Title: William Temple Franklin to Jonathan Williams, Jr., 20 February 1781
From: Franklin, William Temple
To: Williams, Jonathan Jr.

Dear Jonathan,
Passy 20 Feby: 1781.
I was at Versailles Yesterday relative to the affair of your poor Black. Not being able to see the Minister, I went to M. le Hoe [Lenoir], & opened the Pacquet containing your letter, one from my Grandfather and the Certificates, & gave them him to read; which after he had done he informed me that it was absolutely impossible for any Black whatever to stay in this Country, that had arrived in it after the Edict of the King on that Subject.— I then solicited that he might be delivered up to you, on your giving Security that you would send him shortly out of the Country, this he promised me should be complyed with and that the orders should be expedited that very Evening. He was to return me the Certificates; which as soon as I receive, shall be forwarded to your House at Nantes.

Your Copying Machine, in two Cases and a Ream of thin Paper, forming a Packet are sent to Orleans as you directed; where you will give your Orders for their being sent you to Nantes. You had better be yourself at the unpacking of them; & you should first open the lage Flatt Box, where you will find a little Book which you should read before you continue to unpack.— As to the wetting Book & drying Book which you will find often mentioned, they have not sent us any over: I imagine they are a seperate Expence and are only sent when order’d.— We have done however very well without them, by means of a Quire of Spungy Paper, called I believe, Papier Joseph, which we open, & lay in it the thin Paper which is to receive the Impression, then daub it over with the wet Brush, shut the Quire & press it with your hands which soaks up all the superfluous Moisture & leaves the thin paper fit for Use. This we call our Wetting Book: & we have a simular Quire which we call our drying Book, wherein we lay the Papers after they have received the Impression, & put the weight upon it. If when you take them out of the drying Book, you do not find them smooth, you can soon make them so by putting them singly in a sheet of the same Spungy Paper, & passing them through your Press.
Mr: Le Veillard will deliver to you among other Pacquets, one containing Ink Powder proper for Copying: But I find the common Ink does as well, The Proprieters say that it will not keep its Colour as well as theirs./.
W T Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 21 February 1781
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
Madrid 21. Feby. 1781.
Your Favor of the 15 ult. with the Packets mentioned in it, arrived in good order. I regret your long Silence, tho’ I am strongly tempted to rejoice in the Cause of it—a Fit of the Gout, it is said, often prolongs Life.
Affairs here begin to wear a better Aspect— I have been promised three Millions of Reals, that is one hundred and fifty Thousand Dollars, which tho’ very unadequate to the Demands upon me, is Still a great Consolation, especially as men who are at the Pains of planting & watering Trees, seldom let them perish for Want of a few Drops extraordinary.
A few Days after the Date of my last, the Marqs. D’Yranda without my request, sent me the Amount of your Credit on him for the Ballance of our last Years Salaries. I thank you for Accepting my last Bill. As yet no Letters from Congress later than October have reached me; nor do I hear anything of Remittances, about which I am the more anxious, as I wish to replace the Sums you have been so kind as to advance me and to avoid similar Applications in future. It is hard to be constrained to press ones Friends for aids which it may be inconvenient to them to afford: such however has been and still is my Case. I scarcely know how to desire you to make further Advances on Account of our Salaries (four Months of which is now due), and yet I find Myself under a necessity of doing it. My Expences here, notwithstanding the most rigid Œconomy, are very great.
The enclosed is a Copy of an Act of Congress adopting the commercial Regulations & proposed by the Empress of Russia. I think it ought to be immediately communicated to her Imperial Majesty, and that you are for many Reasons unecessary to enumerate, the most proper Person do it. The enclosed Letter for Mr. Adams also contains a Copy of these Resolutions. I have not been favour’d with a Letter from him for several Months past, nor do I know anything of his Objects or Operations from himself. I have neverthesess endeavoured to interest the House of De Neufville with whom I am in intimate Correspondence, to second & promote his Views in that Country.
Since Writing the above I have had the Pleasure of receiving yours of the 27. Jany. and sincerely congratulate you on your Recovery. The amount of my Bill on you shall, agreable to your Request be considered as part of the 25000 Dollars. Your Reckoning as to our Salaries corresponds with mine, tho’ we have been Losers by the Exchange. As to the Residue of the 25000 Dollars— my Drafts shall be entirely regulated by my necessities, and I shall be happy if they permit me to leave a considerable Proportion of that Sum in your Hands. I shall be constrained however to call for a part of that Sum shortly, but whether by a Bill, or by means of the Marquis is uncertain. As to that Gentleman’s Complaint of my Reserve towards him I could make many Remarks which tho’ proper for your Perusal ought not to go further.
A few Days after my Arrival here a Person, who I was told was the Marquis, was introduced to me. He said he came to pay me a Visit by Order of Mr. Grand. I did not then know I was indebted to that Gentleman for a Letter of Recommendation to the Marquis, it not having come to my Hands— This Singularity struck me, tho’ I appeared not to observe it— The Civilites usual on such Occasions passed between us, and at parting the Marquis gave me a general Invitation to dine with him whenever I should find it convenient. I returned his Visit, but as general Invitations from Strangers pass with us for mere Matters of Compliment, I declined doing myself the honor of dining with him. Interchanges of Visits were continued, and the general Invitation to dine once or twice repeated— In this Line my Connection with the Marquis remain’d until I recd. the offer of the King’s Responsibility for a Loan &c. Several Reasons enduced me to think it expedient to consult the Marquis as to the Manner of making this offer useful to us— I waited upon him for that Purpose. He told me he could not intermeddle in these Affairs without Instructions from the Court, but was nevertheless very civil, and expressed a desire of doing me Services &c. As he declined entering into particulars, I did not press it, nor had any Ideas of his Importance risen so high as to reconcile me to the extraordinary & unnecessary measure of applying to the Court for the Instructions in question— I did not however let him know my Sentiments or Intentions on the Subject. It seems he had heard of Mr. Grands having been desired by you to make Inquiries for Money for me, and he advised me to write to him on the Subject which I accordingly did. In his Answer of the 21. Oct. he says “I am very unhappy to hear you are not benefited on the Spot of the Facility tendered you by the Court of Spain, so much more, so that the nature of Circumstances here does not admit of the Least hope of Success. Too many Attempts all vainless have already been made for the Good of your Credit— adding any more to the Number would be distructing it entirely, at this particular Juncture chiefly when our Government is about raising a Sum of Money much more enticing and advantageous in its Conditions. This perplexing Situation suggested me an Idea I communicated to Dr. Franklin &c. Meanwhile it is highly important to avail yourself of the favorable Disposition of the Court of Spain and get it to authorize and charge the marquis to help you in your Finance Business, he writes me that without Orders he cannot take it upon himself It will be better for your Excellency not to consult him before making the Application to Government. &c.”

You my good Friend have seen & thought too much of men and things to need any of my Remarks on this Letter. I replied to it on the 1st. Nov. as follows.

Sir,
“I have had the Honor of receiving your Letter of the 21st. Oct. last.
“I had flattered myself that a Loan on reasonable Terms and adequate Security, might have been effected for the United States in France, but as that Court is raising money on Conditions more advantageous and agreable, I am not surprised at our having little Prospect of Success.
“The Hint you gave Dr. Franklin was certainly a good one, and I hope will be productive of Good Consequence.
“Your obliging Advice relative to the Marquis shall meet with all the Attention due to its Importance, and if that Measure should on further Consideration appear expedient, it shall be pursued in the Manner you recommend.
“I take the Liberty of committing the enclosed Letters to your Care and &c.”
The Marquis repeated his general Invitation about this time— I dined with him—he recd. & entertained me very politely— We parted, to Appearance pleased with each other, but he has not been at my House since tho a great many Visits in my Debt.
Ever since my Arrival I have been particularly cautious to avoid offending any Person of any Rank, and to endeavour to please all without becoming the Property or Sychophant of any— My disagreable Situation, was not unknown to him, but the Inferences he drew from it proved fallacious. I never find myself less disposed to Humility or improper Compliances than when Fortune frowns. I have uniformly been very civil, tho’ not confidential, towards the Marquis, nor has anything harsh ever passed between us— He is a Man of Business, abilities & Observation (and what is of much Importance here) of Money— He keeps the most, and indeed only hospitable House here, and persons of the first Rank and Fashion are found at his table. His Consequence at Court is unequal to his Desires, & I think to his Capacity of being useful— In a Word he has a good Share of Sagacity, ambition and Pride. I think it probable that we shall yet be on more familiar Terms, for tho’ I will never court, yet I shall with Pleasure cultivate his Acquaintance.
The Count De Montmorin continues very friendly, I believe him to be an Able Minister, and well attached [to] our Cause— You will find herewith enclosed a Letter which I presume is for you— be pleased to seal & forward my Letter to Mr. Adams— Mrs. Jay desires me to make her Compliments to you— I am Dear Sir, with sincere Attachement & Esteem Your most obt. Servant.
(signed). John Jay
His Excelly. Dr. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 22 February 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Passy, Feb. 22. 1781
I received the Letter your Excellency did me the honour of writing to me the 15th Instant, respecting Bills presented to you for Acceptance, drawn by Congress in favour of N. Tracey for 10,000 £ Sterling, payable at 90 Days sight; and desiring to know if I can furnish Funds for the Payment.
I have lately made a fresh & strong Application for more Money. I have not yet received a positive Answer. I have, however, two of the Christian Graces, Faith and Hope: But my Faith is only that of which the Apostle speaks, the Evidence of Things not seen. For in Truth I do not see at present how so many Bills drawn at random on our Ministers in France, Spain and Holland, are to be paid; nor that any thing but omnipotent Necessity can excuse the Imprudence of it.— Yet I think the Bills drawn upon us by the Congress ought at all Risques to be accepted. I shall accordingly use my best Endeavours to procure Money for their honourable Discharge against they become due, if you should not in the mean time be provided; And if those Endeavours fail, I shall be ready to break, run away, or go to Prison with you, as it shall please God.
Sir George Grand has return’d to me the Remainder of the Book of Promesses, sign’d by us, which his House had not an Opportunity of issuing. Perhaps the late Change of Affairs in that Country may open a Way for them. If on consulting him you should be of that Opinion, I will send them to you.
Late Advices from Congress mention that Col. Laurens is coming over as Envoy extraordinary to this Court, & Col. Palfrey as Consul General. They may be expected every day.—
I send enclos’d an Extract of a Letter from Mr. Bradford, (relating to intercepted Bills) which may be of use if such should be presented to you.
With great Respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
His Excelly. John Adams, Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon, 22 [February] 1781
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce jeudi 22 a passy [February 22, 1781]
J’ignore les usages d’un autre monde mon cher papa; mais je sçais que dans notre civile europe, on ne se rend léttres et portraits que lorsque l’on veut rompre ensemble: un homme de votre connoissance, un homme que vous ne pouvés vous empêcher d’aimér; hier au soir á jetté par térre et foulée aux piéds une léttre d’une fémme; un jeune homme la ramassée et vouloit la lire, la dame l’a saisie et a rougie de dépit du peu de cas qu’on fais de ses épistres; la dame que je protége (pour raisons que vous concevrés bientost) m’a remis la léttre, que je vous envoye pour la faire parvenir a votre ami; (il est bon que vous sachiés qu’il est amériquain et a la réputation d’un homme galant) vous jugés combien cétte dame outragée d’une maniére si méprisante doit estre furieuse contre l’insurgent; il n’y a que vous au monde qui puissiés raccomodér la dame et le monsieur; si vous voulés venir prendre le thé ce soir, j’aurai soin de la faire avértir, ne manqués pas d’amener votre compatriote; adieu mon ami:/:

