Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Bourdieu, 30 October 1784
From: Bourdieu, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Paris le 30. 8bre. 1784.

				J’ose Espérer que vous voudrés bien me Permettre de vous renouveller ma recommandation en Favreur de M.M. de Vaux, Frêres, de Bruxelles, dont J’ay eu l’honneur d’Etretenir votre Excellence, et qui Se Proposent d’aller S’Etablir Incessament a New-yorck; Vous avez eu la bonté de me Promettre de vous Intérésser á eux; Ils attachent, ainsi que moy, le Plus grand Prix

á Cette Distinction, et Je Suis bien Certain que, lors qu’on les aura Connus en Amerique, on aura Lieu de Se Féliciter d’avoir Fait leur acquisition.
				Je Suis, avec Tout le respect Possible, Monsieur de votre Excellence Le Tres humble & tres obeissant Serviteur

						James Bourdieu

				Notation: James Bourdieu 30 Oct. 1784.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, [30 October 1784]
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					[October 30, 1784]

				Je suis informé, Monsieur, par une Lettre de M. de Marbois dattée de Philadelphie le 24 Août dernier, qu’il a conferé avec M. Morris touchant les intérêts de l’emprunt de Hollande fait

pour le compte des Etats-Unis de l’Amérique Septentrionale sous le garantie du Roi, ainsi que sur les autres dettes des dits Etats envers Sa Majesté, reconnues & stipulées dans les Contrats passés entre nous le 16 Juillet et 25 Fevrier 1783.
				M. de Marbois me mande qu’a la suite de son entretien et de sa correspondance sur cette matiere, avec M. le Surintendant des finances, M Gouverneur Morris son Assistant s’est donnè la peine de passer chez lui et lui a annoncé de vive voix que M. le Surintendant seroit en etat de faire payer exactement au Trèsor Royal à Paris, les quatre cens mille livres faisant le montant des intérêts dus en Novembre prochain de l’emprunt de dix millions garanti par Sa Majesté, et que les ordres alloient être donnès en consequence tant à Amsterdam qu’à M. Grand à Paris. Je ne doute pas que ce banquier n’ait déja reçu les ordres et instructions necessaires pour remplir cet objet et même pour l’exécution des autres Engagmens du Congrès, stipulés aux deux Contrats mentionnés cy dessus: J’entens ici les intérêts et les portions de Capitaux qui seront dus l’année prochaine sur la dette directe des Etats Unis envers Sa Majestè. Quoique Je ne forme aucun doute sur leur exactitude à remplir leur engagemens à cett egard, Je crois cependant devoir vous les rappeller, Monsieur, en vous priant d’en ecrire au Congrés General, afin qu’il s’occupe à l’avance des mesures convenables pour l’execution des points arretés par nos Traités. Je vous serai tres obligé de vouloir bien m’informer de vos demarches a ce Sujet et ensuite des

Resolutions du Congres en conformité. En attendant Je viens de communiquer l’avis de M. de Marbois à M. le Contrôleur Général, en le priant de s’en entendre avec M. Grand qui doit avoir reçu les ordres du Congrés sur l’article des interets de l’emprunt de Hollande.
				J’ai l’honneur d’etre très parfaitement, Monsieur, votre très humble et tres Obeissant Serviteur

						De Vergennes


Title: How to Warm a Room in Winter and Cool It in Summer, Communicated by Franklin to Jonathan Williams, Jr., [1 November 1784]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

					[November 1, 1784]

				Note the Back of the Kitchen Chimney being of Iron will warm the Room behind it, the folding doors being open allows the heat to pass into the Room & the air Pipe being shut prevents its going away: this is for Winter.— In summer the Doors being shut the heat cannot get into the Room & the slides being drawn out the heat will escape throw the air pipe. The hole at the bottom of the Doors feeds the pipe with air which rarifies & passes off. The Wooden Pipe supplies the Room with as much cool air fresh from the bottom of the Cellar.—
				This Idea was given me by Dr. B. F. at Passy 1. Novemb 1784. Jw

				[captions, middle left:] the Kitchen / Fire place & Chimney
				[captions, middle right:] Room to be warm in winter and cool in summer. / an Iron back throu which the heat comes into this Room / an Air Pipe shut at the Bottom by an Iron slider in Winter but open in Summer. / Wooden Doors to be kept

open in Winter & shut in summer, a round hole at the bottom of the door.
				[captions, lower right.] Cellar. / a Wooden Pipe open at each end from the bottom of the Cellar to the Top of the Room.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gilles de Lavallée, 1 November 1784
From: Lavallée, Gilles de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					M
					Ce 1er 9bre 1784

				Il y a environ deux ans, J’eus Lhonneur d’entretenir Votre Excellence sur le Projet que J’avois formé d’etablir dans L’amerique et a Philadelphie une ou plusieurs Manufactures de Rubanerie par les moyens des Moulins et Machines qui preparent avec Celerité les matieres et par le moyen des Metiers grande mécanique faisant à la fois depuis Seize Jusquà Vingt quatre Pieces de Rubans soit en fil Soie, Laine, ou Coton Sur Chaque Metier; Jeus Celui de Vous presenter un mémoire Relatif à cet objet, et Votre Excellence eut la Bonté d’acceuillir mes Vues: Mais votre avreu que Je demandois nayant pu m’etre accordé par des raisons politiques que Vous eutes la Bonté de me faire part, ne me permirent point alors d’insister dans mon entreprise. Aujourdhui je persiste dans ce Sentiment et ne demande autre Chose a Votre Excellence que L’honneur de L’entretenir un instant Seulement Sur mon projet en lui même degagéde toute espece d’interest et uniquement pour lui faire ma Cour et L’assurer de tout Le desir que jay de pouvoir etre utile au Bon peuple Ameriquain et donner des preuves à Votre Excellence de mon Zele et du profond respec avec le quel je Suis De Votre Excellence M. Tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

					Gilles De Lavalleefabricant a Ercuis En picardieprés Beaumont sur oize
					A Son Excellence M. franklin

				Notation: Gills de Lavallet 1er. 9bre. 1784.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Bethia Alexander, 3 November 1784
From: Alexander, Bethia
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					St. Germain le 3 9bre [1784]

				Je vous envoye, mon cher Docteur, les chansons ecossois que vous avez paru desirer—pour prix de mon exactitude. Je vous demande de n’etre plus cru celle de la famille qui vous aime le moins— On dit que Madame Hewson ne vient plus, me voulez vous a sa place?— Madm: de la Marck vous remercie des Grains elle en voudra encore—de plusieurs differens especes—elle a un sere chaud qu’elle a grande envie de remplir des plantes americaines— Si vous voulez m’envoyer ceux que vous pourriez ceder sans faire de sacrifice, vous me ferez plaisir, a moi; et un trés vive a Madame de la Marck—
				Adieu mon cher Docteur, quoique vous en disiez, Je vous aime bien et Je vous aimerai toujours—dites moi de meme si vous l’osez.— Votre

					B: Alexander.

				Addressed: A Monsieur— / Monsieur Franklin / A Passy
				Notation: Alexander


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francesco Chiappe: Two Letters, 3 November 1784
From: Chiappe, Francesco
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					I.

						Excellency
						Marocco 3d Nov. 1784

					After having executed his Imperial Majesty’s commands agreeable to the enclos’d, I take the Liberty to inform your Excellency that lately a Ship of his I. M. Rais Hamet Turchi—having taken an American Vessel with a Cargo of Salt Petre and Clothing, has brought her to Lanacce, Where the Imperial Order was immediately sent to unload the said Vessel and deposit the

Effects in the Royal Magazines, And the Captain and two Mariners were ordered to come to the Court, where they are soon expected; Your Excel. will instantly know the Intentions of the King of Marocco, Whose conduct only tends to a reciprocal Correspondence and solid Peace with the thirteen united States of America, according to what he has for a Long Time made evident. If in the Character I hold at this Court, I can be of any Service to a Nation so distant as the aforesaid Illustrious thirteen united States of America, I take the Freedom to make a tender of my Services for the better success, to your Excy. Whose precise orders will be always to me for a Rule assured, & unalterable in my Conduct.
					After this most sincere offer on my part, I flatter myself that your Excelly. will be pleased to accept it on account of my Zeal & my activity in the nation’s affairs of which I shall give proofs in future, and in the mean time I shall not fail to give assistance to the aforesaid Captain and the two Mariners, Whose name hitherto has not come to my knowledge nor yet the number of the Ships Company— When your Excelly. favors me with an Answer, you will please to put my Letter under Cover with an Address to Moagador or to Darelbeida, To Messrs. Joseph & Francisco Chiappe, the which name is that of our Company in

that House of Commerce in those two Harbours or Ports, advising you that in Cadiz there are not wanting Vessels for the one or the other Harbour. This is all that I have at present to inform your Excellency, and awaiting your Respectable Orders I take the Honor to declare my Self your Excellency’s most Humble Devoted & Obedt. Sert.

							Franco Chiappe

						Translated by Isaac Pinto nov. 16.88

					II.

						Excellency
						Marocco 3 Nov. 1784

					His Majesty the Emperour of Marocco (whom God preserve) commands me to write to your Excellency that he is in good Friendship and Peace with all the Christian Nations, But as the Americans in conformity to the Advices which they have transmitted him, have never sent any Person, and not even a Consul representative to sign the Treaties according to the Precedent of all the other Powers, His Imperial Majesty has caused the American Vessel lately taken by one of his Ships to be detained at Laracce, until some Person be sent on the part of the thirteen united States of America; And after that a Peace shall be concluded with them, the aforesaid Vessell shall be delivered up, with whatever it contains, and with the most profound respect I subscribe myself Your Excellency’s most Humble, devoted and obliged servant

						Francesco ChiappeSecretary of his I.M.for Foreign Affairs in Barbery.
						To his Excellency Benjamin Franklin Embassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America at Paris.


