Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Hodgson, 20 March 1781
From: Hodgson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sirLondon 20 March 1781
I just receivd yours of the 8th which surprises me not a little, as by the Letter inclosed I perceive the person to whom that Letter is addressed has deceived you most egregiously— he has not sr. advanced one Shilling that has come to my knowledge, he had indeed wrote both to Portsmo & Plymo to order a distribution of 16 p. per week to the prisoners I was informed of it by the Agents at both places, but alltho he gave those directions he did not provide the necessary funds to discharge the Amount— I thought it therefore right to caution both Mr Wren & Mr Heath against advancing money & advised them to say they shou’d be glad to serve the prisoners but that it was but just & right that the money shoud be sent them in order to disburse & indeed I have been obliged to reimburse to those persons the one £25 & the other £20— which they had before advanced for Mr D—— & coud not procure payment, & this I did partly out of a Bill he gave me last year on Mr Grand for £48— alltho £20 of that Sum was for money I had lent him in the Spring 1780— I fear all is not right he has been absent from Town some Time the last I heard was from Bristol where he was about purchasing goods for Lisbon for which place in all probability he intends— The Imputation that sticks much to his Character is as follows—
A Ship called the Brighton Capt Belt put up on Change to go with Convoy for New York on board this Ship Mr. D shipped goods & effected considerable Insurance there was great connections betwixt the Capt & Mr Ds some of the Captains Drafts in favor of Mr D, passed thro my hands— after the Ship sailed this connection became publick & it was the pretty current Opinion that the Captain woud not go to New York— in fact so it turned out the Captain took an opportunity to slip away from the fleet & steered into Boston. This made a great Bustle as a most notorious Breach of Faith & Barratry in the Master & very strong Reflections were cast upon Mr D—from presumption of his being privy thereto, that is a fact that lies betwixt him & the Captain the Truth or falsehood of which may not soon appear— you must judge for yourself from the Circumstances—
You will observe that this Ship being a general Ship many persons had goods on board who are quite free from Imputation of Privity to the Capts. Intention— I have disbursed £130 of the last £150 you sent me & the other will soon be exhausted tis really scandalous to think so large a Sum as that you mention shoud have been so misapplied— However if report says true these matters we may hope soon to see an end off— Peace is the general cry by the Intervention of the Empress of Russia & Emperor of Germany— I wish to God it may prove true & I hope it will. At the Same Time report is strong that America will not be included— I do hope that will not be the Case, but that peace when it does come will be general, I wish not to Know things that ought to be concealed, at the Same Time I shoud esteem it a mark of your Friendship if you woud favor me with an Opinion as to the probability of such an Event taking place. I have suffered much by the Warr & it woud be happy for me & my Family if I coud reinstate myself in some measure by a little previous Information of Peace— I am with great Respect Dr sir your most Hbl sert
William Hodgson

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur / Franklin / à / Passy
Endorsed: Hodgson


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Rouge, 20 March 1781
From: Le Rouge
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris ce 20 mars 1781
Permettes Monsieur que Jaye lhonneur de Vous presenter la reduction de la Carte que Vs. aves bien voulu me Communiquer.
Cest un homage que je Comptois avoir lhonneur de Vs: rendre moi meme Si ma Santé le permettoit.
Comme les Environs du fort Pitt Sont fort detaillées, J’en ai fait une Carte calquée sur l’original et par consequent sur la même Echelle que Jai inserre dans la brochure.
Je Vous prie de me dire Si la fête de Shawane Town dont parle le Gal: Pownal. Se tient tous les ans ou dans certains tems?

Je Vous prie d’annoncer cette Carte a Vos amis afin d’en procurer la Circulation. Elle est reellement neuve.
Jay lhonneur detre avec bien du Respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obéist. Serviteur
Le Rouge

Notation: Le Rouge 20. Mars 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jacques and Suzanne Necker, 21 March 1781
From: Necker, Jacques,Necker, Suzanne
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce 21 mars 1781
Mr et Mdme Necker prient Monsieur le Docteur de franckelin de leur faire l’honneur de diner chez eux vendredi 23 mars.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Pinet, 22 March 1781
From: Pinet, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Versailles le 22. mars 1781.
Monsieur Pinet prémier Commis de la marine a L’honneur d’envoyer à Monsieur franklin La Lettre cy jointe qui est venue Sous Son couvert, de Granville.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Francis Coffyn, 23 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Coffyn, Francis

SirPassy, March 23. 1781
I received your Favour of the 10th. I have heard nothing of Mr Wharton since my former. The Ariel was not arriv’d, at least her Arrival was not heard of at Boston the 11th of February, which makes me fear she has either been taken, or has been blown off the Coast of North America by the N. W. Winds of that Country, and is gone perhaps to Martinique.
I am sorry you have had so much Trouble with those People of Capt. Cunningham. The Affair has been very perplexing to me. The Vessel was fitted out by Mr Hodge. You certainly had no Share in her, or Concern in fitting her out, & it was only at my Request that you took the Part of those People in advising them how to ascertain their Dues. Mr Hodge was apprehended here and put into the Bastile for arming her clandestinely in a French Port, it being before the War between France & England. He is now in America. Capt. Coningham is in Prison in England. When he was in Holland with Capt. Jones, I was in hopes he would have called at Dunkirk and then the Affair might have been settled there. But he went directly to Spain, & in sailing from thence was taken. I sent to America the Declaration of those Men which you forwarded to me in 1779. I suppose it miscarried, for I never heard of its being received. I should be glad to serve them in obtaining their just Demands, but those should be ascertained. They would do well therefore to renew their Declaration upon Oath, & make 4 Copies of it, to be sent by different Vessels to America. I will solicit that their Claims be enquired into & an Order obtain’d for the Payment, of what shall appear to be their just Right. This can only be done in America, for no where else is there any Account to be found of the Produce of the Prizes.
With great Esteem, I have the honour to be Sir
Mr Coffyn Dunkerque


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Barry, 23 March 1781
From: Barry, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

SirL’Orient 23d. March 1781.
I had the Honor to receive yours dated the 17th. inst. but it leaves me intirely in the dark.— As I have no orders from you, and as there is no person here for me to apply to, in Consequence of it and to Comply with my orders from the Honble. the Admiralty I have took the Ship the Marquis delafayette with public Stores onboard under my direction and shall as soon as I can get ready (which will be on sunday or Monday next) proceed to Deleware with her under my Convoy.—
I am Sir your very huml. Servt.
John Barry
His Excellency Doctr. Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr. / Minister Plenopotentiary / at the Court of Versailles / Paris
Notation: Capt. Barry Mar. 23. 81


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Baron de La Courtette, 24 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: La Courtette, ——, baron de

Passy March 24. 1781
Mr Franklin is at home every Morning except on Tuesdays, and will be ready to receive the Baron de la Courtelle when ever he shall do him the honour of calling on him.
Direct to the Baron de la Courtelle / Hotel St Martin / Rue froid Manteau / à Paris


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Archibald Lyons, 24 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lyons, Archibald

Sir,Passy, March 24. 1781
I receiv’d your Letter dated the 17th. I shall apply this Day for an Order that you & your Friends may sell the Boat for your own Use & be at Liberty to go to L’Orient, where you will find Vessels bound to America.
I am, Sir,
Mr. Archibald Lyons.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chalut de Vérin, 27 [i.e., 24] March 1781
From: Chalut de Vérin, Geoffroy
To: Franklin, Benjamin

paris samedi 27 mars [i.e., March 24, 1781]
M de Chalut a lhonneur de faire Ses compliments à Monsieur franklin, et de Le prier d’engager M. Laurens a être de la partie pour le diner d’aujourdhui samedi. M. le Comte d’Estaing fait Cet honneur là à M. de chalut, qui espere que M. Laurens Lui procurera la meme satisfaction.
Les deux abbés assurent Monsieur franklin de leur attachement respectueux.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Laurens, [24 March? 1781]
From: Laurens, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir.[March 24, 1781?]
In order to be ready with the memorial for to morrow it will be necessary for me to devote this afternoon to writing— I must entreat you therefore to make my excuse to Mr Chalut— I have the honor to be Dear Sir Yours sincerely and respectfully.
John Laurens.