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / a Passy


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [Madame Brillon], [on or after 22 February 1781]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt

[on or after February 22, 1781]
J’ai reproché cet Ameriquain de sa Negligence,  ma chere Amie, & de son peu de soin des Lettres de la Dame; & voici ce qu’il m’a dit en sa Justification, & aussi en Recrimination. 1º. Qu’il n’a jamais reçu aucune Lettre de cette Dame, qui, s’il l’avoit fait imprimer dans le Mercure de France, ne feroit honneur à l’Ecrivaine, par l’Elegance du Stile, & par la Purété du Language & des Sentiments. Qu’en consequence, s’il avoit par malheur perdû une de ces Lettres, ce seroit une grande Perte pour lui, mais ne peut pas faire aucun tort à elle. Que neantmoins il les a toujours gardés comme ses Tresors, ne permettant pas que ses Amis même les plus intimes partageoient avec lui le plaisir de les voir. Pendant que la Dame a traité tout autrement les siennes; Elle en a donné des Copies, elle les a montré a tous ses Connoissances, même (terrible à dire!) a son Mari! Heureusement il est bon François; car s’il avoit été Espangnol, en voyant la derniere, qui parloit d’une Idée de gratter à la Fenétre de la Dame, il auroit couru tout de suite enfiler l’Ameriquain avec son Spada. Elle a dit, pour s’excuser, que son Mari lui a volé cette Lettre; mais comme il est galant homme, ce n’est guere croyable. Enfin l’Ameriquain disoit, que cette Dame est une Barbare & une Ingrate: qu’il a eu une jolie Passion pour elle il y a quatre ans; mais qu’elle a taché de tourner en Ridicule son Constance, par des Vaudevilles & Contes en Vers; & qu’elle a permis son petit jolie Amour, de s’emacier & de s’amaigrir à un tel point qu’il est devenu un parfait Squellette, & qu’on peut donner des Leçons d’Anatomie sur ses Os, sans ôter le Peau; il n’ayant eu pour tout Subsistance pendant quatorze cents jours & nuits, que des Souris, des Airs, & d’autre Musique composé des Sons qui sont faites d’Air; & l’Ameriquain croit fermement que si quelque bonne Nutriment & plus solide ne seroit donné au pauvre Enfant Mercredi au soir, on le trouvera Jeudi matin absolument roid mort. Vous pouvez dire tout ceci a cette Dame, & nous verrons si elle peut se justifier.
  Nôta bene, Les Souris sus-mentionnées, ne sont pas les petites bonnes bêtes du même nom, qui sont quelquefois bien gras; mais certaines mouvements passageresdu Visage, qui sont très superficielles.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Silas Deane, 22 February 1781
From: Deane, Silas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir
Paris 22d. Feby. 1781
The situation of public Affairs you must recollect was such, at the Time when the Revenge Cutter was fitted out at Dunkerque, that every transaction was kept as secret as possible, and covered under other Names, than of those really concerned, by which it is impossible for me, or perhaps for any one, (as Capt. Cunningham is dead) to declare positively on the Facts alledged in the Memorial of the Seamen, who complain of having being injured by him, but I will take the Liberty of giving the History of that Transaction as it was reported to me, by Mr. Hodge, & by Capt. Cunningham.— You will remember sir, that one object in purchasing & equipping the Cutter at Dunkerque, was to send Capt. Cunningham & his Men back to America, in a state to defend themselves on their passage, & to make reprisals on the Enemy if occasion presented, but France being then at Peace with England, it was promised that the Cutter should make the best of her way off the Coast of Europe, and should not attempt any thing, on the Coast of France, or England that might give offence to the latter, and cause fresh Difficulties— Mr. Carmichael & Mr Hodge went to Dunkerque to execute this Commission and finding that the American Sailors imprisoned with Capt. Cunningham, were not sufficient to man the Cutter properly, they engaged a Number in addition to them, among whom these Petitioners were probably included.— They gave Capt. Cunningham the orders which they had been directed to give, pursuant to our engagements that the Cutter should not cruise this Coast, & on their return to Paris gave an Accot. of what they had done, but never mentioned, their having sent any Seamen out, without paying them their advance Wages; nor does it appear probable that they either could, or would have done so. The Orders of Capt. Cunningham were known only to himself and his Lieutenants, the Seamen supposed that they were bound on a Cruize & were to make Prizes on the English whereever they could, without exception; and consequently when they found their Capt. avoid the English Merchantmen the first Day, they became uneasy, & in a short Time so mutinous that the Capt. was forced to make reprizals for fear of worse consequences, and he took advantage of the first He made, to put those Seamen on board, which He had engaged at Dunkerque, that he might free himself of the trouble they gave him, but he did not give Orders for the Prizes to be carried into France, but to America, (as Capt. Cunningham assur’d me in Phila.) immediately after his parting from the Prize, in which he had put them, the Prisoners left on board, contrived to get the Sailors drunk, & then rose on them and carried the Vessel into England, where, on finding that the Sailors were from Dunkerque, & that they had sailed with Capt. Cunningham equipped from that Port, it gave great Alarm and on Complaints made to the Court of France Mr. Hodge was imprisoned.— Ct. Cunningham judging it unsafe, to proceed to America, with his Crew lessen’d in number, went for Spain, he took several Prizes, but to what amount I never knew, though from the Necessity he was under of disposing of them privately, and to a disadvantage, I do not imagine the proceeds were any way considerable.— He finally returned to America, where the Cutter was sold, was refitted for Sea under his Command; he had the misfortune soon after to be taken, & is since Dead.— Though I cannot pretend to answer personally for this History of this affair, yet it is the substance of what I learned from Mr. Hodge & Capt. Cunningham, & many circumstances give it a great degree of Credit with me— Ct. Cunninghams putting Twenty Men on board a Prize, of inconsiderable Value, & their being made Prisoners, & carried into England, by the People left on board the Prize, give me Reason to believe, that the above state of Facts respecting the Conduct of those Sailors, is a just one.—
I have the honor to be with the most sincere Attachment & Respect Dear sir Your most Obedt. & Very humle. servt
Silas Deane

Addressed: His Excelly. / Benja Franklin Esqr


Title: William Temple Franklin to Jonathan Williams, Jr., 22 February 1781
From: Franklin, William Temple
To: Williams, Jonathan Jr.

Dear Jonathan,
Passy 22d. Feby. 1781.
My Grandfather recd. your letter of the 14 Inst. inclosing one for the Minister. He had already solicited a Convoy & recd. for Answer that the Ship as soon as she was loaded, should go to Brest: whence she might profit of the Protection of the Ships of War going to America. Mr. Chaumont has I believe already wrote to his Captain to that effect.— As to the Order you desire for the Commadant of the Port giving you his assistance in getting the Ship away, My Grandfather does not think such a One necessary knowing M. Thevenard to be our good Friend, & willing to render us every Service in his Power. So that upon the whole He has not sent your letter.— The Authority you desire from my Grandfather, to engage American seamen, He does not think himself authoris’d to give you; and does not conceive why you meddle in that Business: It appearing to him, wholly to depend on M. De Chaumont; who is to Man the Vessel in such a Manner as to carry her to America; without which, the Freight will not be due.
A propos of America Seamen, my Grandfather requests you will inform yourself, and acquaint him therewith; whether it is true that Mr. Ct. had paid Wages, advance to several American Sailors at Bordeaux who after receiving them, ran away without fulfilling their Agreement. If it is so, What was the Cause? Mr. Ct. says 36 have treated him in that manner, and often hints it to us. We wish to be assured of the fact.— Perhaps what he calls Americans, were Irish, or Scotch.— You are requested likewise when at L’Orient, to have weigh’d with great exactness one of the 18 Pound Cannon, furnish’d by Mr. Bondfield: Send us up the weight properly attested.
I perceive in my hurry in writing to you on the 20th. I made a considerable Fault. Viz. I said “that you would send me shortly out of the Country instead of him.”— I now return you that poor Fellows Certificates, together with a Copy of the Marquis de Castries Note to my Grandfather. I most sincerely lament your being obliged to seperate from your old play fellow & faithful Servant.
I beg the Favour of you to enquire of Messieurs Gourlade & Moylan whether they ever sent to America the Bust, I sent to them long ago, for that purpose: if they have not, pray see it shipt yourself on board some Vessel bound to Philada.
Young le Veillard set off Yesterday Morng. for Dreux, whence he takes the Diligence for L’Orient. I need not recommend him to your Friendship. He is already acquainted with you & anything from me in his Favr. would be useless.
Adieu &ca.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ferdinand Grand, 23 February 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand

Sir,
Passy, Feb. 23. 1781
Mr Digges has not sent me any Account of his Disbursements, on which his Drafts ought to be founded, tho’ I long since desired it of him; and I have this day heard something that makes me doubtful. I therefore desire, that if you have not already paid the Bills mentioned in these his inclosed Letters, that you would stop Payment till farther Order. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
Mr. Grand.

