I remain with great esteem Dr Sir Yr obligd & ob Serv
W S C


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Read, 8 September 1780
From: Read, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honoble. Sir
LOrient sept. 8th 1780
Having Arrived here yesterday in a Mercht. Vessell from Philadelphia which Place I left the 25th July Having Leave from Congress to make this Voyage— by the Post I have sent you a Packet Deliver’d me by Mr. Beach and have Inclos’d you a paper from the Press of the morning I left it.
Admiral Ternay was Arrived with his fleet at Rhode Island, and in a few days after Admiral Greaves arrived at N York with Eight Sail of the Line, and sail’d in two days again, his Destination was not known when I Left Philad. On My Passage I fell in with a fleet from 70 to 100 Sail Standing to the Westward in the Latt 48.° 10’ Long 17.° 30’ with the wind at S E the 24th August that wind Continued with us till we Arriv’d in this port.
I Expect to Leave this the Last of this month. If your Excellency has Any Commands Either Publick or Private Shall be happy in Executeing of them.
I am am with Due Respect your Excellency most obedient Humble Servant
Thomas Read

Addressed: His Excellency / Dr. Benjn. Franklin / Minester Plenepotentiary / from the United States / at the Court of / France
Notation: Read Thomas, L’orient Sept. 8. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sarah Bache, 9 September 1780
From: Bache, Sarah Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and Honoured Sir
Philadelphia Sept. 9 1780
I have been much disapointed so many Vessels have arrived lately and not one single line from you, and if a Mr Esra Johnes had not called to let me know how you all did, we should not have heard wether you were well or not, the account he gives us of your health and spirits is very pleasing to us—tis but a few days since I came from Mr Duffields, were I have been with the two youngest Children all Summer, they are and have been perfectly well, tho it has been the most Sickly Summer ever known in town, & particularly fatal to young Children, Betsy was very unwell when she went out, but the good air and water very soon recovered her, tis remarkable that the Pump water all through the town, is not half as good and sweet as it was before the British came—which makes me wish more than ever for a House in the Country to stay during the hot weather, tho the whole Family at Benfield were so kind and Afectionate, to me and the dear little Babies, that I shall ever feel the strongest atachment to them, Yet while there I am obliged to be seperated from Mr Bache and Willy, Mr B. is well and has wrote several times to you lately, its not in my power to write to either my Nephew or Son by Capt All, I trust they will be pleased to hear we are all well through you, they will excuse my not writing when I tell them I am very busily imploy’d in cutting out and making shirts, and giving them out to make to the good women of my acquaintance, for our Brave Soldiers, You will see by the news Papers that there has been a Collection amongst the good Women as a reward to the Soldiers, and our beloved General chooses the money to be laid out in an aditional shirt to what they are allowed, the Ladies are unwilling to lesen the money by paying People to make them, and have determined to do them among themselves, I hope you will aprove of what we have done, as much of my time before I went out of town as well as since my return has been taken up in forwarding this Subscription—
Mrs S Wright in a letter I have just received from her says: “I most Sincerely rejoice to hear your Honoured father is Bless’d with health, may it long continue, may his added years be as many and as happy as I wish them to be, and he may then be able to vie with any of the old Patriarchs— But is the account in the papers fact that he has taken, or it about taking a Journey to the Court of Spain; I felt a sensible concern at reading it, sure some less valuable life than Dr Franklins might have been sent to traverse so Inclement a tract of Country, from its great heats & other inconveniencies as I imagine spain to be—” she tells me in a few days she shall compleat her 83d Year: her letter is a very beautifull one if I had time I would send you a Copy—
Willy begins to learn his Book very well and has an extraordinary memory, he has learnt these last Holidays the speach of Anthony, over Ceasors Body, which he can scarcely speak without tears— when Betty looks at your picture here and at Mr Duffields, she wishes her Grand Papa had teeth that he might talk to her, and has frequently tried to tempt you to walk out of the frame to play with her, with a peice of Apple pie, the thing of all others she likes best, Louis is remarkable for his sweet temper and good spirits, he has never been indisposed one moment of his life, he is the very picture of Willy as Betty is of Benjamin, I think I see him when I look at her, she sings a great deal, several tunes very perfect and we think sweetly, the utmost of Lou’s performence is to make faces, take Betty off when She cries, call George, and crawl about as Will did when first you came home, but he is but just 11 months old, in time I hope to have it in my power to write you something better about him, all I wish now is to give you a picture of the little Family just as it is. Willy and Betty send their duty with that of your Afectionate Daughter
S Bache


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baron de Frey, 9 September 1780
From: Frey, Joseph-Pierre-Charles, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Excellence
Paris le 9 septe 1780./.
Je Suis au déséspoir d’etre forcé d’importuner encore Votre Excellence, mais n’aiant pas encore pu terminer mes affaires, attendant jour en jour des lettres de mon Pêre, et me trouvant dans ce moment très embrassé pour pouvoir payer vingt cinque L’ouis d’or pour un lettre de change, que je dois paier aujourdhuy, faute de quoi je serois exposé à de grand désagrement, car celui a qui je dois paier le 25 Louis d’or, m’avéz menacé de me faire arretter Si je ne lui remboursé pas son argent dans la journé. Je viens donc prier V: E: très instament d’avoir la bonté et de m’avancer cet somme, je rémettrois en attendant entre les mains de V: E le bigliets cijoint. Je ne doute pas que Votre Excellence voudra bien accorder cet grace à un officier, qui a l’honneur d’etre Capitaine au service des Etas Unis de l’amerique, et elle peut etre persuadé, que sitot que j’aurois arrangé, mes affaires je partirois pour m’en rétourner en amerique. Si jaurois Scû ou m’addresser allieurs je n’aurois pas été Si hardi d’importuner V: E: En attendant je la prie de vouloir bien m’accorder ma demande, et de la remettre au Porteur. Cet la seul grace que j’ose demander a Votre Excellence et celle de me croire pénetrée de reconoissance. J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec un profond Respect. Di Votre Excellence trés humble et trés obeissant serviteur.
DE FreyCapt: au service desEtas Unis de l’amerique

Notations: De Frey, Paris le 9. 7bre. 1780. / [in William Temple Franklin’s hand:] Ansd in the Neg.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sir Edward Newenham, 9 September 1780
From: Newenham, Sir Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Belcamp near Dublin 9 Sept. 1780
I beg leave to Introduce, the Bearer, Mr John Collins of the City of Dublin to your favor; I would not presume to take such repeated Liberties, was I not most firmly convinced that Mr: Collins will discharge himself with Integrity.
He will have the Honor to acquaint your Excellency with his Intentions; should they prove favourable, & agreable, to the Interest of the truly Magnanimous, & Virtuous, United States of North America, your protection will greatly add to those favors, I have received from your Excellency; Favors I shall Ever most Gratefully acknowledge, & hope, in March next, personally to thank You for.

Our Parliament began with Spirit, but at the Close of the Late Session, they forfeited Every Title to Virtue & Honor; their latter Acts record their Infamy—upon their own Journals—
The four Americans, that I mentioned to your Excellency in my Letter of the 23 of July last, have been released, without any Expence; & I suppose they have paid their respects to you, in their way to Bourdeaux—
I have the Honor to remain with the most Perfect respect & Esteem Your Excellencys Most obt: & very Humble sert
Edwd Newenham

Notation: Edward Newenham. Belcamp near Dublin Sept. 9. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Ruston, 9 September 1780: résumé
From: Ruston, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<London, September 9, 1780, in French: The world marvels at the wisdom and maturity shown by the American Congress in organizing a country that has so recently conquered its freedom. The only weak point of this new administration—a flaw it shares with all European nations excepting England and Holland—has to do with the handling of public credit. That American paper currency should have fallen into discredit in spite of the country’s vast resources is proof that Congress is not yet aware of the basic principles governing this subject.
Allow me some background explanation.
Europe has long accepted the idea that public credit can only be maintained when grounded on a certain quantity of gold or silver specie. The French, for instance, carried this view to extremes, but without worrying whether such specie was in the hands of private people or of the government, so that their credit sank and has only begun to be salvaged in the last few years. In England, on the other hand, the paper money in circulation represents vastly more than the coinage in existence. This can be verified in pp. 363–443 of the first volume of the Witworth edition of Dr. Davenant, as well as in Dr. Price’s Observations on the Nature of Civil Liberty, p. 74.
Furthermore, one would be grossly mistaken in believing that only gold and silver are the proper basis for currency. Their intrinsic value is less than that of iron, a metal of greater use to humanity. Were it not for the myth surrounding gold, a pound of it would be less valuable than a single bushel of wheat. Paper credit is as good as silver or gold, better even, and more convenient as witnessed by the preference that the Dutch, who know as much as any nation about money, show it in depositing their papers of credit in the bank. See Dr. Franklin’s remarks on the Board of Trade’s report.
To those who object that bills are only as valuable as the belief that they can be exchanged for silver or gold, I shall answer that it is not so, that what counts is the certainty that the other person owns some form of property. Is there one knowledgeable merchant in the world who will sell one whit cheaper if he is paid in cash?
According to Dr. Price, the paper money of the colonies is more stable than that of England because it is not exchangeable for cash upon presentation, because a debtor is legally authorized to have it accepted as payment, and because it does not sustain as monstrous a debt as that of England. Indeed, should such a debt occur in times of exceptional necessity, it can be extinguished within four or five years through taxes on that paper money. Why, then, did the value of paper money fall so low in America? It is because of the public’s ignorance of the true nature of credit.
In order to put their finances in good order, the Americans should gather complete knowledge of their debts and of the conditions under which they have been contracted. Having heard that a bank may soon be established in Philadelphia, I make the following suggestions:
1. That all credits be placed in a common fund or in separate funds; that the creditors not be allowed to demand reimbursement but only transfer within the funds, leaving the government free to reimburse all or part of those funds when convenient.
2. That taxes be levied in order to pay scrupulously the interest which has been agreed upon. That a Bank be established for that purpose, and compensated for its services. That a fund large enough to secure the public’s trust be created, said fund made up by various kinds of properties (real estate and other), by a subscription and a sale of shares, and by land mortgages, and that the government stand as a guarantor behind the bank.
The Bank should receive all taxes and keep careful accounts. All negotiations of public funds should be done through it, and it should handle silver and gold and operate a mint whenever necessary. It should be allowed to lend money under certain restrictions both to private people and to the government, up to the amount of taxation for that year. Branches should be opened in provincial towns, in order to supplant eventually the local banks. 3. When the Bank’s credit is solidly established, both within the country and without, it will be able to borrow at more advantageous conditions and to solicit loans at stipulated interests from various European nations.
The rates of exchange should be fixed according to the place with which one is trading but the Bank should not enjoy a monopoly on those operations. It should keep out of small or precarious commercial operations, so as to eliminate any risk of harming the national credit.
The only valid objection to such a plan is that this is wartime and America is invaded by an enemy army, not the most propitious moment for opening a bank, but keep in mind that both England and Holland were in worse shape than the United States when they started their central banks. This is definitely the moment to act.
The proposed bank is somewhat different from most of the ones already established in Europe, to wit:
The Amsterdam Bank is used only for deposits and transactions within the city.
The Scottish banks offer loans only on land mortgages.
The Bank of England, which resembles most the one I am suggesting, assists private commerce through its own credit.
Please believe, Sir, that my only intention is to be of help to a cause endorsed by reasonable people all over the globe and to pay homage to your honesty and your talents. Should you wish to comment, I can be reached at the Carolina Coffeehouse.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baron Stürler, 9 September 1780
From: Stürler, ——, Baron
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Votre Excellence!
Paris le 9. Septemb 1780
Comme c’est moi qui ai prété a Mr. de Frey les vingt Louis pour retirer les billets qu’Il avoit entre Vos mains! afain de le metre en meme de pouvoir les Négotier pour se procurer les moyens de retourner a Votre Armée en Amérique, ou Il Sert comme Capitaine dans la Legion du Comte Poulawski; et qu’Il vient me rendre les dits billets; m’assurrant qu’Il n’a pu trouver a s’en défairre ici. J’esperre que Votre Excellence Voudra bien les reprendre de ma part pour en disposer Comme Elle le jugera bon, et de me renvoyer les Vingt Louis, que j’ai eu l’honneur de Vous fairre remetre par mon Domestique, de la part et avec la letre de Mr. de Frey, le deux du courant; pour rétirer les dits billets, ce que je n’ai fait que pour obliger un officier que je connais daileurs avantageusement, et que je voyais en un tres grand Ambaras. Seul Motif qui m’a engagé a me pretter aux Solicitations de Mr. de Frey a cet Egard, ce dont j’espere Votre Excellence voudra bien ètre persuadé, comme du Respect avec Le quel je Suis De Votre Excellence Le tres humble Servitteur
Le Bn: Sturler