Title: The Levée, [before 6 November 1784]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

						[before November 6, 1784]

					THE LEVÉE.
					In the first chapter of Job we have an account of a transaction said to have arisen in the court, or at the levée, of the best of all possible princes, or of governments by a single person, viz. that of God himself.
					At this levée, in which the sons of God were assembled, Satan also appeared.
					It is probable the writer of that ancient book took his idea of this levée from those of the eastern monarchs of the age he lived in.
					It is to this day usual at the levées of princes, to have persons assembled who are enemies to each other, who seek to obtain favor by whispering calumny and detraction, and thereby ruining those that distinguish themselves by their virtue and merit. And kings frequently ask a familiar question or two, of every one in the circle, merely to show their benignity. These circumstances are particularly exemplified in this relation.
					If a modern king, for instance, finds a person in the circle who has not lately been there, he naturally asks him how he has passed his time since he last had the pleasure of seeing him? the gentleman perhaps replies that he has been in the country to view his estates, and visit some friends. Thus Satan being asked whence he cometh? answers, “From going to and fro in the earth, and walking up and down in it.” And being further

asked, whether he had considered the uprightness and fidelity of the prince’s servant Job, he immediately displays all the malignance of the designing courtier, by answering with another question: “Doth Job serve God for nought? Hast thou not given him immense wealth, and protected him in the possession of it? Deprive him of that, and he will curse thee to thy face.” In modern phrase, Take away his places and his pensions, and your Majesty will soon find him in the opposition.
					This whisper against Job had its effect. He was delivered into the power of his adversary, who deprived him of his fortune, destroyed his family, and completely ruined him.
					The book of Job is called by divines a sacred poem, and with the rest of the Holy Scriptures, is understood to be written for our instruction.
					What then is the instruction to be gathered from this supposed transaction?
					Trust not a single person with the government of your state. For if the Deity himself, being the monarch, may for a time give way to calumny, and suffer it to operate the destruction of the best of subjects; what mischief may you not expect from such power in a mere man, though the best of men, from whom the truth is often industriously hidden, and to whom falsehood is often presented in its place, by artful, interested, and malicious courtiers?
					And be cautious in trusting him even with limited powers, lest sooner or later he sap and destroy those limits, and render himself absolute.
					For by the disposal of places, he attaches to himself all the placeholders, with their numerous connexions, and also all the expecters and hopers of places, which will form a strong party in promoting his views. By various political engagements for the interest of neigboring states or princes, he procures their aid in establishing his own personal power. So that, through the hopes of emolument in one part of his subjects, and the fear of his resentment in the other, all opposition falls before him.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georgiana Shipley, 6 November 1784
From: Shipley, Georgiana
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						My dear Doctor Franklin,

							Novber the 6th 1784

					You can not imagine the pleasure we received from hearing Mr Franklin was in England, we waited his coming to Chilbolton with the most anxious expectation not as a mere stranger, whom we were desirous of seeing, but as a person for whom we already entertained a particular regard. He was so good as to give us his company for two days— He appears an exceeding amiable sensible young man & the terms of admiration, respect & love with which he mentioned his honored G-father very much endeared him to the whole family. He could not have taken a more certain method of gaining our hearts.
					In return for the history of the Levée which you sent me, & which made us all laugh, I send you a real anecdote of our royal Sovereign— I commenced Politician because I loved & esteemed you & was interested in the cause you so gloriously supported, but since America is free, I give up Politics— I am tired of bad men & bad ministers— Those who profess patriotism out of Place, I often see the warmest advocates for power

when in Place—& as I can look up to no set of men with confidence, I am content to take them as they are, & not trouble myself about public measures.
					I suppose you will have red our good friend Dr Prices new pamphlet, he writes with an honesty of heart & an enthousiasm in the cause of Goodness, I can not but admire, yet I doubt he is mistaken in the flattering opinions he has formed of the Americans; instead of their Empire tending to promote an universal peace, I apprehend from the daily accounts we receive that they are giving way to dissensions among themselves.
					You can not imagine how greatly we regret our dear Annamaria, her loss is ever present to my mind, she was the kindest sister & the best friend I ever possessed, nor is she happy enough in India to console me for her absence, all her letters express the most earnest wishes of returning to England & give no very favorable idea of her present situation.
					My father is, as you knew him, ever cheerful & in good spirits, the same upright disinterested man in public affairs & making the happiness of his family at home— Your Grandson will tell you, that we still talk of an American voyage, but as he does not flatter us with a hope of seeing you in England, we are very desirous of visiting you at Passy, before we visit you at Philadelphia— We teaze my father on the subject continually— He has not yet said No, which we think promises well. I know not an event which would make the whole family equally happy.
					I intend, my dear & ever respected friend, to plague you very often with my letters, the writing them will be a very great pleasure to me, & I shall have no scruple of conscience, since your G-son tells me, that you have a practise of laying aside all dull letters, till you are at leisure to read them. Throw mine into the same parcel, & then if by chance they should ever contain anything to amuse it will be quelque chose de gagnér. If they do not, at least, express the warmest regard & esteem for my dear Doctor

Franklin, I shall disown them; they will ill describe the sentiments of my heart.

							Georgiana Shipley

					All your friends unite in wishing you many years of health & happiness—they love America too well, to add of quiet & retirement

				Addressed: A Mons: Mons: Franklin / Ministre Plenipo: des Etats / Unis de L’Amerique / Passy—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Etienne-Alexandre-Jacques Anisson-Duperon, dit Anisson fils, 8 November 1784
From: Anisson-Duperon, Etienne-Alexandre-Jacques
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Paris le 8. 9bre. 1784

				J’apprends, que vous avez recû d’angleterre des caracteres fondus suivant la nouvelle méthode expliquée dans une brochure dont l’auteur est en correspondance avec vous: vous Savez avec quel intérêt je recherche tout ce qui a quelque rapport a la Typographie, ceci m’interesse plus que tout autre, je vous aurois, Monsieur, la plus grande obligation si vous vouliez bien me communiquer ce qui est parvenu á votre connoissance sur cet objet ainsi que votre avis sur ce nouveau systeme dont vous Savez bien que l’angleterre n’a pas les gauds [égauds?].
				Avez vous eu la bonté de Songer á moi pr. la nouvelle presse angloise que aviez bien voulu me promettre de me faire venir de Londres?
				Permettez moi, Monsieur, de profiter de cette occasion pour me rappeler á votre Souvenir, et vous Supplie d’agréer les

assurances des Sentimens respectueux avec les quels, j’ai l’honneur d’être votre trés humble et trés obeissant Serviteur

						ANISSON FILS

					P.S. je m’étois flatté que le meilleur Etat de votre Santé vous auroit permis de me faire l’honneur de venir visiter mon nouvel instrument.
					Permettez vous que M. votre fils trouve ici les assurances de mes plus empressés complimens.

				Notation: Anisson fils 8. 9bre. 1784.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Temple Franklin, 9 November 1784
From: Franklin, William Temple
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					London 9 Novr. 1784.—

				You may recollect, my dear Sir, when I informed you of Mrs. Hewsons having deviated from her first Determination, I said, or hinted, that it was not impossible that she might change again:— It has turn’d out so. On my Return from Chilbolton I found a Letter from her, informing me that I had staid so long, that I had given her time to Change her Mind again—& that unless I had so order’d my Affairs that I could not take her & her Children,—She was resolved on going.— I ansd. her, that her Compy would be perfectly agreable & convenient to me,—& so much so,—that I should make all possible Diligence for our Departure—for fear of again giving her time to change. So that in all probability you will see us together.— I had already made an Agreement with a Man to take a Chariot to Paris for him, by

which means—I save the Expence of one from Calais, which is generally 3 or 4 Louis.— I shall now endeavor to get a Coach for Mrs. H. on the same terms.— On her declining to go I had refused one, which is now gone.— I am afraid you will think me tedious in returg home—and I begin to think so myself,—and can assure you I have no Desire of staying longer here, & I should in all probability have got away this Week, had not my Father express’d a great Desire that I would sit to Stewart, who is esteem’d by West—& everybody, the first Portrait Painter now living: he is moreover an American:— I have seen several of his Performances, which appear’d to me very great indeed!— He is astonishing for likeness’s.— I heard West say—“that he nails the Face to the Canvass.”—by which he meant I believe to express, not only that the Resemblance of the Person was perfect—but that his colouring did not change; a fault common to some of the first Painters in this Country—& particularly to Sr. Joshua.
				I am to begin sitting tomorrow, & Stewart has promised to make all possible Dispatch.— He hopes to finish the Principal Parts by Monday; if so, the Day following I shall endeavour to get away,—provided I can in the mean time make another Visit to your good Friends Mr. & Mrs. Sargent.
				I have, tho’ with some Difficulty,—procur’d for Mr. West—the Miniature you sent Georgiana—and he is now doing your Head from it in the Picture of the signing of the Treaty.— I was yesterday at the Dean of St. Asaph’s Trial, saw Lord Mansfield—& heard one of the first Lawyers.— The Dean gain’d

the Point in agitation—but the Affair is by no means finish’d. It will come again before the Court the Week following.—
				I should have been at Lord Mayors Show to Day—but I am kept at home by a Return of a Complaint I had before I left Paris.— The Piles. Dr. Jeffries who attends me—says it is very common just now:— If he succeeds with me as well as he did in the Fever & Ague—I shall not suffer much.— I am otherwise perfectly well—& I think—getting fat.— My Father sends his Love with that of your ever dutiful & affectionate Grandson

					W. T. F.—

					P.S.— Remember to all Friends—& most affectionately to Mr. Le Veillard.—

						B. Franklin Esqr.—


Title: Thomas Jefferson to Franklin and John Adams: Two Memoranda, [before 10 November 1784]
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John

				When Congress instructed the commissioners to negotiate twenty treaties in two years, it did not send a draft treaty; it specified nine “points [to] be carefully stipulated” in the accords. Faced with so daunting an assignment to complete in so short a period of time, Adams, Jefferson, and Franklin decided to create a single treaty proposal that could be offered to all potential commercial partners as a point of departure. The work of crafting that proposal fell to Jefferson. As indicated by the memoranda published here, Jefferson composed the proposal in stages and in consultation with his fellow commissioners. Exactly when he began this process is not known, but it was completed by November 10, when the commissioners sent the proposal to Thulemeier, the first envoy to request it.
				Jefferson used the unratified Danish-American draft treaty that Franklin had sent to Congress in July, 1783, as his template. All articles that related to, or were supplanted by, the articles and guidelines sent by Congress, were revised accordingly. He made outlines of the treaties the United States had signed with France, Holland, and Sweden; traced the genealogies of the articles in the draft Danish treaty; and considered the draft treaties that Franklin had negotiated with Portugal and Adams had negotiated with Prussia. Jefferson found the order of articles in these treaties confusing, and their language archaic. In the memoranda published here, he sought permission to revise both. His first draft of Memorandum (I) contained a passage that he reconsidered and deleted, shown here in italics: “Will it not be better then to take up the subject as it were anew, to arrange the articles under classes, and while we are reforming the principles to

reform also the language of treaties, which history alone & not grammar will justify? The articles may be rendered shorter & more conspicuous, by simplifying their stile & structure in some such order as the following?” He may not have wanted to lecture the veteran diplomats Franklin and Adams, who, in their previous negotiations of treaties of commerce, had followed the customary language of longstanding European treaties. Finally, he prepared Memorandum (II), which posed additional questions to his colleagues.
				John Quincy Adams made fair copies of the memoranda as well as of Jefferson’s twenty-five-article draft treaty. John Adams retained these copies; if Franklin had his own set it has not been located. When the commissioners met to talk about the draft is not known. Our only clues to the nature of their discussions are the changes that Jefferson made to Memorandum (I), described in annotation below, and the differences between his first draft of the treaty and the final proposal. Over and above any emendations to the texts of individual articles, the final proposal included three additional articles, for a total of twenty-seven. (Articles 24 and 25 of the first draft, regarding ratification, were merged into one.) The first (Article 6) was taken from the French and Swedish treaties and was the subject of Jefferson’s second question in Memorandum (II). The second (Article 24) was an entirely new article, on the humane treatment of prisoners of war, which TJ did not address in his list of questions. The third (Article 26) was taken from the French and Prussian treaties and was the subject of Jefferson’s final query in Memorandum (II).

