Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Barclay, 6 January 1782
From: Barclay, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam 6th. Jany. 1782
Since I had the honour of addressing your Excellency the 24th. of last month I have received 333 Packages of Cloathing, and 130 of Tin, from the warehouses of Mess: Van Arp & Co. and there are ready for delivery in Mess: De Neufvilles stores 42 packages, which I am told Compleat the whole of the supplies left here by Mr. Gillan. Those that I have in possession are in very bad order, and must be repack’d, part of them, so much damaged that it will be in Vain to forward them, but this will not, I hope, amount to much Value. When I get them into shipping order, I purpose Transporting them to France in Neutral Bottoms; and I hope from thence to be Able, with your Assistance, to get them taken forward with safety. There appeard to me no other probable way of Conducting the business with success, they may lye here long enough without the prospect of Convoy and the Expence after they Come into my hands, will not, I hope be great, considering the Value of the goods; I flatter my self therefore that my proceedings will have the honour of your Excellencys Approbation. I shall be much obliged to you for the Invoice which Mess: De Neufville furnish’d you with as it will be Very usefull to me— Mr. De Neufville wishes that I shou’d mention the part he has acted since I Came to Amsterdam, and therefore I hope you will excuse my detaining you a Moment on that subject— After having been delay’d, and I thought trifled with a good deal, I applied to Mr. Van Arp himself, and I own I was surprized at his Obstinacy, and at the little appearance of Confidence which he seemd to put in Mr. De Neufville, in short the more I examind the Matter the less I blamed this last gentleman, this Justice is due to him, at the same time I thought it proper to put the goods in a Train intirely independent of him, as so many Objections had Already Arisen on the side of the Owners of the Vessells of which he was one.
I have the honour to be Very Respectfully— Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obed Servant
Thos Barclay
His Excellency Doctor Franklin, Passy

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqre. / at / Passy near / Paris
Notation: Thos. Barclay Jany 6. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Nicolas Desmarest, 6 January 1782
From: Desmarest, Nicolas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Although this is the only letter that survives between Franklin and his fellow academician Nicolas Desmarest, the two men must have spent hours discussing a topic of mutual fascination: the technology of papermaking. Franklin attended a meeting of the Academy of Sciences on December 19, 1781, at which writing paper manufactured at the newly-renovated Montgolfier paper mills at Vidalon, in Annonay, was evaluated by commissioners Tillet and Lalande. The report was overwhelmingly positive, and the man responsible for the innovations was praised. That man was Desmarest.
Desmarest began studying the papermaking trade in 1763 when, as an inspector of manufactures in Limoges, he was asked to evaluate a number of mills. As a result of these investigations, he requested permission to visit the mills in Holland that were producing paper generally considered superior to the French. Desmarest conducted this tour in 1768 and learned two important things. First, the Dutch system of shredding clean rags by “Holland cylinders,” or “hollanders,” produced finer pulp than the French method of putrifying rags and then crushing them with gigantic mechanical pestles. Second, the Dutch method of échange, by which the wet sheets were pressed multiple times, after having been rearranged at random each time, accounted for the paper’s smoother, hard finish.
Once elected to the Academy, Desmarest made two reports on papermaking (1771 and 1774). The second of these, published in 1778, called for a complete reorganization of the French industry and proposed that a model manufactory be established that could implement new technologies and systems, and serve as a center for general inspection and experimentation. In 1779, he visited the four mills in Annonay (two of which were owned by the Montgolfier family, and two by their rivals, the Johannots) and convinced Etienne Montgolfier to transform one of his mills into a model manufactory. The Flemish emigré Ecrevisse agreed to serve as foreman, to train the workers and oversee construction. Desmarest wrote a proposal to the states of Languedoc promising that the mill would be fully operational within eighteen months if the states would lend financial support. The states approved his plan in January, 1780.
By the end of 1781, the renovated Montgolfier mill, using holland cylinders and the échange method, had produced enough paper for the Academy of Sciences to commission an evaluation. Their report, as mentioned above, was read at the December meeting. The paper was judged to be superior to anything heretofore produced in France: its composition was more even, its finish smoother, and its white color pleasing. The Montgolfiers, the commissioners concluded, had produced a paper that could rival anything manufactured in Holland, and M. Desmarest was to be particularly commended for his zeal.
Franklin was eager to purchase a supply of the new paper. Even before receiving this answer from Desmarest, explaining the difficulties in finding stock from Parisian stationers, he had written to the Montgolfier mill directly. That letter is missing, but their answer is below, [before January 28].

Monsieur
ce 6. Janvier 1782
Quelques recherches que jaie faites il ne m’a pas Ete possible de trouver le papier d’annonay chez aucun de nos papetiers. Je Scais cependant qu’il En a Ete fait des Envois considerables ici: mais je Soupconne que dans ces premiers moments Comme ils peuvent vendre ce papier Sous Le nom de papier de Hollande et au meme prix Ils nont pas juge a propos de me faire connoitre quils avoient recu de ce papier. Je me propose d’aller a la Source des Envois pour Satisfaire a vos desirs Et remplir toutes vos vues a ce Sujet: on ma meme promis de men adresser directement une certaine quantité de Rames dont je pourrai disposer Et jaurai le Soin de vous en instruire.
Jay Lhonneur detre avec Respect monsieur votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
Desmarest

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur franklin ministre / Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis / d’amerique / a Passy.
Notation: Demarest 6. Jan. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Didelot, 6 January 1782
From: Didelot, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris le 6. Janvier 1782.
Sachant que votre Excélence est curieuse des nouvelles découvertes, J’ai l’honneur de vous prévenir que je viens d’en faire une, ainsy que j’ai eu celui de lui dire vendredy dr. chez Mr. de la Blanchery. Après une 20ne. d’années de recherches et d’epreuves Tacites et Succéssives qui me paroit d’autant plus interessante qu’elle est l’antidote puissant de toutes les matieres combustibles et particulierement du Goudron dont le feu Seroit le plus opiniatre. Je me Suis Surtout attaché à cette derniere comme la plus essentielle, pour la conservation des Marins et de la Marine.
Les diférentes Epreuves que j’ai faites publiquement m’ont merité les Sufrages des amateurs des Sciences et même des Marins.
Si votre Excélence Juge à propos ainsi que Je l’ose espérer que j’aille faire une Epreuve Sous Ses yeux d’une Liqueur que Je Compose en conséquence Je m’estimerai dautant plus heureux que personne ne peut porter un Jugement plus Sain qu’elle Sur une découverte qu’on me croit digne d’etre Soumise à Ses vastes et Sublimes Lumieres, et de l’attention du Gouvernement. En consequence Je vous Suplie donc, Monsieur, de me fair donner votre Jour et votre heure ainsy qu’a l’endroit qu’il vous plaira de me faire indiquer ou je me transporterai avec tout le Zèle possible.
Ce même Jour J’ai Lhonneur de proposer la même Epreuve à Mgr. le Comte Destaing. Je Serois comblé à tous égards Si vous daigniés vous entendre en conséquence avec ce Seigneur pour être egalement Spectateur de la même Epreuve.
Je Suis avec un très profond respect Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur
Didelota Lhôtel de BrunswickRuë des Prouvaires.
M. franquelin Ministre de L’Amérique

Notation: Didelot 6. Janvier 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Johann Valentin Embser, 6 January 1782
From: Embser, Johann Valentin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
aux Deuxponts ce 6 Janvier 1782.
Ce n’est pas au Vengeur de l’Amérique, ni au Ministre d’un Peuple, qui a osé défendre si glorieusement aux yeux de l’univers etonné les droits sacrés de l’humanité, que j’addresse cette Lettre; c’est à l’illustre Savant, qui étant à la tête de la République des Lettres depuis long-tems a encore su servir de flambeau à un nouvel Hémisphère dont Il a créé & le Moral & le Civil.
Votre Excellence permettra, que je Lui fasse part d’un Etablissement, qui depuis son origine a réuni tous les suffrages.
Nous avons entrepris, de publier successivement par souscription la Collection complette des anciens auteurs romains, format, caractère & papier les mêmes.
De cette Collection il a paru successivement 24 volumes, de sorte qu’au bout de 3 ou 4 ans elle pourra être finie, une imprimerie particuliere ayant été établie pour cet effet.
En même tems nous avons commencé à publier une Elite des auteurs Grecs, le même format, avec la traduction latine, dont le premier & le second volumes ont paru, & qui contiennent les deux prémiers tomes de Platon.
Je n’ignore pas, que les troubles de l’Amérique, qui soutient le choc d’un puissant peuple, jaloux de sa grandeur & son lustre, empêchent cette nation, à se livrer aujourd’hui aux douceurs des Muses. Mais peut-être la paix n’est pas éloignée, & alors je suis persuadé que l’Amérique jouira de nouveau de son génie tutelaire & de son créateur spirituel, assuré que Votre Excellence achevera l’heureuse révolution qu’Elle a commencé. Philadelphie se rejouira à l’ombre de la paix de son libérateur & de son Précepteur, pour se livrer à loisir aux arts de la paix.
Mais que dis-je? Peut-être Votre Excellence par Son génie profond trouvera au milieu des flâmes de la guerre l’expédient, d’élever une jeunesse florissante aux arts & aux sciences, qui dans tous les siecles ont mené les peuples à la grandeur. Peut-être Elle tâche deja de lui en procurer les moyens pendant ces tems orageux.
Dans l’espérance, que Votre Excellence agrééra notre institut je La préviens, que nous nous engageons de délivrer à Paris, le volume Latin broché à 40 sols, & le volume grec à 4 Livres.
Rien ne sera pour nous si glorieux, que de pouvoir plaire à l’Illustre Franklin, & de pouvoir tant soit peu contribuer à la gloire d’un monde naissant, qui secoue les chaines & des prejugés & de l’esclavage du notre.
Peut-être Vôtre Excellence goutera une proposition faite par une société de Savans tout-à-fait désintéressés, & qui depuis long-tems se sont dévoués entierement aux intérêts de la jeunesse, & qu’Elle daignera la prendre en considération.
Etant persuadé, qu’Elle ne se trouvera pas offensée d’une lettre uniquement écrite pour rendre hommage à Ses mérites immortels j’ai l’honneur d’être avec le plus profond respect de Votre Excellence le très humble & très obéissant Serviteur
Embser
Professeur au College illustre