The Bills are Jan 3.
  55£
}

20.
  65.£

30
  100£

in favour of H. Johnston


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon, [on or after 23 February 1781]
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[on or after February 23, 1781]
La dame a mille choses à répondre au monsieur, mais elle craint malgré la bonté de sa cause, qu’il ne garde sa prévention contre elle, leur oppinion étant absolument contraire; le monsieur, (grand phillosophe) suit la doctrine d’Anacréon et celle d’épicure; la dame est platoniciénne: l’un veut un amour gras, pottellé, un amour de chair et d’os; gasté choyé &c. La dame regarde ces méssieurs comme de petits esprits aériens, bien légérs, bien jolis, bien amusants par fois; mais elle tasche toujours d’émoussér leurs petites fléches, en leur laissant la libérté pleiniére de courir par monts et par vaux, d’attaquér tout ce qu’ils rencontrent: pour les tenir en cet état, il faut qu’elle se garde de les trop bien traitér; le monsieur se souviendra qu’elle est platoniciénne; et il sera peut estre assés juste pour convenir que si cette sécte n’est pas la plus gaye elle est un présérvatif assés commode a adoptér par le beau séxe; partant; la dame qui se trouve bien de platon conseille au monsieur d’engraissér son favori a d’autres cuisines qu’a la siénne, ou il trouvéra toujours un trop petit ordinaire pour son appétit glouton: la dame veut aussi se justifiér sur l’accusation, de montrér et de donnér des copies des léttres du monsieur: 1º elle n’a donné aucunes copies, sans la pérmission ecritte, ou au moins vérbale dudit monsieur; 2do la réputation du monsieur est téllement généralle, qu’un billét de lui, est chose interéssante pour tout le monde; la dame n’a pû accroistre la réputation du monsieur en montrant ses léttres parceque cette réputation n’est plus succéptible d’aucun accroissement; elle ne la pas diminuée non plus en laissant voir qu’il sçait alliér un badinage leger a des études et des vuës profondes; de qu’oi se plaint il donc. … áh— oui— de ce que son petit amour en séche; c’est la maigreur de l’enfant qui donne de l’humeur au monsieur et lui fait suposér des torts, a la fémme qui cependant a quelques petites différençes prés, l’aime autant qu’il veut éstre aimé; le monsieur a tort a ce qu’assure la dame, elle ajoutte qu’elle a raison; le monsieur dira, c’est moi qui ai raison, et la dame a tort; ainsi s’avançent la pluparts des théses et des proçés, plus on écrit et moins l’on se prouve réciproquement ses oppinions; au surplus la dame attend demain le monsieur a l’heure du thé, et lui jure pour toute la vie une amitié tendre et inviollable:

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / a Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Silas Deane, 23 February 1781
From: Deane, Silas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir
Paris 23d Feby 1781
I send You a few Letters which pray may be sent forward by Your express tomorrow Morning if You send, if not, pray to know how soon You will dispatch Your express, for if You put off for a Day, I shall improve the Time to write a Letter or Two more. I have the honor to be with the utmost respect Dr sir Your most Obedt. & Very huml. servt
S Deane

Addressed: His Excelly/ B Franklin Esq:
Notation: Deane Silas. Paris 23 Feb 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from A. Benoist Huquier, 26 February 1781
From: Huquier, A. Benoist
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Orleans ce 26 Fevrier 1781
Je viens de recevoir deux petites caisses Emballés que Mr. Grand de Paris ma fait parvenir, avec avis de les garder et d’en suivre vos ordres.
Je vous prie, en me les faisant passer, d’observer, qu’il est indispensable de me faire passer une Declaration de ce que ces deux Caisse renferment, et Eviter qu’elles ne soient arrestée dans quelque Doüane dans leur Route Par un deffault des formalités requise.
Je ne scait a qui je suis redevable de la satisfaction que me procure aujourdhuy cet occasion de vous servire; Seroisce que vous auriez Eu Connoissance, que Je fis L’an dernier dans ce tems une Envoie de Bas Blanc pour les troupes d’amerique De quelque maniere que ce puisse Etre Je ne suis pas moins penetré de la Bonté de votre Souvenir et Je ne cesseray de faire des veux Pour la conserver.
Je suis avec Respec Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
A Benoist Huquier

Notation: Benoist 26 Feby. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Félix Vicq d’Azyr, 28 February 1781
From: Vicq d’Azyr, Félix
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur.
28 fevrier 1781.
La société R de Médecine m’a Chargé de Vous adresser des Billets pour son assemblée publique, qui aura Lieu Le 6 mars prochain place du Louvre appartement de Mr Amelot. La Compagnie Vous prie instamment de Vouloir bien assister à Cette séance. Jusqu’ici elle a été assez heureuse pour jouir de Votre présence dans ses différentes assemblées publiques; Elle espère que Vous ne lui Refuserez pas la même faveur pour mardi prochain. Comme elle Vous Compte au nombre de ses membres elle se flatte que Vous Vous rendrez à son invitation et le public Vous Verra toujours avec le même plaisir assis parmi ses associés.
J’ai Lhonneur d’etre avec un profond respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et très Obeissant serviteur
Vicq D’AZYR
M. franklin

Notation: Vicq D’azir 28. Fevr. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 1 March 1781
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Lahaie 1er. Mars 1781.
L’incluse pour le Congrès étoit prete, Vendredi passé; & j’avois la plume à la main pour vous écrire un mot, lorsque Mr. Adams vint me faire visite. Nous allames le jour suivant, Samedi, à Leide. Il partit Dimanche pour s’en retourner à Amsterdam; & je revins ici avanthier. Rien de nouveau ici. On attend toujours le Courier de Petersbourg; & en attendant, il ne paroît pas qu’on se presse d’équiper une Flotte. Le peuple en est mécontent, murmure, & temoigne son déplaisir par des chansons & des satyres anonymes qu’il n’est pas bon de répéter, encore moins de confier au papier, tant elles sont injurieuses pour de grands personnages. Je verrai aujourd’hui ou demain d’en apprendre davantage; Je suis avec grand respect, Monsieur Votre très humble & très obeissant servit
Dumas

P.S. Mr. A—— vient d’ouvrir une Négociation pour un Emprunt de f. 1000,000 domicilié chez Mers. De Neufville & fils. Je souhaitte de tout mon coeur qu’il reussisse mieux que celui de l’an 1778.
La nouvelle de la mutinerie dans l’Armée continentale fait un mauvais effet ici, & releve les espérances des Anglomanes. J’ai grand besoin, pour fortifier nos amis, de quelque nouvelle favorable.
Passy à S. E. M. B. Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Simon-Pierre Fournier le jeune, 2 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Fournier, Simon-Pierre, le jeune

a Passy, ce 2e Mars 1781
En examinant les Matrices, Monsieur, je ne trouve pas celui du [p] dans le Mot capable de votre Epreuve. Il y manque aussi une longue s une longue j et le point, la virgule, et l’Apostrophe, &c. S’il vous voulez me les envoyer, vous m’obligerez. J’ai l’honneur d’etre
Mr Fournier, jeune


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Kéralio, 2 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Kéralio, Agathon Guynement, chevalier de

Dear Sir,
Passy, March 2. 1781
You have given me infinite Pleasure by the Good News you have sent me of our beloved Friend’s Recovery. I pray God there may be no Relapse. When you write, please to present mine & my Grandson’s affectionate Respects.
I am ever, with sincere Esteem & Attachment
Mr Keralio.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gourlade & Moylan, 2 March 1781
From: Gourlade & Moylan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honord Sir
L’Orient 2d. March 1781
The Custom-house Officers of this port have refused us their permit to load one hundred & ninty eight Cases of Musket Barrels (wch. were forwarded us by Mr. Schweighauser of Nantes) on the Marquis of Fayette, the exportation of all arms being prohibited for all Countrys, not under the immediate Government of this Kingom. Those Officers however, seeing the necessity we are under of compleating the loading of the Marquis of Fayette, with dispatch, have tacitly consented to the embarkation of the said Cases of musket Barrels, under our promise of your furnishing us the Ministers passport to cover them from censure, and by which, only, we can cancel our bond of Deposition.
We have already wrote Mr. J. Williams on this subject, but fearing any disapointmt we now take the liberty of mentioning it to you, and to pray you will procure for us the passpot demanded, as soon as you possibly can. We think it woud be right not to take any notice (in your application) of the indulgence granted us by the officers of the Customs.
The entire of the Continental goods will be loaded on board the Marquis of Fayette by the 10th. of this month, if we are not interrupted by bad weather, for your government.
We have the honor to be respectfully Honord Sir Your most obt hle. sts
Gourlade & Moylan

P.S. The ships Luzerne Cap: Bell & Anne Cap: Joshia [Josiah] will sail hence for philadelphia about the 20th. inst./.
The Honble. Doctor B. Franklin Esqr. &a. &a.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Benjamin Francklin / Ministre plénipotentiaire des Etats unis / de L’amérique / à Passy
Notation: Gourlade et Moylan 2. March 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Huntington, 2 March 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Philadelphia, March 2. 1781
You will receive herewith enclosed, the Copy of a Resolve of Congress of the 27th Ulto, expressing the high Sense that they entertain of the distinguished Bravery and military Conduct of Captain John Paul Jones.
Conformable to the enclosed Resolve, you will please to communicate to his most Christian Majesty, the high Satisfaction Congress have received from the Information of Mr de Sartine, that the Conduct & gallant Behavior of Captain Jones have merited the Attention of his most Christian Majesty, and that his Majesty’s Offer of adorning Captain Jones with the Cross of military Merit is highly acceptable to Congress—
I have the Honor to be, with very high Respect & Esteem sir Your most obedient & most humble Servant
Sam. Huntington President
The Honorable Benjamin Franklin Esqr(Duplicate)

Endorsed: Letter from President of Congress Mar. 2, 1781 Approbation of the Honour conferr’d on J.P. Jones—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François-Félix Nogaret, 2 March 1781
From: Nogaret, François-Félix
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sage et docte Excellence
A Versailles Le 2 Mars 1781
Il vous Serait impossible d’empêcher nos Rimeurs de vous celebrer du mieux qu’ils peuvent; nos dessinateurs de Saisir, tant bien que mal, vos traits au passage; nos graveurs de les multiplier; et tout le monde de se faire un plaisir de vous avoir encadré. Alexandre dut être obei quand il deffendit que Son portrait fut fait par un autre qu’Appelle, et que personne composât des vers à Sa Louange, à moins qu’ils ne fussent bons. Il etait Roi, et il voulait être Dieu. S’il avait été quelque chose de plus, il n’aurait pas réussi à lier les mains de tous les artistes, et à fermer toutes les bouches. La difference est grande entre un extravagant et un Sage. L’orgueil fait faire son apothéose par des peintres et par des ecrivains à gage: il n’est servi que par une troupe d’esclaves. L’obscurité plait au Sage: il veut vivre dans l’oubli. S’il n’obtient pas ce qu’il Souhaite, ce n’est pas qu’il manque de pouvoir, c’est qu’il en a trop: L’univers Se precipite à ses piès; il adore sa modestie. Son portrait repetté, prend sur la toile autant de formes qu’il en a dans tous les coeurs: tout le monde le chante, et jamais personne ne croit avoir tout dit. Les français sont reconnaissans. Que votre Excellence le Veuille ou non, elle Sera mille fois peinte et chantée par eux.
Un artiste S’est presenté chez moi ces Jours derniers. Cet homme a gravé le portrait de Votre Excellence, et il Se flatte, avec raison, d’en faire un grand debit. La tête a beaucoup de Verité. Cependant comme cette estampe represente Votre Excellence dans l’inaction, et que le tableau manque d’accessoires qui vous caracterisent, j’ai proposé au graveur d’ajouter une table, sur la quelle on verrait une machine electrique, des volumes &c. Cette idée a été adoptée. Maintenant il n’est plus question que de mettre un vers au bas du portrait: on veut que ce vers Soit français, et l’on m’en charge.
Les français, (votre Excellence le Scait) ont fait tous leurs efforts pour traduire ce vers latin où l’on vous rend justice en si peu de mots:
Eripuit caelo fulmen sceptrumque tyrannis.
Ils ont paru aussi jaloux de transporter cet eloge dans leur langue, qu’ils le sont de vous posseder. Cependant personne n’a reussi, et je crois qu’on ne reussira pas. Car de Ces deux vers, inserés comme des meilleurs dans l’Almanach des Muses de l’année derniere:
“Cet homme que tu vois, Sublime en tous les tems
derobe aux dieux la foudre et le Sceptre aux tyrans.”
Le premier est de trop, et Sert de preuve à ce que disait Voltaire au Roi de la Chine, par interrogat:

“Ton trône est-il soumis à cette loi si dure,
qui fait que de Six piés, d’une egale mesure,
de deux Alexandrins, côte à côte marchans,
l’un serve pour les rimes, et l’autre pour le Sens:
si bien que, sans rien craindre, en bravant cet usage,
on pourrait retrancher la moitié d’un ouvrage?”