Notation: Sturler Paris le 9. Septembre 1780.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Stürler, 10 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Stürler, ——, Baron

Sir,
Passy, Sept. 10. 1780.
M. De Frey has, I think, quitted our Service, and is excused by the Congress from the Necessity of returning. I nevertheless lent him 16. Guineas on his Promise of repaying me in a few Days. He broke that Promise and borrowed 4. Guineas more of me on a new Promise, which he likewise broke; for when he paid me it was much after the Time. I do not like to be troubled with such uncertain Borrowers or their affairs, or their Pledges. I therefore return the Billets he has sent me, thro’ your Hands and desire to be excused lending him any more Money. I am sorry if this Refusal should happen to be any Inconvenience to you, but as I have had no part in occasioning it, I hope you will likewise excuse me. With great Esteem and Regard I have the honour to be, Sir, &c. &c.
M. le Baron Storler.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 10 September 1780
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond. sir
Philadelphia Sepr. 10th. 1780.
I fully expected to have had the pleasure of a Line from you by some of the late arrivals from France, but am totally disapointed— I wrote you not long since by the Captains Read & Truxton, & sent you the papers,— this, with the Papers up to the date, I shall commit to Captain All’s care, who has in charge a Vessel of my Friend Morris, & intends for L’Orient— Dr. Lee, tho’ he has been arrived some time in Boston, has not reached this yet, I am told he is preparing a formidable battery, which he intends opening against you, when he shall arrive here; Mr. Izard has been here some time, he was pretty open mouthed against you, when he first came, but finding himself little attended to, is not so vociferous as he was—perhaps he only waits the junction of his Friend Lee, when they intend to try their united force against you, & probably expect the aid of some of the Massachusetts Delegates—A—— and L—, who, if I am well informed, would rather some other friend were Minister at the Court of Versailles,— Your old Friend Gates has been less fortunate to the Southward, than he was to the Northward; he has been under the necessity of making a rapid retreat from the neighbourhood of Camden in South Carolina; depending too much upon raw Milita who would not face the Enemy, he has met with a disgrace; the few Continental Troops we had there behaved nobly, made good their retreat with the loss of General De Calb, who is said to be mortally wounded, & in the hands of the Enemy; besides the General we lost about 350 Men,— I have no other News,— We long to hear from you & Ben,— Sally & the Children join me in Love & Duty— I am ever Dear sir Your affectionate son
Rich. Bache
Dr. Franklin

Addressed: His Excelly. / Dr. Benjamin Franklin / Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States / of No. America at the Court of [crossed out: Versailles] / per Capt. All.
Notation on address sheet: L’Orient October 15th. 1780 Recd: & forwarded, by Yr most hble Servt J. Nesbitt


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Bondfield, 11 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bondfield, John

Sir,
Passy, Sept. 11. 1780.
I do not recollect I have ever had any Account what became of the Cannon you procur’d to be cast by Order of the Commissioners. I wish to be particularly inform’d by the Return of the Post. And if any of them, or any other military Stores belonging to the Congress are Still in your Hands, this is to request that you would immediately Ship them on board the Vessel which was heretofore call’d the Breton, but now the Marquis de la Fayette, and which is at present in your Port. With great Esteem, I have the Honour to be, Sir, &c. &c.
M. Bondfield.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vicq d’Azyr, 11 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vicq d’Azyr, Félix

Monsieur,
Passy, Sept. 11. 1780.
J’ai reçu les paquêts que la Societé Royale a confié à mes soins et je ne manquerai pas de les faire tenir à leur addresse par la premiere Occasion convenable. Je suis persuadé que ces Messieurs seront fort Sensibles à l’honneur que la Societé leur a fait, et j’espere qu’ils seront de bons et utiles correspondants.
Un de mes Amis un des premiers Chirurgiens à Minorque m’a envoyé differentes pieces que je remêts entre vos mains, étant possible que vous y trouviez quelque chose qui puise concourir au but de votre Excellente Institution.
Celui qui vous remettra cette lettre est M. foulk jeune Americain d’un excellent caractére, qui est venu à Paris avec le dessein de se perfectionner dans la connoissance théorique et pratique de la medecine et de la Chirurgie. Permettez moi de le recommander à vos bons offices et conseils et je vous serai très obligé des bontés que vous voudrez bien avoir pour lui.
Jai l’honneur d’être avec becoup d’Estime, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obeissant Serviteur,
B Franklin
M. Vic d’Azir

Notation: repondu


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Searle, 11 September 1780
From: Searle, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hotel de Lusignan Rue des Vielles EtuvesChe Monsr. GrisonMonday 11th. Septr. 1780
Mr. Searle of Philadelphia presents his respectfull Compliments to Dr. Franklin, & has the pleasure to Send him two packets, & Seven letters with which he had the honor of being Charged by the Drs. Friends in America.

Addressed: Honble. / Benjamin Franklin Esquire / Passy
Notation: [torn: word missing] Searle 11. 7bre. 1780.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to James Searle, 13 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Searle, James

Sir
Passy, Wednesday morning Sept. 13. 1780
I received the Letters and Pacquets you were so good as to send me by Mr Dana on Monday, and I thank you for your Care of them. I sent my Grandson the same Afternoon to congratulate you on your Arrival, and to request the Honour of your Company at Dinner this Day. But he did not meet with you. I was out all Day yesterday at Versailles, and so the Repeating of the Message happen’d to be omitted. If you are not otherwise engaged I shall be glad to see you. My Grandson will conduct you. With great Regard, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
Honble. Mr Searle


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Potts, 13 September 1780
From: Potts, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hotel De Tours sept. 13. 1780
Mr. Potts and party present their Compls. to Dr. and Mr. Franklyn, request the favour of their company at dinner next Friday at ½ Past Two, oClock.

Addressed: Benj. Franklyn Esqr / at / Passy
Notation: M. Potts. Sept. 13. 1780.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Conkling, 14 September 1780
From: Conkling, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
La Flotte, Isle de Ré September 14th. 1780./.
I was in hopes at the Receipt of the Letter Your Excellency honoured me the 21st. ulto. that it would not be long before I should had the Delivery of my Brigg the Whim & Cargoe, but as yet, I am told, there are not the least orders about it, from the Conseil-des-Prises to the Officers of the Admiralty at Sables D’Olonnes, this delay is of the greatest prejudice to the Tobacco, being Still at La Tranche, where it will be very difficult, when bad weathers comes on on the Coast there, to Ship the same for La Rochelle where it must be carried to be sold, and the time coming on late for my returning to New London, all this so much affected me, that I did fall very sick and was confin’d in bed long time, I make use of my recovery to Humbly beseech Your Excellency to renew your good Offices, to get a Speedy order from Said Conseil-des-Prises, which I am told do not meet often, and which I would beg to be Observed to the Minister of the Marine, and that my case is so very unlucky, that without a Speedy liberty, I fear I shall hardly make of my Cargoe to pay the Charges, all this grieves me to the Heart by the Loss my owner Shall be at, therefore most intreat Your Excellency to be so good, to do all favourable possible for him who beg to remain Very Respectfully Sir Your Most obedient and most Humble Servant
Joseph Conkling
To His Excellency Dr. Franklin at Passy./.