Addressed: To / His Excellency Benjamin / Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael, 25 March 1781
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,Madrid 25th. March 1781
At the Embassadors Table I had the Pleasure of meeting Mr. Senrat the Bearer of this Letter. He hath just returned to Europe after a long Absence from his native Country France, which he quitted with a View of travelling at the kings Expence in Africa & the east Indies & returns loaded with the Spoils of these Countries in the Vegetable & animal World, He expressed a strong desire of being known to your Excellency & the Ct. de Montmorin seemed to wish that I should give him an Opportunity. He hath amassed a great Variety of Objects that make no part of the Collection of most of the Adventurers who visit the Regions that he now comes from— I doubt even whether Governor Bumbold would give the Superb Cradle He lately lost for the 6000 Birds of an new kind the many thousands new plants of which he procures the knowledge to the Botanical World, or of the Chinese Encyclopedia in more than forty Volumes, all of which He will be happy to show your Excellency before they are submitted to profane Eyes— He has also written the History of his Voyages illustrated with Maps & Drawings to the number of 600 and has the Modesty not to talk on these Subjects, unless constrained by the Curiosity of others—my short acquaintance with this Gentleman allows me to say no more of him personally but it gave me a desire of knowing more of him— I hope you will think that my motive in introducing him to you, proceeds from a Desire of contributing to your Satisfaction, for I always think myself fortunate in every opportunity that I can seize of evincing to you How much I am, Your Excellency’s &c.
(signed) Wm. Carmichael
His Excelly. Dr. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Hancock, 26 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hancock, John

Sir,Passy, March 26. 1780 [i.e., 1781]
I am requested by some Friends of much Consideration in this Country, to recommend to your Excellency’s Protection Messrs. Galatheau & Compere who go over in the Ship Marquis de la Fayette, with a Power of Attorney to call to Account Messrs Peurien & La Fitte of Salem, for a Cargo intrusted with them by Messrs. Barran, Merchants of Bordeaux. Nothing is desired but prompt Justice agreable to the Laws of the Country, which I have no doubt of their obtaining. Any Counsel or Countenance your Excellency may afford these Strangers at my Request, I shall esteem as a Favour to me. I congratulate you most sincerely on the honourable well-merited Distinction your Country has conferr’d upon you, and am, with the greatest Respect Sir, Your Excellency’s
His Excellency John Hancock Esqe Governor of the State of Massachusetts Bay.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Barry, 27 March 1781
From: Barry, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

SirL’Orient 27th. March 1781.
Inclosed I send your Excellency the Names of the Prisoners I captured in a Small Privateer on my passage from Boston.—
I Sail in a few hours for Philadelphia in Company with the Ship that has the Continental stores on board and Sundry other Vessells; I am Sorry I cannot wait for your Dispatches the reason is the Captain of the Marquis de la fayette with the Stores on board is determined to Sail, and she being of such Consequence to the United States that I think I am in Duty bound to Convoy her safe if in my Power.—
I remain Sir your most obedt. & very humble Servt.—
John Barry
His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr.—N.B. Excuse haste

Addressed: His Excellency Benja. Franklin Esqr. / Minister Plenipotentiary from the / United States of America / Passy near / Paris
Notation: Barry March 27. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 28 March 1781
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear SirMadrid 28 March 1781
American Credit is again on the Brink of Destruction, and France alone can save it. The Evil is pressing— Details must therefore be postponed.
You are not uninformed of the Bills drawn upon me by Congress. I have accepted to the Amount of  Dollars and of that Sum have paid .
On the 23d December last His Excellency the Count De Florida Blanca expressly promised me three Millions of Reals— he has often since repeated it, and very lately told me he would endeavour to augment it. He desired me to send him every month a List of the Bills which would become due in the succeeding one. I did so, and they were paid. On the 15th. of march instant, I sent him a List of the Bills to become due in april next. To this, notwithstanding sundry applications, I recd. no answer ’till Yesterday, when the following Letter, from Mr James Gardoqui, enclosing one from the Count was delivered to me vizt.

Sir“Madrid 25 March 1781
In Consequence of the within Letter which have just reced for your goodself. I beg Leave to add that the Honourable Mr De Campo desires me to inform you, that the Ballance of the Cloathing account will be immediately ordered to be paid, but that with Respect to the amount of the Bills you mention, there is an absolute impossibility at present so that you may arrange that matter by other ways. However the said hon’ble Gentleman assures that the Promise made you of the three Million will be complied with, by paying the remaining Ballance, after deducting the several Sums already delevered you towards it, in six months hence—
With Regard to what you say about Masts and Timber, nothing offers at present, but should it occur hereafter, you will hear it from his Excellency, the above Hon’ble Gentleman, or thro’ me, and you may perhaps by that Time have further News from your Constituents.
I have the Honor to repeat myself with the utmost Respect Sir your most obedient h’ble Servant
James Gardoqui
Hon’ble John Jay Esqr”

“au Pardo ce 24 mars 1781
Le Comte de Florida Blanca a receu la Lettre que Mr Jay l’a fait l’honneur de lui ecrire, et au sujet de son Contenu, il peut lui dire qu’il se remet entieremt. a ce que Mr De Campo signifiera a Mr Gardoqui, comm.’etant tous les deux au fait des Affairs en Question—”

Remarks on these Letters would be unnecessary, nor can Conjectures respecting the motives which enduced them answer any good Purpose. Let me entreat you my dear Sir! to submit these Facts without Delay to your Court. The Extinction of american Credit would work Consequences which I think neither their Wisdom nor their Friendship for our Country, will permit to take place. If necessary, pledge the three millions promised by Spain, offer immediate repayment of the Residue in america—in Short any thing almost will be better than having all these Bills protested.
Should your Court consent to make the advances, take such arrangements for bringing them to my Hands, as that, if possible I may recieve them in Time. In commercial Transactions you know punctuality is always expected & often insisted upon.
I send you this by an Express—he has orders to wait your answer and return with the utmost Expedition. On the 16th: Day of april I shall certainly be called upon for . Communicate this Letter to Col. Laurens, who I am persuaded will Zealously cooperate with you.

I shall draw upon you without Delay for the Ballance of the 25,000 Dollars, for should my Situation be known, or this application prove fruitless, a Bill upon you would not be vendible.
Our Friends the De Neufvilles are very deeply interested in the Bills due next month. What a Train of Consequences depend on their being paid!
The Count De Montmorin, who is always friendly, has spoken to the minister on these Subjects—there is no Hope of present aid here. Were it in the Embassadors power to remove all these Difficulties, I believe they would not exist long—he will write by this Conveyance. I enclose a particular List of the Bills accepted—
To Dr: Franklin 28 march 1781 no: 18


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 28 March 1781
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & honoured sirL’Orient March 28. 1781
I arrived here last Evening & agreeable to my Expectation found every thing that I had to do relative to the Marquis de la Fayette very well executed by my Clerk & the ship in the Stream all ready for Sea, as she has been some Days.
I have no Instructions relative to the final Departure of this ship & I should suppose your Dispatches necessary, it is for this Reason that I could not take upon myself either to order her to Sea or to Brest for should any misfortune happen to her in consequence of my giving such Orders I should never recover the Confidence of my Country nor perhaps rise out of the Censure which I should incur; Capt Barré has however saved me from this Apprension by making use of the Authority vested in him by Congress & absolutely ordering the ship to sea with him, she would in consequence have sailed to day but, the Wind being so very Strong, the Pilot would not venture to go through the Pass; Tomorrow will be the last Day so if the wind does not Change you may suppose her at sea with the Alliance. The Franklin & the Aurora will sail in eight or 10 days at farthest so that I think it would be well to send on immediately whatever Dispatches you may have.
I shall write what more occurs in the meantime remain as ever Yours most dutifully & affectionately
Jona Williams J

Addressed: a monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats Unis de / l’amerique septentrionale / en son Hotel a Passy / pres Paris
Endorsed: Ship to sail under Convoy of the Alliance.
Notation: J. Williams Mar 28 1781


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [the Abbé de la Roche], 29 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: La Roche, Martin Lefebvre, abbé de

A Passy ce Jeudi 29 Mars 81
J’ai parcouru, mon cher Ami, la petit Livre des Poesies de M. Helvetius, dont vous m’avez fait le Cadeau precieux. Le beau Poëme sur le Bonheur m’a donné beaucoup de Plaisir; m’a fait resouvenir d’une petite Chanson-a-boire, que j’ai fait il-y-a quarante Ans, sur le même Sujet, & qu’avait a peu près le meme Plan, & plusieurs des mêmes pensées. La voici.—

Singer.

Fair Venus calls, her Voice obey;
In Beauty’s Arms spend Night & Day.
The Joys of Love all Joys excell,
And Loving is certainly Living well.

Chorus.

O No!
Not so!
For honest Souls know,
Friends and a Bottle still bear the Bell.

Singer.

Then let us get Money, like Bees lay up Honey,
We’ll build us new Hives, & store them well;
The Sight of our Treasure shall yield us great Pleasure,
We’ll count it, & chink it, & jingle it well:

Chorus.

O No!
Not so!
For honest Souls know,
Friends and a Bottle still bear the Bell.

Singer.

If this does not fit ye, lets govern the City;
In Power is Pleasure, no Tongue can tell.
By Crouds tho’ you’re teased, your Pride shall be pleased,
And this can make Lucifer happy in Hell.

Chorus

O No!
Not so!
For honest Souls know,
Friends and a Bottle still bear the Bell.

Singer.