						[before November 10, 1784]

						(I)
						On comparing the Project and Counterproject of the treaty with Denmark with our instructions it will be found that these render it necessary to strike out some of the articles, to insert some new, & to alter others; insomuch that it’s whole texture & plan will be defaced & mutilated. Will it not be better then to take up the subject as it were anew, & to arrange the articles under classes in some such order as the following?

							I. Cases where both parties are in full Peace.
							Art. 1. There shall be peace
							2. free intercourse & commerce for the Danes in America.

							3. and for the Americans in the Danish dominions.
							4. each may carry for themselves & to be privileged against monopolies.
							5. each may transact their own business.
							6. goods shall be examined before they are put on ship board.
							7. mutual protection in each others’ ports & coasts.
							8. vessels not breaking bulk to pay no duties.
							9. Vessels wrecked or injured shall be assisted.
							10. the goods of persons dying shall go to their representatives.
							11. liberty of conscience & the rights of burial.

							II. Cases where one party is at War.
							12. free vessels make free goods & persons, & enemy vessels make enemy goods.
							13. nothing shall be deemed Contraband.
							14. Vessels shall sail with Passports.
							15. armed vessels shall not approach trading vessels.
							16. no embargoes for military expeditions or other purposes.
							17. vessels recaptured shall be restored.
							18. vessels pursued or in distress shall be received & protected.
							19. armed vessels with their prizes may enter & depart freely.
							20. citizens of Neutral party shall not act as privateers against the belligerent.

							III. Cases of War by both against a Common enemy.
							21. 1. Recapture by a private vessel of war.
							2. Recapture by a public vessel of war.
							3. when Restitution shall be made.
							4. vessels of war & their prizes to be received.
							5. each to regulate the conduct of their own vessels.
							22. benefits of convoy extended by each to the other.

							IV. Cases of War between the two parties.
							23. War not to interrupt commerce, husbandry &c. nor to be exercised by private vessels.
							24. prisoners of to be well used.

							V. Some General stipulations.
							25. Consuls.
							26. future favours in trade.
							27. Ratification.

						(II)
						Notes.
						French treaty Art. 9. 10. not to disturb rights of fishing. would it be better to insert such articles with other nations as to our rights at Newfoundland, or to be silent about them? also the stipulation to leave the Danes in quiet possession of the E. and W. Indies?
						French. 28. Swed. 5. no searches for prohibited goods after the ships are laden. will it be best to insert this?
						Dutch. 22. this treaty not to derogate from certain articles in the French. to consider if there be any thing in the Draught which would derogate, and to correct it.

						Instructions. May. 7. 1784. Art. 3. that the U.S. be considered as one nation. this was meant to prevent Great Br. from applying her navigation act against us separately. what is necessary to be done by us on this point? it is an extreme delicate point in America where a great party are jealous of their separate independence. it was difficult to get this article past in Congress and the modifying words ‘on the principles of the Confederation’ were admitted as an amendment to satisfy the jealous members. the majority however is for strengthening the hand of Union, they are the growing party, and if we can do any thing to help them, it will be well.
						Instructions Art. 4. ’Cultivators of the earth peaceably following their respective emploiments.’ better omit these words lest they be considered as excluding militia men from the benefit of this article.
						French. Art. 2. Prussian Art. 2. that favours granted hereafter to any other nation shall become common to the other contracting party. will not this be merely superabundant if inserted in the draught.
						The treaty to be in Danish & English.

				Notation: Draught of a Treaty &c


Title: The American Commissioners to Thulemeier, 10 November 1784
From: American Commissioners
To: Thulemeier, Friedrich Wilhelm von

					Sir
					Passy Novr 10th. 1784.

				We received the Letter your Excellency did us the honour of writing to us the 8th Ulto. together with the copy of your full powers to treat with us. Mr Adams had as you suppose, preserved a copy of the project of a Treaty that had been concerted between your Excellency & him; but having by instruction from the Congress our Sovereign certain new articles to propose in all our Treaties with European powers, which articles if agreed to would render some of those heretofore in use unnecessary, & judging also that some change in the order, by bringing together what relates to the same subject, would render the whole more clear; we have made a new draft of the Project, adding the new articles, & send it herewith for your consideration.
				Those new articles are the 13th. & the 23d. The first contains its own reasons, to wit, the prevention of difficulties & misunderstandings heretofore constantly arising with regard to merchandise called contraband in time of war. In support of the other, we offer a few reasons contained in a separate paper to

which we shall only add here, that the article being in favour of humanity, by softening & diminishing the calamities of war; we think it will be honourable to the first powers who agree to it, & more particularly so to His Majesty the King of Prussia, if he whose subjects are known to be so well defended by his power & abilities, as to make the stipulation of any favour for them during war unnecessary, should be the foremost in setting the example of agreeing to such an article. The part too which engages not to commission privateers nor make prize of merchant ships, will we think show the disinterestedness of the United States, since their situation is suited to prey with ease on the rich commerce of Europe with the West Indies, which must pass before their doors, while their own consisting of lumber & provisions is of so little value, as that the loss in that kind of war is vastly inferior to the profit, which was demonstrated in their late contest with Britain, whose mighty fleets were insufficient to protect their trade from the depredations of a people as able & expert Seamen as themselves.
				With regard to the manner of conducting this negotiation, we think it may continue to be by Letters, till the articles are agreed on, after which, as the many affairs we have on hand make it inconvenient for us to leave Paris, we shall be glad to receive you here, or if that should not be suitable for you, to meet you in any intermediate place that you may nominate.
				We send herewith the copy of our commission, and are with great respect.— Sir Your most obedient & most hble. Servants.

						John Adams. B. Franklin. T. Jefferson


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Anisson fils, 10 November 1784
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Anisson-Duperon, Etienne-Alexandre-Jacques

					Sir,
					Passy, Nov. 10. 1784

				I send you enclos’d the Characters you desire to see, cast in the new manner lately invented in England. They are first cast separately, and after being compos’d into Words or Parts of Words, those are united by a second Casting of additional Metal. This Operation doubles the Price of the Fount. I have directed my Grandson who is now in London, to visit the Printer, and endeavour to procure his Method of arranging his Cases; which if I receive shall be immediately communicated to you. He pretends to save three Parts in Four of the Time heretofore spent in Composing. My Son writes to me that he has bought your Press, which cost Eight Guineas; and that it will be sent by a Ship to Rouen. I have not been able to go to Paris since I had the honour of seeing you here, or I should have called to look at your excellent Machine, being with great Esteem, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant

					B Franklin
					Mr Anisson


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to C. F. d’Inarre, 10 November 1784
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Inarre, C. F. d’

					Sir
					Passy, Nov. 10. 1784

				I receiv’d the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 22d of last Month, requesting my Advice as to your Removal to America. The enclos’d Pamphlet will answer most of your Questions. Understanding Agriculture there is no doubt of your being able to live comfortably in Pensylvania, where there are many wealthy German Families who began with less Money than you will possess. Yet at your time of Life, & with a Family, if you can live tolerably in your own Country I should hardly advise your undertaking so long a Voyage to establish yourself among Strangers. Wishing your Determination whatever it is may be best for your Interest, I have the honour to be Sir


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 10 November 1784
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir
					Bordx. 10 Novr 1784

				Just returnd to Bordeaux from the Country where by your friendly Assistance I have resided since I left Passi. Accept my most respectful accknowledgemts. for your kind services, Services of a nature that cannot be errast and of which I shall ever retain a most sincere reconnoisance.
				By my last Letters from Paris I am not more advanct than when I left that City nor know I when I can depend on getting freed from my conections with Price, how [who] has appeard with new forged Papers that he & Haywood fabricated the last Winter at Paris. I cannot say how the Judges may decree when Events depend on the Judgement of others the results are uncertain.
				My best wishes to young Mr franklin who I suppose ere this is returnd as also to mr Bacche & your family at all times and on all occations I shall ever esteem the oppertunity of shewing that I am truely & respectfully Sir Your much Obliged & Obeedient Humble Servant

						John Bondfield

					To His Excellency D franklin

				Addressed: A Son Excellence / Doctr. B. Franklin / ministre plenr. des Etats unis / de lAmerique a / Paris
				Notation: John Bonfield, 10 Nov. 1784.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte de La Touche, 10 November 1784
From: Comte de La Touche, the
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Paris ce 10 9bre 1784.

				J’ai lhonneur, Monsieur, de vous Supplier de vouloir bien jetter un Coup d’Oeil favorable Sur les Papiers que j’ai lhonneur de vous faire Passer. Votre Recommandation dans cett affaire étant du Plus grand Poids, j’ai lieu d’Espèrer que L’Intérêt que vous voudrès bien y Mettre en assurera le Succès. Les demandes du Sr chevalié, étant, on ne peut pas plus, fondées, Intérésseront a Coup Sur votre Coeur; j’ose espèrer Vos bons offices; et à tous les Sentimens qui vous Sont Si justement aquis, je Joindrai une eternelle et Sensible Reconnaissance.
				Je Suis avec un Respectueux attachement Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur

						Le Cte de la Touche


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Charles Thomson, 11 November 1784
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Thomson, Charles

					Dear Friend,
					Passy, November 11th. 1784.

				I received your kind Letter of August 13th: with the Papers annexed, relative to the Affair of Longchamps. I hope Satisfaction will be given to Mr: Marbois. The Commissioners have written a joint Letter to Congress. This serves to cover a few Papers relative to Matters with which I was particularly charged in the Instructions. I shall write to you fully by the next Opportunity, having now only Time to add, that I am, as ever, Yours most Affectionately,

					(SIGNED) B. Franklin.

					P.S. To explain the Papers. I had first sent to Count Vergennes, by my Secretary, a Copy of the Instruction of May 11th: He seems to have thought it should have come to him in a more formal Manner, and wrote me the Letter A. I accordingly sent it to him in B. and received his Answer in C.
					I executed the Instruction of Octr: 29th —83, as soon as I knew the Commissions for treating with the Emperor, &c. were issued, which was not till July —84. The three Letters between the Emperor’s Minister and me are what passed on that Occasion.