Notation: Conkling Joseph. Isle de Rhe, Sept. 14. 1780.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 15 September 1780
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Lahaie 15e. 7bre. 1780.
L’Assemblée d’Hollande se Sépare aujourd’hui, & comme j’ai déjà eu l’honneur de vous en prévenir, Sans avoir rien fait.
Ce qui est plus intéressant, c’est que je m’apperçois que plusieurs de nos grands, fort Anglomanes, & fort intéresses dans les fonds Anglois, commencent enfin à prendre l’allarme sur ces fonds, & à témoigner même leurs craintes à cet égard.
Le public revient aussi des fausses idées dont on l’avoit imbu depuis le malheur de Charlestown, quant à la disposition de la masse du Peuple Américain vers une réconciliation avec la marâtre.
Vous verrez, Monsieur, par le feuillet ci-joint, que les amis de l’Amérique, de leur côté, font de leur côté de leur mieux pour désabuser le public à cet égard. De pareilles insertions font beaucoup de bien. J’espere que vous aurez bientôt de bonnes & grandes nouvelles à m’apprendre dont je vous promets de faire bon usage. Je suis toujours avec le plus respectueux attachement, Monsieur Votre très-humble & très obéissant serviteur
Dumas
Passy à S. E. M. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur B. Franklin / Min. Plenipe. des Etats Unis / &c. / Passy./.
Notation: Dumas la haie Sept 15. 80


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chaumont, [after 16 September 1780]
From: Chaumont
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[after September 16, 1780]
Extrait d’unne Lettre de Bordeaux ecritte a M de Chaumontpar Mrs. S. Jauge et fils en datte du 16. 7bre. 1780.

M. Bromfield [Bondfield] n’a pas de Canons de 12 lb il n’a que 28 Canons de 18 lb et 28 Canons de 24 lb. de Bale qu’il est prest a delivrer Sur un ordre de M. franklin.
M. de Chaumont prie M. franklin de luy envoyer L’ordre pour que Ces Canons Soyent Remis a Mrs. Jauge pere et fils. Les Canons de 24 lb. de Balle Seront Remis en amerique aux Commissionaires du Congrès, et Les Canons De 18 lb. Seront pris en Remplacement de Ceux que J’ay fait delivrer a L’orient. M. franklin en devera encore de 12 lb. de Bale mais il n’y en a pas a Bordeaux.

40
en
Tous

28
de
18

12
de
12

Notation: Extrait d’une Lettre de Bordeaux à M De Chaumont. par Jauge


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chaumont, [on or after 17 September 1780]
From: Chaumont
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[on or after September 17, 1780]
M. de Chaumont a L’honneur de Communiquer a Son ami M. le Docteur franklin unne Lettre quil a Receu de L’orient et qui luy prouvera que M. Jones est peu propre a faire aimer Les francais par les americains.
J’ay L’honneur aussi de prevenir mon Bon ami M. Le Docteur franklin que les derniers pacquets qu’il m’avait Confié pour L’amerique et que J’avais fait partir Sous pavillon imperial par unne Corvette partie d’ostende, ont été Jettés a la mer. La Corvette est rentrée pour en prevenir et en attendre de Nouveaus. J’escris en Consequence a M. de vergennes et Je les Luy demande pour les faire partir demain S’il est possible, parceque J’ay unne occasion Seure pour les envoyer Jusqu’au port de mer.

Notation: M. Chaumont Sept. 13 80


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Digges, 18 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Digges, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Passy, Sept. 18. 1780.
I am sorry you have had so much trouble about Jones’s Affair. When he borrow’d of me the 30. Guineas, he gave me the enclosed Bill; acquainting me that he could command Money at Bordeaux where he was going, and would pay it there to my Order. He never went to Bordeaux, but is gone back they Say to London. Thirty Days Sight of Such Bill, is in reality 30 Days date because he must have seen it when he wrote it—By enquiring at Dr. Fothergills perhaps you may find him. & demand it of him. If you recover it, that will be so much in your Hands on my Acct I gave him a Receipt for the Bill of Mr. Goddard’s Acceptance acknowledging that it was put into my hands as a Security for the 30 Guineas lent. I will deliver up the Bill on payment of the Money and return of the Receipt. He behav’d here very foolishly and fraudulously. I wish all American Fools & Knaves would stay at Home, for the Credit of their Country, I am ever, your affectionately
M. Digges.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Joshua Johnson, 18 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Johnson, Joshua

Passy, Sept. 18. 1780.
The Trustees of the Maryland Funds in London have at Length sent me their Answer, importing that by the Advice of Counsel learned in the Law, they find they cannot safely do what is required by the Act of the new State, and as at present the Stock cannot be sold or transferr’d but by them, the Execution of the Act seems now impossible. Nevertheless if you think you can do any thing in the Business that may be of Service to the State of Maryland according to the Act, I shall with Pleasure appoint you Trustee for that purpose. Be so good as to forward the Enclosed to the Governor, when you have an Opportunity of Sending to that Province.
Having had some Dispute with M. Schweighauser about the Payment of an Account, of which I send you a Copy, together with Copies of the Letters that have passed between us on the Subject, I have, as you will see advised him to send it over to the navy Board But to have it first examined by you as Inspector of the public Accounts. I imagine it may be within the Intention of your Appointment; but if not, I think your Examination of the Accounts, may be of Service, and therefore request you would undertake it, and give your Judgment on it as soon as possible.
With great Regard, I have the honour to be Sir,

P.S. If you have not a Copy of the Maryland Act, I will send you one.
M. Johnson.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Sim Lee, 18 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

Sir,
Passy, Sept. 18. 1780.
The foregoing is a Copy of my last: since which I have received a Letter from the Trustees of the Maryland Funds in London, and the Opinions of Counsel they have consulted, Copies of which I send enclos’d. As the Trustees refuse to do any act by which they may be divested of those funds, I do not see that my Appointment, of a Person to do the Business, can have any effect. I have nevertheless offerd the Appointment to M. Joshua Johnson, if he should think any thing can be done in the affair, as possibly may be by persuasion, and offering them private Security. I shall embrace with pleasure every Opportunity that may be afforded me, of being Serviceable to your State; and am, with great Respect. Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant.
His Excellency Thos. Lee Esqe. Governor of Maryland.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jonathan Williams, Jr., 18 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Williams, Jonathan Jr.