Then toss off your Glasses, & scorn the dull Asses,
Who missing the Kernel, still gnaw the Shell.
What’s Love, Rule or Riches? Wise Solomon teaches
They’re Vanity, Vanity, Vanity still.

Chorus.

That’s true,
He knew;
He ’ad try’d them all through.
Friends and a Bottle still bore the Bell.

C’est un Chanteur qui exhorte ses Compagnons de chercher le Bonheur en Amour, dans les Richesses & dans le Pouvoir. Ils repliquent, en choeur, qu’on ne trouve pas le Bonheur en aucunes de ces choses & qu’on ne peut le trouver que dans les Amis & le Vin. A la Fin le Chanteur adopte leur Idée. M. Cabanis peut vous expliquer plus particulierement cette petite Anacreontique. Le Phrase, bear the Bell, signifie en François, remporter le Prix.
J’ai souvent remarqué, en lisant les Livres de M. Helvetius, que, quoique nous fussions nés & élevés dans deux Païs des differents cotés du Monde, nous nous sommes rencontrés souvent dans les mêmes pensées; & c’est une Reflexion bien flatteuse pour moi, que nous avons aimé les mêmes Etudes, les mêmes Amis,
   *Messrs Voltaire—Hume—Turgot—Marmontel—Le RoyAbbé Morellet—De la Roche, &c &c.—
 &la même Femme.
A propos de bonnes & belles Femmes, il faut vous dire, que Madame de la Frété est furieusement en Colere contre vous. Je suis prié de diner chez elle Lundi prochain. Je veux bien vous y mener, & devenir votre Mediateur. Je crois que cette Prix sera plus facile à faire, que celle entre la France & les Pirates d’Angleterre.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 29 March 1781
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurLahaie 29e. Mars 1781
Vous verrez par l’incluse, que vous voudrez bien avoir la bonté d’acheminer comme les précédentes, l’état languissant des affaires ici. Cela fait pitié. Il faudra pourtant qu’on se reveille de cette léthargie: car l’Angleterre a refusé la médiation de la Russie; & le Roi de P—— commence à montrer de l’humeur contre l’Angl. Mr. Adams, qui est depuis quelque temps à Leide, où il se plait mieux qu’à Amsterdam, n’est pas moins impatienté que moi de l’inaction où l’on est.
Je suis, en attendant mieux, avec un très grand respect, Monsieur Votre très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur
Dumas
à S. E. Mr. B. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael, 30 March[–1 April 1781]
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,Madrid 30th. March[–April 1], 1781.
I am this moment informed that an express to Mr. Cabarus whom I took the Liberty of introducing to your Notice leaves this for Paris in less than an hour. I seize the Opportunity to give you an Acct. of our present critical Situation.
You will recollect that I have mentioned more than once the promise of the Court to furnish as far as three Millions of Reals for the Payment of our Bills and to supply us with some cloathing for the use of our Army of this Sum 49,880 Dollars, making 997,760 reals have been paid.— Part of the clothing is Shipped & the Money for the Residue being demanded by the Commissioners appointed at Cadiz for the Sale of this & other Articles taken by the combined Fleet last Summer, before they would permit Mr Harrison our Agent to embark it, Mr. Jay applied to the Court for the Ballance due on that Acct. & at the same time for money to discharge the Bills payable next Month after some Delay, He received an Order for the former, but was told peremptorily that the Court could not furnish the Residue of the 3. Millions in less than six Months & was informed for the first time that the Money for the cloathing was included in the first mentioned Sum. Judge of our Distress of Mind since receiving this Answer. Mr. Jay first Idea was to adress himself to your Excellency & pray the intervention of the french Court to rescue the Credit of America from Impending Ruin— He communicated his Intentions to the Ct. De Montmorin who judged it best first to employ his good offices for us with the Ct. de Florida Blanca— That Minister assured him of the inability of the Court to supply the Sum in Question, but appeared disposed to become responsible for the repayment in a few Months, if we could find any Persons to make the Advance necessary, I had recourse to the associates of Mr. Gabarus with Mr. Jay Approbation, who seemed willing to furnish the Money provided the Minister of Finance would receive this as part of the Sum in Specie which they have engaged to furnish to the Court— I informed the Ct. De Montmorin of this Circumstance, who not content of his Application to the Minister had the goodness to speak to the Marquis d’Yranda whose friendship to us, and our Cause inclines him to befriend us. The Marquis whom Mr. Jay hath since seen hath justified the opinion I always entertained of him— But before any final Arrangements can be taken it is necessary that the Ct. de Montmorin should once more see the Ct. de F. Blanca—we expect his Answer this Evening, this takes time & it will not be in Mr. Jay’s Power to dispatch his Express until to morow at soonest, by which the Marquis d’Yranda will write probably to Mr. Grand if this arrangement takes place— The Amt. of all Bills accepted by Mr. Jay at 3 & 6. Months Sight is 264,258 Dollars & 15600 at two Months Sight. Mr. Jay will inclose you a more particular Acct.
Fearful that his Express may still be delayed, I take the Liberty of giving you this hasty Return, convinced that you will do all in your Power to save us from the cruel Mortification of seeing our Credit ruined here & likewise that of many innocent Individuals who have counted on the punctual Payment of these Bills— I make no doubt Colonel Laurence will join you effectually in this Business. I beg you to make him the proper compliments & Congratulations on my part & to believe me with much respect. Your Excellency’s most obliged & most Humble Servant
(signed) W. Carmichael
1st. April

P.S. Finding that the Express by which I intended to send this Letter was to go first to the Pardo, I judged it best to defer making use of that Conveyance. You will find by Mr. Jay’s Letters & the paper it incloses that our Situation for a Month at least is rendered more agreable, it depends upon you or rather on your Court to render it still more so— The Spanish Fleet had not got into Cadiz the 27th. ulo. Its return depends on the Weather & Winds which have been unfavorable since the 23d. when it was in view of Port. A Vessel has arrived at Cadiz which left Cambridge in Maryland the 10th. of Feby. & the Capes the 18th. Arnold was Still in Virginia—the Capt says cut off from a Communication with his Ships by a superior Force of Militia.
He also asserts that he saw two Days before his Departure a hand Bill containing a Relation of an Action in the borders of N. & S. Carolina in which our Troops were victorious & the Enemy lost 900 Men killed wounded & Prisoners & 30 Waggons.
His Excelly. Dr. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Duchesse d’Enville and the Duc de La Rochefoucauld, 31 March 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Enville, Marie-Louise-Nicole-Elisabeth de La Rochefoucauld, duchesse d’,La Rochefoucauld, Louis-Alexandre, duc de La Roche-Guyon et de