						To Chas. Thomson, Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Childs, 13 November 1784
From: Childs, Francis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Honored Sir,
					New York, Nov. 13. 1784—

				I importuned you some time since with a Letter which I am fearful may have miscarried, & shall therefore trouble you with a recapitulation.— Therein I mentioned the safe arrival of Mr. Jay, & the satisfaction his presence afforded not only to me, but to his Countrymen in General. I Likewise mentioned to you the joyful information I received from him, that from you thro his means, I was to be furnished with a sett of Types to the amount of £100. Sterling.— A Sum sufficient to Establish any Industrious Man.— The Demand I have for them is great, as with the Press I had the honor to receive, I could not obtain any Types.— Delaying an affair of so much Consequence to me, as that of setting up in business, may greatly injure me,

loosing perhaps, a Chance of being Established in this City to advantage.— Mr. Jay who is now at Congress, as a Member from this State, & Secretary of Foreign Affairs. before he left this City, told me to make use of his name in writing to you,—that he was much dissappointed in not receiving a Line from you since he had Left you & was at a loss what to conjecture respecting the Types not being arrived.
				Perhaps it may be necessary to inform you that Types sent to America require a Greater proportion of Roman Capital (S’s) (C’s) & (A’s), than what has heretofore been customary;— Also the Italic Capital, (J).— I think that a Quantity of Types sent out for Sale would command a tolerable profit, & should you be inclined to send them to this City I shall be ambitious to promote your interest.— Long Primer. & English, & Burgeoice & Pica, are the principal Founts,—in use excepting those which require to be Larger for ornamenting work.
				Printing Presses are made here to answer every expectation & generally Cost about £40. Currency.—tho’ they are deficient in Point of Beauty.— I shall Submit to your Superior Judgement, Whether, Burgeoice, Pica Great & Small. or Small Pica & English. in preference, Great Primer, Paragon or Double Pica, Double English, Lean & full faced Cannon, 4. 5 & 6 Line Pica Capitals & Lower Case;—including two Line Letters to each Fount.— Flowers. Space Rules, And Almanack Signs added, would not make an elegible Office, within the Limit of the £100.—
				Wishing you Health & Happiness, It gives me great pleasure that I have the honor to subscribe myself with Gratitude, Honored Sir Your Most obliged, And Obedient Servant,

					Francis Child.—
					His Excellency Benjamin Franklin. Esqr.

				Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / At. Passey / Near— Paris—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Witel & Fauche, 15 November 1784
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Witel & Fauche

					Gentlemen,
					Passy Nov. 15. 1784.

				I have attentively considered your Project communicated to me in yours of the 24th. past, & of which you desire my Opinion.
				I have some Doubts whether you will find your Bookselling and Printing Business sufficiently profitable at first for the Support of three Families; because the French Language, in which I suppose your Books chiefly are, is not yet much extended in North America. It is however, since the alliance with France, daily increasing, Schools being established in all the great Towns for teaching it. But if you can add to the Sale of Books the different Manufactures of your Country and settle such Correspondence before you leave it as may keep you constantly supply’d with them, it is possible the Gains may be very considerable.
				I inclose a little Pamphlet which will give you some Information respecting our Country, and if I can be of any Service to you there, it will be a Pleasure to, Gentlemen, Your most obedient & most humble Servant

					B. Franklin
					Messrs Wital [& Pauche.]

				Endorsement by Witel: Cette lettre m’a été écrite il y a 6 ans par monsieur Franklin j’ai eu l’honneur de le voir à Passi dans [torn] a Paris [depuis]


Title: Francesco Favi to the American Commissioners: Résumé, 16 November 1784
From: Favi, Francesco
To: American Commissioners

				⟨Paris, November 16, 1784, in French: I sent to my court your letter of September 30. Your invitation was very agreeable to His Royal Highness, and he will receive with pleasure the communication of proposals.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Louis Brunnet, with Franklin’s Note for a Reply, 17 November 1784
From: Brunnet, Jean-Louis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Monseigneur,
						Fait à Dunkerque le 17 Novembre 1784./.

					Jean Brunet, natif de Louisbourg en Canada, Prend la liberte et la Confiance de répresenter à Votre Exellence, qu’en l’année mil Sept cent Soixante dix neuf, il a pris Service à Bord du navire Corsaire nommé le Bon-homme-Richard, Commandé par le Capitaine Paul-Jones, et armé a L’Orient Sous le Pavillon Américain, Par les Sieurs Monplaisir et Gourlandes, négocians du meme lieu, et par le Sieur Chaumont Banquier, négociant à Paris. Que le Suppliant a fait toutes les courses avec ce Corsaire qui a fait des prises Considérables.
					Qu’il fut enfin débarqué à Dunkerque, à cause de Ses Blessures ainsi que nombre d’autres blessés.
					Que le produit des prises a été renvoyé au dit Sieur Chaumont, principal intéressé dans l’Armement, lequel, contre les intentions de Sa Majesté, n’a encore fait aucune répartition à l’équipage.
					Il est Cependant vrai que le Suppliant est absolument dans un etat de Souffrance, éloigné de Sa famille qui réside actuellement a la Guadelouppe, l’une des isles françoises de l’Amérique Septentrionale; Dénué de toute ressource, Sans appui, Sans amis, Sans protecteur, et même dépourvû de Santé, il a Bésoin de recourir à Sa part aux prises pour lui faciliter les moyens de revoir Sa famille, où il désire se rendre, C’est le Sujet de Son recours—
					A votre Excellence,
					A Ce qu’il vous Plaise, Monseigneur, Lui accorder l’honneur de Votre Protection, en appuyant de Votre récommandation le Placet, ou mémoire, que le Suppliant vient d’adresser à Monseigneur Le marquis de Castries, ministre de la marine de france, pour l’objet dont il est fait mention en celui-ci.

					Ce faisant, il ne cessera de prier pour la Conservation et prospérité de Votre Excellence.

							Brunnet

					Restant rue des Casernes du Bastion Royale, à l’enseigne de La ville de Strasbourg, No. 5. à Dunkerque.
					A Son Excellence Monseigneur de Frankelein— Ambassadeur Pour les Etats unis de l’amérique à La Cour de france.

				Endorsed: That I never had any Concern with the Prizes taken by the Bonhomme Richard, and that Commodore Jones being now at Paris, he would do well to apply to him for his Share &c
				Notation: Brunnel 17 Nov. 1784.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Lee Perkins, 17 November 1784
From: Perkins, William Lee
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Sir,
					Kingston 17. Novr. 1784.

				I had the honor to deliver the paper upon the Influenza together with a letter (copies of both which are herewith inclosed) to a friend* in London, near a Year since, to be transmitted to your Excellency, which I afterwards was given to understand were delivered to——Barclay Esqr., who was so obliging as to undertake to be the bearer of to Your Excellency.
				Being apprehensive of some mistake, or miscarriage of the Packet, I have presumed once more to attempt the honor of approaching You, less anxious for the fate of whatever concerns my own interest or Reputation, than desirous of the satisfaction of being not entirely forgotten by Your Excellency.

				I have only to repeat my sincere and ardent wishes for Your Excellency’s Happiness, and to subscribe myself Your Excellency’s most Humble & most Obedient Servant

						William Lee Perkins

					His Excellency B. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Banks, 19 November 1784
From: Banks, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Dear Sir
						Soho Square Novr. 19 1784

					I should long ago have returnd answers to your two Favors had I met with any thing in the Way of Science worthy of being

Communicated to you little improvement has taken place in the course of these two months past & as I have resided all that time in Lincolnshire I have not been put into posession of the detail even of that Little.
					The Whole of the middle Class of people here have been inconceivably amusd by the ascention of Lunardi & Blanchard & some of superior rank have Attended for my own part I had not my option being away from town but I shall not miss the next which ascends no more than I would Miss any other spectacle which was likely to amuse & not likely to be after exhibited we Lament in the R. Soc. that so little addition of Science has yet accrued from a discovery which certainly opend a new Field for enquiry & feel hurt that men who in the outset attempted to make us beleive he had got the dominion by this means over another Element has constantly hitherto been the abject Slave of that element whenever he has venturd to intrude himself into it.
					I was sorry I was in the Countrey when your Grandson arrivd. I have had but little opportunity of paying my respects to him since I returnd. Count Castiglioni I have seen he appears a well bred & well informed young man he is at present in the Countrey laboring to acquire the english language which I fear his Countreymen find very dificult.
					I am in great hopes that the dissentions of the Royal Society

are at an End at least that the opposition will at last give way to the decided & continual majorities which have appeard against them. Convincd I do not expect any men to be whose whole Arguments have been founded & supported in misrepresentation in truth. Hutton did not like to Lose twenty pounds a year which he usd to receive without any trouble whatever. Horsley would have been glad to make himself President which I am convincd He thought easy & considerd as a good step towards a Bishoprick. Matys disapointments in Life tho all of his own seeking and arising from a perfect beleif that he is a man of very superior talents have renderd him so waspish that his cheif pleasure is stinging about with a feeble Pen which can scarce Penetrate the hide even of Bashfullness & the rest seemd to have espousd the matter as a party affair which they were afraid to desert. I have enclosd you a Pamphlet written by Dr. Kippis who you may remember living in great intimacy with the late Sir John Pringle it is fair & very well temperd but so very mealy mouthd that it will possibly be right to publish something else as no foreinger can conceive a man right who is not praisd.
					Beleive me dear Sir with perfect Esteem Yours Faithfully

							Jos: Banks

					The Pamphlet is in Sheets. I have not been able to get one sewd up yet.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edward Church, 19 November 1784
From: Church, Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					May it please your Excellency
					Dunkerque 19th Novr: 1784

				Before I enter upon the particular motives of this address, permit me, Sir! to mention a circumstance, or two, which, if you shou’d recollect, may possibly apologize for the Liberty which I

have taken, upon the grounds of some small pretensions to the honor of a former short acquaintance.
				In the Autumn of 1771, I took a Tour through the Island of Gt. Britain in company with Heny: Marchant Esqr. On our Arrival at Edinburgh, I had the honor of being introduced to you, I accompanied you to Glasgow, where on the third day after our arrival, I was honored with a presentation of the freedom of that City, and thro’ the favor of your kind notice, and Introduction, had the honor of dining several times with you at the tables of your friends.
				I am a Native of Boston, where I have now a Wife & five children, was educated at Harvard College in Cambridge, graduated A.D. 1759, have been more than twenty years a Merchant of no inconsiderable Rank in Boston, and at the Commencement of the late War was possessed of a moderate Competence, of which I have since been unfortunately deprived, partly by the plunder of the british at Boston, and at St: Eustatius, and by

other unavoidable casualties.
				I sailed from Boston for London last Decr:, with a view of renewing a commercial connection with that Country, but finding it impracticable upon terms of equal reciprocal Advantage by reason of some late british acts which operate directly against the principal Remittances from our State, I came over to France, hoping to find greater Encouragement here, but unfortunately for the State of Massachusett’s in particular, There is a Company of Merchants in this place just enaging in the Whale-fishery with such Encouragement, and liberal Support, from his Majesty, as must insure Success, which will of course soon be followed with a prohibition against the importation of Oil & Bone from the United States, or a duty thereon, as in England, tantamount to a prohibition.— But, this being a free

port, joined to it’s many local advantages with respect to neighbouring nations, will probably soon become one of the best markets in Europe for the produce of America, particularly the Southern States for Rice & Tobacco, and as the trade will be carried on principally in american bottoms, there must of course be many of our fellow citizens constantly in this place, These in general will most probably be unacquainted with the Laws, Language &ca. of this Country. It is therefore with all due deference submitted, whether it will not be requisite that some Person be established here who shall be duly authorized, formally received, and competent to the important purposes of giving advice & protection when needed—it is said—and I have reason to think, not without just grounds, that the Want of such a Person has already been often and severely felt here.— I presume not to dictate, but—if it shou’d be tho’t necessary or expedient to place such a person here—Cou’d I be favor’d with your Support, joined to the Interest which I flatter myself the Members from the Massachusett’s wou’d exert in my favor, shou’d you think proper to propose me to Congress, I wou’d humbly hope for the honor of the appointment,—or shou’d there be any other Employment known to your Excellency, public or private, in this, or any other Kingdom, wherein I can be usefull to you, or my Country, and at the same time procure only a decent Support for my Family, I beg Leave to make the Tender of my constant and faithfull Services, with respect to my Character in the small Sphere in which I have moved, I flatter myself that upon the strictest Scrutiny it will appear without a Spot, with which, and the advantages of a liberal Education, and much travelling, I might hope not to discredit your Patronage.
				If it is possible to snatch a moment from your more important Concerns, to favor me with a Line directed to the Care

of Mr. James Gannan Mercht. here it will be most gratefully received.
				I am—with the most perfect Respect, Most honorable & honored Sir! Yor. very dutifull & humble: Servant