Dear Jonathan,
Passy, Sept. 18. 1780.
M. De Chaumont tells me the Ship will be ready to take in Goods by the End of this Month. You will make the necessary Preparations, that as little time may be lost as possible, it being of the utmost Consequence that the Clothing should arrive before Winter. M. Ross has Shipt 123 Bales of his Goods for the Congress in a Vessel from L’Orient. I do not know if that be all he had. As you will have Room you can take some of the arms which may be shipt by Mr. Schweighauser. I have desired him to confer with you on the Subject. There is also 100 Tons of Salt Peter at St. Maloes: which, if you can take M. Chaumont thinks will be best and cheapest, Risque considered, transported by Land. You will consider this, and give me your Opinion.— M. Le Rouge Geographe rue des grands Augustins, has deliver’d me 15 of Hutchin’s Maps & Books, and requests an Order to have the Rest put in to his Hands for Sale. I know not where they are, nor that I have any thing to do with it. Have you? He is, I believe a proper Person. My Love to the good Girls, and believe me ever.
Your affectionate Uncle.
M. Williams.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 18 September 1780
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. sir
London 18 Sept 1780
As the bearer Mr Jones is known to you as well as his companion Mr Paradise I need not ask your usual civility to be extended to them. They are two excellent men & of the right sort to fix themselves in our Country where I am not without hopes of seeing them settled in a year or two. They will wait upon you immediately on arrival at Paris & return hither in a fortnight after. I hope to hear from you by their return, & to receive any Amn news papers wch may be laid aside as useless to you.
They frequently contain matter useful to publish in this Country, especially where such matter expresses the strength, fortitude, & determind resolution of Ama. to exert herself towards the exterpation of the British army. The minds of the people here are getting reconcild apace to the Independe of Ama. & these publications help them on. The language now spreading abroad in the western quarter of the Town is that the new Parliat. will very early go upon the business of declaring Amn. Independence, & getting the best terms with that Country that Circumstances will permit; but whether this is only an artful language, held out to serve Election purposes, or to raise the Stocks, or is really meant, I cannot determine. It is spoke of in Circles of the great folks perfectly attatchd to the Court. If our wise Rulers have a spark of wisdom left they must soon go to some such work. The Country in general is earnestly wishing for Peace and how can this be got but by getting rid of the American War. People of all descriptions in Politicks are alarmd for the critical situation in which England now stands, even the Toreys and Court Runners have given up the late language of all the Southern Colonies “coming in”—that the People of Ama were all ripe to declare for England—that the Capture of Chas Town was the conquest of the States—that the Amns & their allys were quarrelling—that they had nothing left to carry on the war &ca &a. &a.
Some late captures and arrivals from Ama. have opend their eyes to the actual state of things in that Country, & they have learnt that the American mind is not subdued—that they have the means, & are carrying on an active offensive Campaign—that their allies have given them an effectual aid of Ships & Troops, & have been receivd most Cordially—that the People are not tired with the pleasures of self Government—that they do not despise a free trade, nor begin to think the ministry just, honest, wise or good enough to place themselves at their feet. As America has been long lookd upon by a great majority of this Country to be lost to England, these appearances do not effect the minds of the people half so much as the state of things nearer home. Ireland, tho at present divided by partys brought on by the intrigues of the Court, is lookd on as lost, at least the absolute dominion of it, to this Country & that no further revenue or places can be got from thence but such as the People chuse to give. The northern armd Confederacy is a bitter pill, and is lookd upon as a direct hostile act to this Country— Since the two Russian Ships, (which were loaded with Naval Stores from Petersburgh to France) have been given up, the peoples minds are easier as to a war with those powers, some blame the ministry for their pusilanimity, others rather wish it so than get into a deeper war, but all say it will soon give the House of Bourbon a Superiority at Sea, & this will be a dreadful blow to the Sovereign Lords of the ocean. The affairs in the West Indies are spoke of with dejection & chagrin. Tho not mentiond in the late gazette, it appears Rodney has sent 10 of his Ships down to succour the Jamaica Squadron, which Island is supposd in imminent danger. It is not at all improbable but the spanish flag is this day waveing on some of its Forts.
The Capture of the whole outward bound July fleet will be a dreadful blow to all the Islands & to Rodneys fleet in particular for there were in it 10 or 12 transports loaded wth naval Stores, masts, sparrs &ca for that fleet, besides Provision Ships. Two of the line of his fleet is lately arrivd in a shatterd Condition at Plymo. They were convoy to the 1st Augt. homeward bod [bound] Leeward Island fleet, but seperated from it in a violent Storm wch. happend the 3d Int. & contind for three days. As none of the trade came in with the men of war & only 8 or 10 of eighty vessels are yet arrivd it is feard a great number has been lost. This, with the former extraordinary Capture, the taking of 12 out of the Quebec Ships on the banks N foundland (wch I am told are worth from 30 to 35,000 £ ea) will be a death blow to the gentry at Loyds, & prevent some of their names from appearing to the Government loan of 1781 for the twenty or twenty two millions which the premier will want. I do not pity these chaps a bit, for it has been by the prayers and addresses & the conversation & opinions of these & such like, that the war has been prolongd.
There is yet no accots of Greaves’s arrival in America. The first arrivals from N York must determine it—the expectations of the people are much up for accots. from that quarr many people think the Port of N York must be blockd up or accots must have been recd. Others laugh at the idea that the French fleet can even alarm the place or that the united efforts of French & Aman. Armys can endanger that garrison. Within this few days the ministry have hinted forth their alarms for the safety of Hallifax. On enquiry from a pretty good line, I find that on the 14th at night an Express arrivd from Sr. Jo: Yorke with a discovery of his “that Ternays fleet & an Army of Amns & french were actually meant against Hallifax before the close of the Season.”
Mr R Temple has not yet finally succeeded as to getting a protection for the Cartel to depart for some port of Spain or France. The Vessel will be obligd to clear out for Oporto & so make her way to Bilboa at the risque of Mr Temple. All idea of Exchanging an equal number of Americans in confinement here for those who came on Parole in that Cartel is at an end; The application was scouted, & the Parole Prisoners were told to go back to N York & there give themselves up for an equal number of Rebels exchangable in that place only with British prisoners taken & carryd into America. The Insolence of People in Office here, & their inattention to the solicitations of their own subjects in cases of this sort, seem to encrease with the impotence of Government. They seem determind never to do a good natured or a conciliatory act.
There have been two Tobo [Tobacco] Ships from Balte [Baltimore] to Holland lately brot. into the Thames. They saild as late as the 6 or 8th of Augt. from Hampton, as did one also from No Carolina, yet we have no accots or any kind of news by these Vessels—the papers & letters have been all seizd & sent to the Ministry. The men (wch will add 70 or 80 to our numbers in Forton) have been put on board men of war to be sent thither, & the accots from them being all in possession of the Torey merchts & owners of these privateers, none are comeatable.— They cannot however be bad for Ama. or they would be let out, & it does not indicate that Cornwallis has over run all No Carolina & Virga.
I expected to have given you further accots of Mr Goddard & the Bills, but have not been able to see him. He is not visible. I sent you the 5th a Copy of his letter to me, acknowledging they were his acceptances (consequently he must pay the Bill) & am waiting your ansr. I think you better send the bill to me endorsd & I will contrive to get it paid, at least as much as you have advanced on it.
I am anxious to hear if the Bishops picture got safe as well as the one sent you from Amm by M De Neufville, lodgd there by M Champion of Bristol. I would not have the Bishop lost in the carriage on any accot, as that worthy family is in the Country, there is no knowing from them.
I expect to write you in 8 or 10 days by a frd who came in the Cartel & who has letters for you. One of the Instruments of writing you gave Capt. C—rp——r in Apr. or May last, has not been used & shall be sent back (at least a part of it) to you by the above conveyance. Mitchell I understand has got safe into Boston, by the fortune of war a prize to the Dean. He had a fine useful Vessel of 18 Guns & carryd near twenty Captives with him hence. His business was well done. Tho I am at present in a calamitous situation in consequence of my name being on 2 bills of 500 £ ea, wch were paid him by the Admiralty (thro an under Clerk of theirs Mr J. Jackson) for the Cartel vessel wch. was seizd from Him at Bristol. These bills were drawn by Mitchell on Jackson & accepd to be paid at the Bank of Engd the 29th Augt. When the day came they were noted for non payment & are yet unpaid but in a fair way to be recoverd.
I expect my Reverend & Good frd Mr W—— here every day, when we will settle your donation of 8 pr week to each prisoner most likely in a post or two, I shall draw for 30 or 35 £ the then advance— The Bill will be on Mr Grand for accot B F & I will give him a line of advice with it. You will please also to mention it to Him.
As there is no domestic occurrence but Wch my friends the Bearers are acquainted with, I beg leave to refer you to them and to assure you that I am with the highest esteem Dr Sir Yr obligd & Obt Sert
T. D

Please to forward the inclosd in safety to Mr Carmichael Mr. Petree has been some days in England & has lately returnd to Town as unsuccessful Candidate for Cricklade—a very extraordinary attempt! I do not know him personally so that we have not met tho He is frequently with two or three valuable acquaintances of mine.

Notation: Sept. 18. 1780.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Loge des Commandeurs du Temple, [18 September 1780]
From: Masonic Lodge, Commandeurs du Temple
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A L’O∴ de Carcassonne d’un lieu éclairé,
ou regnent le silence, la paix et la charité.
Le 18e du 7e mois de l’an de la V. L∴ 5780
[September 18, 1780]

A La Gloire du Grand Architecte de l’univers
La Loge Réguliere de st Jean de Jerusalem
sous le titre distinctif des Commandeurs du Temple

Au très digne très vertueux & très réspectable Frére
Docteur Franklin, Ministre plénipotentiaire
des Etats-Unis de L’Amérique auprés de sa Majesté
très chrétienne S∴ F∴ U∴

T∴ C∴ F∴
Nous n’avions pas douté un seul instant, de vous voir sensible au malheur de la famille que nous vous recommandions, son état était un titre infaillible auprés de vous; Mais nous n’osions nous flatter de vous voir porter votre attention, jusques à nous offrir de faire passer vous-même nos Lettres à M. Le chevalier de la Luzerne. Une grande ame ne sait pas faire le bien à demi; vous nous l’aves prouvé plus que jamais en nous fesant une offre dont nous n’userons pas parceque la famille Andrieu, avoit déja écrit à Monsieur L’Ambassadeur avant votre réponse. Nous ne laisserons pas perdre cépendant le fruit de votre bonté, & nous vous supplierons, de vouloir bien vous rappeller les promésses que vous nous avés faites d’écrire en Amérique. Vous mettrés le comble à vos bienfaits, si vous voulés vous interesser auprés de M. De la Luzerne. Reçeves en attendant pour tant de soins nos rémerciments. Les éloges les plus pompeux les suivraient, si votre modestie ne nous imposait le plus profond silence.
Vous adressant cette Planche, nous croirions manquer à notre devoir, si nous ne vous faisions part de L’Evénément heureux, qui cause à tous nos fréres la plus sensible Joie.
Une nouvelle nomination d’officiers à mis à notre tête, L’illustre Prince Nicolas Alexis de Galitzin que nous avions le bonheur d’avoir pour affilié depuis quelques années. Aprés avoir partagé notre sensibilité pour les Malheureux, vous partagerés nos transports pour ce choix glorieux. Nous L’avons annoncé de toute part, & nous joignons cy-inclus notre circulaire pour que par votre Canal, la loge, qui a la faveur d’admirer de prés vos vertus, Connaisse un évenement intéressant pour tout ce qui tient à l’art Royal.
Notre bonheur sera parfait Si nous pouvons avoir le bonheur de vous voir affilié à notre temple, et figurer dignement à Côté des hommes illustres que nous Possedons déja.

Nous avons la faveur d’etre avec les sentimens de la plus tendre fraternité par les N∴ M∴ A∴ V∴ C∴
T∴ C∴ F∴ Vos affectionnés & fideles freres
Roques Vble en ExercicePar mandement de la R∴ L∴des Commandeurs du TempleAstoin Sre.Timbré & Sçellé par nous Garde des Sçeaux,Timbres & Archives.Mêric DE Rieûx


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean de Neufville & fils, 18 September 1780
From: Neufville, Jean de, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honourd Sir:
AmtDm, the 18th. Sept 1780
May it please your Excellency, that on Covering the inclosed, recomanded to our Care, We crave reference to our last Respects of the 31th. of August and that we were as happy as to engage the Chevalier de Luxenbourg, on his return to Paris to charge himself with the delivery of a box containing a very fine Portrait in Chinea of the Great Generall Washington which we were desired sometime ago to forward, butt for Which we have only waited for a good and Safe opportunity, and which our good friend Mr. Diggs in Londo. permitted us since to offer you in his name we Shall be very glad and happy at any opportunity we might meet with to be of any Service to the American Cause, and in particular to your Excellency as having the honour to be with all respectfull Regard Honourd Sir Your Excellencys most devoted and most obed humb Servt.
John DE Neufville & Son


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 19 September 1780
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sr.
Bordx 19 Sepr 1780
I am honord with your favor 15th I have given Notice to the Merchants equiping the Marquis de la Fayette that I have receivd your orders to ship 56 pieces Cannon I have laying in the arsenal belonging to Congress which at their first requission shall be shipt— I write you from my Bed where I have been confind upwards of a month by a violent fever so soon as I am able to attend to Buissness shall transmit you the general accounts of my disburstments on this Account— I have the honor to be with due respect Sr Your very hhb Servt
John Bondfield
His Excellce. B. Franklin Esqr

Addressed: A son Excellence / Benj Franklin Esqr / Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats Unis / a / Paris
Notation: Bondfield John 19. Sept. 1780.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 19 September 1780
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
La Haie 19e. 7bre. 1780
Vous verrez par le feuillet ci-joint, que nous ne nous lassons point de profiter de tout pour donner au public une idée des affaires en Amérique bien opposée à celle que l’ennemi avoit excitée depuis l’affaire de Charlestown. Aussi le Succès répond à notre attente; & les Anglomanes enragent. J’espere que le Vent, qui vient de se mettre à l’Ouest, amenera bientôt quelque navire avec de bonnes nouvelles; & je me recommande d’avance pour les avoir d’abord. Rien de nouveau ici. Je suis avec un très-grand respect, Monsieur Votre très-humble & très obeissant serviteur
Dumas
Passy à Son Exc. M. B. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur B. Franklin / Mine. Plenipe. des Etats-Unis / &c. / Passy./.
Notation: Dumas la haie Sept 19. 80