Le Second vers du distique est passable. Il serait bon si au lieu de dérobe il y avait arrache. Mais ce Seul vers ne Suffit pas: Le Sens n’est pas plein. Il faudrait un nom ou un pronom; et ni l’un ni l’autre n’y peut entrer: autrement le vers n’y Serait plus.
Aurait-on a peu pres l’equivalent du Latin, Si l’on disait?
On l’a vu desarmer les tyrans et les Dieux.
Puisque le laconisme est nécessaire, voila ce que je proposerais au graveur. Les images du Sceptre et de la foudre disparaissent en apparence dans cette traduction; Mais je pense qu’elles n’echappent point aux yeux de la Reflexion. Desarmer jupiter, c’est lui ôter sa foudre, &c. J’ose donc croire qu’en disant de votre Excellence:
  On l’a vu désarmer les tyrans et les dieux:
je ne suis pas eloigné du texte.
Caelo dit beaucoup dans le Latin. Cieux ne le rendrait point. J’y supplée par des êtres. Je ne dis pas que la physique y gagne, mais la poésie n’y perd pas. Si j’ai tort, votre Excellence en decidera. D’apres sa condamnation je laisse mon graveur exercer le talent de tous ceux qui veulent absolument que, dans Paris, jusques sur les quays même, le passant le moins instruit, entende ce qu’on a dit, et ce qu’on a du dire de vous. Ne faites à personne un crime de cette démangeaison de vous louer. Ce n’est pas la faute des poëtes Si Votre Excellence l’emporte sur nos physiciens comme Sur nos politiques. On voudrait en vain se cacher des obligations qu’on partage avec toute l’Europe. Que votre Excellence permette à la reconnaissance de lui dire que ses Lumieres ont été plus loin que celles des plus grands hommes. Notre Academie des Sciences S’est empressée de vous avoir comme Newton au nombre de Ses associés, et S’honnore de voir sur Sa Liste, dirai-je le nom de Votre Excellence? Non, mais celui d’un phylosophe. Jouissés du plaisir qui vous est si bien du, d’être admiré, d’être aimé des français et de la Cour de france à tant de titres! Si la Reine Anne fit Newton chevalier; s’il plut à la cour du Roi George; si la Princesse de Galle, Sa digne admiratrice, disait souvent de lui, qu’elle s’estimait heureuse de vivre de Son tems: ces paroles dignes d’une Reine, votre Excellence ne doute pas qu’elles n’ayent été prononcées pour elle, plus d’une fois, par une Souveraine aussi distinguée, et qu’il serait difficile quelles sortissent d’une plus belle bouche.
Que votre Excellence dérobe tant qu’il lui plaira le feu du ciel, et qu’elle fasse gronder au loin des foudres qui l’imitent: le Jupiter d’homere n’existe plus pour les français: La Physique et le catéchisme ont chassé de l’olympe

ce vilain dieu de la vengeance
Si terrible aux pauvres humains,
qui, tonnant sur eux pour des riens,
tennait sans cesse dans la transe
tant de Grecs, et tant de Romains!

Le Roi d’Elide et le fils de Japet pourraient être assûrés de vivre dans Paris on ne peut pas plus tranquillement.

Ce fut le Sort de Promethée
d’être rongé par un vautour.
Enfin l’erreur est ecartée:
ces voleurs là sont bien en Cour.
Scavant, l’ignorance effrontée
en est la haine, et vous l’amour.
Siecle heureux! Siecle de lumiere!
Grace aux Buffon, grace aux Voltaire
un double jour nous luit enfin.
Plus d’un Boëce nous console
Sans craindre une tragique fin.
De maint auteur un peu payen
Le Livre brûle … il n’en sent rien.
Catherine éclaire le pole.
Le Pape, aujourd’hui, plus humain
ferait grace à Savonarole.
Le Noir Scaurait d’une parole
accorder Luther et Calvin.
On ne voit plus de Sot chretien
le fer en main pour des diphtongues.
Tout sermoneur a les dents longues
Et tout Vautour Se meurt de faim.
Applaudissons l’art de francklin,
et moquons nous de Salmonée.
Moquons nous, même de Jupin,

qui, voyant ce Roi baladin,
par une belle matinée,
dans son char, une torche en main,
Sur un pont faire un peu de train
dont la canaille est étonnée,
croit Sa Majesté détronée,
et le foudroye à mi-chemin.

Je dis à mi-chemin et j’ai raison. En effet il etait loin encore du moyen de tromper Ce Spectateur, seulement comme le font nos baladins des boulevards. Jupiter l’ecrasa, dit virgile. Nous Sommes plus heureux. Il faut croire que l’homme-machine qui met aujourd’hui le feu à une piece de vingt quatre aurait reussi, dans ces tems là, a partager les honneurs divins avec le fils de Saturne, et que votre Excellence l’aurait détrôné.
Un rien m’a menné loin. Je suis excusable puisque j’ai parlé le langage de votre Religion, la meilleure de toutes. Il est tems que je m’arrête, autrement je finirais par entretenir votre Excellence de bagatelles. N’osant pas lui en dire, peu s’en faut que je ne lui en envoye.
J’ai fait l’année derniere la critique du Poëme de Gay intitulé l’Eventail. Cette satyre me devenait nécéssaire pour faire valoir un petit poëme de ma façon sur le même Sujet. Je ne pouvais me dispenser de trouver des défauts à votre fabuliste; je n’aurais pas été français. Chez nous on ne S’y prend pas autrement: on critique ses voisins et même ses compatriotes. C’est Se louer tacitement: vous n’approuverés pas cette impertinence: quoi que M. de Buffon m’ait fait la grace de me mander qu’il avait souri à la lecture de mes contes, je crois avoir raison de ne pas vous faire mon present. Cependant si votre Excellence faisait quelques fois treve d’occupations serieuses, je me trouverais bien heureux d’occupper ses Loisirs; c’est à votre Excellence de m’enhardir.
Je la Supplie, en même tems, de me faire scavoir si elle approuve le vers que je viens de lui mettre sous les yeux, et qui doit être mis au bas de Son portrait.

Je Suis avec le plus profond respect de Votre Excellence Le très humble et très obeissant Serviteur
FELIX Nogaretdes Academies d’Angers etde Marseille à l’hôtel girardin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 3 March 1781
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 3 March 1781
As we are making up our Accounts to tranfer to New Ballance Inclosed I take the liberty to transmit you the State of my Account with your Excellency in which is incerted the advances I have made to sundry Americans for which I have taken their receipts others for which I find I have neglected I have left out as all we advanct was to prevent them from becoming objects of Publick Charity being all prisoners or people in equal distrest States. I flatter myself you will admit my claims for which I will transmit the Vouchers by first private hand if required. We are without later advises from the American States than the 28 December. There is here a Small ship intended for Boston will sail in about ten Days— With due respect I have the honor to be Sir Your very hhb Servant
John Bondfield

Notation: J Bondfield. Mars 3. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Fournier, 3 March 1781
From: Fournier, Simon-Pierre, le jeune
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris Le 3 mars 1781
J’ai Reçu L’honneur de La vôtre par laquelle vous me demandés Les p. L’s. et L’j Long. Je Croyois qu’il vous manquoit seulement Le p, Les point, virgule, et apostrophe, quand aux autres vous dévés Les avoir dans La frappe; Je vais m’occuper de vous Les faire faire, et j’irai vous Les Portez moi même Le premier d’avril; ne pouvant être fini auparavant attendu que depuis plusieurs jours Je me trouve très indisposé je vais faire éffort sur moi même pour vous satisfaire Selon vos desirs: vous assurant en attendant que je suis avec La Considération La plus distinguée, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur
FOURNIER LE JEUNE
M B Franklin. a Passy

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur B Franklin / A Passy
Notation: Fournier le Jeune 3. mars 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jane Mecom, 3 March 1781
From: Mecom, Jane
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Brother
Warwick march 3d 1781
You will forgive the Incorectnes of my Leter when I tell you I most comonly write on very short Notice of an opertunity as it happens now, General Greene’s Wife being hear offers to send it by a saif conveyance, & I gladly Embrace it, as I am Aprehencive but few of those I writ git saif to your hand; the last I wrot went from Provedence in a New Vesel owned by Friends there, charls Jenkens master, without Guns; & we had a rumer she was taken soon after she sailed but as it was some time ago & there has been no confermation we have some hopes of her Escape. I wrot a sheet full on Every thing concerning my self that I thought you would wish to know but have no Coppy & can now Recolect but litle of it & shall not have time to Repeet that Litle. I am grown quite Impatient to hear from you as it is now within two Days of a year since the Last Line I have recved from you was Dated.
I am still in tolarable Helth & Every way as comfortable Exepting that as I grow older I wish for more quiet & our Famely is more Incumbred we have had three children Born since I came & tho they give grat Pleasure in comon yet the Noise of them is some times troblesome, I have often heard you wish for liberty to Live more Retiered but it is what Nither of us have much grounds to hope for, I often contemplate the Happines it would afford me to have you settled in a Country Seat in New England & I have premition to Reside with you that we might End our Days to gather Retiered from all but a few choice wons that would give & Recive Mutual Injoyment & make us forgit any litle disagreable Incedents that would Unovoidably happen while we Remane in the boddy. I hope you hear oftner from your Children than I do or I know it must give you Pain for it is sildom I can hear any thing about them. I had a short Leter from my Neice Last summer which was the Last I have heard of any of them. I hope Benny Equels yr wishes, & that Temple is still with you, whose Example & precept I know he has good sense enough to Profitt by.
I must not omit to Inform you our youngest Child is a son & named Franklin a fine thriveing boy with an uncomon manly countanance & we hope with (as I sopose) all others that have named after you that he will Inherrit some of yr vertues, the Parents Desier there Duty to you & Joyn in wishing the continueance of yr Helth & Happines with your affectionat sister
Jane MECOM

Addressed: Doctr Franklin / in / Passy near Parris / France


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 6 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir
Passy March 6. 1781.
By perusing the enclosed Instructions to Col. Lawrence & myself, your Excellency will see the Necessity I am under of being importunate for an Answer to the Application lately made for Aids of Stores and Money.
As Vessels are about to depart for America, it is of the utmost Importance that the Congress should receive Advice by some of them, of what may or may not be expected. I therefore earnestly intreat your Excellency to communicate to me as soon as possible the necessary Informations.
With sincere & great Respect, I am Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant.
B Franklin
His Exy the Ct. De Vergennes.