						Edward Church

					His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr

				Addressed: To / His Excelly: Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edward Nairne, 19 November 1784
From: Nairne, Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Dear Sir
					London Novr: 19: 1784

				I did my self the pleasure of writing to you the 8th of last Month & sent it to your grandson. I last night had the pleasure of seeing him at the R.S. He told me he was detained longer than he expected. But that he should go Sunday or Monday next which oppertunity I have taken of sending you the identical hygrometer, I mentioned in mine of the 8th of Octr. that I took down to Ramsgate. It has never grown so dry as to be equal to that wch. I kept in London, though before I took it down they

moved very well together. I hear there is a wonderful Electrical Machine at Paris made of oiled silk. Major Gardener told me that the single sparks drawn from it are sufficient to knock down an Ox, that the sparks are two or three inches thick & about three feet long. When I have the pleasure of hearing from you, if you would favor me with some Account of its construction, it would be an addition to the many favors already received by Dear Sir Your Most Obliged Hble servt:

						Edwd: Nairne

					PS I have had no returns since I was electrified, of my old disorder. I hope you will do me the pleasure of accepting of the Hygrometer

				Addressed: His Excellency / Benjn: Franklin Esqr / passey near / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin West, 20 November 1784
From: West, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Dear Sir
					London Novr. 20th. 1784.

				Your Grandson being on the point to return to France, I cannot deprive myself the pleasure of sending by him this mark of that friendship and esteem I have ever had for you; and at the same time to express the satisfaction Mrs. West and I have had in seeing in England one we ever had much love and reguard for, (Mr. Temple Franklin) his good sence and eligant manners has gained him the love and Aprobation of all those who have had the pleasure of his company while hear, and has fulfiled that carractor I ever had of him from his earlyest Youth.
				From the account I have had of your health having much mended since last year, I do not dispear of seeing you in England befor you leve Europe for America. There are a many individuals in this country, have that wish as well as myself, And I hope the particulers on this head, which I refer you to your Grandson for (he being in pussession of many I had to say on this subject) I hope will not a little contribute to such a visit being agreable to yourself—should the want of health prevent you one more seeing this country, I shall think myself much honored when a convenient Opportunity offers itself to let me hear from you, this will be pleasing to a large number of your friends but to none more so then Mrs. West and myself. She with my sons are will, and desire to be Affectionately remembred to you.
				I am Dear Sir with the greatest respect and esteem— Your Obliged and Obedient Humble Sert.

						Benjn. West

					Dr. Benjamin Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Bra[iez?], 21 November 1784
From: Bra[iez?], ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur
					Paris 21. 9bre. 1784./.

				Il y a longtems que je médite la démarche que je fais aujourdhui, et mes réflexions m’ont fait préfèrer cette voie à l’incertitude d’obtenir un moment d’audiance.
				Avant de parler de l’objèt qui me détermine, je crois devoir établir Le Seul titre que j’aïe à la Confiance que je désire de

vous inspirer, Monsieur, en m’annonçant comme protègé moins qu’ancien ami de mon compatriote M De l’Etombe Consul de france à Boston; Celà posé, j’entre en matière.
				J’ai dans les mains deux imprimés, l’un intitulé lettre de M Mesmer à Mr. franklin; l’autre porte pour titre, autres rèveries sur le Magnetisme; vous avez sans doute Connoissance de ces ouvrages auxquels très probablement vous ne vous abbaisserez pas à Répondre, parceque vous ètes occupé de Soins plus importans; mais Moi, moi, Monsieur, Etudiant obscur, foible et ignoré, moi que l’indignation a porté à donner au Charlatanisme magnétique une assez vive atteinte dans deux Brochures anonimes qui ont eu tout Le Succès du moment, moi qui connois, autant que qui que ce Soit, le labirinthe Mesmérien, et conséquemment l’auteur, mal Caché, des opuscules dont il s’agit et de tout ce qui a parû et paroitra sous le Nom de Mesmer qui ne s’en doute pas; moi enfin qui désire tant d’arracher le reste du Voile sous lequel ma prudence a laissé à l’imposture un retranchement dont elle abuse; mais il est facile de détacher ce lambeau que la pitié seule a épargné. Je le vois avec trop de Regrèts se targuer, Cet Ecrivain à la journée, d’avoir forcé au silence celui dont une Seule parole honoreroit un tel adversaire.
				Vous prévoïez, Monsieur, que je vais, non pas vous engager à la vengeance, (elle est au dessous de vous) mais à me permettre

de faire Connoitre, sous vos auspices, l’orateur Mesmérien, en disant au Public ébranlé par moi; mais desabusé par vous, Monsieur, à peu près Ce qui suit

					“puisque Mésmer ne se donne pas la peine d’ecrire lui-méme Ses Sotises, Le Sage Bostonien a le même droit, avec cette Difference que Mesmer paye très cher l’encre, et qu’on la donne cette encre à Mr. franklin sans intérèt sans espoir de salaire, d’aussi bon Coeur que l’Estime et la Vénération dont il est si digne. &a. &a”

				J’aurois été, moi même, vous supplier, Monsieur de m’accorder Cette faveur, si L’expérience des contretems ne me faisoit trouver moins d’amertume dans un refus écrit, que dans Le plus doux remerciment de vive voix, car qui sait mieux que vous, Monsieur, combien une ame qui desire fortement éprouve de meme toutes les affections. …
				C’est assès vous distraire; j’espère que vous ne me soupçonnerez point d’etre méchant: la Vérité, voilà mon idole, puisse-je un jour etre, comme vous, unanimement reconnu pour son plus fidèle ami.
				Je suis avec un très Profond respect Monsieur Votre très humble et tres obéïssant serviteur.

					Bra[iez?]Etud. medcin.chez M. Joliot medecin rue des lions St. Paul à Paris

				Notation: Brace 21 Nov. 1784.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 21 November 1784
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						My dearest sir,
						London, Novr 21, 1784.

					I will not affront your grandson by supposing that I can inform you of any thing passing here at this moment more perfectly & fully than he himself can explain it to you. The same thing has been true during his whole stay here.
					I may say indeed of himself, what he will not be forward to tell you; that he has been relished & respected here; and has always been in motion after one object or other, as you will find from his conversation.— Had his time for coming been a point of choice, it would not have been the period he took, before our good company collects in London, or the season of politics commences. He came even too late for summer objects, & had not command enough of his time to think of country parties.— Hence I conclude he will be inclined to renew his visits, especially when politics & other matters prove more favorable. Mrs Hewson’s presence with you will make this easier to you both.
					Some time ago I sent you by your son one or two little books which seemed curious in the philosophical way; & by Dr. Bancroft, an extract from Dr. Priestley’s letter to me. I cannot think we have lately shone in any respect in this kingdom.
					I have paid as much attention as in my power to your letters of recommendation, and particularly to that for Count Mirabeau.

If that gentleman does me justice, he will tell you that I have shewn him attentions, & I trust proved of some small use in a particular or two.— I hope he will turn out the means of doing what I have so long wished for, introducing some of the more amiable French politics here. It will be remarkable, if father & son should each have done this service to a kingdom.— In pursuance of my prayer he will undertake this work; & the mode proposed by himself is, a monthly publication in French & English under the title of Conservateur, & Repositor. Your pieces which I had reserved for an occasion, will appear here;— The mention of which reminds me to tell you, that I know not who published your pieces on the Indians & on Migrations, nor have I yet seen them. The latter piece the Abbe Morellet sent Lord Shelburne, from whom I had it; & The Bishop of St. Asaph’s family afterwards had my whole packet of your pieces for many weeks. This is the only information I can now give you on this head.
					I am at a loss what I ought to say to you on the subject of your country. If I tell you that many traits not of the most satisfactory kind are related here on the subject of their punctuality, morality, and domestic education, you will think me changed in principles perhaps. You will soon find that I am the farthest in the world from being changed in this respect; but I have been grieved by what I have heard, from certain authority, & even to a degree of anguish. As to their luxury & indolence, we have a cure for that: our credits in Europe will cease to be so lavish as

formerly, and men now newly raised in private life there, will either change their courses or drop off. But if some effort is not used on the side of morality, & by means of education, we shall only have to do with European faults in the new world in a new shape. From all that I can learn, the beginning of the excess of this evil may be dated from the fall of paper-money & the confiscation of private property; and it has since been confirmed by the introduction of foreign vices & manners. Ideas of meum & teum have, for the time, lost their sacredness; & what with habit and example, jointly operating with necessities of the purse, the present people who stand forward in the different states must have much innate virtue, if they again become what they ought to be.— You must of course seem very angry if you notice this part of my letter, & this I shall of course be sorry for. Please therefore to pass it by.— I have well considered your ingenious essay on luxury, but as I am not yet old enough to have satisfied myself about the whole list of provocatives to industry &c, I shall defer my remarks upon it ’till I am some years older. By that time I may more become your convert than I am at present. In the mean time I must add that Lord Shelburne has seen it, and been highly pleased with it, as will be every friend to the consumption of English manufactures there.
					I shall now conclude with telling you, that our politics here seem to me again at a stand. I still am of opinion that something must be done with them, if we are to put on any shew of wisdom again: And I do not altogether despair of this sooner or later.— In the mean time I pray & trust you will give a fillip to the morals & education of you countrymen, without which last, man I plainly see can never reform. I am, ever my dearest sir, Your faithful, respectful & devoted,

							Benjn. Vaughan

					I should not touch upon your countrymen so boldly, if I did not think you were not truly informed by them of certain particulars, some of which are perhaps best known in foreign counting houses.— Luckily our family has no personal experience to instruct them, nor any opportunity for it.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquise d’Auzoüer, 22 November 1784
From: Auzoüer, ——, marquis d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Monsieur
						ce 22 9bre 1784