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 20 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir,
Passy Septr. 20. 1780.
Since I have the honour of speaking to your Excellency on the Subject of a farther Loan of Money to the United States, our Banker M. Grand has given me a State of the Funds necessary to be provided, which I beg leave to lay before you.
I have frequently written to Congress to draw no farther upon me, but to make me Remittances; for that the inevitable Expences of France in this War were immense, and that I could not presume to make repeated Applications for more Money with any Prospect of Success. Your Excellency will see this acknowledg’d in their late Letters to me, of which I inclose Copies; and that they would have avoided drawing on me any more, if the present Conjuncture in which they were obliged to make vast Preparations to act effectually with your Troops, had not laid them under the absolute Necessity.
The present State of their Currency rendring it insufficient for the maintaining of their Troops, they provide for a great Part of the Expence by furnishing Provisions in kind: but some more hard Money than came in by Taxes, was wanted, and could only be obtained by these fresh Drafts.
Their former unexpected Drafts, had already absorbed much of the Money put into my Hands, and I am now put into a Situation that distresses me exceedingly. I dread the Consequences of protesting their Bills. The Credit of Congress being thereby destroyed at home, the People will be unable to act or exert their Force. The Enemy will find them in a State similar to that of being bound hand & foot.
We have had Hopes of some Aid from Spain; but they are vanished.
The Expectation of a Loan in Holland has also failed.
I submit these important Circumstances to your Excellency’s wise Consideration. The States will be well able in a few Years of Peace, to repay all that shall be advanc’d to them in this time of Difficulty: & they will repay it with Gratitude. The Good Work of establishing a free Government for them, and a free Commerce with them for France, is nearly compleated: It is pity it should now miscarry for want of 4, or 5 millions of Livres, to be furnished, not immediately, but in the Course of the ensuing Year.

With the greatest & most sincere Respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your Excellency’s, most obedient, & most humble Ser.
B Franklin
His Exy the Count De Vergennes.

Notation: 20 7bre


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 20 September 1780
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir
London 20th. Sept. 1780
The Inclosd will inform you fully of some applications made Mr H for the release of some Prisoners now at St. Omers which seem to have passd your notice. They are American—Capturd & have lately petitiond the admiralty to procure their release. The Capt Scott mentiond also in the inclosd Letter, will I hope stand against Capt Manley; The Board of Sick & hurt have promisd his release & that an order shall be sent down for this Purpose to Plymo. in a day or two. A good word has been spoken for Capn C——m but he being a more recent offender, it was refusd; not however without some tokens of attention to the application.
The Board of Sick & Hurt seem wonderfully civil of late, (indeed they have always been attentive to our applications) and I am led to think therefrom, that they begin to see how likely it is that America will succeed & how better it is for them to temporise & be civil. A small vessel from No Carolina to France, wch. saild abot. the 6th of Augt., and two others from Baltimore to Holland, Tobo. [Tobacco] loaded, wch saild in a fleet of 30 from Hampton the 8th. Augt. have been taken by English Cruisers & brot in— The two latter into the Thames. All papers, Letters &ca &ca have been seizd & kept secret, and eight of the Crew of one of them put on board the Tender at the Tower for his Majestys Service. I do suppose that the accots by these vessels are such as our great folks do not like, or they would have been let out—nay I think these very accots have been the reason of so much civility in office. I told you in a late letter that the Cartel Brige [Brigantine] Temple had got permission to return. On Mr H——s mentioning to day at the board of sick & hurt, that it would be impossible for this vessel to return without Seamen, Mr H was desird to get Mr Temple to petition for these 8 Seamen on board the Nightingale Tender at the Tower, to be releasd & sent to Bristol to navigate the Ship away. I shall draw up the Petition tomorrow & Mr T will give it into the Admiralty, where I have reason to think it will be granted. As these men are only pressd by the Gangs for this work, & have not yet been committd for Treason or Piracy, there can be no plea (as there was in the case of the Parole Prisoners by the Cartel) “that prisoners committed by a Magistrate for Treason &ca cannot be releasd but by certain forms &ca”.
I am expecting dayly a line from you about Goddards Bill as well as an ansr. to Mr Bowmans supplication for a pass for His necessary Baggage in case the Ship He is going in to Charles Town may be taken by an Amn Privateer.
No authentic news yet from N York but much rumour is going about that the ministers have for some days had possession of bad accots from that quarter.
The General cry of all partys is that the Amn War is intollerable & so little to be born, that the new Parliament is speedily to go upon the business of accomodation if at the expence of the Declaration of Independence. I reely beleive the Cabinet have determind to abandon that war, & look to their affairs nearer home. A Privateer just arrivd from Lisbon says there was an Embargo laid there on all English Ships the morning that He slipt away.— This has causd some little alarm in the City.

The Portugue Envoy set out yesterday for Lisbon, but apparently only to bring to England a few months hence His Lady. The one coming so immediately on the back of the other causes much conversation. The Lisbon Merchts tho apparently frightend say it is only some partial embargo to detect or take some State Prisoner or publick thief. A few days will shew the truth. I wrote you on the 18th. by two frds. going directly to P——s. This will be put into the Post office in Ostend or Holland most likely before the next foreign mail gets across the Channel.
I am with the highest respect Dr Sir Yr obligd & ob Ser
W. S. Church

Addressed: Dr. Franklin / Passy
Endorsed: Sept. 20. 80.
Notation: Sept. 20. 80


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Hodgson, 20 September 1780
From: Hodgson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir
London 20 Sepr. 1780
’Twas only a day or two ago, that your Letter of the 25th Ultimo was delivered me. I have since been with the Commissioners of Sick & Hurt, who admit to have recd the Men whom your Certificates specify— Your Accot Stands as under

America
  Dr. [Debtor] to Prisoners sent to Morlaix
119

Cr. [Creditor] by Prisoners and from

L’Orient & Morlaix
 67

due to England on Ballance
52

I hope you will be able to pay off this ballance that we may have a fresh exchange, it grieves me much to think how very long some of the poor fellows have been confined— There is a Capt Robert Scott, who was commander of a Privateer called the Golden Eagle taken the 2d. June last by the Genl. Pickering Privateer of Salem Capt Harrabin & carried into Bilbao. Capt. Harrabin suffered Capt Scott to return to England upon his parole engaging either to return or procure the release of an American prisoner here, the Commissioners assured me they were ready to acknowledge Capt Scott as a prisoner discharged & to be reckoned in Acc’t as if he came in a Cartel you consenting thereto & agreeing that his Parole is thereby fulfilled to which, I presume, you can have no Objection, ‘Tis strange to me that we have not heard of the Crew of this Privateer, they must be prisoners as well as their Captain, I submitt it to you whether it is not a matter worthy your enquiry what are become of them, as also of other English prisoners in Spain of whom you formerly made mention, I think I see a mode of Settlement opening by this that will answer the purposes of Humanity to improve— It seems to me, that, the Board of Sick & Hurt, by this precedent, will, in future have no Objection to admitt Parole engagements from Prisoners who have been carried in to Ports in Europe as exchanges made within the meaning of the Cartel & that they will be allowed as such in the general Acco’t— I am the more founded in this Idea because they have given me a List of some other prisoners taken by American Cruisers & now confined at st Omers, who if you will cause to be discharged, they promise to allow in Acco’t alltho they do not expect you shou’d be at the trouble of sending them to any particular Port, their bare discharge with leave to get home as they can being all they seemed to think necessary on your part, I hope therefore you will take the first Opportunity of making application in consequence, the names of the Prisoners as under
John Bell of the HopewellHenry DavisGeorge FisherPhilip Bailleau of the May Flower of JerseyJames BailleauPhilip BissonPhilip BertramJosuaricolePhilip Bisson

George Laurens— I think it will be necessary to have a Certificate of the discharge of these Men to produce to the Board. Your reply will oblige yr most Obedt sert
William Hodgson

P.S. Your Secy. writes my address Messrs. Gill, Hodgson & Co making my Xtian name a Surname, it misled mr Petrie, Guillme you Know being only Wm.

Addressed: Dr. Franklin / Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from George Logan, 20 September 1780
From: Logan, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Sepr: 20th. 1780.
Your polite attention during my short stay at Paris, demands my most grateful acknowledgment. It would have afforded me particular pleasure to have returned to Paris, before sailing for America; but the reduced state of my Finances in Europe, & the situation of my affairs in this State, demanded my immediate presence, & attention.
I wrote to you twice from London, giving you an account of the situation of Great Brittain &c&c— With respect to Public Affairs on this Continent, they are in a much better situation than I had any idea of. The Farmers, & the Quakers in general make use of little but their own manufactures. You would be astonished, & highly pleased to observe the improvements which are daily making every where in this Infant Country— I wish I could say as much for our Public spirit, & unanimity. Many individuals are charged with betraying the Interests of their Country willing to sacrifice every thing to their own ambition & emolument. Others, influenced by the prejudices of education still retain a strong prejudice in favor of their ancient constitution. I am however happy in informing you that different parties appear to be better reconciled to each other than formerly, & there is a great prospect of our becoming a united and happy People.