Endorsed: M. de Reyneval.
Notation: Dans une conférence tenüe le 10. le ministre a annoncé à M. franklin que le Roi accordoit au Congrès, à titre de don, la Somme de 6. millions Tournois.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 6 March 1781
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond Sir
Nantes 6 March 1781
As the English News Writers have been endeavouring to hurt us by giving bad News, I think it my Duty to give you Copy of an Account contradicting their Publication which I received from L’Orient the 4th Inst & which I wish may give you as much Pleasure as it has me.
I am with much Respect Your ever Affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams J
I have forwarded this Account to Spain.Honble. Doctor Franklin

Addressed: a monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre plenipotentiaire / des Etats unis en son Hotel / a Passy prés Paris
Notation: J. Williams Mar 6 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comtesse de Golowkin, 7 March 1781
From: Golowkin, Wilhelmina von Mosheim, comtesse de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Mon cher Papa,
rue roÿalle butte St. Roch le 7 Mars. [1781]
Il y à des Siècles que je ne vous ai vû—je trouve ce tems bien long, parceque je vous aime, voilà le beau tems, ne viendrès vous pas un jour dejeuner avec moi? Mandès moi celui qui vous conviendras et croÿés que vous ne saurès me faire un plus grand plaisir. Adieu, mon cher Papa, je vous embrasse bien tendrement, et j’attendrai votre reponse avec impatiance puisqu’elle doit m’aprendre quand je vous verrai.
Je vous prie de dire milles choses à Monsieur votre petit fils de ma part; j’espere qu’il me fairas aussi l’honneur de déjeuner chez moi—

Addressed: à Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur Francklin / a Passy


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to ——— D’Aubenton, 8 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Aubenton, —— d’

Sir
Passy, March 8. 1781
I received the Letters you did me the honour of writing to me the 23d. of January last, and the 24th of February. Knowing nothing of the Affair which is the Subject of the Memoir your Letter enclos’d, I have taken occasion to make Enquiries of such Persons as arrived here from Philadelphia, but hitherto without receiving any Information, except that Mr John Benezet to whom the Sugars are said to have been consign’d, is actually on his Passage to France, having sail’d from Philadelphia the 27th of December last, so that if the Ship is safe he may be daily expected. As soon as I hear of his Arrival, I will acquaint you with it. And if he should be lost or taken, I will endeavour to obtain the Intelligence desired from Philadelphia. I have the honour to be, Sir,
M. Daubenton


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gérard de Rayneval, 8 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gérard de Rayneval, Joseph-Mathias

Sir,
Passy, March 8. 1781
I am honour’d with your Letter of this Day and shall accordingly take Care to be with M. le Comte de Vergennes before 10. o Clock on Saturday next. Be pleased to present my Respects to his Excellency, & belive me to be with perfect Esteem. Sir,
M. de Rayneval.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gourlade & Moylan, 8 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gourlade & Moylan

Gentn,
Passy, March 8. 1781
I received yours of the 2d. Instant, relating to a Passport for the 198 Cases of Musket Barrels. Inclos’d I send you what has already pass’d on the Subject of the same Parcel of Arms, which I apprehend will make any farther Application to Ministry unnecessary. I suppose too that Mr Williams may have in his Possession some Copy of the general Orders mentioned by M. le Marquis de Castries. Nevertheless, if your Officers desire a more particular Order or Authority, I have no doubt of procuring it. I have the honour to be Gentlemen—
Messrs Gourlade & Moylan


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Necker, 8 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Necker, Jacques

Sir
Passy, March 8. 1781
The Bearer, M. Macartney, a Merchant from America, of much Experience & Knowledge in the Commerce of that Country, and in great Esteem there for his Probity, is come to France with Views of extending & securing the Trade between the two Countries, on which Subject he is desirous of having an Audience of your Excellency. He had Letters of Introduction to you from M. de la Luzerne, but being taken by the English in his Passage, he has lost them. I beg leave therefore to present him to your Excellency, and to request that you would indulge him with a favourable Hearing. With the greatest Respect, I am, Your Excellency’s &c
Mr Necker


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Nogaret, 8 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Nogaret

Sir,
Passy, March 8, 1781.
I received the letter you have done me the honour of writing to me the 2d instant, wherein after overwhelming me with a flood of compliments, which I can never hope to merit, you request my opinion of your translation of a Latin Verse, that has been applied to me. If I were, which I really am not, sufficiently skilled in your excellent language to be a proper judge of its poesy, the supposition of my being the subject must restrain me from giving any opinion on that line, except that it ascribes too much to me, especially in what relates to the tyrant; the revolution having been the work of many able and brave men, wherein it is sufficient honour for me if I am allowed a small share.
I am much obliged by the favourable sentiments you are pleased to entertain of me; and I shall be glad to see your remarks on Gay’s Fan, as well as your own Poem on the same subject.
With Regard, I have the honour to be, Sir,
B. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jonathan Williams, Jr., 8 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Williams, Jonathan Jr.

Dear Jonathan,
Passy 8. Mar. 1781
Your Letter of the 1st. instant is now before me. When I consented to take the officers Cloathing on Publick Acct. it was on Condition that the Value should be regarded as Payment in Part of what M. De Chaumont owed me; this he willingly complied with when I spoke to him about it this morning, & has promised me that he will not negociate your Draft on me in his Favr. for 23810 l.t. 19.10. Your other Draft for 2159. l.t. 6.2. which you sent to Mr. Grand; he has presented, but I have returned it to him unaccepted informing him of my Reasons for so doing. The Amount of this last Draft you are to settle with M. de Chaumont in any Way you may judge Convenient: He only desires that if you draw on him for it, your Draft may be at a long Usance.
I expected that you would have been at L’Orient long since & Billy has wrote several Letters to you there, on the Subject of yours to me. They were directed for you at Messrs. Gourlade & Moylan’s.
Mr. Chaumont complains much of your not being at L’Orient, & thinks great Delay will be occasion’d by your Absence.

Messieurs Gourlade & Moylan write to me to procure an Order for the shipping of the arms. But as that has already be obtained & sent to Nantes, I request you would procure it & forward it to them.
(signed) B. Franklin.

P.S. I hear from America that M. Lee & Izard, are endeavouring to injure you all they can. You should therefore double your Diligence, and omit nothing in this affair that may give Satisfaction to Congress.
M. Jona. Williams.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gourlade & Moylan, 9 March 1781
From: Gourlade & Moylan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honord Sir
L’Orient 9th. March 1781
Besides the two Letters you will find herwith there are some larger packets to your address by the Brig Duke of Leinster from philadelphia we suppose them to be less important than those and mean to forward them by Colonel Laurence who arrived here this Evening in the Alliance Cap: Barry & who will set out tomorrow.
We have the honor to be sincerely Hond. Sir Your most obt hle sts
Gourlade & Moylan

Addressed: The Honorable / Doctor B. Franklin / American Ambassador at the Court of / Versailles / a Passÿ
Notation: Gourlade & Moylan L’orient 9 March 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Lovell, 9 March 1781
From: Lovell, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honble. SirMarch 9. 1781
I forward Gazettes Journals & some particular Resolves, by Way of Amsterdam.
The Arrival of the Ariel has given us Dispatches from you long expected—of June 1st. Aug 9. Decr. 2d & 3d.
Congress had, before the Receipt of your Letters Feb. 19th, written to Mr. Adams Jany. 10, and signified their Concurrence in Opinion with Ct. de Vergennes as to the Time & Circumstances of announceing his (Mr. A’s) Powers to Gr. Britain. They had also on Decr. 12th. expressed their Sentiments upon his Letter of June 26th. inclosing to them his Correspondence relative to the Act of the 18. of March for calling in the old Paper Money. I send you Extracts from the Journals for your further Information on those Points. And I shall forward, yet for a Time, all Acts of Congress intended for your Guidance whenever they are finished. But I most earnestly look for the Appointment of a Secretary for foreign Affairs, agreably to their Determinations of Janry. 10. Such an Officer may authoritatively communicate his Opinions, and in many Ways make your Station more easy & reputable to you than it can have been under great Want of Information of our Circumstances.
Your most humb Servant
James Lovell
Honble. Doctr. Franklin2plc:

Addressed: Honorable / Doctor Franklin / Minister plenipotentiary / of the United States of America / France
Endorsed: Mr Lovel with Copies of Resolves March 9 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Nesbitt, 9 March 1781
From: Nesbitt, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir!L’orient March 9th: 1781
I take the liberty to inclose your Excellency a Letter for Doctor Jno. Foulke, who I suppose is at Paris.— Am sorry to give you this trouble, but he has hitherto given me no other adress.—
Give me leave to Congratulate your Excellency on the safe arrival, this afternoon, of the Frigate Alliance, Colonel Lawrence is bearer of the Dispatches for you, & intends setting off tomorrow Morning.—
I have the honor to remain with great Respect.— Your Excellencys most Obedient humble Servant
Jonatn: NESBITT

Addressed: His Excellency—/ Benjn: Franklin Esqr / at / Passy
Notation: Nesbitt Jonathan 9 March 1781.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to James Cuming, 10 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Cuming, James

Sir,Passy, 10. Mar. 1781.
I rec’d. the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 2d. Inst: Accept my Thanks for your Care in forwarding the Packets and News papers; which are likewise come to hand. When you know of any Person coming to Paris; I beg you would send me the Journals of Congress for 1778, desiring much to see them.
I have the honour to be, sir, Your most obedt. humble Servant
Mr. Js. Cuming


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Barry, 10 March 1781
From: Barry, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,Isle of Groix off L’Orient March 10th. 1781.
I have the Honor to inform your Excellency of my safe arrival in this place, with Colonel Laurens who doth me the favour to be the bearer of this, and who can give you a particular Account of our Affairs in America,— with respect to the Alliance which I have the Honor to Command.— My Particular Orders is to wait here four or five weeks should there be any public Stores offered in that time, I am to take on board as much as Convenient and proceed with them to Philad. and to Convoy any Public Ship or Ships that may have Public Stores on board.— Should there be no Ships for me to Convoy and the Stores that I have on board, (if any) be of little Value, in that Case I am to proceed on a Cruize.— In all those Cases it is requisite for me to Clean and fit my Ship immediately for Sea therefore should be glad to Know who I am to Apply too here for what I shall want, as in all probability Mr. Palphray who was appointed Consul, and who I was Addressed to for Supplies, is either lost or taken.—
Be Assured Sir, the Ship Alliance is a fine Ship and the Honble. Continental Congress expects great things from her, but in some measure they are prevented from it by being obliged to Clean her bottom so often and I can assure your Excellency that it will Cost in this Place one third as much to Clean her as it will to Copper her and every time she is Cleaned in America it will Cost full as much besides the hauling Ships along side of Wharfs, the pilfering & Stealing out of them Amount to double the sum.—
I should be glad if your Excellency would weigh this matter seriously and if a Copper bottom can be obtained, it will be rendering the Continent a vast service and will much Oblige Your humble servant.
John Barry
His Excellency Doctor Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr. / Minister plenipotentiary at the Court / of Versailles / Paris
Endorsed: Capt Barry Alliance
Notation: Capt. Barry Mar. 10. 81