					Je profite des offres de votre Excelence. Monsieur jefreson a bien voulu me faire les memes, mais je nai pu me ressouvenir de son adresse, daillieur je pense que vous avez lun et lautre les memes facilites de faire passer des lettres a merilend. Jen joint ici une pour monsieur carroll dannapoli.
					Je me proposois lors que ju lhonneur de voir votre Exelence de faire une connoissence plus particuliere avec madame adams, et une autre dames de lamerique. Je ne les vis que comme par apparition. Ces cours instens me faisoient desirer davoir lhonneur de les voir plus long-tems. Mais je n’avois plus que huit jours a rester a paris, et javois donné a mon agrement celuy ou je fus a la ceremonie de pentemon. Mes affaires se Sont trouvée

accumulée sur la fin, de maniere que je n’ai pu Suivre mon inclination. Je Suis même partie un jour plutôt que je ne lavois projetté. Je Suis persuadée que votre excellence, a occasion de voir Souvent Ses dames, je la Suplie de leur temoigner, combien jai de regrees, dune perte que je ne pourrai jamais, peutetre, reparer.
					A mon arrivée ici, jai trouvé mon mari dengereusement malade. Moi-même jai éu un gros rhume. Nous Sommes mieux lun et lautre, mais nous ne Sommes pas encore retablis. Je desire fort la continuation de la santé de votre Excellence, qui ma paru Se bien Soutenir. Votre reception a interessé ma reconnoissance plus que je ne puis lexprimer, par lattachement que vous avez temoignez avoir pour monsieur carroll, le plus proche parant que je connoisse, et aussi par la proctection que vous avez bien voulu accorder a un abbé du meme nom, en luy procurant une legation directe du pape pour la conduite des catholiques romain, qui sont dans les etats unis de lamerique. Je desire ardament que cette abbe que vous avez favorisé, se rende digne de votre confiance, par Son exactitude a remplir Ses devoirs, et a maintenir dans les bornes de son distric, lunion et la concorde, si nécéssaire pour le bonheur de tous les etats. Puisse ceux des provinces unis de lamerique, prosperer de plus en plus! Puissé-je aussi faire agreer a votre; Excelence, les Sentimens de respect, et de vénération que ses hautes qualites inspire; et avec lesquels jai lhonneur detre Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissante Servante

							Carroll dauzoüer

					mon adresse madame dauzoüer a Sa terre dauzouer le doyen pres chatedun en beauce

				Notation: Carrol D’auzouer 22 Nov. 1784—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to ——— Desfours, 23 November 1784
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Desfours (l’aîné), ——

					Passy ce 23 Nov[re 1784]

				Je n’ai point reçu, Monsieur, le Projet dont vous faitez mention dans la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 15 du mois dernier; et Je serois bien aise de le voir. Quant à la Commn que vous desirez, Je n’ai aucune autorité pour l’accorder ou la refuser; tout ce que Je puis faire c’est d’envoyer votre Requete au Congrès, et de vous faire part de sa Reponse.
				J’ai l’honneur d’être, Monsieur, votre très humble et très obéisant Serviteur./.

					B. Franklin
					M. Desfours.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jean-Anne Lafont, 24 November 1784
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lafont, Jean-Anne

					Passy ce 24 Nov. 1784.

				J’ai reçu, Monsieur, la Lettre sans datte que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire. Votre Situation est embarrassante et J’en suis touché; mais, outre que Je ne puis donner de Recommandation à quelqu’un qui m’est absolument inconnu, il seroit mal’avisé de vous conseiller d’entreprendre un Voyage long est

dispendieux pour aller vous établir chez des Etrangers dont vous ignorez la Langue; Dailleurs vous devez savoir qu’un médecin sans amis dans un Pays étranger est longtems sans Pratique. Ainsi Je pense que vous feriez mieux de passer aux Isles Françoises qui pourroient peutêtre vous fournir plus de moyens d’éxercer vos talents.
				J’ai l’honneur d’etre, Monsieur, Votre tres humble et três obeissant Serviteur./.

					B. Franklin
					à M. Lafont


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, 24 November 1784
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						De Brest ce mercredy 24 Novem [1784]

					Je Suis on ne peut pas plus fâché mon Illustre Docteur d’avoir passe mon automne Si loin de vous et en vous disant cela je me flatte bien que vous ne le prenez pas pour un Compliment à La Françoise. Je ne le Suis pas moins Je vous assurre de n’avoir pas encore pu vous écrire un Seul petit mot. Mais La vie que Je mene ici est Si coupée par le regime qu’on y Suit et par mes courses dans Le Port que je n’ai pas un moment à moi. Joignez à cela des ecritures que Jai eté obligé de faire pour mettre des gens au fait d’une matiere qu’ils ignoroient entierement et Sur laquelle cependant ils déraisonnoient de la belle maniere.

					Vous avez éprouvé dans nombre d’occasions, combien on a de peine à éclairer les hommes, et à les Instruire, même Sur les choses qu’il leur importe le plus de connoître; Je pourrois vous dire et me vanter de l’avoir éprouvé de même ici. Les déraisonnemens que Jai entendu faire Sur les Paratonnerres, Sont Si etranges, que je n’en Suis pas encore revenu. Mais ce que je n’aurois Jamais cru; c’est qu’il peut y avoir des gens, qui Joignissent tant de presomtion à tant d’ignorance. Il y a ici un Professeur, qui n’entend rien à Lélectricite, et qui combiné avec un autre homme, qui a fait quelques mechantes experiences Sur cette matiere et qui n’y entend pas davantage a fait un mémoire contre Les Paratonnerres, qu’on a envoyé au Ministre. M Le Ml de Castries a prononcé comme vous l’imaginez bien. Mais n’admirez-vous pas la Sotte vanité d’un homme, qui croit en Savoir plus Sur ce Sujet, que vous, que Les meilleurs esprits dans Les Sciences, qui Se Sont occupes de cet objet; enfin que les plus celébres académies de LEurope, qui ont pleinement decidé La question Sur Lûtilite et les avantages des Paratonnerres. Mais il faut abandonner ces gens à leur Ignorance, et à leur Sottise; et vous parler de quelque chose, qui vous Interessera davantage. Je Suis parvenu à placer La Semaine derniere, un Paratonnerre Sur un vaisseau, cest Le premier dont ait eté armé un vaisseau de Roi. Le vaisseau S’appelle L’Etoile, c’est une Gabarre de 700 tonneaux, commandee par un Lieutenant de vaisseau, M De Voutron, qui m’a paru homme de mérite. Il est parti pour St Domingue, et m’a bien promis d’observer Soigneusement, tout ce qui arriveroit à ce Paratonnerre. Il est placé Sur Le Gal hauban* du grand mat# de Perroquet, comme

Celui de M. Wenn; mais il y est à demeure, et arrime, parceque j’ai pensé, que Si On le mettoit en reserve, pour S’en Servir dans L’occasion, on pourroit ne S’en pas Servir du tout. La chaine n’est pas tout à fait comme celle de M. Nairne; J’ai cru devoir y faire quelque changement, pour qu’elle S’applique mieux Sur le Galhauban. Il y a Sur la pomme* du mat de perroquet, une petite fleche de girouette, qui est de cuivre rouge, et cette flêche est Surmontee d’une belle pointe dorée, qui la dépasse encore de deux pieds, deux pieds et demi. La Communication metallique de cette pointe avec la chaine, Se fait par une lame de cuivre noyeé dans le mat de Perroquet, et qui va rejoindre cette chaine, de façon que cette communication est tres exacte, et tres intime, L’ajustement en est réellement fort bien. Enfin cette chaine communique à la mer en descendant et communiquant metalliquement avec les chaines# de hauban, et de la par des lances de metal Jusques au dessous de la flottaison. De cette manière il y a une ligne ou plutot une tige metallique qui prend du haut du mat de Perroquet et va descendre dans la mer. Comme on S’est plaint que les chaines venoient battre Les chaines des bordages du vaisseau J’ai cru qu’il falloit appliquer La communication metallique Le long méme de ces bordages et qu’il ne pouvoit en resulter aucun Inconvenient attendu Le mouvement du vaisseau qui par là Se dérobe incéssamment à l’espace qu’il occupoit et Limmense quantité d’eau dans laquelle La matiere fulminante trouve à Se répandre dans l’instant. Mais La dessus je Serai bien enchanté d’avoir vos idées Si vos occupations vous permettent mon Illustre Docteur de m’ecrire un mot; vous Savez dailleurs le plaisir que J’aurai à le recevoir.
					Je comptois quitter ce pays cy La Semaine derniere, ou cette Semaine mais Les Ouvriers vont Si lentement par La manière

dont on travaille dans ce Port que jy Suis encore et que je ne Sais Si comme Je l’espere Je pourrai en partir vers Le commencement du mois prochain. Adieu Mon Illustre Docteur conservez moi toujours votre amitié qui m’est Si precieuse et croyez que dans quelques regions de LUnivers que Jhabite vous ne trouverez jamais ni d’admirateur plus Sincère ni d’ami qui vous Soit aussi passionnement attaché, que moi

							Le Roy

					mille et mille amitiés Je vous prie à Monsieur votre petit Fils qui est Sans doute revenu il y a deja Long tems, de lAngleterre
					Excusez Je vous prie mon Griffonnage mais Je Suis Si pressé que je ne peux avoir le tems de recopier ma lettre— Jespere cependant et quoique vous en disiez que vous pourrez neantmoins me lire


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Jean-Baptiste?] Deumié Groc, 26 November 1784
From: Deumié Groc, (Jean-Baptiste?)
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monseigneur
					L’orient 26 9bre. 1784.

				L’etendue de vos Bontés à faire Le bien, et La Pureté de vos Sentiments à rendre Justice m’enhardisent à m’adresser à vous avec confiance, pour vous prier de vouloir bien Prendre Connoissance d’une affaire malheureuse, et Peut-etre unique, dans La quelle je me trouve enveloppé, Sans avoir pu découvrir Le vray resultat de ce quil en est; et Sur Laquelle je vous Supplie, Monseigneur, d’avoir La bonté de jetter un de vos regards. Je vous en donnerai Le plus court détail possible.
				Javois chargé en janvier 1783 pour £ 40 Mille Livres de marchandises Sur Le navire françois L’aimable Elizabeth, Commandé par le Sieur Bouchet, pour aller d’ici à philadelphie, Lequel partit de Lorient Le 11 mars Suivant, Pour Se rendre à Sa destination. Mais Parvenu à environ 180 Lieues au N.O. des isles des acores, il Essuya un Si mauvais temps, que Le Capitaine et Son Equipage se déciderent à L’abandonner, Pour se Sauver Sur le Vaissaux américain La nancy Commandé Par Le Sieur Robert shuwell de philadelphie, qu’ils rencontrèrent venant en france, où à Leur arrivée Le Capitaine françois, et le capitaine américain dréssèrent à notre amirauté Leurs Procès verbaux de la Position dangereuse où Se trouvoit, disent-ils Le navire L’aimable Elizabeth, mais Sans faire mention ni L’un ni L’autre d’y avoir Laissé 8 hommes déquipage du Vaissau La nancy, qui L’ont conduit à Lisle de St. jean de Terreneuve, ainsi que j’en ai été informé par plusieurs Lettres de mes correspondants des etats unis de L’amérique, par Le moyen desquelles mes assureurs Sont Parvenus à rester nantis de £ 28 Mille Livres que j’avois Seulement D’assurées, jusqu’à ce que nous ayons pu nous Procurer des Nouvelles Sûres de la Situation, et du Sort du navire L’aimable Elizabeth; Pour Cet effet je me suis donné tous Les mouvements possibles Sans avoir pu réussir à avoir d’autres Renseignements qu’une Lettre que Le dit Capitaine Robert shuwell Ecrivit à MM Therrosson frères et compagnie Négotiants à philadelphie, Le 12 janvier dernier, par laquelle il Leur dit; que Le navire L’aimable Elizabeth Couloit Bas d’eau Lorsquil l’a rencontré, mais que Le Sieur Jean Justice Son deuxieme Lieutenant