I can give you no Public information but what you will receive from Gentlemen much more capable of the task. With respect to private affairs I may inform you, that I arrived here about two months since, & expect [to] reside here for life wishing to follow your laudable example in being constantly employed to the good of mankind in general, & in a particular manner to the prosperity of this rising Country— I am at present librarian to the Loganian Library; I wish you to write on this subject, when at leisure I wish to put it on the most resp[torn: ectable?] footing.
Dr: Bond Mr: Rhoads & your Friends in this City are in general well—
I am with great respect your much obliged Friend
George Logan

Addressed: A son Excelle: / Dr: Benjn: Franklin / a Paris
Notation: George Logan, Sept. 20. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 22 September 1780
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
St. Il de fonse 22 Sept 1780
I have lately written to you several Letters. Enclosed is a Copy of one to Count de Vergennes, which Ct. de Montmorin, who also writes to him on the same Subject, is so obliging as to send together with this, by a Courier to bayonne. The Papers you have heretofore recd. from me, with those now sent will enable you to understand it; and I am persuaded your Abilities and Enfluence will be exerted to promote the Success of the application contained in it. It appears to me absolutely necessary that the Bills drawn on me be saved at all events. If contrary to my Ideas of the Wisdom & affection of France, She should not lend us Money for the Purpose we must endeavour to borrow it of Individuals, tho’ at a higher than usual Interest, nay on any Terms rather than not get it. Almost anything will be better than a protest, for exclusive of Disgrace, which is intolerable, the Consequences of it would cost Congress more than the Expence of saving their Credit, be it almost what it will.
With very sincere Regard & Esteem your most hble Servt.
(signed) John Jay
His Excellency Dr. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Juvel Neveux & Cauchoit, 22 September 1780
From: Juvel neveux & Cauchoit
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Rouen le 22 7bre. 1780
Il nous a Eté negocié ce jour un effet tiré de lorient le 6 Ct. [courant] par gourlade et moylens a deux usances ordre de Maurice Sur vous de troix cens livres, nous vous Serons obligé de nous marquer Si vous avés quelqu’un a paris ou vous fassiés élection de domicile pour payer les traites qui Sont faittes Sur vous, la ditte traite est payable le 15 9bre. prochain, nous avons l’honneur de vous Etre avec Respect Monsieur Vos tres humbles et obts Srs.
Juvel NEVEUX & Cauchoitmds [marchands] Rue grand pont

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin ministre / plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de / lamerique. a passy pres paris / a Passy
Notations: Juvel neveu & Cochoit Rouen 22. 7bre. 1780. / [in William Temple Franklin’s hand:] Rep. 23


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Samuel Petrie], 22 September 1780
From: Petrie, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
London. Sept. 22d. 1780.
Circumstances unforeseen will detain me here longer than I intended, when I left Paris. Venality & Corruption have not decreased in this Country, during my absence; & the Confusion of a General Election, has given full play to the depraved disposition of the People. Accidentally landing in England, on the very Day the Proclamation was publish’d, for the dissolution of the last Parliament, I found it impossible to restrain myself, from joining in the activity which Surrounded me on every Side. I posted down to a Borough in the West, where I had a right to expect to be received, as I was received, with open Arms, amidst the general Acclamations of the People, above five Sixths of whom, immediately enlisted under my Standard. My Competitors were Eastern Nabobs,— the one possessing about a Million of Money,— the other, possibly not more than a tenth of that Sum, but who is going out, under the Auspices of Lord North, President of the Council to Madrass. I was not intimidated with the potent Qualifications, of these Gentlemen, and certain Victory was on my Side, till the Evening preceding the Election. A corrupt Manoeuvre then turn’d the Scale, & a venal Majority the next Day, poll’d against me; but the virtuous Minority must ultimately carry the Election, unless the Majority of the Committee who will determine on the Merits, Shou’d prove as venal as the Majority that poll’d. This unexpected Business, will keep me here, longer than I proposed, but I Still hope to be able to Set out, long before the meeting of Parliament; tho’ its not impossible, but it may be necessary for me to be upon the Spot at that Time.
It was whisper’d me a Day or two ago, from an intelligent Quarter, that the Speech at the Opening of Parliament, will breathe the Spirit of Peace & Reconciliation. I Suspect much, if it Shou’d do So, that they will be found only in Words.
At present there is no public News here of any Kind. The Conversation in all Companies, is altogether confined to the different Elections. Royal Influence has driven Kepple from the Borough of Windsor, but there is no doubt of his Election for the County of Surry. Hartley has lost his Election for Hull, & I fancy will be out of Parliament. Burke is in the same Predicament for Bristol, but he will assuredly be brought in for some other Place, tho’ he holds the Same Language in private, as he does in his public Address.
I call’d on Woodmason, who Says he waits to know the Quantity of Paper he is to send, & that he has wrote fully upon the Subject, but has hitherto received no Reply. Command me freely any where, & in any Thing, in which I can render the Smallest Service.
Remember me where you know I wish to be remember’d, & believe me always sincerely & faithfully Yrs.
Letters address’d for me, under Cover to James Chalmer Esqr., Leicester fields, London, will be deliver’d Safe.

Notation: B. Sept 22. 1780.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Thaxter, Jr., 22 September 1780
From: Thaxter, John Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Friday Septr. 22d. 1780
Mr. Thaxter presents his respects to his Excellency Doctor Franklin, and will do himself the Honor of dining with his Excellency on Sunday next.

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats Unis de l’Amérique, / en son hôtel. / à Passi
Notation: Thaxter Mr. Paris Sept. 22. 1780


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Juvel Neveux & Cauchoit, 23 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Juvel neveux & Cauchoit

Passy le 23 sept. 1780
M. Franklin a reçu la Lettre que Messrs. Juvel neveux et Cauchoit lui ont fait l’honneur de lui ecrire hier.
Toute Lettre de Change tirée sur M. Franklin, doit lui etre presentée pour l’Acceptation à son Domicile à Passy. Et toutes celles qui ont passé par cette formalité sont payées à leurs Echéances chez M. Grand, Banquier Rue Montmartre, vis à vis St Joseph— à Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from J.F. Frin & Co., 23 September 1780
From: J.F. Frin & Co.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris 23. 7bre. 1780
Nous avons l’honneur de vous remettre cijoint d’une part 34 effets du Congrès passès a notre ordre montant ensemble à Drs. [Dollars] 1578.
D’autre part 4 autres Semblables effets ensemble Drs. 1500 que nous vous prions d’accepter et de nous renvoyer ensuite. Nous prenons le parti de vous les remettre directement parceque nos amis d’hollande Mrs. D. Crommelin & Fs. en nous les envoyant nous ont fait l’observation suivante que nous croyons devoir vous participer; la Voici:
“Nous avons à vous Faire observer à l’egard des deux Effets
No. 228 pour 120 Dollars
No. 641 pour autres 120 Dollars
que notre ami nous marque qu’il avoit envoyé la troisieme de la pre. [première] & la premiere de la 2eme. endossées en blanc par un navire qui a eu le malheur d’etre pris et qu’il craint qu’on n’en fait un mauvais usage pour quoi il Sera à propos d’en prévenir M Le Docteur Franklin.”
Nous avons l’honneur d’etre avec respect Monsieur Vos très humbles et obeissant Serviteurs
J. F. FRIN ET Comp.
M le Docteur Franklin à Passy.

Notations in different hands: j. f. Frin et Cie. Paris 23. 7bre. 1780. /23d / Ansd 10 Oct. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Paul Jones, 23 September 1780
From: Jones, John Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored and dear Sir
Ariel, at Sea Septr. 23d. 1780
I duely received your Excellencies Letter, Orders, and Publick dispatches by Count De Vauban. I received also the Letter you did me the honor to write me the 21st. Ult. containing a list of Men who had Served in the Privateer Madame &c.; Upon receipt of which, I immediately made a proper inquiry, and found that my Officer had really followed my Orders at St. Malo. He (Mr. Wheeler the Gunner) took with him Letters from Gourlade and Moylan to the American Agent as well as from M. De La Grandville the King’s Commissary at L’Orient to his relation the King’s Commissary at St. Malo; in Order to procure him the necessary facility in Enlisting and conducting to L’Orient some foreign Seamen who might be found at St. Malo free from Engagement.— These  Men mentioned in the Within List were found free from the Madame and actually on Board an Armed Vessel belonging to the King and destined for Brest. From that Situation they were given up to Mr. Wheeler by the Kings Commissary at St. Malo; and Mr. Wheeler brought no other Men from thence. I know not what became of the remainder of the list you sent me, as I never received any of them.—I should have given you an immediate Account of this; but the Captain and Owners of the privateer immediately after, sent two Gentlemen to me to examine the Crew— I went with them on Board and had them brought before them; they were at once undeceived with respect to the Number, but seemed to wish to take them back. I told them that though I had received the Men from legal Authority and with their own consent, yet I would give them Up on being reimbursed for what they had Coast the United States in Advance, Charges, and Victuals, which was but reasonable as the States had then received no benefit from their Service. They seemed to think my Offer frank and liberal, and went away so well Satisfied to all Appearance, that I conclude the foolish Claim of the Captain of the privateer and his Owners must have been given up. I have been Wind bound ever Since— and in the Road of Groix since the 4th.— With respect to the Expence of the Ariel— It is certain that had circumstances been foreseen I should not have been for asking her from Government.— When I made the Application I had 400 Men in the Alliance Eating and Drinking at the publick expence. Besides the Ship being Copper Bottomed could have been prepared for Sea along Side of the Alliance in a Week, which would not have been the Case had I asked for a larger Ship.— Upon the whole I have Acted for the Best from the Beginning. I have done with Chaumont.— I had born his base conduct too long; but have now sent such proofs to Versailles as will I hope prevent his doing farther Publick Mischief.— The Monies you entrusted to my distribution were applied agreeable to your Orders.— I shall be very happy if I am sometimes honored with a Letter from you. No Man loves, and esteems, and Venerates you with a more honest and grateful Heart than Honored and dear Sir Your Excellencies Most Obliged Most Obedient and most humble Servant
Jno P Jones
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr. &c. &c. &c.