Passy, March 31. 81.
Dr Franklin presents his respectful Compliments to Madame la Duchesse d’Enville, & to Monsieur Le Duc de Rochefoucauld; he condoles with them most sincerely on the Loss of their excellent Friend M. Turgot, and mingles his Tears with theirs.
As M. le Duc has interested himself much in the American Constitutions of Government, Dr. F. flatters himself that the Sermon preach’d on the Commencement of that of the Massachusets Bay, will not be unacceptable; and he sends it herewith.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Bénard, 31 March 1781
From: Bénard, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurParis ce 31 mars 1781
Si je n’avois a rechercher que l’estime de ceux qui Vous ont fait des rapports outrageants contre moi, je resteroit sans doute fort tranquile: C’est un torrent d’injures auquel je saurai mettre ordre sous peu; mais il m’importe de détruire les impressions défavorables que ces feaux rapports ont dus faire Naître, et de Vous rammener, monsieur, a L’estime que je n’ai jamais cessé de meriter, que Vous m’accorderez après m’avoir lü, et plus intimement encore quand les circonstances me permettrons de Vous Voir. C’est une Satisfaction que Vous ne serez pas faché de m’avoir accordér.
Vous ne pouvez pas, monsieur, sans me faire une injustice me retirer vos bontés et vôtre protection, parce que je Vous ai Servi avec exactitude, fidelité, intelligence & attachement; que personne n’a dü vous demander un sols pour les articles que j’ai payés par vôtre ordre, et que Vous n’avez pas dü trouver une épingle de moins dans les choses que Vous m’aviez confié. A l’egards des Vins qui etoient dans vôtre logement, personne ne peut mieux savoir que Vous, monsieur, que je n’en n’ai pas detourné une bouteille puisque Vous en aviez precédemment le compte et que Vous l’aviez pris de Nouveau lors de mon depart c’est-à-dire quelques jours avant. Il est vrai que md. bourlier et Son mari ont couchés une fois dans la maison; mais sur les matelats de reservent et foix le fils qui Ne Nous a quitté que le landemain matin, peut bien repondre, si il est assez honnête, et assez vrai pour cela, que le Vin que j’ai fait boire dans tous les cas, a toujours été a mes dépends et jamais aux vôtres. Mais je N’ai encore rencontré en ma vie, Monsieur, qu’ingratitude & mauvais procédés, tendis que je N’ai a me reprocher que trop de générosité, de confiance, et de bonne foix.
Les gens honnetes ne peuvent soupçonner qu’on se mefie d’eux; c’est dans cette confiance qu’à ma sortie de L’hôtel je vins ici pour cultiver mes amis et mes protecteurs. Je ne pouvois pas payer; mais cela ne suppose pas que j’aye eü l’idée de faire tort. Ce ne fut qu’a près être de retour de paris, que je me suis Vü trompé dans mon oppinion, et mortifié pour des bagatelles. Les procédés de M. campo m’ont été d’autant plus sensible, qu’il avoit mils raisons de me traiter mieux s’il eüt refflechi a l’exactitude avec laquelle je lui ai toujours rendü ce qu’il m’avoit prêté posterieurement. Il me semble que C’est faire bien peu d’honneur a nôtre jugement, ou donner une bien mauvaise oppinion de nôtre caracterre, que de revenir pour des causes si foïbles, et en si peu de tems, sur le compte d’un homme que nous estimions, que nous aimons en apparence, et que nous préconisions par tout. C’est une conduite qui nous oblige a reconnoître que nous nous sommes trompés sur la sincerité des affections qu’on nous temoignoit.
Une infinité de personnes de qualité, Monsieur, Vous repondrons de L’honneteté de ma conduite, et ils peuvent ajouter que je serois maintenant fort a mon aise, si ayant moins de delicatesse et de désinteressement je m’etois comme beaucoup d’autres, arrogé des profits que la cupidité supposent légitimes; mais que la probité et la voix intérieure de la conscience rejettent avec dedain. Ces témoignages et Ceux que vous me devez, Monsieur, doivent prévaloir sur des Vils propos qui n’ont pour fondement que mes dettes.
Tous mes desirs se bornent donc, Monsieur, a recouvrer Vôtre amitié et Vôtre estime, seules choses dont je sois jaloux. Si j’ai des torts, ils consistent, a n’avoir pas prevû que je perderois ma place en ne Vous cœffant point, et a ne mêtre pas arrangé de façon pour ne rien devoir en partant. C’est ici un défaut de prudance excusable a mon âge. Etre jeune et avoir l’experience et l’ordre que vous avez se sont des aventages que la nature ne prodigue pas a tous les hommes, et ces dons réunis, semblent nous obliger en quelque sorte, à avoir de l’indulgence pour ceux qui ne les ont pas.
Agrée je Vous Supplie, Monsieur, mon profond respect
Bénard

  Je dois

a M. campo
18
  l.t.

* a arbelot
45

2 au tailleu
38

au cordonnier
10

3 a boucher
75

a dupeux
4

4. au perruquier
0

140
  l.t.

  *arbelot a à moi une levite mise a neuf qui vaut un louis

2 le tailleur un billet a ordre auquel je ferai honneur lundi
3me. boucher: a un habit a moi de drap de Silesi doublé de soye partout
4 giraudier a reçu 3 mois sur 4 que je lui devois et j’ai fait les fraix d’un Voyage pour lui qui m’a couté 13 l.t. 4 s. Si son intention et que je le régal, je lui dois 4 Francs; mais s’il pretends partagé la depense comme il me la fait paroître il se trouve mon redevable.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Lovell, 31 March 1781
From: Lovell, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond. SirMarch 31st. 1781
I send you a few News papers and the last monthly Journals which have come from the Press. The Enemy will tell their own Story of the naval Engagement on the 16th. They have ventured nearer to Truth in Rivingtons royal Gazette than almost at any one time before, since the very Commencement of Hostilities. Our Allies conducted most gallantly: And the Enemy are so convinced of the Activity of the french Commander that they have not ventured to remain in Chesapeak Bay to do all the Damage which the Event of the Battle had put into their Power.— I send you Genl. Greene’s Acct. of an Affair between him & Cornwallis. I will endeavor to have it struck at the Press. You shall have it at least with our Secretary’s Attestation which is in the best Credit even with the Enemy. The Opportunity of sending is too precarious to allow of my enlarging. Your most humble Servt
James Lovell
Honble. Doctr. Franklin

Addressed: Honble. / Doctor Franklin / Minister plenipoy. / of the U Ss. of America / France


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Nogaret, March 1781
From: Nogaret
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ExcellenceVlles. Le Mars 1781
C’est un usage chez nous de s’habiller richement quand on est Sans merite: mon petit Livre n’en a guère; J’ai du recourir au même charlatanisme; sans cela celui de vos gens qui est venu chez moi de votre part aurait remporté cette bagatelle que je Suis trop flatté de vous voir accepter.
Votre Excellence m’a honnoré d’une reponse en anglais que je n’ai pu entendre qu’une heure apres l’avoir reçue. Vingt ans d’un travail aride et consecutif dans les bureaux de la Cour, m’ont bien empêché de me Livrer à l’etude de votre Langue. Je ne connais les chef-d’oeuvres de l’Angleterre que par Les traductions. Gay, qui n’a pas fait un chef-doeuvre, ne m’est dévoilé que par la traduction d’une scavante dame de Paris, Mde. de Keralio, qui nous a donné Les fables et le Poëme de votre fabuliste. Aussi n’ai-je pas eu l’imprudence d’attaquer le Style de ce La fontaine. Je me Suis permis, pour tout, de rire de sa fiction, et de prouver combien elle pêche par le goût. J’en demande pardon aux Anglais; mais J’y ai été forçé par la stupide admiration de ceux de nos badauds pour qui tout est charmant, jusqu’a l’invraisemblable; tout, excepté ce qui s’annonce avec simplicité. Il a falu discerter: cela n’est point agreable. Cependant, j’ai été assez heureux pour que M Le Comte de Tressan, votre confrere, qui m’honnore de son amitié, m’ait mandé qu’il avait trouvé dans mes reflexions, dans mes notes et dans ma critique quelqu’erudition, dont il lui Semble que nos rimeurs actuels sont dépourvus. Puisse-t-il ne m’avoir pas trompé! Son compliment etait accompagné de Ses ouvrages: c’est presqu’une raison pour moi de croire qu’il m’a parlé comme il pensait. L’auteur de Notre Dunciade m’a fait la même faveur. C’est à la suite de ces temoignages que je me livre à vous: mais Sont-ils Suffisans? C’est trop m’exposer que de me mettre sous les yeux du défenseur né d’un Poëte, que l’angleterre regarde, dit-on, comme le rival du Phedre francais.
Je supplie votre Excellence de me pardonner, et les torts que je puis avoir dans ma critique, et le tort reel que j’ai de ne lui offrir que des futilités. Pour la disposer à l’indulgence je joins, ici, un petit ouvrage que J’ai dedié à M. de Buffon il y a dix ans, et un Galimatias où je parle physique dans le début. Ce galimathias est détaché d’un autre ouvrage: vous ne le recevrés pas par cette raison aussi bien couvert que je le voudrais. L’éxemplaire de l’Epitre à M. de Buffon n’est pas fort propre non plus: je ne suis pas le maitre de m’en procurer un plus presentable dans ce moment. Faites moi la grace de ne point vous arrêter à ces bagatelles la.

J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec un profond respect De Votre Excellence Le très humble et très obeissant Serviteur
FELIX Nogaret

à lhôtel girardin
Voyès page 59 du tome 1er. origine de l’Eventail
page 169 est une piece qui a fait plaisir à M. de Buffon.
Son Exece M franklin

Endorsed: Mr Nogaret


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Hodgson, 1 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hodgson, William

Dear Sir,Passy, April 1. 1781
I received your respected Favour of the 20th past, & am shock’d exceedingly at the Account you give me of Digges. He that robbs the Rich even of a single Guinea, is a Villain, but what is he who can break his sacred Trust by robbing a poor Man and a Prisoner of Eighteen Pence given charitably for his Relief, and repeat that Crime as often as there are Weeks in a Winter, and multiply it by robbing as many poor Men every Week as make up the Number of near 600.— We have no Name in our Language for such atrocious Wickedness.— If such a Fellow is not damn’d, ’tis not worth while to keep a Devil.
I am sorry you have been oblig’d to advance Money. I desired Mr Grand some time since to order 200£ to be paid you in London. If that is not done, draw on him for the Sum of 250£. payable at 30 Days sight, & your Bill—it shall be duly honour’d.
I inclose a Copy of Digges’s last Letter to me in which he acknowledges the Drafts made on me, (omitting one of 75£) and pretends that he only draws as he is drawn upon by his Friends who hand the Money to the Prisoners, & that those Friends are almost tired of the charitable Employment, but he encourages them, &c.— be so good as to let them know of this Letter.—
I wish with you & with all good Men for Peace. Proposals of Mediation have been made, but the Effect is yet uncertain. I shall be mindful of your Request, and you may depend on my doing any thing in my Power that may be serviceable to you.
With sincere Esteem, I am, Dear Sir,
Mr Hodgson


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comtesse d’Houdetot, [1 April 1781]
From: Houdetot, Elisabeth-Françoise-Sophie de La Live de Bellegarde, comtesse d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

a Sanois Dimanche au Soir [April 1, 1781]
Madame la Comtesse D’houdetot Et toutte Sa Societé Sont tres affligées de ne pas Voir Demain Monsieur franklin. Madame D’houdetot Espere qu’il Voudra Bien L’En dedomager un autre jour Et ne point oublier qu’il Est attendû a Sanois pour une petite Ceremonie a Laquelle Madame La Comtesse Est fort attachée Et que L’arbre qui Doit Estre placé dans son Jardin ne prospererait pas s’il n’etait planté De Sa Main. Elle Le prie Donc De Vouloir Bien Luy Donner un jour Depuis Dimanche huit Jusqu’a Jeudy Douze Et s’il n’etait pas libre de Venir un de Ces jours La il voudra Bien En Choisir un autre pouvû qu’il ne passe pas le Douze jour auquel on Retourne Le Matin a La Ville. Madame D’houdetot Envoyera Scavoir Son jour apres demain au Matin. Elle offre Mille Et Mille Tendres Complimens a Monsieur franklin.