Notations in different hands: Ansd. / Embser, aux deux Ponts 6. Janr. 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Hodgson, 7 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hodgson, William

Dear Sir,
Passy, Jany. 7. 1782.
I received your Favour of the 21st. past, in which you acquaint me that the Money is almost expended. I have therefore this Day ordered 150 £ more into your hands thro’ Mr. Grand. I send you also enclosed a little Bill of Ten Guineas, for which I advanced the Money to a Mr. Wyld, who was recommended to me as an honest Man, by Mr. Clegg, on whom it is drawn. You will give me Credit for it when received. I shall answer the other Parts of your Letter per Post, having but a few Minutes to write by this Opportunity. I am with the greatest Esteem. Dear Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant &c—
Mr. Wm. Hodgson.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris, 7 January 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
Office of Finance 7th. January 1782
This Letter is to go by the French Frigate Hermione. Mr. le Comte de la Touche Captain of that Frigate is now here and will go in a Day or two to the Head of Elk where his Ship lies and sail thence for France stopping in his Way down the Chesapeak to receive the Dispatches of the Comte de Rochambeau.
This fair Opportunity induces me to send Duplicates of my several Letters of the twenty seventh November third December and fourth December last as well as to add in this to what is contained in them. I have not since they were written received a single Line from you nor indeed have we heard any thing here from the Court so that we remain in Uncertainty as to our pecuniary Dependence. And this is the more distressing as the Time rapidly approaches when I must draw Bills either with or without advise from you and therefore I must pray you to prepare for them if I should be compelled to do it with this Assurance nevertheless that as my Drafts will be delayed to the last Moment so they will be as moderate as I can contrive to make them.
I enclose to you Copies of my Letters of the third Instant to the different States on the Impost Law which as you will perceive has not been agreed to by Massachusetts Rhode Island and Maryland. The States of South Carolina and Georgia were not called upon but I have transmitted the requisition to them now that they are in a Situation to pass Laws by the meeting of their Legislatures which has by this Time taken Place.
I also enclose you a Plan for adjusting the public Accounts which I have laid before Congress in Consequence of their Order upon that Subject. It has not yet been adopted because there are now present so few members that it is with Difficulty they can get thro their Business, the Confederation requiring seven States to agree on most Questions. Whether this Plan will be adopted I really do not know but I incline to think that in Substance it will. I send it for your Information and you will observe that it proceeds upon Principles already laid before Congress altho from Circumstances I have found it useful in some Degree to vary the Form. Among those Circumstances you will Count as one the superior Cheapness both as to Time and Money which attends the Transaction of Business by one Man in Preference of three. As also the greater Simplicity in bringing all the Expence until the first of this Month into one general Account. Let me observe to you Sir that the very many different ways of doing Business which have been adopted subject us to great Difficulties and the Republic must of Necessity be put to considerable and unnecessary Expence to do Justice and to satisfy Demands which if not well founded are at least too specious to neglect the Clamors which arise from leaving them unsettled. But I will not enter into a Detail of Circumstances which as inseperable Attendants of a great Revolution you must be well apprized of.
In Consequence of the Power vested in me by the Act of Congress of the second of November and in Order to facilitate the Payment of Taxes in the States of North and South Carolina and Georgia which States by the Operations of the War have been greatly deprived of the Means, I devised a Plan which will need no other Explanation than what is contained in the enclosed Copies of my Letters on the Subject to the Governors of those States and to General Greene commanding the Army in that Quarter. Whether this Plan will take Effect I know not, nor whether if it does take Effect it will produce the beneficial Consequences I wish for; but I am not without Hopes and Time alone can discover whether they are well founded. This at least is certain that those States cannot pay in Coin as they have not Coin to pay. I send it [so] you may see we neglect no Opportunity of calling forth the Resources of this Country: and that when we ask Help it is not because we are unwilling to help ourselves.

After my Dispatches by the Alliance had been sent away & when it was too late to write to you by her the Minister of France informed me that in Consequence of my Letter to him he had written to his Court praying that the Cargo of the Ship Marquis de la fayette might not be replaced. Your Excellency will perceive by my Letters to you that I had taken my Arrangements in Subordination to those which I presumed to have been taken by the Court and therefore having expected from the Chevalier de la Luzernes Letters that the Fayette’s Cargo would be replaced I have built upon that and shall expect that it will be done. I must pray you therefore to explain the Matter to his Majesty’s Ministers in this clear Way.
That I would rather the Money had been deposited with Mr. Grand subject to my Order than invested by the Court in the Purchase of Arms Cloathing and Ammunition for the United States because I could then have taken Measures for the Disposition of that Money more advantageous to their Interest but as I found the Court were already engaged in replacing it I have formed all my other Plans upon the Supposition that it will be done and of Consequence shall expect it. It is for that Reason that I do not send you a List of the precise Articles we shall want and which would necessarily exclude many of those which were intended by the Fayette because I do not think it proper by any Means to countervail the Operations of the Court and thro them into Embarrassments as to past Transactions. In future our Requests will be simplified and the Instructions which may be given so clear as to prevent Misunderstanding.
And now Sir let me congratulate you on the Establishment of the Bank of the United States or according to the Stile of it the national Bank of America which opens and does Business this Day. I expect to derive great Advantage from it, and that the Commerce of this Country will lie under great Obligations to an Institution long wanted among us. Several of the shares are yet in the Hands of the Public so that if you chuse to become interested or any of your Friends it can be done without Difficulty.
I pray to hear from you as often and as particularly as your Convenience will admit and intreat you to believe that I am with the greatest Veneration and Respect Dear Sir your Excellency’s most obedient Servant
R M
His Excelly. Benja. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Price, 7 January 1782
From: Price, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Newington-Green Jany 7th: 1782
The Bearer of this is the Son of a widow (Mrs Curtauld) who belongs to my congregation at Hackney. He is going over to Am—ca not intending to return; and any notice that you may be so good as to take of him will be well bestowed and gratefully received.
I rejoyce heartily in the Security which an object which has been long a favourite one with me, Seems lately to have received; but wishing ardently for the liberty, happiness and independence of both countries, and indeed of every country under heaven, I lament that lust of power and tenaciousness of dominion which still influence the councils of this country, and Seem to threaten the continuance of a destructive and cruel war.
I heard with pleasure not long ago that you are well. May your usefulness be continued and as many year added to your life as are consistent with its happiness. Sir John Pringle is breaking fast, and not likely to live long— The Society of Whigs at the L——n Coff—— se continue the Same, and never meet without drinking your health— I can never forget the many happy hours wch: in better times we have Spent together. With all possible good wishes and the greatest regard and affection I am, my dear Friend, ever yours
R—— P.

If Dr B——— t is with you deliver my respects to him. I have heard with great concern of the death of Mr Turgott— Mr Lawrens was discharged last week, and yesterday went for Bath, his health having been much impaired by his confinemt and Sufferings.
In July last Hekingham Workhouse in Norfolk was fired and in danger of being destroy’d by lightening tho’ defended by eight pointed conductors each above half an inch in Diameter and continued without interruption to a drain— Mr Wilson triumphs in this fact and has carried it lately to his convert the King, and to the board of Ordnance; in consequence of which this board, apprehensive of danger to the magazine at Purfleet from the pointed conductors there, has again apply’d to the Royal Society for advice; and a Committee is just appointed by the Society to examine into the fact— The lightening did not appear to have enter’d at the points; but, avoiding them, struck into the building within a few yards of one of them.— A Similar event happen’d Some time ago at Purfleet.

These events have a tendency to discredit conductors; but Mr Wilson’s triumph Seems improper, because there is no reason for believing the Same or worse would not have happened had the conductors been blunt.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Coffyn, 8 January 1782
From: Coffyn, Francis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond. sir.
Dunkerque 8 Janry 1782.
I beg leave to refer to my last letter of 29. ultmo. covering Three receipts for £.696—[l.t.] I paid to Sundrys. Being since deprived of your Excellencys favours This cheafly serves to inform your Excellency That nine american Seamen having broke out of the prison at Deal, carry’d off a boat which was lying on the Beach, in which They got into Calais, & arrived here yesterday morning; Expecting to have found at this port a vessell bound to America, but as there is none at present, & the Captains of those which are going to Nantes or L’orient having refused to give them a passage thro’ fear of being examined by the English Cruizers; I have Supply’d them with 54 l.t. Each being £.486— (as appears by their inclosed receipt) to defray their Expences to Paris, for which place they Sett off this morning by the way of St omer. Which Sum with that I disburs’d as mention’d in my letter of 29 ultmo, being together £.1182.— I have this day taken the liberty to draw on your Excellency pble. 10 days after date to the order of Messrs Vandenyver Freres & Cie, which I request your Excellency will be pleased to honor.
I have the honor to remain with due respect Your Excellencys most obedient and most humble Servant
F. Coffyn

Notation: Coffyn 8. Jany. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Margaret Stewart, 8 January 1782
From: Stewart, Margaret
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
London 8 Janr 1782
I hope longe before this; You, have recd the Copy of my Brothers Work; & I make no doubt, but by your recomendation, it must be admired; it has met with little or no encouragment in this Country; Notwithstanding You took so much pains to recomend it in the year ’74; & I have been a great Sufferer by it; as I am no Stranger to Your benevolence; I hope You will give me Some assistance; as I have an expencive Law Suit carrying on, & am at Present very much distressed; the favor of Your answere as Soon as posible, will oblige Your most humble & devoted Servant
M Stewart

Please to direct for me at No 6 Cambridge Street near Golden Square

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Dr Franklin / a Passy pres de / Paris
Notation: M Stewart London 8. Janvr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Wilkinson, 8 January 1782
From: Wilkinson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
Brussels. Jany. 8e. 1782
Herewith you will receive Two Letter which I was requested to deliver to You from Two of Your Friends in England. But My Stay here being rather uncertain I determine to forward them directly. At my Arrival at Paris I shall do Myself the honour of waiting of on You. In the Mean time I am very respectfully Sir Your most humble & obedt Servt
William Wilkinson
Dr. Franklin A Paris

Notation: Wm. Wilkinson Jany 8th. 1782


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Robert Morris, 9 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Morris, Robert