Notation: Capt. Jones Sept. 23 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sartine, 23 September 1780
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Versailles le 23. Sept. 1780.
L’Intendant de la Marine à Brest, Monsieur, m’a prévenu qu’il avoit fait avancer par le Trésorier de ce port à Mr. James Searle, Colonel au Service du Congrès arrivé depuis peu sur un Bâtiment Americain, une Somme de 2,400 l.t. dont cet Officier avoit besoin pour se rendre à Paris. Je vous serai tres obligé des soins que vous voudrez bien vous donner pour que cette somme Soit remise à M. de Ste. James General de la Marine à Paris qui est porteur de la Reconnoissance de M. Searle.
J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec une tres parfaite consideration, Monsieur, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur.
(signé) De Sartine.
M Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from George Scott, 23 September 1780
From: Scott, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honourable Sir
Naples the 23d Sepr. 1780
I confirm the contents of my two letters which I had the pleasure to write you from hence on the 13th. & 17th. May last, to which I hope you paid the necessary attention. By the last post I received a letter from our very worthy friend Dr. P——who desires me, in case I shall return thro’ Paris, to communicate to you certain events respecting his parting from Ld. Shelburne, & his present sittuation; but as I think of going home by Sea, I shall not have the pleasure to pay my personal respects to you, & therefore, I have resolved to send you an exact copy of his letter here enclosed. I have engaged a passage in a Dutch Ship for Leghorn, & the Captain says he will sail tomorrow. I am with a lively esteem Honbl. Sir Your very Obedt Servt
Geo: Scott

I have been rather disappointed in not having the pleasure of a few Lines from you to meet me here, however a line or two addres[sed: torn] Crommelins in Amst[erdam: torn]

Addressed: The Honourable / Benjn. Franklin Esqr. / Passy
Notation: George Scott. Naples Sept 23. 1780


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Franklin Bache, 25 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bache, Benjamin Franklin

Passy, Sept. 25. 1780
I received a Letter the other day from my dear Boy, without Date. It always gives me Pleasure to hear from you, to be inform’d of your Welfare, and that you mind your Learning. It is now the Season for you to acquire that, at the Expence of your Friends, which may be of Use to you when they are dead and gone, and qualify you to fill some Station in Life, that will afford you a decent Subsistance. You see every where two Sorts of People. One who are well dress’d, live comfortably in Good Houses, whose Conversation is sensible and instructive, and who are Respected for their Virtue. The other Sort are poor, and dirty, and ragged and ignorant, and vicious, & live in miserable Cabbins or Garrets, on Coarse Provisions, which they must work hard to obtain, or which if they are idle, they must go without or Starve. The first had a good Education given them by their Friends, and they took pains when at School to improve their Time and increase their Knowledge; The others either had no Friend to pay for their Schooling, and so never were taught; or else when they were at School, they Neglected their Studies, were idle, and wicked, and disobedient to their Masters, and would not be instructed; and now they Suffer. Take care therefore, my dear Child, to make a good Use of every moment of the present Opportunity that is afforded You; and bring away with you from Geneva such a Stock of Good Learning & Good Morals, as may recommend you to your Friends and Country when you return home, make glad the Hearts of your Father and Mother, and be a Credit to the Place where you receiv’d your Education, and to the Masters who have been so good as to take the pains of Instructing You.
Mr. Adams is gone to Holland, and has taken his Sons with him. Your friend Cochran is still at the Old Pension, but I believe would be glad to be with you. I inclose a Letter from him to you.
I lately received a Letter from your Father which contains some of the latest News from Philadelphia, and inclos’d a Letter to you from your dear Mother, I send them both to you. Write a Letter to each of them. I shall have an Opportunity in about three Weeks of sending Letters, and will take care to forward yours, if I have them in time.
Present my best Respects to Madame Cramer, & to M. Marignac, and to Mr Grands Sister, whose Name I do not at present recollect. Let them know that I am very sensible of their Goodness to you, and that I hope to have an Opportunity of thanking them in person.
I am ever, my dear Child, Your affectionate Grandfather
B Franklin
B F Bache


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean de Neufville & fils, 25 September 1780
From: Neufville, Jean de, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honourd Sir.
Amsterdam the 25th. sept: 1780.
May it please your Excellency, That as some new draufts have apeared lately on Mr Laurence, we have continued to give our Acceptance to the Same as usuall; we specifie them in the List here inclosed; for which we begg for your Excellencys approbation; and to lett us know in time if there might become any alteration in her dispositions on the Subject.

Further as the payments to be made are not of a Sufficient importance, we have thought not to divide them, butt to draw on Your Excellency the 1t. October at 3 Months what will be due in the Month of december And so Consecutively every month, in which we shall with pleasure Conform our selfs to what she may be pleased to prescribe, of all which we shall have the honour to give due notice, and as we have taken out our List we begg leave to observe that fr. what is due in in Xber [December] is

f12366—to be drawn
the ft. Octr.

in January 8800: …
the first 9ber

in February 11272 ..
the first Xber

In Case your Excellency might wish to know some more particulars, we will take care to provide for them.
We have received Remittes fr. Dollars 486 making £ 2430— from John Leverer passenger on a Vessell to our Consignment which we suppose to be lost, we wish’d now She was taken for the Souls on board, butt we have not heard anything about her; we have taken the Liberty to endorse them to our Banker with the endorsement under Guarantie; and we hope this may be sufficient for their paÿment. We languish very much here for Accounts from America and the Continent, we wish they may be favourable, as we may flatter ourselfs from every generall good Account we have from there. We have the honour to be with all devoted Regard and Esteem Honourd Sir Your Excellencys most obedient and most humble Servants
John DE Neufville & Son

Notation in Franklin’s hand:

12366

8800

11272

florins
32438


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [Vergennes], 26 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

à Passy ce 26 sept. 1780
N’ayant aucun moyen de Satisfaire aux payemens de Sommes aussi considerables & ne pouvant Supporter l’Idée de perdre le reste de Confiance que nous avons acquis en Europe par un retour à protest qui apprêteroit à rire aux Anglois à nos dépens en leur fournissant les moyens d’ajouter des realites aux fictions qu’ils ne cessent de répandre partout.
Le Poids de la Guerre ne permettant pas au Gouvernement de diviser ses Moyens pour la pousser avec vigueur je lui ai proposé un expédient qui peut nous Secourir Sans lui étre à charge c’est à dire que je M’engagerois envers lui que le Congrès fourniroit par lui même, ou par les Agents françois à ses Fraix les Vivres nécessaires aux Troupes de France en Amerique jusqu’à la Concurrence de nos besoins, Suivant l’Etat ci joint, & pour le payement desquels il fournira ici les Sommes nécessaires aux Epoques fixées.
Tout ce que le Congrès fourniroit au dela Seroit remboursé ici & employé à lui faire passer les Articles d’Europe qui lui Seroit Nécessaires, on éviteroit par là tous les fraix, les inconvéniens, les longueurs, & les risques qui resultent nécessairement d’une aussi grande distance.
B Franklin

Notation: 1780. Septembre 26


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to James Woodmason, 26 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Woodmason, James

Sir,
Passy, Sept. 26. 1780.
I have just received yours of the 12th. Instant. Inclosed I send you a Bill for twenty five Pounds Sterling, which will more than pay for the Machines, Cases, three Reams of the Paper & 1 Doz. of Inkpowder. You will account to me for the overplus if any, after paying the Freight & Charges; for having no one in London to receive them. I must request you to take the Trouble of Shipping them in the Packet Boat that goes to Ostend, address’d to M. Francis Bowens Merchant, there. who will forward them to me. It was not my Intention to desire Credit. I approve much of the Resolution of Messrs. Bolton & Watt to give none: And I wish all the World would follow their Exemple, for I think Credit is upon the Whole, of more Mischief than Benefit to Mankind.— I am, Sir &c.

P.S. Please to send an Account which I may Show to the other Subscribers.
M. Woodmason.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Caillot, 26 September 1780
From: Caillot, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce 26 7bre 80
Le Pere Caillot assure Monsieur franklin de Son Respect et de sa Reconnoissance; il ne peut pas Lui promettre D’aller le voir diner vendredy prochain a cause de versailles, Si caillot est libre il aura le plaisir de jouir du bon appeti de monsieur franklin. La petite Mere et son Enfant lui disent mille choses; toutes deux se portent a merveille.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / Pere / A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 26 September 1780
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir
London 26. Sept 1780
My friend Mr Bromfield can best explain to You the business He is going upon as well as give you every accot. of the proceedings relative to the Brigantine Temple (the Cartel) in which He came from Boston. As I forwarded five Seamen from among our frds. to that vessel this day, I hope it will not be many days before She sails. There being nine Seamen, taken in a Ship of Ridleys bound from Baltime to Holland now on board the Tender at the Tower for after commitment to Forton, I got Mr Temple to Petition the admiralty that these men be allowd to navigate the Cartel away; for every favour has been shewn towards the getting the vessel away but allowing Her American Seamen to navigate Her back. I am to have an ansr. tomorrow & from appearances hitherto I have reason to expect it will be granted, as there is not the old stale plea that americans Committed for Treason cannot be releasd from Prison without tryal or pardon.
I begin now to expect Mr Saml H——ys return hither. I should be glad to get by Him your passport for Mr Jno Bowmans baggage to Carolina, & to hear if the Picture sent by Miss Georgiana got safe, for she has once or twice applyd to me with anxiety about it. Mr Bowens some time ago recd it & wrote me it should be soon forwarded by a safe conveyance. I should be also glad to hear of the safe arrival of that from Amsterdam left by Mr Champion.
I mentiond in my late letter to you, an appearance here that the Cabinet had seemingly abandond the American war; for several days past the reports & conversations among a certain descreption of men seem to give weight to this opinion—most likely it is necessity & not the will that assents to the adoption of such a measure. The affairs at Home & in all the Dependencies of Britain were such a gloomy aspect as might frighten bolder men than those who compose the British Council.
Some flying reports from Portugal frighten them a little. A few days ago a privateer wch. had touchd at the Entrance of the Tagus brought accots to England that an Embargo had been laid on all English ships at Lisbon & the report of the day is, that a French fleet has enterd the Tagus to demand of Portugal an acquiescence to the neutral Confederacy or declare which side they will take in the war. The more thinking part of this metropolis say that England ought to trust as little as possible to the fidelity & firmness of a power situated as Portugal is, subject to the immedeate controul & even compulsion of arbitrary, powerful, & daring Enemys—most likely the accot may be premature, yet there may be some foundation for it from the Complexion of things between Spain & portugal.
Every day produces some new instance of the wretched state both of the English army & navy in the Wt Indies. Rodnys fleet seem fixd to the harbours of St. Christophers inactive till the herricane months drive Him away or until some succour is sent from hence. Eight ships of the Line are preparing with all Expedition to go thither. This fleet is orderd out in consequence of ministry having recd advice that a like number was dispatchd about five weeks ago from France to martinico.
The Virginia frigate is arrivd express from N York, but as the Bearer will not deliver this letter for many days to come & long after your getting more authentic accots of the news she brings, I need not mention particulars here—indeed we have nothing as yet but reports, & these are all spoken of as unfavorable to England. Every Countenance speak them bad.
I am with very great respect Your Ob Ser
T D