Notation: Me. la Comtesse de Houdetot


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 1 April 1781
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr SirMadrid 1 April 1781
Notwithstanding my repeated and earnest applications to the Count D Florida Blanca I have as yet been able to obtain only, 34880 dollars of the 150,000 Dollars expressly promised me in Decr. last. He has on the contrary assured me that this promise could not be complied with in less than six Months, it therefore became necessary to communicate my Embarrassments to the Embassador of France and to request his friendly aid & Enterposition. You will perceive by the enclosed Acct. that the Bills I have accepted & which still remain to be paid (exclusive of those at 2 Months Sight for the paymt of which you authorized me to draw upon you) amount to 231,303 Dollrs. of which

89,083
will be payable this Month

  96288
in May

  18027
in June

  9,025
in July

  15,086
in Augt.

  3794
in Septr.

  231.303

The Embassador was very sensible of the pernicious Consequences which wd follow a protest of these bills and I must do from [for?] him the Justice to say interested himself warmly in endeavouring to extricate me from that Necessity. He has had different Conferences with the Count D F B. on the Subject & yesterday he promised the Embassador positively to pay the 89083 which will be due in April in the Course of six Months in six equal paymts. reckoning from next May—but as this Money still left me without Relief as to the April Bill, he engaged the Marquis DYranda to advance the Sums necessary to pay them, & which I shall accordingly receive from him— thus my dear Sir I have been as it were reprieved by the kind offices of the french Embassador from the Necessity of protesting any of these Bills due this Month, but every ensuing month will bring with it new Dangers and Sollicitudes, & particularly the Month of May in the Course of which I shall be called upon for no less than 96,288 Doll.— I am in a cruel Situation, and without the least Expectation of Succour except from france. I therefore think it necessary to inform you of the delicate State of our Affairs here by Express— and to entreat you to use your utmost endeavours to provide me by his Return with Funds adequate to the Bills accepted and which at present amount to 142,220 without including either those which may yet arrive or the 89083 due this Month & for the paymt of which I expect to reimburse the Marqs. DYranda with the Money promised by the Minister on the monthly payments before mentioned.
The Marqs DYrand whom I saw Yesterday at the french Embassadors has further agreed at the Embassadors Request to furnish me with the further Sum of 142,220 Doll. as I shall have occasion for it, provided Mr Grand will accept his Drafts to that Amount. It is therefore of the last Importance that Arrangements for this purpose be immediately taken with that Gent. & that I receive by the Return of the Express his order on the Marquis to furnish me, at least with this Sum of 142.220 Dollrs.— without which it will be impossible for me to pay these Bills—
The Embassador will also write by this Courier and I have little Doubt but that Your Court will generously interpose on this as they have on several other Occasions, to prevent Events so prejudicial to america in particular and the Common Cause in gen.
I am also constrained to add that our Situation here is daily becoming more disagreable from the Want of our Salaries—to be obliged to contract Debts, & live on Credit is terrible— I have not to this Day recd a shilling from am. and we should inded have been greatly distressed had it not been for your good offices. Endeavor I beseech you to provide us with supplies on this account, and deliver me if possible from the many disagreable Sensations to which such a Variety of unpleasant Circumstances naturally create. Remember that new Bills are still arriving.—
Be pleased to communicate this Letter to Mr Laurens who I am persuaded will chearfully afford you all the Aid in his power—
I have directed the Courier to wait your Orders & then return without further Delay—
I am dr. Sir Your friend & humble Servt.
J. J

P.S. You will perceive from the inclosed acct. that I shall be under a necessity of drawing upon you for 10 or 12000 Dollars on acct of the 25000—before it will be possible to hear from you on the Subject.—

Note in Jay’s hand?: To Dr Franklin 1 April 1781 sent 2d Inst. by Express


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Nogaret, 4 April 1781
From: Nogaret
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ExcellenceLe 4 avril [1781]
Le Silence que vous gardés me donne lieu de croire que vous n’avés point reçu les deux petits volumes et autres pieces que j’ai eu l’honneur de vous adresser. Je les ai confiés à un homme que je connais peu, et qui me promit de les remettre chez vous en passant par Passy. Sans doute il a emporté Le paquet. Faites moi la grace de m’en instruire: Je reparerais un tort dont je ne Suis pas coupable, en me presentant moi même à Passy chez votre Excellence.
Je Suis avec respect de Votre Excellence le très humble et très obeissant Serviteur
FELIX Nogaret à l’hotel girardin à Versailles


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Dana, 6 April 1781
From: Dana, Francis M.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

SirParis April 6th. 1781. Hotel Valois, Rue Richelieu
Having agreably to my Instructions, as well as my own inclinations, laid before your Excellency all the papers which I have received from Congress, relative to my Mission for the Court of , and my correspondence with his Excellency the Comte de Vergennes, in consequence of the same, for the benefit of your good Counsel; and as you were so kind, at my particular request, as to introduce me to the Comte at the Conference we had last Wednesday upon the subject of my Mission, and heard the whole, I hope you will not think I give you any unnecessary trouble, when I request you to favour me, in writing, with your opinion upon the following matters.
Whether, on the whole, you conceived the Comte to have any objections to the Mission itself? Or,
Whether you considered his Reflections upon the Subject, rather intended as Cautions and Advice to me, respecting the conduct he wou’d wish me to hold in the business?
Whether you supposed him finally to make any real objections to my going to , in the Character only of a private American Gentleman; and there waiting for the favourable moment for opening my eventual Character? And,
Whether, all circumstances considered, your Excellency thinks it expedient for me to proceed to , in a private Character only, and there to wait as abovementioned?
You will not, I presume, think I mean any thing particular in my request, when I assure you, I shall likewise ask of Mr: Adams his opinion in writing, upon the same Subject. Being directed by Congress to consult you and him, I am desirous only to have it in my power, in case of the death of either of you, to show them I have done so, as well as the result itself; and that I have paid, as I shall do, proper respect and attention to your opinions and advice, in the whole of this business. I am with the greatest Respect & Esteem your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant
F M Dana

P.S. I shall set off for Holland on Sunday morning, and shall chearfully take your Commands.
First copy
His Excellency Dr: Franklin Minister Plenipotentiary &c.

Notation in Dana’s hand: (8.) Letter from Fra: Dana to Dr: Franklin
Notation: April 6. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Winslow Warren, 6 April 1781
From: Warren, Winslow
To: Franklin, Benjamin

sirAmsterdam 6th: April 1781
I was yesterday informed by my Friend at Ostende, a Trunk & a Box, belonging to me, Were by Mistake sent to you at Passy— I must request your Excellency’s Care of them for the present— & have the Honour to be With the most perfect respect, yr Ex. Most Obedt: Very Hum: servt:
W Warren
Excellency Benja: Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency Benja: Franklin / Minister Plenipotentiary / from the United states / of America / Passy
Notation: W. Warren 6 Apr 1781


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 7 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,Passy, April 7. 1781
Among the late intercepted Letters from London, is one from the Army Agent there to the Traitor Arnold, by which it appears that his Bribe was 5000£ Sterling, in Bills drawn on Harley & Drummond, who are the Contractors for furnishing the Army with money. Inclos’d I send you a Copy of that Letter, and shall send you others by next Post.—
The English Papers tell us, that you have succeeded in your Loan. Be so good as to inform me if it is true. It will give me great Pleasure. I obtain’d here, before Col. Laurens’s Arrival, a Promise of 6,000,000 for our Army, to which I hope his Sollicitations will make a considerable Addition. The Marquis de la Fayette sail’d the 27th past, under Convoy of the Alliance, with a fair Wind, and a Cargo for the Publick, of Arms, Clothing, &c valued at 1,000,000 l.t.—
With great Respect, I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
His Excellency John Adams, Esqr


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Francis Dana, 7 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Dana, Francis M.