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Coffyn, 10 March 1781
From: Coffyn, Francis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond. SirDunkerque 10th. March 1781.
I receiv’d your Excellencys favour of 13th. inst. and am much obliged for what your Excellency is pleased to mention respecting M. Wharton. I have not yet received any letters from this Gentleman, nor from his Brothers at Philadelphia, tho’ I am informed that the greatest part of our Joint adventure, arrived there Safe; as it is now near three months Since the Ariel sail’d from L’orient, I hope we shall Soon hear of her arrival, and that M. Wharton immediately after his landing will have Sent me his promised remittances.
As only one of the men I relieved as mention’d in my last letter appear’d at Passi, I am apt to think that the three other ship’d on board Some privateer, if I can find them out, I will endeavour to recover the money I advanced them on your Excellencys account, as they must be able to bear their own expences, the privateers in general having had pretty good Success.
Your Excellency on the 4th. of august 1779. inform’d me that Sixteen French Sailors formerly belonging to Capn Connyngham, who had been exchanged as Americans, on their return from England had made an application to your Excellency to See them paid of Their wages and shares in prizes, and in consequence requested me by Said letter to assist these men in authenticating their demands, but as I had not the least notion of their engagement, nor any knowledge that they had been Ship’d with Capn. Connyngham, it was not in my power to procure the illucidation your Excellency required, however in order to assist your Excellency in your humane dispositions in favour of these people, I carry’d them before a notary publick and the Commissary of the navy to make their declaration under oath of the terms they ship’d with Capn. Connyngham, and paid the expences out of my own pockett. I had the honnor of forwarding this voucher to your Excellency by my letter of the 12th. of Said month and in answer thereto your Excellency was pleased to Express your apprehension that this document would have been insufficient, as it was a Simple declaration of the people themselves.
These men have since been fatiguing me by their dayly application and reproachs That I am detaining from them the money they pretend They are Justly intitled to, and they have carry’d their Extravange to that degree, as to prosecute me for the payment, which obliges me to the desagreable necessity of defending me in a court of Justice, I take the liberty to inclose a copy of a petition they have lately presented to the Judge of the admiralty by which your Excellency will observe, That from your Excellency applying to me to assist them in procuring a voucher to assertain their claims, they infer That I was the owner of Capn Connynghams vessell, and I am tol’d that they have made an application to the Marquis De Castries, minister for the marine department, to sollicit an order to compell me to pay their demands.
Tho’ I have nothing to fear from Such a ridiculous Step Yet it is very desagreable to be under the necessity of a Justiffication on a matter in which I have not the least concern, and which obliges me to request your Excellency to send me a letter which I may produce, Stating that I had no interest in the vessell in question, and that I only interfered in this business by your Excellency Express commands in order to procure a voucher which might enable your Excellency to See these people Justice done by the Gentlemen in America who had the management of the vessell; and it would be conferring an additional obligation on me, if your Excellency will be pleased occasionally to Speak to the Minister to the same effect.
I have the honour to remain with profound respect Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant
F. Coffyn

Notation: Coffyn frans. 10. March 1781.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gérard de Rayneval, 11 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gérard de Rayneval, Joseph-Mathias

Sir,Passy. March 11. 1781
I have examin’d the list of Supplies wanted in America which I received yesterday from you in order to mark as desired what may be most necessary to forward thither. As that list is of old date, & I do not know what parts of it may have been already procured by other Channels, and I understand by my Letters that a New List has been made out, which is given to Col. Laurens, and tho’ mentioned to be sent to me also is not yet come to my hands, I have thought that it may be well for the present to order making of a Quantity of Soldiers & Officers Cloathing equal to One Third Part of what is demanded from Page 31 to Page 42 inclusive, and to collect & get ready also one Third of the other Articles mentioned in the said Pages, which I have mark’d with a red line in the Margin, the whole to be sent by the first good Opportunity. I think it would be well also to send 5000 more good Fusils, with Fifty Tons of Lead, and 200,000 Flints for Fusils, If these could go with the Fleet it would be of great Service. More Powder I imagine is not necessary to be sent at present, as there goes in the Marquis de la Fayette the remainder of the 2000 Barrels granted last Year, and also 200 Tons of Saltpetre, which they will make into Powder. For the other Articles that may be wanted, as Col. Laurens will come fully instructed as well by the List given him, as from his own Observation & Experience in the Army, and from the Information he will receive from Genl. Washington with whom & the Marquis de la Fayette he was to consult before his Departure, I conceive it will be best to wait a little for his Arrival.—
I return the Lists. And having by some unaccountable accident mislaid & lost the Paper you gave me containing what Count de Vergennes said to me yesterday, I must beg the Favour of you to repeat it, & send it by the Bearer. I am ashamed to give you this Trouble, but I wish to be exact in what I am writing of it to Congress.
With the greatest Esteem I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most Obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
M. de Rayneval


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Searle, 11 March 1781
From: Searle, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris Sunday 11 March. 1781
Mr. Searle’s Compliments wait on Doctor Franklin & requests he will be so kind as to give directions for furnishing Mr. S, with the necessary papers or passport to leave Paris as Mr. Searle means to return to Amsterdam in a very few days. Mr. S, will have pleasure in receiving any commands the Doctor may have for the Country he is going to.

Addressed: Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiare des / Etats Unis d’Amerique / A / Passy
Notation: Searle 11. March 1781.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Samuel Huntington, 12 March[–12 April 1781]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Huntington, Samuel

Sir,Passy, March 12[–April 12] 1781.
I had the honour of receiving on the 13th. of last Month, Your Excellency’s Letter of the 1st. January, together with the Instructions of Nov. 28. and Decr. 27. a Copy of those to Col. Laurens, and the Letter to the King. I immediately drew a Memorial, enforcing as strongly as I could, the Requests that are contain’d in that Letter and directed by the Instructions; and I delivered the same with the Letter, which were both well received: But the Ministry being extreamly occupied with other weighty Affairs, and I obtaining for some time only general Answers, that some thing would be done for us, &c. and Mr. Laurens not arriving, I wrote again and press’d strongly for a Decision on the Subject, that I might be able to write explicitly by this Opportunity, what Aids the Congress were or were not to expect, the Regulation of their Operations for the Campaign depending on the Information I should be enabled to give. Upon this I received a Note appointing Saturday last for a Meeting with the Minister, which I attended punctually. He assured me of the King’s Goodwill to the United States, remarking however that being on the Spot I must be sensible of the Great Expence France was actually engaged in, and the Difficulty of providing for it; which render’d the Lending us 25,000,000 at present impracticable; but he informed me that the Letter from the Congress, and my Memorials, had been under his Majesty’s Consideration, and observed as to the Loans in general, that the Sum we wanted to borrow in Europe was large; and that the Depreciation of our Paper had hurt our Credit on this Side the Water, adding that the King could not possibly favour a Loan for us in his Dominions, because it would interfere with and be a Prejudice to those he was under a Necessity of obtaining himself, to support the War; but that, to give the States a signal Proof of his Friendship, his Majesty had resolv’d to grant them the Sum of Six Millions, not as a Loan, but as a Free Gift; this Sum, the Minister inform’d me was exclusive of the three Millions, which he had before obtain’d for me to pay the Congress Drafts for Interest &c. expected in the current Year. He added, that, as it was understood the Clothing &c. with which our Army had been heretofore supply’d from France, was often of bad Quality and dear, the Ministers would themselves take care of the Purchase of such Articles as should be immediately wanted; and send them over, and it was desired of me to look over the great Invoice that had been sent hither last Year, and mark out those Articles; that as to the Money remaining after such Purchases, it was to be drawn for by General Washington, upon M. de Harvelay Garde du Tresor Royal, and the Bills would be duly honoured; but it was desired they might be drawn gradually as the Money should be wanted, and as much time given for the Payment after Sight, as could be conveniently; that the Payment might be more easy.— I assur’d the Minister that the Congress would be very sensible of this Token of his Majesty’s continued Goodness towards the United States; but remark’d, that it was not the Usage with us for the General to draw, and proposed that it might be our Treasurer who should draw the Bills for the Remainder; but was told that it was his Majesty’s Order. And I afterwards understood from the Secretary of the Council, that as the Sum was intended for the Supply of the Army, and could not be so large as we had demanded, for general Occasions, it was thought best to put it into the General’s Hands, that it might not get into those of the different Boards or Committees who might think themselves under a Necessity of diverting it to other Purposes. There was no room to dispute on this Point, every Donor having the Right of qualifying his Gift with such Terms as he thinks proper. I took with me the Invoice, and having examined it, I return’d it immediately with a Letter of which a Copy is inclos’d, and I suppose its contents will be follow’d, unless Col. Laurens on his arrival should make any Changes.— I hope he & Col Palfrey are safe, tho’ as yet not heard of.
After the Discourse relating to the Aid was ended, the Minister proceeded to inform me, that the Courts of Petersburgh and Vienna had offer’d their Mediation; That the King had answered it would to him personally be agreable, but that he could not yet accept it, because he had Allies whose Concurrence was necessary. And that his Majesty desired I would acquaint the Congress with this Offer, and urge their sending such Instructions as they may think proper, to their Plenipotentiary, it being not doubted that they would readily accept the proposed Mediation, from their own Sense of its being both useful and necessary.— I mention’d that I did suppose M. Adams was already furnished with Instructions relating to any Treaty of Peace that might be proposed.—
I must now beg leave to say something relating to myself; a Subject with which I have not often troubled the Congress. I have pass’d my 75th. Year, and I find that the long & severe Fit of the Gout which I had the last Winter, has shaken me exceedingly, and I am yet far from having recovered the bodily Strength I before enjoy’d. I do not know that my mental Faculties are impair’d; perhaps I shall be the last to discover that; but I am sensible of great Diminution in my Activity; a Quality I think particularly necessary in your Minister for this Court. I am afraid therefore that your Affairs may some time or other suffer by my Defficiency. I find also that the Business is too heavy for me and too confining. The constant Attendance at home which is necessary for receiving and accepting your Bills of Exchange, (a Matter foreign to my ministerial Functions) to answer Letters and perform other Parts of my Employment, prevents my taking the Air and Exercise which my annual Journies formerly used to afford me, and which contributed much to the Preservation of my Health. There are many other little personal Attentions, which the Infirmities of Age render necessary to an old Man’s Comfort, even perhaps in some Degree to the Continuance of his Existence, and with which Business often interferes. I have been engag’d in publick Affairs, and enjoy’d public Confidence in some Shape or other, during the long Term of fifty Years, an Honour sufficient to satisfy any reasonable Ambition, and I have no other left, but that of Repose, which I hope the Congress will grant me, by sending some Person to supply my Place. At the same time, I beg they may be assur’d, that it is not any the least doubt of their Success in the glorious Cause, nor any Disgust received in their Service, that induces me to decline it, but purely and simply the Reasons above-mentioned. And as I cannot at present undergo the Fatigues of a Sea Voyage; the last having been almost too much for me, and would not again expose myself to the hazard of Capture and Imprisonment in this time of War; I purpose to remain here at Least till the Peace, perhaps it may be for the Remainder of my Life; and if any knowledge or Experience I have acquired here may be thought of use to my Successor, I shall freely communicate it, and assist him with any Influence I may be supposed to have or Counsel that may be desired of me.
I have one Request more to make which if I have serv’d the Congress to their Satisfaction I hope they will not refuse me. It is that they will be pleas’d to take under their Protection my Grandson Wm. Temple Franklin. I have educated him from his Infancy, & I brought him over with an Intention of placing him where he might be qualified for the Profession of the Law; but the constant Occasion I had for his Service as a private Secretary during the time of the Commissioners, and more extensively since their Departure, has induced me to keep him always with me; and indeed being continually disappointed of the Secretary Congress had at different Times intended me, it would have been impossible for me without this young Gentleman’s Assistance, to have gone thro’ the Business incumbent on me! He has thereby lost so much of the time necessary for Law Studies, that I think it rather advisable for him to continue, if it may be, in the Line of public foreign Affairs, for which he seems qualified by a Sagacity, & Judgment above his Years, great Diligence and Activity, exact Probity, a genteel Adress, a Facility in Speaking well the French Tongue, and all the Knowledge of Business to be obtain’d by a four Years constant Employment in the Secretary’s Office, where he may be said to have served a kind of Apprenticeship. After all the Allowance I am capable of making for the Partiality of a Parent to his Offspring, I cannot but think he may in time make a very able foreign Minister for the Congress, in whose Service his Fidelity may be rely’d on. But I do not at present propose him a such; for tho’ he is now of Age, a few Years more of Experience will not be amiss. In the mean time, if they shall think fit to employ him as a Secretary to their Minister at any European Court, I am persuaded they will have Reason to be satisfied with his Conduct, and I shall be thakful for his Appointment as a Favour to me.
My Accounts have been long ready for the Examination of some Person to be appointed for that Purpose. M. Johnson having declin’d it, and M. Dana residing at present at Paris, I requested him to undertake it, and to examine at the same time those of Mr. Dean; but he also declines it, as being unacquainted with Accounts. If no fresh Appointment has been made by Congress, I think of desiring M. Palfrey to perform that Service when he arrives, which I hope will be approv’d: for I am uneasy at the Delay.
With great Respect, I am, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin

April 12. I send herewith Copies of sundry Letters taken in a Packet from England. B F.
His Excelly. Samuel Huntington Esqr. President of Congress.

Notation: Letter from Doctr. Franklin Dated Passy March 12th 1781.— Read July 17th. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael, 12 March 1781
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,Madrid 12. March 1781.
Since writing a Letter which you will receive by the same Courier which brings this I am informed from good authority that Mr. Cumberland will shortly leave this & take Paris in his way to England— I shall inform you of the time he sets out or any other particular I may hear further with your Notice— He received an express yesterday morning from Lisbon which it seems occasions his Departure— a Vessel hath arrived from Philadelphia at Cadiz which left the Bay the 28th. of Jany. Neither Mr. Jay or myself have yet received any Letters by this Vessel, nor indeed any other News than the Landing of Arnold at Portsmouth in Virginia on the 5th of the abovementioned Month. I have seen an extract of a Letter from Philadelphia dated the 15. Jany. doth not even mention the Mutiny of the Pensylvania line— Therefore I hope it is not true that the Disafection hath been so considerable as represented by our Enemies. I have received lately several hints respecting Conferences or a Negociation being like to take place in Consequence of the Emperors offer of Mediation— I should not mention this if I had received the information from our Friends, but as it came from Persons in a Situation of being well informed, I take the Liberty of repeating it that if you are not in the Secret, if really such a thing is on the Carpet, you may prosecute the Enquiry.
I have the honor to be with great Respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient & most humble Servant
(signed). W. Carmichael.
His Excelly. Dr. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from M——— L———, 12 March 1781
From: L., M.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce 12. mars 1781.
Foible Traduction de ce Vers Sur M. francklin.

Eripuit cœlo fulmen et Sceptra tyrannis.
Quel problême il osa résoudre;
que ne lui doit pas l’univers!
aux cieux il arracha La foudre,
et le Scéptre aux tyrans des mers.

par M. L. Rüe de la marche


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Mumford, 13 March 1781
From: Mumford, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Worthy SirHartford 13th March 1781
I have Just recd. a Letter per Capt. Jones from my Son Gurdon in which he greatfully acknowledges your kindness in admitting him into your Famaly, at the Request of my particular friend Silas Dean Esqr.; this favour Lays me under the greatest Obligation which I acknowledge with True gratitude of Heart, I have wrote my worthy Friend Mr. Silas Dean Requesting his further favour & attention to my Son, & if mr Dean Judges it best for my Son to Remain in your office untill he Can fix him in a good Counting House, I Shall ever esteem it a double Obligation if you will permitt him to Continue with you; I have made a great Sacrifice of Interest in our Struggle for Independency and business much Interrupted prevents my providing for my Children as I wish, and a few years ago had a Right to Expect.

I am with Every Sense of Obligation your Honours most Obedent. & very Humle. Servt
David Mumford
The Honl Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: The Honble / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / att / Passy near paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Matthew Parke, 13 March 1781
From: Parke, Matthew
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excellency,L’Orient 13th. March 1781.
It is near eighteen months since the Serapis and Contess of Scarborough were taken by us, the Bonhomme Richard, Pallas & Vengeance and not a farthing of Prize money is yet paid.— I have this day in the Name of the Officers and Men of the Alliance that were in her when the above Prizes were taken under the Command of Peter Landais Esqr. waited on Monsieur Monplaiser from whom I could not understand anything to the purpose so as to give Satisfaction.—
A few hours after I waited on Monsieur La Grandville in Company with Mr Pool Captns Clk who understands some French, by his Assistance I was informed that he had in his possession two hundred & forty thousand Livres, it being the sum the serapis sold for, and paid into his hands. Monsr. La Grandville only waits for an order from your Excellency for the paymt. of said sum. The detention of said Prize money has been of very great detrimt. to the American Navy in America for which I appeal to John Barry Esqr. our Commander [torn: &?] Colo. Johonnot and the other Gentlemen Passengers that came in the ship.

Your Excellency must be sensible that near One third of the serapis and Countess of Scarborough, the last of which we have not heard any thing of yet belongs Solely to the Officers and Crew of the Alliance, agreeable to the Resolves of Congress of the United States.
They place the greatest Confidence in your Excellency as the Representative of the United States on this side the Atlantic that Justice will be done them in this respect.—
We have the pleasure to inform your Excellency that we are exceeding happy in our present Commander who is disposed to do every thing in his power for the Honor of the United States & his Officers & Men.
I have the honor to be wth. the greatest respect Your Excellency’s most obedt. & very humbl. Servt. at Command
M ParkIn behalf of the Officers of the Frigate Alliance

Addressed: His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr. / Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States / Passey near Paris
Notation: Parke in behalf of the Officers of the Alliance 13 Mar 81


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Jean-Baptiste?] Vandenyver, 13 March 1781
From: Vandenyver, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurParis ce 13 mars 1781
Je Vous Supplie de maccorder une audience le Jour et heure de votre commodité. C’est pour presenter a votre Excellence Le S. Cabarrus de Madrid qui est venu icy par les ordres de la Cour dEspagne pour des affaires qui ont des raports avec Lamerique Septentrionalle.
Jay Lhonneur detre avec Respect Monsieur Votre tres humble & tres Obeissant Serviteur
Vandenyver
Rue Royale bute St RochMonsieur franklin a Passy

Notation: Vandenyver Mars 13. 81


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Dumas, 14 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric

Dear Sir,Passy, March 14 1781
I have duly receiv’d your late Letters and thank you for the Intelligence they contain’d. Your three Letters to the President of Congress, will go by different Ships, and I hope you will succeed in your Application for a farther Allowance, which I think you merit. Tho’ I do not know what the Difficulties are which you mention, as being involv’d in them by the Congress. Please to explain them to me, that I may write about them more exactly. Your last News from Russia, is very good, if true, that the Indep[en]dence of America is to be a Fundamental Article.—
The Bearer, Mr Hazlehurst, is a Merchant of Philadelphia, who visits Holland with commercial Views.— He is a Gentleman of excellent Character and much esteem’d there. I recommend him warmly to your Civilities.—
Please to let me know how the Loan goes on, and believe me ever Your affectionate Friend & humble Servant
B Franklin
Mr. Dumas


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Geoffroy Chalut de Vérin, 16 March 1781
From: Vérin, Geoffroy Chalut de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

paris vendredi 16. mars. [1781]
M. de Chalut fermier General Compte sur Monsieur franklin et sur M. son petit fils pour le diner de demain samedi ainsi qu’il l’a promis aux deux abbés de Chalut et Arnoux qui assurent Monsieur franklin de leur attachement respectueux et qui font leurs sinceres Compliments à M. son petit fils.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Riou Kerhalec, 16 March 1781
From: Kerhalec, —— Riou
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Votre ExcellenceBrest le 16. mars 1781./.
Le Cape. du Brigantin le Gates nommé Joseph Newman, m’ayant recommandé de Vous adresser promptement ces Paquets, je le fais avec d’autant plus d’empressement qu’il me procure le plaisir de Vous faire ma Cour. Et de Vous assurer de la Vénération et du profond Respect avec lesquels je Suis, de Votre Excellence, Le très humble et très obeissant Serviteur.
Riou Kerhalec
à Son Excellence Le Docteur franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Vaughan, 16 March 1781
From: Vaughan, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dated on Board of the Prison Ship Lying at the Porte of Barkess In Roshford River March the 16 1781
Your Lordship I Hope will Excuse my freedom In Stating my Ill Entratment that I Receivd Sence my Last Arival I this Contr’y.
Sir I Ariv’d With a Ship Belonging to Rochell Commanded By Captain Dewmow and two Days aftor my arival I was taken To Serve the King In Which I Was Contented Providing I was well Pay’d But I Not Likeing the Encorigment I would Not Embark In the Servis of the King aftor which thy Discharg’d me from the Prison Shortley aftor my Clearance from the Prison the Above Mencioned Captain Dewmow and another Captain tiow which Demanded Of Me to Embark With him as his gonner and that he Would give me 40 Sowse Perday whilste the Ship was Loding and Provisions found Me On Board or that he Was to Pay for my Provisions on Shoar And aftor the Ship Was Loded I was to have 65 Livers Per month. But Contrarey to the Agreement that he mad with me he Neithor Gave me Provivions on Board Nor yet Did he Pay For my Provisions On Shoar and When Paying the Remainder Parte of the advance I Demanded the Money for my Provisions that I Dispursed But His answer Was that he would Not give me Eney Moar than 40 Souse Per Day and to find my Self With 60 Livers Per month, As A Seaman and that the Comisarey had Chose another goner In Which I Toweld him that I would not Take the Remainder Parte of the Advance Nor yet would I Saile with him Onless that he Would Stand to His firs Agreement In which he Said If you do Not Take this Money you Shall Be Conveid to Prison Derectley But Say he If you Return me my money tomorow you may go With Whome You Please aftor the Next morning I Applied To Another Captain that Commanded the Venus Belonging To Burdox In Which I Stated the Whole afair that Pased Between Captain Tiow In Which he Went With me and Presented the money that Captain Tiow advanced me But Captain Tiow Made answer and Sayd that he would not take 500 Livers and Parte me I twould him that I Nevar would Saile with him Onless that he Would Staind To the firs Agreement In Which he ordered me to Prison Whear I have Been In 3 Different Prisons this Ship Is the 3 and I have been 25 Days In Irons On Board of this ship Your Lordship I have Been Taken this Ware In A Prise Belonging to my Unkle Capt Mc.Cullach that Commanded the Ratell Snake of Philadelphia Ad Conveid to England Whear I Lodged 16 Months with Captn Johns[on?] and Captain Lee So No Moar from youar Humble Servant
James Vaughan