Sir,
Passy, Jany. 9. 1782.
I have long feared that by our continually worring the Ministry here with successive afterclap Demands for more and more money, we should at length tire out their Patience. Bills are still coming in Quantities drawn on Mr. Jay, Mr. Laurens & Mr. Adams. Spain & Holland have afforded little toward Paying them; & Recourse has therefore been had to me. You will see by the enclosed Letter the Situation I am at length brought into. With the Million mentioned, I shall be able to pay till the End of February, when if I can get no more Money I must stop. I therefore give you this Notice, that Provision may be made in time for discharging the Protests with Honour. The Friendly Disposition towards us continues: But we should take Care not to impose too much upon friendship. Let us exert vigorously our own Strength. I see yet no Prospect of Peace this Summer. The Expence of the War to France itself is heavy; and we have had of her this last year more than Twenty Millions. I am ever, with greatest Esteem, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servt.
Honble. R. Morris Esqr. I. G. F.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert R. Livingston, 9 January 1782
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Philadelphia 9th. Jany 1782
Having written very largely to you by this conveyance, you are troubled with this merely to recommend (at the request of the Secretary at war) Capt De Segond to your notice & acquaintance. I have the honor to be sir with the highest Respect & esteem Your Excellencys Most Ob Hum: Servt
Robt R Livingston

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjn. Franklin Esq, / Versailles / favor of Capt De Segond
Endorsed: Rue de Grenelle près St. Honoré hotel Lusignan
Notation: Robt. R. Livingston Phila. 9. Jany. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 9 January 1782
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dearest sir,
Wanstead, Jany. 9, 1782.
You must forgive an old letter, which you will receive by this conveyance: but it contains things which I have not mentioned to you before, and shews my intentions; and therefore I send it in its present state.
I have three papers included along with it; one upon Fairy Rings, one upon the Inflammation of candles, and another upon the Riots at the time of the Protestant Petitions.— I am now about to publish with my name, a set of answers to systems connected with Atheism, in which I have tried to be a gentleman: I should not publish, did not I think almost the whole of it useful, as well as new; particularly with my name after the smarting I have had. It will be only a pamphlet.
I hope you received a letter by the post relative to Mr Laurens.— I sent the letter you inclosed, about the Pension, duly. But Mr. Laurens the younger going out of town, and Mr Manning being less in Mr Laurens the father’s councils than heretofore, I had no opportunity of being answered. I saw Mr: Laurens but once before he went to Bath, and then in a confused crowd. But you shall if possible have an answer by a week from this date.
I am glad to hear you confirm, what we had learnt in various ways from others, that John is much liked.— He will go next month, to the place of his destination; and I hope be equally liked there.— Another brother will follow, of as good stuff to the full, in about six or eight months: But after having learnt two trades, with particular views, he is going for about four months to finish his education under Dr. Pr-y [Priestley] at Birmingham; and about two months he will spend in Holland, and perhaps another or two at Nantes: He learns German.
I am myself about to become at least initiated into business, by attending to the conduct of a West India house, the most capital in London. If I like it, I may have a handsome sum for conducting a principal part of it; and upon a piece ¼ of the profits, and upon the death of the principal ½, without adding to the capital. It is a fine situation; but you know me too well, to think I am not acquainted with West India risques. Should I not like it, I shall at least improve my notions about commerce, which is the thing I now most want.— I have as much present income as is equivalent to a knight of the shire’s qualification & two thirds of a borough representative; but though I have an increase that is handsome stipulated at particular deceases, and no inconsiderable expectations above; yet the idea of a large family alarms me, and I fear West India security, on which I have no small stake depending.— A knowledge of trade will help to repair a shattered fortune, with industry.
Mr Courtauld, The bearer of this letter, brought me something formerly from Mr Williams, and therefore I commit this to his charge.— I know nothing of him, except that he is a friend of Mr Hill, (the close companion of good Mr Jeffries,) whom you are yourself acquainted with. From Mr Hill I learn that he has leave to use Dr. Price’s name.— I have refused every introduction of him to you, but this account, and the information that he is going over to America about some lands.— Whatever happens to him therefore he must owe to yourself & Dr. Price. He seems amiable in his looks however.
I have nothing to add but a repetition of my anxiety about your farther works. I pray you to think a little about them, my dearest sir, for the world’s sake.— In what you will soon have to read, you will have better proofs than words can give, that I have mind and temper that will necessarily be made to reverence your own. I need therefore no longer continue earnest to have you believe on my own credit, that I am, my dearest sir, your ever devoted, affectionate & obliged,
V ——n

Endorsed: London


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean de Neufville & fils, 10 January 1782
From: Neufville, Jean de, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excellency
Amsterdam 10th. Jany. 1782
That we express our Satisfaction at the punctuality wth. which you have honor’d those Acceptations that Concern’d us, though your Excellency will naturally suppose we must think it a Very agreable Circumstance to us Which we readily acknowledge, yet we beg leave to assure your Excellency that we rejoice at it as much from the Consideration that the Credit (both publick & private) of America who was in a great measure at Stake thereby Would at least have received a State here where it is only in its Infancy, and should not be check’d as we best know what labour as well as danger there is in rearing it to what it is. For last Summer by loading ourselves with more than a Million of Florins of its paper on which we Could not raise a Shilling And By the addition of unexpected demands and unlook’d for disappointments on the same Account we had well nigh Stretch’d the Cord so tight, as to endanger its breaking! But had it so happen’d none could have been prejudiced thereby, for in the Worst of Cases, we had remain’d ourselves Independ. men and least such an event (had it happen’d) Could have caused a moments unneasiness in the mind of those who had placed Confidence, we express’d no fears without giving assurances that no one could have any to apprehend from its Consequence. What we said on the occasion could not admit of a doubt, and we should Suppose could not be misunderstood, or misrepresented even by persons who have no Commercial Knowledge, for all men we Imagine must understand so much of it as to know that though a House of Bussiness should be worth a Million Sterling, it might be in the same predicament under Certain Circumstances and on particular Occasions from the sudden Want of 5 or £10,000 Only and particularly in this Country. But past experience will teach us not to expose ourselves to the like danger in future: But although we had so much reason to fear the return of your Excelly’s Acceptations Which so far exceeded the abovementioned Sums, yet the Warning we had of it, prepared us to guard against what other ways might have been of the greatest danger to the Credit of our House, although it has put us to the Inconvenience of discounting a pretty large sum for the purpos of being prepared at all events, as we could not obtain the Satisfation here of knowing whether they should be paid or not, nor the Justice of having Confirm’d to your Excellency those Circumstances we wrote you, that no doubt might remain with your Excellency of what you were to do about it. However that Inconveniency was but a trifling evil Compar’d to that we should have felt in reimbursing Such a large Sum under the uncertainty we should have been in, of the time we should have been under the Necessity of bearing that burden; We Cannot therefore but be thankful that your Excellcy. should have not thought fit to impose it on us even had it been only for a day. And though the past will make us Cautious to avoid the like treatment we have met with our attachment to America will warant its being of no prejudice on our part. Could it even be more evident that others were to be favour’d by every Step that Could mark to the World our Exclusion from the favors & Confidence of America or its Ministers! We should only say as on former Occasions that it would give us more pain on Account of the Injury the American Interest could receive thereby than on our own as it must damp if not Startle those who are only entering in the Cause; and if we are thought to be no longer of Consequence, it may check the Zeal of those who are still of less, and deter more powerful friends perhaps to the same Cause; (though none more Zealous) from declaring themselves as openly in defiance of every danger! If as much existed now. But otherways we are Satisfied to forego those advantages others may sue for without any Claims! Conscious we yeild to none in Integrity or Attachment, and that but few can Claim here a greater Solidity (If that was made a Question) or in the respectful Regard with Which we have the honor to be, Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servt.
John DE Neufville & Son

P.S. We inform’d The Honble. Mr. Thos. Barclay Since the delivery of the Goods In Messrs Van Harp & Co’s. Warehouse, that those few which remd. [remained] in ours of the Continl. ones were also at his disposal, and of Course we Shall follow his orders therewith
  His Excellency Dr. B. Franklin Minister Plenipo: at the Court of Versailles

Endorsed: Neufville


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 11 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Passy, Jan. 11. 1782
Your Excellency will see by the within the Situation I am in, & will thence judge how far it may be proper for you to accept farther Drafts on Mr Laurens, with any Expectation of my enabling you to pay them, when I have not only no Promise of more Money, but an absolute Promise that I shall have no more.— I shall use my Endeavours however, but am not sure of Succeeding, as we seem to have done what I long fear’d we should do, tir’d out our Friends by our endless Demands to pay Drafts unexpected and boundless.— With the Million mentioned I can continue paying to the End of February, & then, if I get no more, must shut up Shop. I have the honour to be, with great Respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
His Excelly. J. Adams Esqr

Endorsed: Dr Franklin 11. Jan. 1782 ansd 25.— inclosed is a Letter from M. Le Cte. De Vergennes.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 11 January 1782
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond: Sir,
Philadelphia January 11th. 1782—
I did myself this pleasure a few days ago per the Frigate Hermione from the Cheasapeake; It was just to let you know that we were well— Having answered your Letter of the 13th Sepr. (which is the last we have from you) by two different conveyances, I have at present nothing very material to communicate, save that we enjoy good health & are happy— We have innoculated little Debby, & she has got thro’ the small pox very favorably— You will herewith receive the Dutch & English Newspapers— The Apples I could not get on board either of these Vessels, should another Conveyance soon present, I will endeavor to send them— Our Winter hitherto has been very open, Our Navigation has scarcely been interrupted— With Sally & the Children’s joint Love & Duty I remain ever Dear & Hond. Sir Your affectionate Son
Richd Bache
Dr. Franklin

I have received Bill Lading for 2 small Boxes Tea shiped by Mr. Nesbitt of LOrient on board the Hope Frazier, but she is unfortunately carried into Newyork. R B.