Notation: Sept. 26. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 26 September 1780
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
La Haie 26e. 7bre. 1780
Le Roi de Suede arrivera, dit-on, ce soir. Ce qui est sûr, c’est que Notre Ami arrivera, & que j’espere de le voir ce soir. Il ne pourra pas me dire grand’chose: car on continue de rester ici dans la plus profonde apathie. Rien n’étoit mieux calculé par les Anglomanes, que le voyage des Plenipes. à Pétersbourg. En attendant, le Lion Belgique dort à son aise.
La Gazette ci-jointe vous fera voir que les amis de l’Amérique ne dorment pas, & qu’au moins ils font ce qu’ils peuvent, & pelotent, en attendant partie. Vous en direz autant du Mémoire, dont voici copie, que je remettrai demain aux Ministres de Suede & de Russie. D’accord. Mais cela vaut mieux encore que rien du tout, en attendant que le vent vous amene quelque grande nouvelle, & que vous ayiez la bonté de me la faire parvenir d’abord, afin que je puisse l’apprendre le premier à ces Messieurs, au gd. Facteur au Gd. Pe. [Pensionnaire] & à notre Ami.
Il y a un Grand dans cette rep., que je vois quelquefois, qui m’a dit en confidence, que dès que l’Amérique sera reconnue par cette rep., il briguera pour y être envoyé comme Ambr.
S’il se passe quelque chose d’intéressant à l’Assemblée d’Hollde., qui commencera demain, je ne manquerai pas de vous en rendre compte. Je suis toujours, Monsieur, avec le plus respectueux attachement Votre très-humble & très obeissant serviteur
Dumas
Passy à S.E. Mr. B. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur B. Franklin / Mine. Plénipe. des Et. Un. / &c. / Passy./.
Notation: Dumas la haie Sept. 26. 80


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 26 September 1780
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir
Nantes Sept. 26. 1780
I have received your kind Favour of the 18 Instant. You may depend that not a Moments Time shall be lost in sending all the Goods to L’orient; the Cloathing that I made up is already there & the Goods you took of M de Chaumont will be on the Road as soon as I can find Roulliers sufficient which I hope will be in a few Days. The moment I hear of the Ships arrival at L’orient I shall set out to meet her there, and I will not ask ten Days to load her so that if there is no Delay elsewhere she will be quickly dispatched. I have written to Messrs De Segray & Co. at St Malo & have requested them to send off the Salt Petre with all possible Expedition, as it will be necessary to put it in the Bottom of the Ship for Ballast, it would not do to send it by Water, because of the uncertainty of its arriving in Time, even if there was no Risque in the Question. As I thought it necessary to put the Salt Petre in motion as soon as possible I have ventured to give absolute Directions to Mr De Segray & assured him that by the next Courier after you should receive this Letter he would receive from you a Confirmation of my Orders. Please therefore to write accordingly & tell him to send by Land to Gourlade & Moylan subject to my Disposal. I have also notified Mr Schweighauser to send all the Arms round, & as this is a heavy Article of inconsiderable value, & as the risque from this to L’Orient is not great, I have advised Mr Schweighauser to freight a Chassemarée & send them round by Water.
I have no power to dispose of Mr Hutchins’ Charts, I sent them by his Order to Messrs Puech & Co Rue Montorguil au coin de celle du bout du monde, for Sale. I told Mr Le Rouge, when I was last in Paris, to apply to these People & if they think proper they may employ him in the Sale, but I can give no Orders about the matter.
Mrs Williams and Chrystie are both well & desire their affectionate Respects to you.
I am as ever Dear & hond Sir most affectionately & dutifully Yours
Jona Williams J

I inclose a Copy of the agreement with Mr de Chaumont about the Ship. I wrote to Billy last Post about M Rasquins complaint which I hope is satisfactory to you.

Notation: J Williams Sept 26. 1780


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jonathan Williams, Jr., 27 September 1780
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Williams, Jonathan Jr.

Dear Jonathan,
Passy, Sept. 27. 1780.
I have mislaid your Account of the Drafts you had made on M. De Chaumont, and want it much. Send me by the Return of the Post, either a Copy or an Abstract of it, expressing the Gross Sum & times of Payment. As soon as the Acct. is compleated I should be glad to have it.
I received yours of Augt. 26 & Sept. 14.— I approve of your Proposition about the Sailors, and will endeavour to do what you propose. I have spoken to the farmers Generals, and am promised a Passport in 2 or 3. Days for the Saltpetre, to transport it from St. Malo’s to L’Orient, by Land or Sea.— Mr. Ross has Shipt his Goods at l’Orient, at least 123 Bales.
Capt. Samson is returned to Nantes, Messrs. Adams, Dana, & Austin to whom he was recommended being all in Holland. He brought a little Box for me, to Nantes, but forgot it when he came up to Paris. Be so good as to take care of it, and send it to me when you have a convenient Opportunity.
His Portuguese Prize having nothing on Board that appears to be English Property, besides the Salt, must be after delivering up the Vessel & paying all Damages; an affair of no Profit. It will rather prove an Irish Prize in the sense of him who said he had got a Loss.
If Mr. Jay Accepts the Bills you mention; there is no doubt but, he will pay them. Love to your Family, and believe me ever. Your Affectionate Uncle.
M. Williams.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Collins, 28 September 1780
From: Collins, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Hotel De York 28 Septr 1780
I am fearfull, that my very honorable Friend, Sir Edward Newenham Inserted my Sons name, in place of mine, (thro’ mistake,) therefore hope, you will be so kind as to forgive my acquainting you therewith; I have the honor of being with the greatest respect Sir Your most Obedient and most Humble servant
Thoms Collins

Notation: Thom. Collin 28. 7bre. 1780


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre Turini, 28 September 1780
From: Turini, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Venise 28 Septbre 1780.
Il y a longtems Monsr. que la renommée la plus eclatante à fait retentir votre nom dans toutes les parties du Monde. L’Europe éntiere vous admire, et persone n’est plus vivement penetré, que moi de L’estime, et de la Veneration, qui vous sont dues à tant de titres. Vos Ouvrages, que j’ai devoré avec la plus grande avidité, et dont j’ai tiré les plus utiles instructions, m’ont fait comprendre l’immense etendue des vos rares connoissances, et des vos talens.

La Theorie de l’Electricité fixà d’abord, et fixerà toujours L’attention humaine. Une decouverte aussi interessante, reservèe à la Sublimité de votre Genie, devoit necessairement entrainer une diference sensible dans l’Explication des principaux Phenomenes de la nature, et des plusieurs de ses loix. En effet l’on explique à L’aide du feu electrique la plupart des Phenomenes Aeriens, et Terrestres, avec une facilitè, et une precision convainquante.
La salutaire Theorie des Conducteurs, fruit, tres important des vos applications, fait tous les jours des nouveaux progrès: l’unanime consentement des hommes prouve la verité du systeme, et sa pratique universellement adoptée montre combien on est generalement persuadé des avantages qui en resultent.
La methode, dont L’on s’est servi, jusqu’à present dans Chaque partie de la Terre, pour eriger des Conducteurs sur les Edifices est essentiellement la meme, et s’il-y-a quelque diference elle consiste dans quelques Scrupules, et attentions de plus ou de moins, qui dependent bien souvent de L’idée de ceux, qui sont chargès de leur erection: neammoins il faut avouer, que cette methode á des defauts essentiels, qui peuvent tot, ou tard causer des ruines irreparables: les Magazins à Poudre restent sourtout exposés aux insultes terribles de la Foudre, et il faut en redouter les funestes consequences.
Vous trouverez Mr. dans le petit ouvrage cÿ joint, que j’ai L’honneur de vous adresser l’exposition des raisons, qui m’ont convaincú de L’insufisance des preservatifs generalement adoptés: j’espere avoir trouvé le Moÿen de mettre entierement à l’Abri de la Foudre ces Edifices, qui sont les plus importants, et d’avoir generalement adopté plus de sureté aux autres. Les progrés de l’esprit humain sont bien rarement rapides, au contraire il s’avance peu a peu, et par degrés, et ils sont fort rares des Genies, qui vous ressemblent, et qui puissent etendre leur vues aussi loin qu’elles peuvent aller, et fixer les veritables principes d’une importante Theorie, telle que celle, Monsieur, dont vous etes l’Auteur. Je n’ai fait, qu’appliquer precisement les regles les plus connués à la pratique la plus exacte: Ce seroit une temerité que de pretendre beaucoup apres vos immortelles decouvertes. Da lunge il seguo, e sue Vestigia adoro.
Je m’empresse de soumettre cet essai à vos lumieres, et je sérai bien flatté s’il pouvoit meriter votre approbation. Il est en Italien: J’ai dú ecrire pour Ma Nation. L’importance de la matiere m’a enhardi à prendre la libertè de vous l’envoÿer tel, qu’il se trouve. J’aurai du moins la satisfaction d’avoir saisi cette occasion de vous exprimer les sentimens de l’admiration, et du respect, avec lequel j’ai l’honneur d’etre, Monsieur Votre tres humble, et tres obeissant serviteur
Pierre TuriniLieutenant des Ingenieurs au Caffède Florian, a la Place S. Marc.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Benjamin Franklin. / Ministre des treize etats unis d’Amerique; / de la Societé Roÿale de Paris. / A Paris.
Endorsed: Lieut Pierre Turini


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 28 September 1780
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond sir.
Nantes 28 Sept. 1780
The Bearer is Mr George Moore son of Mr Phillip Moore in Philadelphia, He has been near two Years under my direction in this Place but is now written for by his Grandfather in the Isle of Man who wishes to see him; His Intention is therefore to pay his Duty to his aged parent & probably will return to America. I beg leave to introduce him to your Notice & to request you will favour him with a Passport to England, & such advice as he may stand in need of.— I have sent two Copies of my Accots by Mr Moore, as I have sent both those you certified to America & mean to send a third I request you will please to certify these two Copies, I have desired Mr Moore to assist Billy in the Examination of them which will save him some Trouble. With the greatest Respect I am ever most dutifully & affectionately Yours
Jona Williams J

Addressed: His Excelly / Doctor Franklin
Notation: J Williams 28 Sept 1780