en ayant pris Le Commandement, il L’avoit Conduit avec huit hommes de Son Equipage à L’isle de st jean de terreneuve, où il dit que Le dit Navire à été Brûlé avec Sa Cargaison, Excepté Le Sel; cependant par d’autres Lettres mes correspondants me disent, que ce capitaine shuwell Leur à fait Voir un etat de Vente des marchandises que Contenoit Le navire L’aimable Elizabeth, que Le dit jean Justice Lui avoit fait Passer de St jean, et actuellement il Se replie à dire, que, Tout Excepté Le Sel, a été Brulé. La Reticence que Ces deux Capitaines ont observée dans Leurs verbaux, en ne faisant Pas mention du monde quils avoient Laissés à Bord du Navire abandonné, jointe aux diffuges et Pretextes qu’allègue aujourd’huy Le Capitaine shuwell, embrouillent plus que jamais Ce malheureux evennement, mais Comme ma fortune, et mon Sort en dépendent, Je vous prie, Monseigneur, de faire demander au Sieur Robert shuwell, habitant à philadelphie, les papiers de Vente de la Cargaison du navire L’aimable Elizabeth, et La verité de ce qui S’est Passé depuis L’instant quil Rencontra en mer Le dit Navire Jusqu’a La définition de tout ce qui Peut avoir eu Lieu depuis que Son Second Lieutenant, jean Justice, en à été Le Maitre, Pour qu’avec ces pièces, je Puisse me faire payer £28 Mille Livres, que J’avois Seulement D’assurées, ou Pour avoir mon Recours vers Le Capitaine & L’armateur de L’aimable Elizabeth.
				J’ose Espérer, que, Sans recourir aux Puissants Protecteurs, que je Pourrois avoir en Cour pour vous solliciter, vous aurés La Bonté d’accorder un aussi Grand bienfait à un Père de famille, qui Gemit depuis cet Evenement malheureux et qui Sera pénétré des sentiments de la plus Vive Reconnoissance.
				Je Suis avec Respect Monseigneur Votre très humble & très obéïssant serviteur

					[J B?] Deumié grocNegt. a Lorient

				Notation: Dumié Groc 29 Nov. 1784


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Temple Franklin, 27 November 1784
From: Franklin, William Temple
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					My dearest Sir,
					Dover, 27th. Novr. 1784

				After various Delays we are at length arrived here, all well, and very anxious to embrace you at Passy; where we hope to be Wednesday or Thursday next.— We might have cross’d the Water to Night in the Packet, by which this goes,—but none of us like to pass the Night at Sea—& particularly in a Public Vessel: we have therefore freighted a Boat entirely for ourselves, & shall embark tomorrow Morg: as early as the Tide will permit.
				I just write this to prevent your being uneasy concerning us—and that you would be pleased to give the necessary Directions for our Reception.
				I am ever my dearest Sir, Your most dutiful & affectionate Grandson—

					W. T. Franklin
					Mrs Hewson presents you her best Respects.—B. Franklin Esqr—

				Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats-Unis de l’Amerique / à Passy.— / près Paris.
				Endorsed: W T Franklin’s Letters when in England


Title: The American Commissioners to Sousa Coutinho: Résumé, 30 November 1784
From: American Commissioners
To: Sousa Coutinho, Vicente, conde de

				⟨Passy, November 30, 1784: We received from your secretary the extract of the letter from Monsieur de Sa of October 24. Conformable to the desires of Her Majesty, we enclose a draft of a project of a treaty of amity and commerce to be concluded between our two countries. If this project is acceptable and Her Majesty sends you power to conclude, we are ready to sign such a treaty. If your court has any objections or alterations to propose, we will consider them.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 1 December 1784
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					My Dear friend
					Bath Decr 1 1784

				I write to you from Bath where I am with my Sister who goes on slowly in her recovery but I hope in a fair way towards recovery. She desires to be remembered to you.— As to any matters of American negotiation I am not at present in any state of information. I am at present drawing up such opinions as occur to me upon the subject and propose to lay them before the administration. I presume that some determination will be made upon this subject soon after the next meeting of Parliament. And probably there may be some arrangements in the administration before that time. The public papers will inform you that your old friend Ld Shelburne is made Marquess of Lansdown, which has the appearance of being highly in favour. I make no enquiries about ministers or american plans. My principles are well known and if consistently with those principles I can transact any negotiation I am always ready. But as I make no enquiry I am quite ignorant of the plans of the present ministry or even

whether they employ any one else since my return from Paris. If any one else is employed it can be no secret and therefore I shd be obliged to you if you wd let me know before I deliver in the paper wch I am drawing up for the ministry as a general summation. I shd likewise be very much obliged to you if you wd send me any information of any public events or proceedings in America respecting the subject of commercial negotiations with GB [Great Britain] or having any such reference. Mr Jefferson was so good as to promise me the favour of his correspondence upon these subjects and perhaps as being the younger man he wd be so good as to give himself the trouble of giving me generally American information viz what States have confirmed the resolutions of Congress of April 30 1784 respecting powers to regulate the Commerce of the States—what States have consented to the 5 percent impost for discharging the foreign debt &c &c &c. It has always been the misfortune of this Country to have the public prints filled with false reports & many of them such as have a tendency to make ill will between the two Countries for wch reason I wish to receive from my friends as much authentic information as possible. I have met with very confident assertions in this Country that the State of Virginia has passed an act to prohibit the payment of british debts. Mr Jefferson told me that the act did not pass at least so I understood him. I shd be glad to know the certainty respecting this fact. Many

& many things are asserted respecting the conduct of the States upon the claims of the Loyalists. I wish to be informed generally of public facts in America. Much good towards conciliation might arise from such authentic general information. Some facts or other wd meet the lye of the day. I shd be very happy to hear now as soon as convenient from you & from Mr Jefferson for the purpose of comparing with the general summary wch I am now drawing up. I understand that you are opening negotiations of Commerce with all the Courts of Europe. I presume among the rest with the Emperor in case the Scheld shd be opened. I presume it is the American trade wch the Emperor has in view principally in contending for the opening of the Scheld. That is the new object & event wch constitutes the main difference between shutting up the Scheld 140 years ago & opening it now. The Amern trade was not meant to be precluded formerly having at that time no existence. I came thro Brussels & Antwerp in my way to England and I heard at both places this doctrine of the American trade being an object for the Emperor. This was their way of reasoning upon it. One of the principal Magistrates at Antwerp told me that he was actually in Correspondence with Americans to come & settle at Antwerp in case the Scheld shd be opened.
				I hope you continue to enjoy good health. Pray remember me to Mr Adams and all his family. To Mr Jefferson & Mr Humphrys & to Mr W T Franklin and all friends.
				I am ever most affectely yours

					D Hartley

					PS Is Monsr de Vergennes minister for foreign affairs we have had a report here of his resignation.— Direct always to me in Golden Square London my letters will be sent after me wherever I am—

						To Dr Franklin &c. &c. &c.

				Addressed: To Dr Franklin / &c &c &c
				Notation: David Hartley Esqr to Dr. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte, Comtesse, and Vicomte de Vergennes, 1 December 1784
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de,Vergennes, Anne Viviers Testa, comtesse de,Vergennes, Louis-Charles-Joseph Gravier, vicomte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Vlles. le 1er. Xbre. 1784.

				M. le Cte. Made. la Csse. et M. le Vte. Louis De Vergennes ont l’honneur de faire part à Monsieur francklin, que Made. la Vsse. Louis De Vergennes est heureusement accouchée aujourd’hui d’une fille.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 2 December 1784
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

					Passy, Dec. 2. 1784.—

				Mr Franklin presents his respectful Compliments to Mr Adams, with Thanks for his obliging Invitation, which he should accept with Pleasure, but that he finds himself oblig’d to renounce dining abroad, his Malady rendring it on many accounts extreamly inconvenient to him.
				Mr F. has receiv’d a Letter & some Papers from Mr Grand, on which he wishes to confer with Mr Adams & Mr Jefferson when convenient to them.—

				Addressed: A son Excellence / Monsieur Adams / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats Unis, &c / à Auteuil
				Endorsed: Dr Franklin 2. Dec. 1784.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon, 2 December 1784
From: Brillon, Madame
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					ce deux décembre [1784]

				Votre léttre mon aimable papa m’a fait un sensible plaisir, mais si vous voulés m’en faire un plus grand restés en france jusqu’au moment ou vous verrés ma sixiéme génération, je ne vous demande que quinse ou seise ans, ma petite fille sera mariable de bonne héure elle est belle et forte: je goutte un nouveau sentiment mon bon papa auqu’el mon coeur se livre avec satisfaction, il est si doux d’aimer! Je n’ai jamais conçu comment il éxistoit des estres assés énnemis d’eux mesme pour repoussér l’amitié; il est des ingrats, dira t’on; éh bien l’on est trompé, cela est un peu dur quelquefois, mais on ne l’est pas toujours, et de se sentir incapable de le rendre donne un contentement de soi mesme qui consolle de la trahison:
				Ma petite nourice est charmante et fraische comme la rose du matin, l’enfant les premiers jours a eu de la peine a se faire a téter un sein férme et dont le bout étoit mignon et court, mais la patience, le courage de la mére l’ont emporté, tout vá bien, et rien n’est plus intéréssant que ce tableau, une jeune et jolie personne allaitant un superbe enfant, le pére occupé sans césse de ce spéctacle et joignant ses soins a ceux de sa fémme, mes yeux se mouillent souvent et mon coeur jouit mon aimable papa, vous senté si bien le prix de tout ce qui tient a la belle et bonne nature que je vous devois ces détails, ma fille me charge de ses remercimens et complimens pour vous, ma cadétte, mes hommes vous présentent leurs civilités, et moi mon ami je vous prie de croire que mon amitié et mon éxistance seront toujours un pour vous:

				Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin ambassadeur / des etats unis de l’amérique / A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-François Fournier, 2 December 1784
From: Fournier, Jean-François
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Monsieur
						ce 2 Xbre. 1784:

					Permettez-moi d’avoir l’honneur de vous écrire pour m’informer de létat de vôtre santé, et en même temps vous proposer mes services ayant appris que vous aviez deissein de faire apprendre la Gravure à Mr votre petit fils. Comme la gravure est l’ame et le premier principe de létat de la fonte des Caractères d’imprimerie, parce que pour être véritablement bon fondeur, primo. l’on commence à graver, frapper le poincons lorsquil est fait et justifier la matrice étant bien frappé, alors on présente la matrice au moule pour la fondre et connoitre par la son dégré d’enfoncement dans la matrice pour former la hauteur en papier quelconque. En même temp on apprend la dégration des proportion pour les forces de corps des caractères et les calibres quil faut faire juste pour y verifier l’œil de chacque sorte de lettre soit grosse ou petite, toute ses sortes de choses sont nécessaire a scavoir ensemble pour former un véritable artiste dans la fonderie et être à même de connoit lesprit de létat. Sçavoir aussi arranger un moule parfaitement pour la force des Corp, la hauteur en papier et l’ajuster de pied en tête tant pour sa force de corp que pour la froterie de maniere que lorsqu’un moule est parfait, le poincons et la matrice bien faite l’ouvrage ou la lettre qui sort du moule est plus d’amoitie faite c’est a dire qu’après que la lettre est gravé, frappé, justifié fondu froté et compposé la derniere main qui est l’appret, comme la couppe et la visite des lettre dans son prototype des forces de Corp n’en devien que plus aisé et parfaite pour servir a l’imprimerie l’opperation du fondeur etant fini dans toutes sa perfection. Et l’impression bien conduit c’est le moyen de faire des ouvrages parfaites et qui pouvoit être goute de tous les amateur des sciençes et des Art Car rien n’est plus flateur davoir dans ses main un livre bien imprimé en beau

caractère et beau papier le tout en est plus agréable a la vue enfin Mr si c’est votre bon cœur et Vôtre bonne Voloté, je vous en demende la préference et vous en aurez toute ma vie toute la reconnoissance possible si vous m’en jugé Capable ce qu’attendant par votre réponce.
					Je lhonneur d’être bien sincerement avec tous le respet Monsieur Vôtre trés humble et trés Obeissant serviteur

						J. F. Fournier LainéGraveur du Roy

					rüe st. victor à l’hotel du chariot d’Or prés la rüe des Boullanger a Paris

				Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin Envoyé / Extraordinaire de L’amérique / à Passy / fournier R St Victor


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Limozin, 3 December 1784
From: Limozin, Andrew
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Most Honored Sir
					Havre de Grace 3rd December 1784

				I have the Honore to inclose you the Annexed packet arrivd this day under my Cover by the american Ship the Friendship John Freeman Master come from Alexandria consignd to me.
				I have the honor to subscribe my self with the highest regard Your Excellency’s Most obedient & very Humble Servant

						Andw Limozin

					His Excellency Dr Benj Franklin Esquire Minister of America at the Court of France Passy

				Notation: Limozin 3 Decr. 1784.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jacques Besse, 5 December 1784
From: Besse, Jacques
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Monsieur,
					A Kehl ce 5 Xbre. 1784.

				Depuis que la crainte de vous fatiguer par mes Lettres m’a empêché de continuer à vous écrire, j’ai pris le parti de me procurer indirectement de vos nouvelles, et j’apprends aujourd’hui que vous n’êtes pas Loin de votre retour pour l’amérique; si l’on m’a dit vrai, Monsieur, et que vous ayez besoin d’un typographe Selon toute la force du terme, j’ose de nouveau vous offrir mes Services. Depuis trois ans que Je Suis à Kehl, j’ai fait usage de mon goût pour la gravure des poinçons et pour la fonte des caractères, et je Suis parvenu a bien ajuster les moules, à en fabriquer autant qu’on en a besoin, j’ai même gravé la grosse & la petite musique de fournier à un point de perfection les connoisseurs Confondent mes caracteres avec ceux de fournier sans pouvoir les reconnoître. J’ai gravé aussi des Lettres sur ligne, pour le Systême de musique de Rousseau qui ont été mis a côté de ceux de Baskerville & auxquelles on a trouvé bien peu de différence. J’occupe la place d’un graveur qui avoit été envoyé de londres & de plus j’ai soin de tous les moules de la fonderie pour les ajuster; Je vous envoie le chiffre de M de Beaumarchais comme un échantillon de ma gravure, avec quatre vers que J’ai mis au dessous, ne pouvant vous donner une idée plus complette de mon Savoir faire en ce genre, étant trop éloigné de vous & Si quelque connoisseur vous dit que J’ai gravé ce chiffre en cuivre pour en faire une matrice en plomb. Je vous enverrai le poinçon en acier ou la matrice en Cuivre. J’ai l’honneur de vous prier

d’agreér avec indulgence l’hommage de ma plus haute estime & des Sentimens respectueux avec lequel J’ose me dire Monsieur Votre très humble & tres obéissant sr.

						Besse

					P.S. le premier correcteur de cette imprimerie est un de mes bons amis, Je lui ai Souvent entendu dire qu’il voudroit vivre parmi ses frères les Quakers, s’il pouvoit vous être utile J’aurais un vrai plaisir de l’engager à me Suivre.
					Mon adresse est a Monsieur [Chairfai?], poste restante, à Strasbourg, pour remettre à M. Besse, graveur de la Société-littéraire-typographique de Kehl à Strasbourg. Les fievres désolent les habitans de cette ville. voilà mon excuse, pour quitter ici. Je vous prie de me garder le Secret si vous n’avez pas besoin de moi.

				Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Francklin / ambassadeur & Plenipotentiaire / des affaires de l’amérique en / son hôtel / a Passy.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baron de Feriet, 5 December 1784
From: Feriet, ——, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Versailles Le 5 xbre. 1784

				Vous m’aviés fait espérer, Monsieur, que quand mr. votre petit fils serait de retour, il viendrait voir Les différens appartemens que je vous ai cherché ici; depuis que j’ay eu L’honneur de vous voir, j’ay Sû que mr. de cabre 1er. commis de la Marine, devait quitter une maison fort belle, et dans le voisinage de mr. de reynneval; en conséquence, je lui ai fait parler, et j’ay été le voir pour savoir de Lui s’il serait possible de prendre quelques arrangemens a ce sujet; enfin, Monsieur, tous Les différens propriétaries auxquels

je me suis adressé, m’obsédent pour savoir si L’on prendra Leurs appartemens; je les ai toujours tenu en Suspens, parceque de jour en jour j’attendais Monsieur votre petit fils; j’espérais aussi pouvoir aller vous demander votre derniére résolution, mais sans cesse contrarié par mes affaires et par La mauvaise santé de ma femme, je n’ay pû trouver un jour dont je puisse disposer pour avoir L’honneur de vous voir, malgré tout Le desir que j’en avais. Cependant, comme il me serait difficile de différer plus Long-tems de faire une réponse positive, oserai-je vous prier, Monsieur, de vouloir bien me faire Le plaisir de me mander si vous êtes toujours dans Les mêmes dispositions, et de m’adresser votre lettre par La petite poste a L’hotel D’yorck rue jacob, ou je compte être demain matin; c’est tout près de chéz Mde. La duchesse de Villeroy qui m’a donné rendèz vous pour causer de nos harmonica. Toute ma famille et moy, nous désirons trop vivement qu’il puisse entrer dans vos arrangemens de vous rapprocher de nous, pour ne pas craindre que vous ayés changé d’avis a cet égard. Comptant sur La certitude de votre établissement ici, nous nous étions accoutumés a penser que vous nous permettriés de vous prouver notre tendre attachement par nos Soins et nos attentions, Le tems que vous auriés passé ici aurait été pour nous une fête continuelle, et s’il faut que nous renonçions a une espérance aussi flatteuse, de toutes Les contrariétés que nous avons éprouvées, celle là sera sans contredit celle qui nous affectera Le plus vivement.
				La maison que mr. de cabre vient de quitter, est a son compte jusqu’au 1er. avril; Si vous La gardiés plus Long-tems, il faudrait en traiter avec le propriétaire; il y a un beau jardin, et La maison serait a vous toute entière. Si vous n’avés pas changé d’avis, je vous prie, Monsieur, de me regarder ici comme votre commissionnaire, de compter sur tout Le zéle dont je suis capable, et de

croire que je ferai tous mes efforts pour vous éviter des embarras et de La dépense.
				Ma femme me charge de mille tendres complimens pour vous, agrees, je vous prie, Les assurances de L’attachement inviolable et du respect avec lequel je suis Monsieur Votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur

						Le Bon.De feriet

				Notation: De Feriet 5 Dec. 1784.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Bailly, 7 December 1784
From: Bailly, Jean-Sylvain
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Paris ce 7 xbre 1784.

				M. Bailly présente ses respects à Monsieur Franklin. Il a l’honneur de lui envoyer le regître auquel les Commissaires ont apposé leur derniere Signature. Monsieur Franklin voudra bien y joindre la sienne. Il peut relire depuis la page 87 où est sa derniere Signature; mais à l’exception des deux ou trois derniers articles, M. Franklin a deja pris lecture du tout.
				M. Majault au nom de la faculté de Médecine offre à Monsieur Franklin les trois exemplaires ci joints du décret qu’elle a porté relativement au rapport. M. Majault y a joint un petit ouvrage

de sa composition et dont il fait hommage à Monsieur Franklin et que M. Bailly S’est chargé de lui faire passer.
				mr Francklin est prié de renvoier ce registre s’il a besoin de le garder avant le dimanche 12 xbre.

				Notation: M. Bailly. 7 Decr 1784—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Tabb Bolling, [7 December?] 1784
From: Bolling, Thomas Tabb
To: Franklin, Benjamin

						Tuesday morning [December 7?, 1784]

				Mr. Bolling’s compliments to Doctor Franklin and is sorry it is out of his power to wait upon him before he leaves Paris, which will be on Friday: but has taken the liberty to request him to send by the bearer the letter of recommendation he has been good enough to promise to procure him for Orleans.

				[In a different hand.] hotel de Montgomerie Rue du Colombier faubourgt St. Germain

				Addressed: Doctor Franklin / Minisr. Plenre. des Etats Unis / A Passy
				Notation: Bolling—


Title: The American Commissioners to Favi: Résumé, 9 December 1784
From: American Commissioners
To: Favi, Francesco

				⟨Passy, December 9, 1784: We received your letter of November 16, informing us that His Royal Highness the Grand Duke of Tuscany would receive with pleasure our propositions for a treaty. We now enclose a plan of such a treaty of amity and commerce, and are ready to sign it if it should meet with approbation. It is founded on principles of equal right and is calculated to promote the interests of humanity in general. We shall consider any amendments that may be proposed.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edward Nathaniel Bancroft, 9 December 1784
From: Bancroft, Edward Nathaniel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

					Honoured Sir,
					Chiswick Decr. 9th. 1784

				I am very sorry to hear that you are affected with the Stone, but I hope you are better. I suppose there is but a little time since you have seen my father, pray give him my duty the next time you will see him. I hope my friend Mr. Bache is well: I would be

very much obliged to you if you would give him my Compnts. the first time you will see him, & tell him that I should be very happy to hear from him. I would also be very much obliged to you if you would give my respectful compliments To Mr. and Mrs. Jay, (if they are in France,) and all other friends. Docr. Rose Gives his Compnts. to you.
				I remain, Honoured sir, Your most dutiful and affectionate

						Edwd. Bancroft

				Addressed: Au, / Docr. Franklin / Rue de la seigneurerie / A Passy près / Paris, / En France
				Notation: Bancroft Dec. 9. 1784.—