Addressed: His Excellency / Dr. Franklin
Notation: Rich. Bache Philadelphia— Jany. 11. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from J. J. Bérard & Cie., 11 January 1782
From: J.J. Bérard & Cie.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
L’orient le 11 Janvier 1782.
Le Capitaine américain John Angus auquel nous avons donné le commandement du Brig L’Antonia de 120 Tonneaux que nous avons armé icy pour Compte de Messieurs La Caze & Mallet de Philadelphie a eu lhonneur de Supplier Votre Excellence, de vouloir bien lui faire expédier une commission en guerre pour ce Bâtiment, en offrant pour la caution nécessaire Mr. Simon Berard Consul Général de Sa Majesté Le Roy de Suede. Ce Navire destiné à partir le quinze de ce mois, est chargé d’une Cargaison très riche tant pour comptes de Mrs. La Caze & Mallet de Philadelphie que pour celui de plusieurs maisons américaines auquel le rétard de l’expedition de ce Navire ne peut qu’apporter un dommage très considérable.
Nous avons écrit à Monsieur Simon Berard de faire auprès de Vôtre Excellence la soumission nécessaire pour la caution usitée; & en conséquence Le Capitaine Angus espéroit ne point tarder à recevoir sa commission: Nous ne pouvons croire que le Délay qu’elle éprouve puisse être l’effet d’inculpations, sur la proprieté de ce bâtiment, auprès de vôtre Excellence, quoiqu’on nous l’ait insinué. Si cela étoit ainsi, Elle auroit eu la bonté de demander au Capitaine Angus les détails nécessaires pour obtenir ladite commission, & n’auroit pas exposé les Interêts des maisons américaines, propriétaires du Batiment ou de la Cargaison, à être la victime de simples soupçons dictés par une Jalousie mal entendüe.
Nous osons supplier humblement, Votre Excellence, de vouloir bien faire expédier la commission en guerre & marchandises pour le Brig L’antonia, armé de six canons de 6. lbs & vingt hommes. Mrs. La Caze & Mallet sont établis depuis quatre ans à Philadelphie. Ils y ont fait un commerce étendu, & jouïssent depuis longtems des avantages & du pavillon accordés aux Citoyens d’Amérique; & nous osons espérer que Vôtre Excellence, voudra bien les en faire jouïr de même en Europe où ils cherchent à étendre le commerce de vôtre nation.
Le Navire L’antonia n’attend pour partir que sa commission, & pour éviter tout delay, nous prenons la liberté d’écrire nous mêmes à Vôtre Excellence, pour lui offrir de donner icy à la personne qu’elle voudra bien désigner, toutes les garanties qu’elle éxigera de la part de vôtre Excellence en nous remettant cette commission. Nous osons attendre d’elle cette grace, vû l’importance du plus petit retard que peut éprouver un Batiment prêt à partir, & la prions de croire que nous en aurons une très vive reconnoissance.

Nous sommes avec un profond Respect Monseigneur Vos très humbles & très obeïssants serviteurs
J. J. Berard & Comp
S. Exc. Mgr. Benjamin Francklin Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de L’amerique. à Passy

Notation: Berard & Co. L’orient 11. Janver. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 11 January 1782
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir,
Madrid 11 Jany 1781. [i.e., 1782]
The last Letter I had the Pleasure of writing to you was dated the 31 Ult. and referred to a former one of the 21 november last in which I stated my Difficulties on Acct. of the Bills, the Improbability of my obtaining any Relief here, & consequently the necessity I was under of again recurring to your Interposition to save them from protest. I have not as yet been favored with your Answer. I can readily conceive that this Affair has added not a little to your Embarrassments and therefore I lament, not complain of, the Delay— I borrowed from Mr. Cabarrus about thirty thousand Dollars. He is not perfectly easy, and I have no prospect of borrowing more from him or others, at least without Assurances of speedy Repaymt., wh. I am not in Capacity to give. The Court indeed owes me on their old promise of one hundred and fifty thousand Dollars, a Ballance of abt. 25,615 Dollars— but I have no Reason to rely on receiving it soon, if at all.— I also begin severely to feel the Want of my back Salary. It is vain for me to expect it from America, and unless you can supply it, it will be necessary for me immediately to disencumber myself of most of my Expences, & confine myself to mere necessaries, until a Change may take place for the better. This Circumstance conspires with those of a more public nature to make me very sollicitous to know what you can or cannot do for me.
As to the Affairs of the Negotiations they have not advanced since Majr. Franks left me. The Minister is too sick or too busy to attend to american Affairs. He refers me to Mr Del Campo who has been named for the purpose, and when I apply to him he tells me that his Instructions are not yet compleated, and that he cannot tell when they will be—
I am Dr Sir with perfect Regard & Esteem your obliged & obt Servt.
His Exy Dr FranklinTo Dr Franklin 11 Jany 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Nesbitt, 11 January 1782
From: Nesbitt, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir!
L’Orient Janry: 11th: 1782
I had the honor to write you a few days past relative to Captn Bell & take the liberty once more to beg your Excellencys attention to what I requested in his favor.—
Mr. Berard, a very Considerable Merchant in this place, who has frequently done business for Gentlemen in America, has this Evening inform’d me, that he found some difficulty in procuring a Commission for Captain Angus. From the best information I can procure the Vessell he is to command is the property of Messrs: Le Caze & Mallet who have been nearly four years Residents of the City of Philadelphia & who have several Vessells, their Property, at present under American Colours. Captn. Angus is a Man that has on all occasions behaved with the utmost bravery & good Conduct, and in my oppinion deserves well of his Country. Besides there is a very Considerable property on board, Shipped for Accot: of some of the most Considerable Merchants in Philadelphia, who will be great sufferers unless your Excellency will be pleas’d to grant Capt Angus’ request.— I have the honor to remain with great respect— Your Excellencys most Obed. & very humble Servt:
Jonatn: Nesbitt
The Honble: B Franklin Esqr—

Notation: J. Nesbitt L’orient 11. Janvier 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Caroline Edes, 12 January 1782
From: Edes, Caroline
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Versailles, January the 12th: [1782]
I take the liberty to send you the inclosed which I have just received from Mr Bridgen and am with great Respect, Sir, Your most Obedient Servant
Caroline Edes.

Addressed: Benjamin Franklin, Esq:
Notation: Caroline Edes Jany 12. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Rice et al., 12 January 1782
From: Rice, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Plimouth Ce 12 jer. 1782(?)./.
Depuis un l’aps de tems Considérable nous sommes détenus dans la prison de Plimouth. Il est étonnant que L’on ne fasse pas plus de Cas de nous que si nous ne nous étions pas Comporté avec toute la fermeté qu’exigent notre état dans cette occurence; nous n’avons pas d’espoir d’etre échangé avant longtems et il est a craindre en conséquence de ce Que nos matelots ne sagagent [s’engagent] au service des anglais, Les officiers, même dont la misere est proportionnelle, pourroient bien, pour sortir d’esclavage Se sacriffier et prendre du service, Les anglais venant tous Les jours dans la prison, Les solliciter à sengager avec eu et leur représenter Leur affreuse misere, nous Sommes tous obligés de nous quotiser pour donner a nos matelots Ce qu’ils ont besoin et La pluspart N’ont n’y chemise n’y Souliers nos moyens étant absorbés par Le nombre de malheureux que nous sollicitons et la plupart d’entre nous ayant été pillés et ne possedant que ce qu’ils avoient Le jour de Leur Combat.
Comme La frégatte Lalliance à fait 9 prises et qu’il en est arrivé sept a bon port il y auroit assé de prisonniers dans ses prises pour en echanger au moins les deux tiers. Nous Vous prions, Monsieur, de nous faire donner notre échange au plutot Car sans Célérité Vous perdrés tout votre monde ou par La misere ou par Ce qu’ils prendront partit dans Les Vaisseaux anglais. Nous nous Croyons obligé tous de vous faire part de ce qui Ce passe à Ce sujet et nous esperons que vous Voudrés bien y avoir Egard. Nous sommes à bout, de Leur promettre Leur Elargissement. Ils nous disent que Leur patrie Les traite en Criminels et ne Leur Rend pas Ce qu’ils ont fait pour elle. Les rigueurs de la saison Leur rend encore Leur état plus Cruëlle et nous ne sçavons plus quels moyens mettre en usage pour les faire temporiser. Nous remettons Entre vos mains notre Espoir et nous le Regardons Comme bien fondé. / .
Nous avons l’honneur detre avec un profond Respet Monsieur, Votre très humbles et tres Obeissans serviteurs,
Saml. RiceStepn. GREGORYRobt. D. CROW

Notation: Stephen Gregory 12 Jany. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benyowzky, 13 January 1782
From: Benyowski, Maurice-Auguste, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Excellence,
a Passy le 13 Janr 1782.
Me voila parti. J’y va m’emploier entierement pour meriter votre estime, et justifier votre Bonne Opinion, Je La recomende encore ma Famille, et J’ose la prier de vouloir etendre Son amitié Sur toute ma Famille.
J’ai l’honeur detre avec Respect De Votre Excellence le tres humble & trés Obeissant Serviteur
Le Comte DE Benyowzky

Notation: Le Comte de Beniousky Jany 13. 1782


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— de Bargum, 14 January 1782
From: Bargum, —— de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
 Quinperlaÿ [Quimperlé] Le 14me Janvier 1782./ .
Permettez moi d’implorer Votre Protection pour sortir de la cruelle position ou le Sort, acharné a me poursuivre me reduit j’ai pour la reclamer Monseigneur les titre que je vais avoir l’honneur de vous detailler le plus Brievement possible dans la crainte d’abuser de Votre complaisance je Suis ce jeune Danois qui En 1777. eut l’honneur de vous etre recommandé Par Mr. Le Comte de St. germain avec Mr. Le Lnt. Colonel de Knoblaug pour obtenir du service a l’Amerique cet Offer. par terre et moi par Mer aÿant Eu Egard a la recommandation pretieuce de ce Ministre Pourteur de vos ordres nous nous rendimes a Nantes recommandes et addressés a Mers. Penet Dacosta Frer et Compe. et ausi des lettres de recommandation pour Mr. Lee Offer. General et Mr. Adams manbre du congrés. Je partis de Nantes seur le Vau. Les deux amis, Capite. frois. Reÿer, cape. en secon Mr. [guerido?] Cape. Americain Mr. Tomson [jeune?] auquel je Suis resté. de puis de retour a Paris il y a 2 an et demi j’eus l’honneur de vous etre presenté diferentes fois etant a travailler dans les affaires du Congres chez Mr. Lee etant depuis retourné a l’Amerique ayant été fait prisonnier l’année derniere sur L’Alliance commande par Mr. Le Cape. Tieler je me suis evadé d’angleterre arrive en france allant A Brest pour ÿ joindre de mes parens et de mes compatriot Offer. Servant dans La Marine Royale me procurer Les secour dont javois le plus pressant besoin n’ayant pas Le Sol aucuns Passeports Personne dans Le Canton dont je fus connu, je fus arreté par Mr. Olivier Offer. de Marechose [maréchaussée] qui pour Mobliger interessa Mr. Moyland A L’Orient et le decida a me procurer un Ambarquement pour le comtinent lequel ma promis mais il tarda a mon impatience den voir arriver l’instant et detre a meme de continuer mes services avec honneur et distinction ainsi que jose avancer Lavoir fait jusquicÿ.
Oseraije vous Suplier instanment Monseigneur d’autoriser Mr. Moyland a me donner les secours indispensables dont j’ai Vraiment besoin au moment ou j’ambarquerai il Est encore une grace que jespere que vous Voudreÿ bien ne pas Refuser a ma delicatesse et a la satisfaction de Mr. Olivier qui me comble de procedés honnetes, qui Est de rendre justice a la maniere dont j’ai rempli mes devoirs a Pasei Sous les yeux et Les ordre de Mr. Lee. Etranger et Malheureux, La calommie la plus extreme ma fait juger par des ames noires et insensibles tout ce que je ne Suis pas dun mot de reponce dont je vous Suplie instamment de m’honorer. Je detruirai tous soupçons et mes Bienfaiteurs Se Rejouieront avec moi de cette faveur d’ou depend la tranquillité de ma vie lame aussi delicatte et aussi sensible que je lai ma reconnoissance Egalera le plus profond respect avec lequel je sui Monseigneur Votre tres humble et tres Obeisant Serviteur
DE Bargum

Endorsed: Do you know any thing of this Man?