Sir,Passy, April 7. 1781
I received the Letter you yesterday did me the honour of writing to me, requesting my Opinion in Writing relative to the Conference you had with his Excellency the Comte de Vergennes last Wednesday, I being present; and also as to the Expediency of your proceeding to Petersburgh; which Request I willingly comply with, as follows
Your first Question is Whether on the whole I conceived the Count to have any Objection to the Mission itself?
Answ. He did not make any such Objection, nor did he drop any Expression by which it might be suppos’d he had any such in his Mind.
Qu. 2. Whether I considered his Reflections upon the Subject to be rather intended as Cautions and Advice to you, respecting the Conduct he would wish you to hold in the Business?
Answ. His Excellency express’d his Apprehensions that if you went thither under a publick Character, before the Disposition of that Court was known & its Consent obtained, it might be thought improper, and be attended with Inconvenience, and if I remember right he intimated the propriety of your consulting Prince Gallitzin, the Russian Ambassador at the Hague.
Qu. 3. Whether I supposed him finally to make any real Objections to your going to Petersburgh in the Character only of a private American Gentleman, and there waiting for the favourable Moment of opening your eventual Character?
Answ. His Objections were, That tho’ you should not avow your public Character, yet if known to be an American who had been in public Employ, it would be suspected that you had such a Character, and the British Minister there might exert himself to procure you “quelques Desagréements,” i. e. Chagrins or Mortifications. And that unless you appeared to have some other Object in visiting Russia, your being an American would alone give strong Grounds for such Suspicion.— But when you mentioned that you might appear to have Views of Commerce, as a Merchant, or of Curiosity as a Traveller, &c. that there was a Gentleman at Petersburgh with whom some in America had a Correspondence, and who had given Hints of the Utility there might be in having an American in Russia, who could give true Intelligence of the State of our Affairs, and prevent or refute Misrepresentations, &c, and that you could, perhaps, by means of that Gentleman, make Acquaintance, & thence procure useful Informations of the State of Commerce, the Country, the Court, &c. he seem’d less to disapprove of your going directly.
As to my own Opinion, which you require, tho’ I have long imagined that we let ourselves down in offering our Alliance before it is desired; and that it would have been better if we had never issued Commissions for Ministers to the Courts of Spain, Vienna, Prussia, Tuscany, or Holland, till we had first privately learnt whether they would be received, since a Refusal from one is an actual Slight, that lessens our Reputation, and makes others less willing to form a Connection with us; yet since your Commission is given, and the Congress seem to expect, tho’ I think they do not absolutely require, that you should proceed to Russia immediately, I conceive that (assuming only a private Character for the present, as you propose) it will be right for you to go;— unless, on consulting Mr Adams, and Prince Gallitzin, you should find Reason to judge, that, under the present Circumstances of the propos’d Mediation, &c. a Delay for some time would be more adviseable.
With great Esteem, and best Wishes for your Success, I am, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
I request your Care of the Enclos’d.His Excelly. Fra. Dana, Esq: Plenipotentiary to Russia

Endorsed: Dr. Franklin’s Letter Dated April 7th. 1781. Recd. ——— 7th.——— [Mission] (11)


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Dumas, 7 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric

Dear Sir,Passy, April 7. 1781
I received yours of the 29th past, inclosing one for the President of Congress, which I shall take care to forward.— I send you herewith a Sermon, which I fancy will give you Pleasure.— Your last seem’d to me to have been broke open, and seal’d again with a larger Seal than yours. I know not by what Conveyance it came; and I send you the Cover & Seal that you may judge of it.
With great Esteem, I am, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin

P.S. Since Mr Searle’s Return from Holland he has avoided all Communication with me. I cannot conceive the Reason— Can you?
Mr Dumas.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Christian Emanuel Frolich: Résumé, 7 April 1781
From: Frolich, Christian Emanuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Görlitz, Silesia, April 7, 1781, in German: We would be extremely grateful if you would send the French warrant for a branch of our Masonic lodge here at Görlitz. The warrant sent from London was not suitable, for we have no intention of affiliating with the rite of Strict Observance of the Berlin lodge or the London lodge. If you could send us application cards I will do the necessary and send them back with [Mene?].  I should also like to know if a M. Frosch, director of the loterie royale in Paris, is still living, if he is married, and if he is still a Protestant. A certain relative of his wishes to leave him a significant sum of money. I ask this of you only because your readiness to help and your brotherly love are so well known. Should I be so lucky as to obtain a warrant for a lodge, I will be at your service.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ingenhousz, 7 April 1781
From: Ingenhousz, Jan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear SirVienna April. 7th. 1781
I did send you in Decembre last the issue of the experiment by which the conducting power of common heat may be determined in the different metals. I have since wrote to you in february, requesting to be informed of what is become of Mr Wharton. I gave you to understand that I was greately concerned in some articles of trade he carryed on for me when he did set out. He promised me to write me as soon as arrived at Philadelphia, and to remit me in bills payable by you the some he layd out for me, and to lay out the rest in the best and surest way he could in America. In one of those undertakings I was concerned togeather with Mr Coffyn of Dunkerk and Dr Bankroft. As Mr Laurens is now arrived as your Secretary and had a good passage, he may probably know Whether Mr Wharton is arrived and when he did arrive. You would oblige me to inquire about it. I did also begg of you to inquire at Dr Bankroft or elsewere about a lettre which Mr Wharton wrote to me before he set out and which I never recieved. This lettre was of great concern for me. And I can’t imagine the possibility of its not coming to hand, as the other following, in which he refererred to the contents of the first, came to hand in due time—since my last to you I wrote to Mr le Begue de Presle begging of him to inquire whether you had recieved my letters, and to begg of you to let me have a line in answer to my former letters— I know, my dear friend, whow many wighty occupations take up your time and engross your attention. But however I can’t think you lost me entirely out of sight—it seems the En-glish put now whole the world at defiance. This shows, who much that haughty nation is to be feared, if it should acquire again the peacefull possession of N. America, and how necessary it is for the tranquillity of Europe that your Country should remain free. Some people here are in hopes of a congress being appointed in this city, and that an American Minister will be of the party. If this should be the case, I will rejoice in seing you here. I added a good deal of new notes to my paper upon the Electrophorus and added to it an introduction to your System, and some new discoveries about inflammable and explosive air. I wrote to Mr le Begue about printing it in Paris. But he gives me no answer. It is now under the press translated into german.
I languish much for a word of answer and begg to look over my former letters. Let me hear som news from your country.
I am with respect Dear Sir your obedient humble Servant
J Ingen Housz

This moment I am informed that the English have surprised Batavia. What cowardly, shamefull, and unmanly action! They defy whole the world because they know, nobody can hurt them. They deserve that whole Europe conspires against them to put them under propre bounds. You know my adres is a Vienne en Autriche

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur B. Franklin / Ministre Plenip. du Congres &c. &c. / a Passy
Endorsed: April 7. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Mary Hewson, 8[–11] April 1781
From: Hewson, Mary (Polly) Stevenson
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear SirCheam April 8.[–11] 1781
So few opportunities offer to convey a letter to you that I must seize the present to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from you addrest to my mother and me last December. I cannot tell by whom it came as it was put into the post; the rest of the superscription being in an unknown hand. We shall always be happy to hear from you, therefore whenever you have leisure to give us a line do not fear putting it in the post, we shall gladly pay the pence, and if it should be opened I am sure no state matters will be revealed. Cheam in Surry is sufficient direction.
My mother has been a little indisposed lately, but is recovering; she has enjoyed her health this last year I think rather better than former ones. She accompanied me & my children into the North last summer. We went by way of Preston, where we spent three days with the Baches, who were happy to see us and talk of you, but these troubles lie heavy on their hearts. I grieve that such good people, so disposed to be chearful, should have cause to be sad. Public calamities cause private woe, and therefore I lament the folly & madness of increasing them. This year the elements have joined with the madness of the people to distress all nations. Poor Mrs Woolford, whose property you know was in Barbadoes, is now I hear, quite dependant upon the bounty of her nephew. Did you know her niece was dead? I have written to you more than once since her death, but I believe I never told you of it.
I wish I had the books now to send you for your grandson, but indeed I am ashamed to say I have not yet made the purchase. My son was much delighted with the present you destined for him, and as he seems to have more taste for reading than he had I dare say he will receive pleasure & profit when I execute your commission; my solicitude to do it in the best manner has prevented my doing it yet, for as I am to send specimens of my choice to Geneva I must be nice. If I should have a better opportunity of sending the books to Geneva than to Paris will not that do? I have no intention to escape your scrutiny, for I shall send you the titles of the books, which I apprehend is all you would read of them if they passed thro’ your hands. This method may save trouble, and may open a correspondence with my future son in Law. My daughter has learnt to dance, she can read very well, I teach her a little French, and some time hence I will treat her with a master for that, & for music; she knows the notes from my instruction. I intend her to be a very clever girl. My son Thomas, at his earnest request, went to school the 10th. of last month. His brother tells me he has got before two of the boys already, and I saw him in the train to day tho least not last. Thank God my children are all healthy, I hope they will be good, and I aspire a little at their being clever.
They gave no small pleasure you may imagine at Hexham. Mama & grandmama did strut a little when the people in the streets as they passed said they are three canny bairns.
I always do spin out my letters to you in this manner; excuse it, and consider it as a proof of the affection of your obliged friend
Mary Hewson