Addressed: To / The Right Honororabell / Lord Frankling Commander / In Chief of all The Continental / And American afairs In Europe / This With Care to the Sitty of Paris
Notation: J Vaughan James 16. March 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from J.F. Frin & Co., 17 March 1781
From: J.F. Frin & Co.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurParis 17 mars 1781.
Nous avons reçu hier une Lettre de nos amis d’amsterdam Mrs. Del. [Messieurs Daniel] Crommelin & fs. renfermant un avis que nous croyons devoir vous participer, nous le transcrivons Litteralement en joignant à la présente les deux Signatures de cette maison pour vous aider à reconnoitre Le faux S’il y en a.
“Nous sommes informés que nos amis de st. Eustache nous ont fait passer divers Effets sur Mrs Les Commissaires du Congrès par des navires hollandois qui ont eu le malheur d’être pris par les anglois, ainsi ces remises Seront tombées dans leurs mains & ils pouroient chercher à s’en faire payer Soit en rayant les endossemens qui Sont à notre ordre, soit en Substituant d’autres. Vous nous obligerez infiniment d’en prévenir M. francklin pour qu’il n’accepte ni ne paye aucun de ces effets où il pouroit découvrir que ce faux ait eu Lieu & pour qu’il puisse reconnoitre si notre signature auroit été contrefaite, nous joignons ici nos Sigtures. respectives que nous vous prions d’envoyer à ce Monsieur en l’assurant de nos respects. Nous avons dejà connoissance de douze de ces effets qui Sont tombé dans leurs mains Savoir 4 de 12 Dollars 3 de 36 do. 2 de 30 d. & 3 de 60 do. que nous croyons nous avoir été endossés par Mr. Mitchell & Gay, mais nous tâcherons de vous Le marquer plus précisement par nos suivantes.”
Nous avons l’honneur d’etre avec respect Monsieur Vos très humbles et obeissans Serviteurs
J. F. FRIN ET Compe.
M. Le Dteur. franklin./.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 17 March 1781
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond sirNantes March 17. 1781
I have received your much esteemed Favour of the 8 Inst in which you refer me to Mr de Chaumont for the Balance of the Officers Cloathing & I have drawn on him accordingly.— The Situation of Mrs Williams has been such that my absence would have perhaps been attended with Loss of her. I have however taken such Care of the Business at L’Orient that there has not been any delay. I can do no good ’till the ship is loaded as ’till then my Clerk does all as well as I could: I shall be there in a very few Days. I understand that the ship is to go to Brest if that is decided please to give me an Order for the Purpose as I should be liable to censure were I to send her thither without it. Mr de Chaumont I understand has directed the Captain to ask for a Bill on you for the Freight. I cannot give that ’till I have the Certificate of the Bordeaux Gauge which has never been sent me. Messr Jauge has indeed given me a Copy of it, but I do not think that sufficiently Authentic to support me in giving Bills according to the Charterparty, unless you direct me to do so. I have sent Messr Gourlade & Moylan all the Papers I had relative to the Affair of the arms.
I am not surprised that Messieurs L & I should endeavour to injure me they will probably think themselves successfull as I do not expect any Post under Congress having never solicited one & I assure you I never shall; I should be surprised indeed if they were to give me a good name & I should in such a Case say “What evil have I done that these Fellows should speak well of me.”
I am ever most dutifully & affectionately Yours
Jona Williams J
my next will be from L’orient.

Endorsed: Officers Clothing There has been no Delay on his Part at L’Orient
Notation: J. Williams. Mar 17. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Laurens, [on or after 18 March 1781]
From: Laurens, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

sunday. [on or after March 18, 1781]
Lt. Col. Laurens presents his respectful Compliments to Doctor Franklin, requests the favor of him to spare him a few sheets of large fine paper.

Addressed: His Excelly / Benjamin Franklin / Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis d’Ussieux, [before 19 March 1781]
From: Ussieux, Louis d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Vérité∴ Union∴ Force∴T∴ C∴ F∴[before March 19, 1781]
L∴R∴L∴ des Neuf Sœurs, Est convoquée pour le Lundi 19 du 1er. mois D∴ L∴ D∴ L∴ V∴ L∴ 5781. à onze heures précises. Les FF∴ DE Sauvigny, Dezedes & Morel prêteront le serment d’Affiliation. On fera la distribution des Jettons à midi un quart sonnant. Les FF∴ qui arriveront passé cette heure, n’y auront plus de droit. Cet article est de rigueur. Les Lectures par les FF∴ Cadet DE Veau, Guillaumot, Grouvel, Chevalier DE Cubieres & Marquis DE LA Salle commenceront à midi & demi. A deux heures précises le Concert; à trois le Banquet.
Vous êtes priés d’y venir augmenter les douceurs de l’union fraternelle.
Je suis par les N∴ C∴ D∴ V∴ M∴
V∴ T∴ H∴ & affectionné Frere
D’ussieux,2d Secrétaire D∴ L∴ R∴ L∴ Des Neuf-Sœurs.

Si vous ne pouvez pas assister au Banquet, vous en donnerez avis au Secrétaire deux jours avant l’Assemblée, sous peine de l’amende imposée par les Réglemens.

L’adresse ordinaire de la Loge est à M. de La Dixmerie, Maison de M. Valleyre, Imprimeur-Libraire, rue de la vieille Bouclerie.

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


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Barry, 19 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Barry, John

Sir,Passy, March 19. 1781
I received the honour of yours dated the 10th Instant. acquainting me with the Orders you had receiv’d relating to your Stay, Sailing. &c. I have none relating to your Ship, and therefore cannot take upon me to sheath her with Copper tho’ I think with you that it would be a good thing; nor can give any Directions for you to apply to any Person for Supplies of what you may want; but I suppose you naturally fall under the Care of Mr Schweighauser of Nantes in the Absence of Mr Palfrey, he being Agent. I have the honour to be,
Capt. Barry of the Alliance


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Schweighauser, 19 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

Sir,Passy, March 19. 1781
I received your esteemed Favour of the 15th. I have no Directions to give relative to the Sailing or Destination of the Brig Active, but wish to be inform’d when you think of dispatching her, as I may write by her.
No Orders nor even a Letter relating to the Ship Alliance are come to my hands; I therefore suppose she naturally falls under your Care as Agent, unless Mr Palfrey who is appointed Consul General, should arrive. But as he sail’d from Philada the 27th of December, I begin to fear he may be taken or lost. I have written repeatedly to Congress of my Unwillingness to be concern’d in maritime Affairs, of which I am so ignorant, & which involve me in so many Disputes; and I have resolv’d to meddle no more with them, except in Compliance with positive Orders; which not having receiv’d in this Case, I shall give no Directions nor pay any Expences the Alliance may occasion, of which I think it right to give you this Notice. If you disburse any thing upon her, there is no doubt but, the Admiralty will pay punctually, your reasonable & just Accounts. With much Esteem, I have the honour to be, Sir,
Mr Schweighauser


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georges-Louis Le Rouge, [before 20 March 1781]
From: Le Rouge, Georges-Louis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[before March 20, 1781]
Voicy les deux Carolines et la georgie. On reprendra toujours ce que Mr. franklin refusera.
Le Rouge restera toujours redevable quand même il en enveroit encore 10 fois autant.
Il apprend avec grande satisfaction la Convalescence de Mr le Dr franklin.
Il est avec respect le tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Le Rouge
Le porteur est Temoin comme Je travaille a la Carte de Hutchins.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur le / Docteur Franklin
Notation: Le Rouge


Title: Franklin: Two Memos Given to John Laurens, [c. 20 March 1781]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

  [c. March 20, 1780]
  N° 1 Given to Col Laurence

Not having yet received the Accounts of the Cloathing &c. Ship’d in the Marquis de la Fayette, I cannot be exact with regard to it; but I believe there are compleat Habits ready made for at least 10,000 common Soldiers; consisting of Coats, Wastecoats, Breeches, Shirts, Stockings, Shoes, Overhalls &c. and that there is Cloth sufficient for 10,000 more, Soldiers and Officers. There is also the greatest part of 2,000 Barrels of Gunpowder, & of 15,000 small Arms which were receiv’d new and good out of the Kings magazine, a small part only being already sent in the Alliance & Ariel. There is also 200 Tons of Saltpetre; and 28 Iron Cannon of 24 lb. Shot. There is also all the remainder of our Magazine of old Arms, consisting of Gun Barrels, Locks and Rammers. The Quantity very considerable, but I cannot at present give it exactly. All the above belongs to the Public.—
I hear there will also go in the same Ship, which could not be fill’d by our Goods, a large Quantity of Cloathing on private Account, but of this I know nothing certain.—

N° 2 given to Col. Laurens
Note of Arms &c. shipt to America

Barrels

In the Mars, Capt. Samson 78 Chests of Rampart Muskets Barrels containing each 90 Barrels—in all
7200

Locks

In ditto, 63 Hogsheads of Gun-Locks, each containing 550 Locks, in all
  34,350

There will go in the Active 1 Chest more containing 90 Barrels and 14 Hogsheads contg. in all 7700 Locks,
  7700

Locks
42,050

In the Marquis de la Fayette 200 Tons Saltpetre which will make 250 Tons Gunpowder or 5000 Barrels of 100 wt. each. 131 Cases containing 4472 best Muskets out of the King’s Stores, being the Remainder of 15,000, obtained last Year, the rest being sent by the Alliance & Ariel
2 Cases containing Bayonets, Scabboards & Flints.
At the same was obtained 2,000 Barrels of Gunpowder, of which a Part went in those two Ships, and the Remainder is in the Marquis de la Fayette.
There is also in the Marquis de la Fayette 48 Cases more of Gun Barrells, not said of what Sort, but good, nor what Number, suppose 4 or 5,000.
Also in the same Ship Cloathing made up for 10 or 12000 Men; I cannot be certain of the Quantity not having yet seen the Account, but expect it in a few Days. There is also, in the same Ship, Cloth for Soldiers Clothes sufficent as I have heard to make the whole amount to 20,000. There is as much Cloth & Trimmings for Officer’s Clothing as cost about 28,000 Livres, and there are 56 Bales of Blanketting.