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Barnabas Deane, 14 January 1782
From: Deane, Barnabas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Wethersfield Jany. 14th. 1782
I have Taken the Liberty to inclose to Your Excellency a Letter for my Brother, which I must beg you to forward him.
I am with Respect Your most Obedient and Very Humble Servt.
B. Deane
His Excellency Dr. Franklin

Notation: B. Deane Jany. 14 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ferdinand Grand: Two Letters, 15 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand

I.
Sir,
Passy, Jany. 15. 1782
Having written to M. Le Comte de Vergennes the 27. of last month, demanding a Million out of the Dutch Loan, & acquainting him that I was fully authorised to apply it for the Service of Congress, I make no Doubt but he has written for it Mr. Joly de Fleury according to his Promise and that you may receive it, when you call for it. I have the Honour to be, Sir,
Mr. Grand.

II.
Sir,
Passy 15. Feb. [i.e., January] 1782.
I send you inclosed thirty two Coupons of the Caisse d’Escompte for the 6 last Months, the Amount of which I request you to receive for me & credit my private Account with the Same. I beg of you likewise to inform me, what I am to do with the 32. Actions that remain in my Hands, there being no more Coupons to them?
Please to send by the Bearer the Amount of Gold of the inclosed Order; likewise all the Orders I have drawn on you in favr. of Prisoners, in the Months of Septr. Octr. Novr. & Decr. last. They shall be returned to you immediately.
I have the honour to be, Sir, Your &c—
M. Grand.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to David Hartley, 15 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hartley, David

Dear Sir,
Passy, Jany. 15. 1782
I received a few Days since your Favour of the 2d. Instant, in which you tell me, that Mr. Alexander had informed you, “America was disposed to enter into a separate Treaty with great Britain.” I am persuaded that your strong Desire for Peace has misled you & occasioned your greatly misunderstanding Mr. Alexander, as I think it scarce possible he should have asserted a Thing so utterly void of Foundation. I remember that you have, as you say, often urged this on former Occasions, and that it always gave me more Disgust than my Friendship for you permitted me to express. But since you have now gone so far as to carry such a Proposition to Lord North as arising from us, it is necessary that I should be explicit with you, & tell you plainly that I never had such an Idea, and I believe there is not a Man in America, a few English Tories excepted, that would not spurn at the Thought of deserting a noble and generous Friend for the sake of a Truce with an unjust and cruel Enemy. I have again read over your conciliatory Bill, with the Manuscript Propositions that accompany it; and am concerned to find that one cannot give Vent to a simple Wish for Peace, a mere Sentiment of Humanity without having it interpreted as a Disposition to submit to any base Conditions that may be offered us rather than continue the War: For on no other Supposition could you propose to us a Truce of ten years, during which we are to engage not to assist France while you continue the War with her! A Truce too wherein nothing is to be mentioned that may weaken your Pretensions to Dominion over us, which you may therefore resume at the End of the Term, or at Pleasure; when we have so covered ourselves with Infamy by our Treachery to our first Friend, as that no other Nation can ever after be disposed to assist us. Believe me, my dear Friend, America has too much understanding and is too sensible of the Value of [the] World’s good Opinion to forfeit it all by such Perfidy: The Congress will never instruct their Commissioners to obtain a Peace on such ignominious Terms; and tho’ there can be few Things in which I should venture to disobey their Orders, yet if it were possible for them to give me such an Order as this, I certainly should refuse to act, I should instantly renounce their Commission, and banish myself for ever from so infamous a Country.
We are a little ambitious too of your Esteem, and as I think we have acquired some Share of it, by our Manner of making War with you, I trust we shall not hazard the Loss of it by consenting meanly to a dishonourable Peace.
Lord North was wise in demanding of you some authorised Acknowledgment of the Proposition from responsible Persons. He justly thought it too improbable to be rely’d on so as to lay it before the Privy Council. You can now inform him that the whole has been a Mistake, & that no such Proposition as that of a separate Peace has been, is, or is ever likely to be made by me, & I believe by no authorised Person whatever in behalf of America. You may farther, if you please, inform his Lordship, that Mr. Adams, Mr. Laurens, Mr. Jay & myself have long since been impowered by a special Commission to treat of Peace, whenever a Negociation shall be opened for that Purpose: But it must always be understood that [it] is to be in Conjunction with our Allies conformable to the solemn Treaties made with them.
You have my dear Friend, a strong Desire to promote Peace, and it is [a] most laudable & virtuous Desire. Permit me then to wish that you would in order to succeed as a Mediator, avoid such invidious Expressions as may have an Effect in preventing your Purpose. You tell me that no Stipulation for our Independence must be in the Treaty, because you verily believe (so deep is the Jealousy between England and France) that “England would fight for a Straw to the last Man and the last Shilling rather than be dictated to by France.” And again, that “the Nation would proceed to every Extremity rather than be brought to a formal Recognition of Independence at the haughty Command of France.” My dear Sir, if every Proposition of terms for Peace that may be made by one of the Parties at War is to be called and considered by the other as Dictating and a haughty Command, and for that Reason rejected with a Resolution of fighting to the last Man rather than agree to it, you see that in such Case no Treaty of Peace is possible. In Fact we began the War for Independence on your Government which we found tyrannical, & this before France had any thing to do with our Affairs; the Article in our Treaty, whereby the “two Parties engage that neither of them shall conclude either Truce or Peace with Great Britain without the formal Consent of the other first obtained; and mutually engage not to lay down his Arms until the Independence of the United States shall have been formally or tacitly assured by the Treaty or Treaties that shall terminate the War” was an Article inserted at our Instance, being in our Favour. And you see by the Article itself, that your great Difficulty may be easily got over, as a formal Acknowledgment of our Independence is not made necessary. But we hope by God’s help to enjoy it, and I suppose we shall fight for it as long as we are able. I do not make any Remarks on the other Propositions, because I think that unless they were made by Authority, the Discussion of them is unnecessary & may be inconvenient. The Supposition of our being disposed to make a separate Peace, I could not be silent upon, as it materially affected our Reputation & essential Interests. [If] I have been a little Warm on that offensive Point, reflect on your repeatedly urging it, and endeavour to excuse me. And whatever may be the Fate of our Poor Countries, let you & I die, as we have lived, in Peace with each other. Assuredly I continue, with great & sincere Esteem, my dear Friend, Your most affectionate
Mr. Hartley.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 15 January 1782
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 15 Janvr 1782
I had the Honor to write you the Twentieth of last Month requesting a passport for my Brig the York Town which I flatterd myself to receive in Course and delay’d writing you the two posts past in hopes of its coming to hand. Apprehending my Letter may have got mislaid I request the favor that you will please to order the said passport or such other Clearance as you are Accustom’d to Grant in like Cases that I may dispach her on the receipt as I am not impowerd to Authenticate a Certificate of that Nature.
My friend at Angoulesme advised me of his having forwarded (by my orders), to you One of their famous d’Ind a trueffle which I hope got safe to your Table and as Mr Sazerat wrote me his having wrote by the postilion my silence I hope will not have diverted the due Application being intended to be with you for a Chrismas Dish. My expecting to hear from you made me postpone writing as also paying to you the Compliments of the Season in due time of which I pray your present Acceptance wishing you to enjoy many years of continued prosperities.
With due Respect I have the Honor to be Sir Your most Obedient Hhb servant
John Bondfield
His Excellency Benj Franklin Esqr

Addressed: His Excellency B. Franklin / Esqr. / at / Paris
Notation: John Bondfield 15 Janr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Hodgson, 15 January 1782
From: Hodgson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir
London 15 Jany. 1782
I wrote you fully on the 20th Ultimo since when I am not favored with any of yours, a duplicate of your former Letter I rec’d per Mr. A—— who I am sorry to learn has been arrested & is now in Confinement at the suit of Messr. W. & Co— Mr Laurens has been enlarged, but not discharged, having given Bail & entered into recognizance, to appear on a future day, I had made a requisition to Lord Hillsbro. to have access to see him as from you for the purpose of giving him Money for his Subsistence, the very ill state of Health under which Mr Laurens laboured with other Circumstances determined Administration to enlarge him—he is gone to Bath for a short Time. I had the pleasure to see him, he desired me to inform you that for the present he hoped to have no occasion to trouble you for Money as he coud have access to his own Funds—but he desired I wou’d request you to acquaint Congress the first opportunity you coud embrace of his Enlargement, tho he cannot be considered as yet as either exchanged or Released upon Parole— he desires likewise that you woud please to acquaint the young Lady at Vigonnes with the Circumstances of his Release— Mr Laurens when he left Town was very poorly & very lame— I believe his disorder was entirely the Gout—
I shall enclose you a State of the Acc’t with the Prisoners, they now are near 900 & however strange it may appear to you, I have not yet been able to procure a reply to the Memorial I presented on the 4th Decr relative to their exchange if they do not answer before Parliament meets, I shall endeavour to urge them to Action in some other way, but they are such a set, as God, in his Wrath, never before cursed a Country with— Talbot Manley and Hatch all went in the last Cartel— I am sorry to have to Call upon you for more Cash, from Plymo they have only a supply for this week, I shall Continue nevertheless to advance money for the weekly p[aymen]ts, not doubting but you will reimburse me, the paymts are now very near £50 per week so you know what supply will be necessary— Do you not think if you was to send me a Memorial from your Self to the Secretary of State on the Subject of the exchange of Prisoners that it woud bring the matter to an Issue, I think they woud not dare to treat that with Contemptuous Silence, for alltho they know well enough my Connection with you yet I shoud not wonder if pressed shou’d they rest their defence upon the Plea of not being informed of the Authority Under which I made the proposal— By the annexed acc’t you will see the Ballance in my hands on your acct the 31st Ultimo was £39..10— I am with great respect & Esteem Dr sr Yours Sincerely
William Hodgson