Wednesday Evening. [April 11]
As I knew my letter needed not to be sent till to day I have kept it open to give you an account of my mother, and I have the pleasure to tell you that she is as well as she was before this last illness. She sends her love to you, and did think of writing to you herself, but her hand shakes too much.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Nogaret, 9 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Nogaret

Sir,Passy, April 9. 1781
I received duly the elegant Present of your Poetical Works. I thank you much for the Pleasure I have had in perusing them. I should have made this Acknowledgement sooner; but intending to request your Acceptance of my Opuscules in Return, I have been retarded by the Bookbinder who has not yet dress’d them decently enough to appear at Court. With great regard, I have the honour to be Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Emmanuel-Yves Bersolle, 9 April 1781
From: Bersolle, Emmanuel-Yves
To: Franklin, Benjamin

MonsieurBrest Le 9. Avril 1781
Jai recu Le nouveau billet qu’on ma fait passer de Votre part sous La datte du 3. Courant avec Les deux derniers Pacquets. J’aurai soin de profiter de la premiere occasion pour Les acheminer sous couvert de M. holker Egalement que Vos précédens. Comptez S’il Vous plait 7 l.t. a M. Le Rai de Chaumont pour ports des derniers.
Je me ferai Toujours un Vrai plaisir de Vous donner En Toute occasion des marques seincere du Respect avec Lequel Je Suis Monsieur Votre Très humble et Très obeissant serviteur.
Bersolle
Mr. Le Dr. franklin. à Passy

Addressed: à Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur / franklin. à son hotel. / à Passy près Paris.
Notation: Bersoll 9 Avril 1781


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jacques Necker, 10 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Necker, Jacques

Sir,Passy, April 10. 1781.
I am much oblig’d by your kind Attention to the Request of Mr. Williams, of Nantes, and beg you to accept my Thanks. I am with great Respect, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
M. Necker Comptroller General of the Finances.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 10 April 1781
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,Leyden April 10th 1781.
Relying on your Virtues and Graces of Faith and Hope, I accepted the Bills to the Amount of ten thousand Pounds Sterling, drawn in favour of Mr. Tracy.
I have recieved Advice from Congress of more Bills drawn upon me: when they arrive and are presented, I must write You concerning them and desire You to enable me to discharge them: for I am sorry to be obliged to say that although I have opened a Loan according to the best Plan I could, and the Plan and the Loan seems to be countenanced by the Public, yet there is little Money obtained scarcely enough to defray the Expence of Obligations and Stamps; and it is daily more and more clear to me, that We shall never obtain a Loan here, until our Independence is acknowledged by the States—’till then every Man seems to be afraid, that his having any thing to do in it, will be made a foundation of a criminal Process or a Provocation to the Resentment of the Mob.
The Time is very near when some of the Bills I accepted become payable. I must intreat your Excellency’s Answer to this as soon as convenient, and to point out to me whether You choose that the House of Fitzeau & Grand & Co or any other should pay the Money. It is a most grievous Mortification to me to find that America has no Credit here, while England certainly still has so much; and to find that no Gentleman in public Life here dare return me a Visit, or answer me a Letter, even those who treated me when I first arrived here with great Politeness. I am entreated however to keep this secret, but have no Motive to secrete it from You. On the contrary You ought to know it.
I am told there will be great Alterations very soon, but I have seen by Experience, that no Man in this Country knows what will be in the morrow.
Let me ask the favour of You, Sir, to give my best Respects to Coll. Laurens and Mr. Franklin.
I have the Honour to be, with the greatest Respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble Servant.
 John Adams
His Excellency Dr. Franklin.

Notation: J. Adams. April 10. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vincenzio Martinelli, 10 April 1781
From: Martinelli, Vincenzio
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Florence April the 10 1781
I received your very instructive Boock brought to me by the Bohemian pehilosofer. What you say of Canda has set me wriight about the importance of that immense continent to all the British Colonies of Amerique. What you say of Mr. Walpole rememberng me friendely geeves me plesure he ha been a very generus friend to me, and as long I live shall remember his benefactions. The Bohemian Fhilosofers Sudden departure for Rome has depriv’d me of the opportunity of paing him any Civility as your insinuation had disposed me to do. A month ago I had a momentanery tuch of frensy, wich few dops of a medicinal liquor dissipated in a sudden. My Phiscien advised I should leave of riding. I have done acordinly. I am gone 80. The to long siting has wickned my legs very much—I am and shall be for ever your honors most humble and obedient Servant
Vincent Martinelli

Addressed: To / The Honble. Doctor Franklin / Paris / sous Couvert de Mr. Lavabre Doerner & Comp.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean de Neufville & fils, 11 April 1781
From: Neufville, Jean de, & fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honourable Sir!
Amsterdam the 11h. Aprill 1781.
We have the honour to adress Your Excellency by direction of his Excy John Adams Esqr: as Among Some bills Drawn on his Excy Henry Lawrence there offerd one denoted hereunder, which Mr. Adams says to belong to the first parcell we had Accepted, and so referred it to us and to Your Excellency to provide for the payment, about Which in consequence we will wait for her directions. The bills Accepted by His Excy John Adams will likely be provided for by your Excellency as the former we have no Comission about them as yett, we may hope however not to have given to Your Excellency any Dissatisfaction in our former operations, and in what may occurr we begg your Excellency to be persuaded of our readiness to serve her and the American Cause where it may lay in our power and So we have the honour to be with the most respectfull Regard Honourable Sir! Your Excellencys most Obedient & most humble Servants
John DE Neufville & Son.

N°. 10. Exchange for f. 824.—. Bo [Banco] 25. day of Februry 1780. order Charles Handy To the honourable Henry Laurens Esqr.

Notation: Neufville John & son 11. April 1781.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Carmichael, 12 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Carmichael, William

Dear Sir,
Passy, April 12. 1781
I received your Favour by M. Cabarrus, & should have been glad if I could have rendred him any Service here. He appears an amiable Man, and expert in Affairs.— I have also your obliging Letters of the 28th of February and the 12th & 30th of March. I thank you much for your friendly Hints of the Operations of my Enemies, and of the means I might use to defeat them. Having in view at present no other Point to gain but that of Rest, I do not take their Malice so much amiss, as it may farther my Project, and perhaps be of some Advantage to you. Lee and Izard are open & so far honourable Enemies, the Adams’s, if Enemies, are more cover’d. I never did any of them the least Injury, and can conceive no other Source of their Malice but Envy. To be sure, the excessive Respect shown me here by all Ranks of People, & the little Notice taken of them, was a mortifying Circumstance, but it was what I could neither prevent or remedy. Those who feel Pain at seeing others enjoy Pleasure, and are unhappy because others are happy, must meet daily with so many Causes of Torment, that I conceive them to be already in a State of Damnation, and on that Account I ought if I could to drop all Resentment with regard to those two Gentlemen. But I cannot help being concern’d at the Mischief their ill Tempers will be continually doing in our publick Affairs, whenever they have any Concern in them.
I remember the Maxim you mention of Charles V. yo y el Tiempo; and have somewhere met with an Answer to it in this Distich

I and Time ’gainst any two.
Chance & I ’gainst Time and you.

and I think the Gentlemen you have at present to deal with, would do wisely to guard a little more against certain Chances—
The Price of the Bibliotheca Hispana is too high for me. I thank you for the Gazettes you sent me by the Ambassadors Courier. I received none by the last. I shall be exceeding glad to receive the Memoires of the Sociedad Economica and the Works on Political Oeconomy of its Founder.— The Prince of Maceran, with several other Persons of his Nation, did me honour of breakfasting with me on Monday last, when I presented the Compliments you chargd me with.
Mr Cumberland has not yet arriv’d at Paris as far as I have heard.
The Discontents in our Army have been quieted. There was in them not the least Disposition of revolting to the Enemy.
I thank you for the Maryland Captain’s News, which I hope will be confirmed. They have heard something of it in England, as you will see by the Papers, and are very uneasy about it, as well as about their News from the East Indies.
Neither Mr Jay’s Letter or yours mention any thing of my Paying the Courier, any Money. He speaks of wanting 50 Louis. I suppose I must give him some part if not the whole.— I am ever, my dear Friend, Yours affectionately
B F