Addressed: To / Dr. Franklin / Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Kinnier, 15 January 1782
From: Kinnier, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
A Ancenis 15th Janr 1782
Pleas your Excellency pray give me Leave to inform you that in a Letter I Received from Lorient Dated the 4th of this Instent from Capt Thomas Bell Informing Me that your Excellency Hade granted to Mr. Nisbet His frind, that an Exchaing Should take Place Between Him and I imediatly which He ordred Me if not Exchainged Befor His Came to Hand to write to nantes to Sea what was the Reason that I was not Set at Liberty which Accordingly I Did and for Ansswr I Received from the Comissiary that He never Have Got as yet Aney Accounts from your Excellency which I Hope if that Aney Shuch promise Have Been granted to Mr Nisbet your Excellency will order in Course your Comissiary for prisoniers at nantes to Set me at Liberty and grant Me a passport to travel to Ostend wher I May Have A Passage to get Home to My family which will Greatly oblidge Sir your Most Hubl obd Servt
John Kinnier
To His Excellency Benj Franklin Esqr Minister Plenipotentiary to the United States of America at the Court of Varsiels

Addressed: To His Excellency / Benj Franklin Esqr / Minister plenipotintiary / to the United States / of America at the Court / of Varsiles / A Passy / pres Paris
Notation: Kinnier 25. Janvr. 1782.


Title: Abbé Morellet to William Temple Franklin, [15 January 1782]
From: Morellet, abbé André
To: Franklin, William Temple

My dear sir
mardi. [January 15, 1782]
Je vous remercie de votre complaisance à me donner le choix d’un autre jour que lundi. J’avois en effet pensé comme vous qu’il ne falloit pas choisir le jour des fêtes de la ville que vous voudries voir et dont je serois bien eloigné de vous priver moi  qui voudrois que les spectacles agreables se multipliassent pour vos plaisirs. Je m’arrete donc d’après la permission que vous m’en donnes à jeudy de la semaine prochaine si made helvetius accepte ce jour ou au samedi d’après si elle ne peut pas venir jeudy. Je vous prie d’arranger cela avec elle. Je lui ecrirai aussi de mon côté. Je vous embrasse tendrement ainsi que le papa. Je ne puis me resoudre à vous parler de mon respect quoiqu’il soit très vrai.
  your for ever
L’abbé Morellet

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin le fils / à Passy.
Notation: L’abbé Morellet Fevr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Barry, 17 January 1782
From: Barry, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir!
Fort Louis the 17th Jan: 1782.
I have the honor to inform your Exellency of my safe arrivall here with the Alliance in whom came Passengers the Honble. Major General Marquis de La Fayette, Viscount de Noailles, the Honble. Major General de Portail and several other officers. My orders is to go immediately on a Cruize till the first of March, at which time I am to return here, to receive your dispatches, which I hope will be lodged in a safe hand here against my arrivall, in order that I may proceed immediately for America. I am sorry that at present, it is not in my power, to put part of my orders into execution, that is to proceed on a Cruize immediately, having my Ship chiefly manned with passengers and french Sailors. The Latter I suppose will be taken out of my ship.
If so it is out of my power to go to Sea. The Marquis and the Count de Noaille has promis’d me to speak to the Minister for 50 or 60 french Seaman in order to enable me to proceed on a Cruize for 5 or 6 weeks.
I should be much obliged to your Exellency, to back their sollicitations, by that means I hope to have it in my power, to release some of my poor Countrymen in english prisons.
I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedt humble Servt
John Barry
His Exellency Benjn Franklin Esqr:

Addressed: His Exellency Benjamin Francklin / Minister Plenipotentiary / at / Passy prés Paris
Endorsed: Capt. Barry of the Alliance Jan 17. 82.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Barclay, 18 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Barclay, Thomas

Sir,
Passy, Jan. 18. 1782.
I duly received the Letters you did me the honour of writing to me the 24th. of last Month, and the 6th. of this. I send you in a separate Pacquet the Account render’d me by Messrs. Neufville of the Purchase in Holland; and I enclose the Invoice said to have been ordered by Col. Laurens, which was shown me by Capt. Jackson to justify the Purchase; and also the Invoice of what was purchas’d of Capt. Gillon. I am glad you have got the Goods in Possession. On my Part I have not stopt Payment of any of the Bills. I make no Doubt of the Prudence of your whole Operation, and therefore cannot but approve of it. I would only just mention for your Consideration, that a Passage thro’ France from Metz of a Cargo of Linnens for Mr. R. Morris which I sollicited was lately refus’d but upon Condition of Paying 5. per Cent Duty, and that was stated as a great Abatement made in our Favour, tho’ Metz is a Province belonging to France; And as the Purchase made in Holland was disrelish’d here, I doubt you will meet with the same Demand: If therefore it were practicable to forward them to America without landing them here in the same neutral Bottoms that bring them to France, perhaps that may be most convenient. But of this you can judge infinitely better than me. I have the honour to be, Sir, &c.
Mr. Barclay


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ferdinand Grand, 18 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand

Sir,
Passy, 18. Jan. 1782.
I rec’d. your Letter of Yesterday acknowledging the Recipt of my 32 Dividend Bills; I now send you according to your Desire the Stocks of the Same, & request you to do the necessary.
The List you Sent me of my Orders to Prisoners, will ansr. my Purpose provided it is exact for the time specified; but I imagine the Month of December is not so, finding by my Day Book that I have given more Orders than those you mention in that Month. I therefore return you the List & request you would have it reexamined & if any Errors are found, they may be rectified. In case you should find that no more has been pd. than those you have already given me Notice of, I desire you will not pay others drawn in Decr. unless presented by my GrandSon. The Reason of this is, that he has lately missed an Order of that Sort, for which he had advanced the Money to the Prisoners.—& is fearful it may have fell into improper Hands. Be so good as to forward to Holland by to morrow’s extraordinary, the Packet & Letter sent herewith for Mr. Barclay.
I have the honour to be Sir, Your humble Servant.
Mr. Grand.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 18 January 1782
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

à Versailles le 18 Janver. 1782.
Jai l’honneur, Monsieur, de vous envoyer un mémoire qui intéresse des sujets de l’Empereur, et qui m’a été recommandé par le Gouvernement général des Pays bas. Je ne doute pas que vous ne vous fassiez un devoir de faire passer cette pièce au Congrez, et que vous n’engagiez ce Corps à la prendre en considération.
J’ai l’honneur d’être très Sincérement, Monsieur, votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur. /
De Vergennes
M. franklin./ .


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 18 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir,
Passy Jany 18th. 1782
I received the Letter your Excellency did me the Honour of writing to me this Day, inclosing a Memorial which relates to the Interests of some Subjects of the Emperor residing at Ostend, who alledge, that a Ship of theirs has been taken by an American Privateer and carried into Boston on Pretence that the Property was English &c. I shall immediately transmit the Memorial to Congress as desired. But there being Courts of Admiralty established in each of the United States, I conceive that the regular Steps to be taken by the Complainants would be an application for Justice to those Courts, by some Person on the Spot duly authorised by them as their Agent; and in case the Judgment of the Court is not satisfactory, that then they appeal to the Congress, which cannot well take Cognizance of such Matters in the first Instance. The Merchants of Ostend may possibly not have as yet Correspondents established in all the States; but any Merchant of Credit in the Country, would transact such Business for them on receiving their Request with a proper Power of Attorney. Or if his Imperial Majesty should think fit to appoint a Consul General to reside in those States, such an officer might at all times assist his Compatriots with his Counsels and Protection in any Affairs they might have in that Country. I am the more particular in mentioning this to your Excellency, because I apprehend these Cases may hereafter be frequent; and if the Complaints are to be addressed to you & to me, we are likely to have a great deal of Trouble; as I am informed that it is become a daily practice for outward bound English Ships to put into Ostend, make a formal pretended Sale of Ship & Cargo to a Merchant of the Place, who furnishes Imperial Papers for the Voyage under his own Name, and receives a certain Sum per Cent, for the Operation. This is said to be a Branch of great Profit to the Flemish Merchants, and that a very great Number of English Ships are now at Sea with such Papers: And I suspect even from their own Manner of stating the Transaction that the Ship & Cargo reclaimed by the Complainants are of that kind. This seems to me an Abuse of the Neutrality, as these fictitious Profits added to the Advantage of real Carriage for the Belligerent Nations, may make it too much the Interest of neutral Neighbours to foment Wars, & obstruct Peace, that such Profits may continue. And if it is to be understood as a settled Point that such Papers are to protect English Property, the Fitters-out of Privateers from France, Spain, Holland & America, will in another Year be all ruined; for they will find none but Flemish Ships upon the Ocean. With the greatest Respect, I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
His Exy the Count de Vergennes

Endorsed: M. De R.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Richard and Sarah Bache, 19 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bache, Richard,Bache, Sarah Franklin

Dear Son & Daughter
Passy Jany. 19 1782
This will be deliver’d you by Mr John Vaughan, son of a worthy friend of mine & a very amiable good young man. He has been some years in France & Spain Studying the two languages & acquiring commercial knowledge. His Establishmt. in America has ever been the Intention of his parents as well as his desire for which reason he left England soon after my arrival here & has remained on the Continent as I before mentioned. I recommend him in the most particular manner to Yr civilities and kind attention & request for him yr Counsel & protection, which may be useful to him as a Stranger. We are all well & I am as ever Yr. affe. Father
(signed) Franklin
Mr & Mrs Bache(Copy)


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Jay, 19 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Jay, John

Dear Sir,
Passy Jany 19. 1782
In mine of the 15th. I mention’d my Intention of writing fully to you by this Days Post. But understanding since that a Courier will soon go from Versailles, I rather chuse that Conveyance.
I received duly your Letter of Novr. 21. but it found me in a very perplexed Situation. I had great Payments to make for the extravagant & very inconvenient Purchase in Holland together with large Acceptances by Mr. Adams of Bills drawn on Mr. Laurens and himself; and I had no Certainty of Providing the Money. I had also a Quarrel upon my hands with Messrs. de Neufville and others, Owners of two Vessels hired by Gillon to carry the Goods he had contracted to carry in his own Ship. I had wearyed this friendly & generous Court with often repeated after-clap Demands, occasioned by these un-advis’d (as well as ill-advised) & therefore unexpected Drafts, and was asham’d to show my Face to the Minister. In these Circumstances I knew not what Answer to make you. I could not encourage you to expect the relief desired, and having still some secret Hope, I was unwilling to discourage you, & thereby occasion a protest of Bills which possibly I might find some means of enabling you to pay. Thus I delay’d writing, perhaps too long. But to this Moment I have obtained no Assurance of having it in my Power to aid you, tho’ no endeavours on my part have been wanting. We have been assisted with near 20 Millions since the Beginning of last Year, besides a Fleet & Army, & yet I am obliged to worry with my Sollicitations for more, which makes us appear insatiable. This Letter will not go before Tuesday, perhaps by that time I may be able to say explicitly Yes or No. I am very sensible of your unhappy Situation, & I believe you feel as much for me.
You mention my Proposing to repay the Sum you want in America. I had try’d that, last Year. I drew a Bill on Congress for a considerable Sum to be advanced me here and paid there in Provisions for the French Troops. My Bill was not honour’d!
I was in hopes the Loan in Holland, if it succeeded, being for 10 Millions, would have made us all easy. It was long uncertain; it is lately compleated: But unfortunately it has most of it been eaten up by advances here. You see by the Letter of which I sent you a Copy, upon what Terms I obtain another Million of it. That, if I get it, will enable me to pay till the End of February; and among the rest to pay the 30,000 Dollars you have borrowed, for we must not let your Friend suffer. What I am to do afterwards God knows.
I am much surprised at the dilatory & reserved Conduct of your Court. I know not to what Amount you have obtained Aids from it; but if they are not considerable, it were to be wish’d you had never been sent there, as the Slight they put upon our offered Friendship is very disreputable to us, and of course hurtful to our Affairs elsewhere. I think they are short sighted, & do not look very far into Futurity, or they would seize with Avidity so excellent an Opportunity of securing a Neighbour’s Friendship, which may hereafter be of great Consequence to their American Affairs. If I were in Congress, I should advise your being instructed to thank them for past Favours & take your leave. As I am situated I do not presume to give you such Advice, nor could you take it if I should. But I conceive there would be nothing amiss in your mentioning in a short Memoir, the Length of Time elaps’d since the Date of the secret Article, & since your Arrival to urge their Determination upon it, and pressing them to give you an explicit definitive immediate Answer, whether they would enter into a Treaty with us or not, that you might inform Congress, and in case of Refusal solicit your Recal, that you may not be continued from Year to Year at a great Expence in a constant State of Uncertainty with Regard to so important a Matter. I do not see how they can decently refuse such an Answer. But their Silence after the Demand made should in my Opinion be understood as a Refusal, and we should act accordingly.
I think I see a very good Use that might be made of it, which I will not venture to explain in this Letter.
Speaking of your Expence; puts me mind of something that has pass’d between Mr. Adams and me relating to certain Charges in our Accounts, which I think ought to be communicated to you, that if you should be of the same Opinion with us, you may charge as we propose to do, or if you are of a different Opinion, we may conform to it for the Reasons you will be kind enough to offer us. I therefore enclose Copies of the two Letters that contain the Points in question. I wish not to be burthensome to our Country, and having myself no Expensive Habits, having besides no Wife or Family to bring up, and living out of Paris, perhaps I should be as little incommoded by a Reduction of some of those Charges as any of my Brethren; but as we are to establish Precedents, I would not have them such as may be oppressive to another or to a Successor differently circumstanc’d.
I advanc’d to Major Franks Fifty Louis as you desired, and took his Note payable to you. His stay has been so long, and he bought so many things, that it did not prove sufficient.
I cannot express sufficiently my Thankfulness to you for the kind & friendly Manner in which you wrote concerning me & my Grandson to the President of Congress. Be assured I shall ever bear it in Remembrance.
I am of the same Opinion with you as to the Instructions you mention.
Mr. Deane has written a very indiscreet & mischievous Letter, which was intercepted & printed at New York, & since in the English Papers. It must ruin him forever in America & here. I think we shall soon hear of his retiring to England, & joining his Friend Arnold.

I know not how the Account of your Salary stands, but I would have you draw on me for a Quarter at present which shall be paid, and it will be a great Pleasure to me if I shall be able to pay up all your arrears.
I forwarded to you Gen. Washington’s Dispatches, by which you would learn the Reduction of York town and Gloucester. A great and important Event! The Infant Hercules has now strangled his second Serpent that attacked him in his Cradle, and I hope his future History will be conformable.
My Grandson joins with me in best Wishes and Happiness to you & Mrs: Jay.
Mr. Laurens being now at Liberty perhaps may soon come hither, & be ready to join us if there should be any Negociation for Peace. In England they are mad for a separate One with us, that they may more effectually take Revenge on France and Spain. I have had several Overtures hinted to me lately from different Quarters, but I am deaf. The Thing is impossible. We can never agree to desert our first & our faithful Friend on any Consideration whatever. We should become infamous by such abominable Baseness.
With great & sincere Esteem, I am ever, Dear Sir, Your affectionate and most obedient humble Servant
B Franklin

I am writing to M Carmichael but it will be too late for this Opportunity.
  The Letters between Mr Adams & me are mislaid—
  His Exy. John Jay Esqr.

Endorsed: Doctr Franklin 19 Jany 1782 Recd 5 Feb. and. [answered] 11 Do.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 19 January 1782
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond sir
Nantes Jan. 19. 1782
I have only time before the departure of the Post to inform you of the Arrival of the Brig Betsey from Philadelphia & to forward the inclosed for you.—
I am as ever most dutifully & affectionately
Jona Williams J

Notation: Jona. Williams Nantes. 19. Janr. 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Desegray & Cie., 21 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Desegray & Cie.

Gentlemen,
Passy, Jan. 21. 1782.
I have just received the Letter you did me the Honour of writing to me the 9th. Instant. I am much obliged to you for the kind assistance you afford to my poor Country-men. Please to accept my thankful Acknowledgements, and I will upon Sight pay your Drafts on me for the Account of your Disbursements. With great Regard I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, &c—
Messrs. Desegray & Co.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean de Neufville & fils, 21 January 1782
From: Neufville, Jean de, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May It please your Excellency
Amsterdam 21st Jany. 1782
That we further Apprize your Excellency of our having deliver’d (on our being applied to for it) the last part of the Remaining Goods of the United States which had remained in our possession or at least had always been under our Immediate direction, about Which it may be proper to remark there has never been the least difficulty Concerning their delivery; or for any kind of receipt therefore as these resting with us solely we had no objection to make. It is a peculiar Satisfaction to us that they were deliver’d in good Order.
We have nothing to add for the present on the Subject and have the honor to remain With due respect Your Excellencys Most Obed. Humble Servts.
John DE Neufville & Son
His Excellency Dr B Franklin Minister Plenipo at the Court of Versailles

Notation: John de Neufville et Son Amsterdam 21. Janr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis d’Ussieux, [before 22 January 1782]
From: Ussieux, Louis d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

  VERITE∴ UNION∴ FORCE∴
T∴ C∴ F∴
[before January 22, 1782]
La R∴ L∴ des Neuf-Sœurs fera sa rentrée, d’après les Vacances, le Lundi 22 du onzième mois D∴ L∴ D∴ L∴ V∴ L∴ 5781. Elle commencera ses travaux à onze heures précises, par la Réception du Candidat Ginguené & l’Affiliation du F( Gireau. A midi on fera la distribution des Jettons; ensuite les FF( Comte de Milly, de la Dixmerie, Changeux, Saint-Far, François de Neuf-Chateau & Roucher liront différentes Pièces d’Architecture. A une heure & demie, Examen de plusieurs Ouvrages de Peinture, Gravure, Sculpture, Architecture des FF. Greuze, Oudon, Bonnet, Gaucher, Noté &c. A deux heures le Concert. Il commencera par une Hymme analogue au jour; les paroles sont du F( Marquis de la Salle, & la Musique du F( Piccini. A trois heures 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.
  Le local de la L∴ des Neuf-Sœurs est rue Coquéron, à l’ancien Hôtel de Bullion.

  Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur / franklin / N∴ S∴ ./. A Passy—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand, 22 January 1782
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Paris Jany 22nd. 1782
Herewith I have the honour to transmitt you the Extract of your Account current with me, by which I owe you a Ballance of £19542.17.3 which I have carried to your credit in a fresh Account; When examined, if found right, I shall be glad to have your Approbation to the Same.
That of the United States is now a makeing & shall also be given in very soon.
Craving a few lines answer to that Paragraph of my last, concerning Mr. J. Adams, I have the honour to be most respectfully sir Your most obedient & most humble servant
Grand
His Excellency Mr. Bn. Franklin, Passy.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de Lafayette, 22 January 1782
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

a Paris le 22 Janvier 1782
Le marquis de Lafayette Scachant que Monsieur de francklain est un peut Incommodé le marquis de Lafayette n’aura pas lhonneur de le voir ce Soir, Il prie Monsieur de francklain de lui mander si le poura voir demain a midy il Sy rendra sans manquer.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur de francklain / Ministre des Provinces unies / De Lamerique / a Passy
Notation: Le Marquis de Lafayette 22. Janr. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris, 22 January 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Office of Finance 22d. January 1782.
I send enclosed herewith the Copy of a Certificate the original whereof was transmitted to me by Monsr. de la Tombe Consul General of France from Boston after the unloading of the Transports which arrived at that Post with the Stores shipped on them by Order of Colo. Laurens. The original I shall keep and not knowing with whom the Accounts of Freight is to be settled nor by whom to be paid, I only take this precaution of sending Copies to you, in Order that you may know the Times of discharge should the Business pass through your Hands or any other Person by your Appointment.
I have the Honor to remain your Excellency’s most obedient and humble Servant
RM
His Excelly Benja. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael, [before 23 January 1782]
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
[before January 23, 1782]
You who know so well the public & private obligations we have to the Marquis de Yranda, would never pardon me, If I should suffer one of his family to pass thro’ Paris, without giving you an opportunity of convincing him of the sense you have of the obliging notice, it has taken of us here—But you would be Still more offended with me, After having been Informed of the Character of the Gentleman who delivers you this, Dr. Simon de Casas, If I had failed to give you the honor of his acquaintance. On other occasions I have made use of my credit with you to procure a good reception for others. In the present Instance I am paying my debts on this Score, and I am sure you will give me proper credit After having had an opportunity of knowing the Gentleman whom I have now the honor to present to your Acquaintance—
I am with the Sincerest regard Your Excellency’s Obliged & Most Humble Servant
Wm. Carmichael
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Carmichael, 23[–25] January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Carmichael, William

Dear Sir,
Passy, Jan. 23.[–25] 1782.
It is a long time since I have written to you; but I am not the less sensible of your obliging Attention in writing frequently to me. I have now before me your several Favours of Sept. 15, Oct. 23, Nov. 8, & Jan 11. Your Communications are always agreable, and I beg you would continue them, and continue also to excuse the Want of Punctuality in Correspondence of an old Man, who has been opprest with to much Business. The Arrival of Mr. Barclay appointed Consul General, will ease me of a good deal, and I hope for the future to be more exact.
Mr. Boyeted was so obliging as to call on me with one of your Letters, and has since sent me the Books, which afford me a good deal of Information. I thank you very much for them. I expect soon some Copies of a new Volume of the Transactions of your [our?] American Society, of which I shall request M. de Campomanes to accept one. Be pleased to present my Respects to him. I see that he will be a great Benefactor to his Country.—
With regard to Money Matters, I am continually embarras’d by some means or other with fresh Difficulties. I was told that no more random Bills would be drawn after the Begining of April last, & I flatter’d myself with being soon at ease by paying off those issued before; but as they continue coming drawn not only on Mr. Jay, but on Mr. Adams, Mr. Laurence & myself, I begin to suspect that the drawing continues and that the Bills are antedated. It is impossible for me to go on with Demands after Demands. I was never advis’d of the Amount of the Drafts either upon myself or upon any of the other Ministers. The Drafts themselves that are directed to me, are indeed a Justification of my Paying them; But I never had any Orders to pay those drawn on others, nor have I ever receiv’d a Syllable of Approbation for having done so. Thus I stand charg’d with vast Sums which I have disburs’d for the Public Service without Authority. In my present Situation I cannot encourage Mr. Jay to accept any more Bills. I think too all things considered, that if some of them must go back protested, it had better be from Spain than from either France or Holland. But I will do my best if possible to prevent it. I wish with you that we had contentend ourselves with such Aids as this kind & generous Nation could afford & never sought to entangle ourselves with obligations to any others.
In writing to Mr. Jay I forgot to mention how much I was oblig’d by his permitting me to read his Dispatches sent by Major Franks. They are very full & Satisfactory. I wonder at What you have heard that the Congress had for eight Months no Letters from Mr. Adams, as I think him the most diligent of all Correspondents, having seen in the Votes of Congress Mention made of the Dates of Letters receiv’d from him, by which it seem’d that he had written almost every Day, & sometimes twice a Day. My great Fault is writing to seldom: I should write oftner, (and should be happy) if I had nothing else to do.
I wrote to Mr. Jay on the 19th. that I hop’d before the following Tuesday to be able to say whether I should or not have it again in my Power to aid him. I am still in the Dark, but I shall pay your Draft as well as his for a Quarter of your Salaries. I wish each of you would State an Account & send it to me, of what has become due since the Commencement & what you have receiv’d; and if I can procure the Means I will pay the Ballances, but it is necessary to write to Congress for a direct Provision herafter.
You do my little Scribblings too much honour in proposing to print them; but they are at your Disposition, except the Letter to the Academy of —— which having several English Puns in it, cannot be translated, and besides has too much Grosiereté to be borne by the polite Readers of these Nations.— If you should print any of them you will conceal my Name.
I see advised here, Spanish Ink of a fine Black for writing. From this one would imagine that Spanish Ink had obtained a Character for Blackness. If there is any of it to be had at Madrid, I wish you would use it in writing your Letters; for my Eyes not being very good, when the Ink & Paper are so nearly of a Colour, I find it difficult to read them.
Jan. 25. Since writing the above the Marquis de la Fayette is arriv’d to my great Joy, as I am persuaded he will be very useful to our Affairs. I forward some Letters for Mr. Jay.
Robert R. Livingston, Esq. is appointed Secretary for foreign Affairs, & General Lincoln Secretary of War. Mr. Morris conducts the Finances to general Satisfaction, the Publick Credit is reviving.
I this Day met Mr. Casas at Mr. Grand’s where we din’d & he gave me a letter from you. I shall with Pleasure cultivate his Acquaintance for which I am oblig’d to you.
With great Esteem, I am ever, Dear Sir, &c.

Please to give the enclosed Papers to Mr. Jay, which should have gone to him with my last.
  Wm. Carmichael Esq.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert R. Livingston, 23 January 1782
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Philadelphia 23d Jany 1782
An express just going to Chesapeake gives me an opportunity of sending by the Hermione a resolution passed Yesterday, my Letters by this conveyance are so lengthy that they leave me nothing to add unless it be that we have just received Letters from Mr. Deane (copies are inclosed) which confirm the authenticity of those published in his name by Mr. Rivington mentioned in my former letters, in one of those publications he expressly advises a return to the government of great Britain, and as this could not be effected thro’ Congress, that it shd be done by Committees, which the People should chuse for that express purpose— These of which I now send copies were delivered here by the person to whom Mr. Deane gave them so that there can be no doubt of their authenticity— We have nothing new except what you will learn from the papers herewith transmitted. As I doubt not you are upon the most confidential terms with the Marquis De Lafayette, I could wish him to see my Last letter— You will observe that I have omitted (for reasons that you will easily conceive) to make use of the Arguments which may be derived from the 11th & 12th articles of our treaty with France the Commissioners will exercise their own discretion in applying them when a negotiation shall be opened— we were much surprized at not receiving a single line by the frigate which lately arrived at Chesapeake from any one of our foreign ministers it is upwards of three months since we have had a letter of intelligence from Europe. Congress complain of these neglects (for as such they consider them) & I flatter myself that in future, as a channel is now open through this Office for a regular correspondence, this cause of complaint will be removed & that Letters & papers will be loged with our consuls to go by every conveyance.— Be persuaded Sir that I shall omit no opportunity to give you every information which may contribute to your private amusement or the public benefit.
I have the honor to be Sir with the most perfect esteem & regard Your Excellencys Most Obt Hum: Servt.
The Honble Benjn Franklin

I have this moment received resolutions from Congress copies of which I enclose which serve to shew their sense of the importance of the fisheries & their western extent & add new weight to the arguments which I had the honor to urge you will be pleased to transmit copies of them to Mr. Jay & Mr Adams—
  [In another hand:] No 7 Dr. (?) Letter No 7. to Doctor Franklin. Philadelphia 23d: Jany 1782


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Barry, 24 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Barry, John

Sir,
Passy, Jan. 24. 1782.
I received your Letter of the 17th. with Pleasure; as it inform’d me of your safe Arrival at Fort Louis. I shall see the Marquis de la Fayette to day, & we will try what can be done towards getting you some French Sailors; but I doubt they are too much wanted to be spared to us. You will find however a Number of Americans at L’Orient who have lately escaped or been exchanged from the Prisons of England. Your Desire of redeeming more of them is noble, and I hartily wish you Success in it. Mr. Barclay, the Consul, to whom you should apply in case of wanting any thing for your Ship, is now in Holland; but I expect him in a few Days. Let me know if, when you return to America, you can take any of the Congress Goods which he will have to send. With great Esteem, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
Capt. Barry

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Capitaine Barry / au fort Louis / à L’Orient
Endorsed: His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr. Plenipotentiary at the Court of Versails Pre Pare
Notations in different hands: His Excelly. Benjn. Franklin Esqr. Pleni. at the Court of Verseles / From Benja. Franklin Esqr. 24 Jany— 1782


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gabriel Johonnot, 24 January 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Johonnot, Gabriel

Sir,
Passy 24. Jan. 1782.
Being much in Want of the Money I lent you, and supposing the Bills you expected were arrived, I wrote to you lately requesting Payment. But it is not my Intention or Desire to press or importune you, if you have it not in your Power. I should be glad however to hear from you which I have not since I propos’d your giving me Bills on America.
I have the honour to be, &c—
Col. Johonnot.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Carié le jeune, 24 January 1782
From: Carié, ——, le jeune
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
Nantes le 24. Janvier 1782./ .
Un Particulier, habitant de l’amerique Septentrionale, m’a demandé un assortiment de divers marchandises Tant en draperie qu’en Soyerie propres pour ce pays; cette fourniture monte à Quarante Trois Mille Livres Tournois. Ce Particulier retourne a la nouvelle angleterre et consent a me donner Touttes les Suretés que Je peux desirer Pour mon remboursement.
Daignés, Monseigneur, me faire la Grace de m’instruire, Si les actes passés en france par devant Notaires, acquerent une hipoteque dans la nouvelle Angleterre, Sur les biens de celuy qui les contracte, ou qu’els Sont les moyens qu’on doit employer, Pour S’en procurer une.
Cette instruction, Monseigneur, est d’autant plus essentielle pour moy, que mon commerce est celuy de fournir des draperies et des Soyeries pour la Nouvelle Angleterre, dont J’ignore entierement les Loix.
Je Suis avec Respect de Votre Excellence Monseigneur Le Tres humble & Tres Obeissant Serviteur
Carié LE JeuneNegociant

A son Excellence Monseigneur B. de Franklin Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats reunis de L’amerique Septentrionale

Notation: Carié le Jeune 24 Jany. 82