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Jay, 12 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Jay, John

Dear Sir
Passy April 12. 1781.
I have before me the several Letters you have honour’d me with dated Feb. 21. March 11. and April 1.
I was much pleased to learn that you have obtained a Promise for 150,000 Dollars; your Reflection on the Consequence is just. As this Sum must be used in Payment of the Bills drawn upon you, and probably no Part of it can be applied to your Subsistance, I desire that you would draw upon me for half a Year of your Salaries immediately, at 30 days sight; and for the future, while I stay here, draw quarterly, until you receive Remittances or can obtain a disponible Grant or Loan. I mention this the first thing in my Letter, to make you as soon as possible easy on that Head.
I thank you for sending me the Copy of the Resolution relating to the Empress of Russia, tho’ I had before recd. it and it was already communicated to her imperial Majesty, who I am informed is much pleased with it. Mr Dana, lately Secretary to Mr Adams, has recd a Commission appointing him Minister to that Court. He is on his Way thither incog, and proposes to appear in that Country merely as a Traveller, ’till a proper time may arrive for avowing his Character. So you will please not to mention it. Mr Adams has I believe, received a Commission lately to supply the Place of Mr Lawrens in Holland. I know not whether he has yet declard it. He has some time since opened a Loan there, at the House of Neufville, for two Millions of Florins, about 4 Millions of Livres: I have not yet heard with what Success, but hope it will fill.
I have always found Mr Grand here, an able and hearty Friend to our Affairs. I am therefore glad that you are becoming better acquainted with his Friend at Madrid, as together they may on many occasions be more serviceable to us.
I thank you for communicating to me the Letter of the Secretary of Congress on our Finances. It gives Light which I had not before, & may be useful here.
Negotiations for Peace are talked of. You will see all I know of them, in a Letter of mine to Congress, which I leave open for your Perusal, and desire you to forward with your next Dispatches. I give you the Opportunity of perusing that Letter for another Reason: I have in it desired a dismission from the Service, in consideration of my Age, &ca. and I wish you to succeed me here. No Copy of the Letter is yet gone from France, & possibly this which I send you may arrive first; nor have I mention’d my Intentions to any one here: if therefore the Change would be agreable to you, you may write to your Friends accordingly. I purpose recommending these Changes myself in another Letter.

Your Express arrived here on Sunday last, at 3 a Clock. I communicated your Letter that Evening to Mr Lawrens. We agreed in the Necessity of supporting the Credit of Congress by paying the Bills, tho’ his Zeal for supplying the Army made him feel a Reluctance in diminishing the 6 Million of Livres, I had lately obtain’d for that purpose, and which was either to be laid out in Cloathing &ca here, or drawn for by General Washington, as you will see by my Letter to Congress. I have my self experienc’d too much of the same distress’d Situation you are in, not to pity you most sincerely. I have therefore this Day authorised Mr Grand in Writing to pay the Bills of the Marquis d’Yranda that may be drawn to furnish you with the Sum of 142,220 Dollars. I confide that these Drafts will not come but by Degrees as the Occasion calls, from your Acceptances between May and September, my Receipts of Money being gradual; & it may be depended on that the Bills will be duly honour’d.— Mr Lawrens is worrying the Ministers for more Money, & we shall I believe, obtain a farther Sum. But the necessary Supplies of Military Stores will demand all & more than we shall get; I hope therefore that you will not Relax in your Applications for Aids from Spain, on Acct of the Sums to be furnish’d you by me, since it will be hardly possible for me to assist you farther.— My Grandson will execute with Pleasure your Commissions. Present my Respectful Compliments to Mrs Jay, and believe me ever, with sincere Esteem & Attachment, Dear Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin

P.S. I inclose you Copies of a Number of Letters lately taken & brought in here. I wish you could send Copies of them by different Conveyances, as the Contents of some are important.
His Exy J. Jay Esqr.

Endorsed: Doctr. Franklin 12 Ap. 1781 authorizing me to draw for half a Year Salary immediately—& quarterly in future.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Richard Neave & Son, 12 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Neave, Richard, & Son

Gentlemen,
Passy, April 12. 1781.
I received a few Days since your Letter dated Bornier March 26. and am sorry to hear of your Difficulties. Mr. Wharton sail’d in the Ariel the 18th. of December last; we have yet no Account of his Arrival. I do not see any Reason to imagine that any Circumstance of the Peace when it is made, or any Laws to be made in America are likely to deprive you of your just right there. In the mean time I think ’tis a pity you are not there, or at least one of you to take care of them. I am persuaded you would find no Difficulty in recovering Debts from Mr. Carson or others able to pay.— I know of no body here that Wants Money in America; and who would be willing to purchase Bills on that Country. I hope you will soon have a satisfactory Account of the Arrival of M. Wharton and receive from him the assistance you have so much Reason to expect. I am, with Great Esteem, Gentlemen, &c
Messrs. Richard Neave & Son.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Triol, Roux & Co., 12 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Triol, Roux & Cie.

Gentlemen,
Passy April 12. 1781
I received yesterday the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 4th Instant. I shall take care to forward Copies of it by different Conveyances to Congress, and recommend it to their Consideration. It is only of one of their Loans that they pay the Interest in Europe, agreable to the Conditions of that Loan: But the Bills they draw for the Payment of that Interest are daily sold in America, by those who do not want Money in Europe, and your Correspondent there may purchase such Bills with the Interest Money he receives for you, and being sent to you they will be punctually paid by me here. It is certainly the Intention of Congress to do Justice to every body, and I am persuaded your Affair in America will not suffer by their fault, whatever it may by Accidents or the Mismanagement of your Agents. I have the honour to be, Gentlemen,
Messrs Triol Roux & Co Negociants à Marseilles.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Hodgson, 12 April 1781
From: Hodgson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir
London 12 April 1781
I duly rec’d your favor of the 1st instant & am equally shock’d with you at the consummate Artifice & Villainy of Digges. A Man that coud deliberately sit down to write such a Letter as that which you send me Copy of, full of falshoods from beginning to end & all under the Hypocritical mask of Humanity & Benevolence, does indeed deserve to have a Devil made for him if there was not one before prepared.
In a matter of such Enormity & which may have Consequences, I judge it will be very proper the detection shou’d not rest upon the Veracity of one Mans asserting which the accused no doubt will deny, I therefore inclose you some Original Letters from the Committees Agents at Portsmo and Plymo which will I believe flash Conviction in the face even of the Culprit himself & demonstrate the falshood of all his Assertions— Mr Wren, (you will perceive) advanced per D— order £25. last Year & Mr Sawrey £20.—both these Sums I repaid them out of a draft. D. gave me on Mr Grand latter end of last Year, the Bill was given me to negotiate & I was not directed by D. how to apply it nor indeed have I ever seen him since. I therefore have, in some measure at my own risque, applyed this Money & D. has not to this hour ever acknowledged that I did right but I was resolved to risque it—indeed £5 was left unpaid to Mr Wren untill your last Remittance. I directed him from that to pay himself, being certain you woud agree to the propriety of it— Since my last Letter I find that he has Remitted Mr Wren £30 which Mr Wren had advanced the Prisoners since the 1st Jany 81—at the same Time forbidding any further advance on his Acct—therefore of all the Monies drawn upon you this Year he has applied £30 & no more— You will please to observe that these Gent are the only Persons who can have access to the Prisoners to give Money &c their Names being registred for that purpose with the board of Sick & Hurt. I mention this because perhaps in the excuses set up, D may say, it was to some other persons that he paid the Money— No other persons cou’d be permitted to make the Distribution— I admire this Fellows ingenuity who coud in his Letter to you dress up a Tale of the Agents being wearied & a side glance at me with a little Compliment, & take Credit to himself for soothing us, when you will clearly see by the Letters that whatever of dissatisfaction appeared arose entirely from the Conduct of D. himself. I had suspected him for some Time & it is not in my Nature to shew Cordiality to a Man I think I have reason to despise— Such flagitious characters as these, hurt every Cause & indeed give one bad Impressions of human Nature. I have been pretty liberally bespattered for detecting one Scoundrell before & I expect when this comes to be known not to fare better from this last Quarter— I do not know whether you was drawn upon prior to this Year for any pretended advance to Prisoners, no such advance has been made them. I except whatever money he may have given to escaped Prisoners that is a matter of which I neither do, nor even wou’d, know any thing, as conceiving it wou’d in me, have been a breach of Honor with the board of Admiralty—but this must, in its Nature, be a mere Trifle— Mr Grand has not remitted me any money since the £150 in Feby of which I shall give below an Acct of the Distribution. I wish not to draw if Mr Grand will remitt I will take Care the Amount shall be properly handed to the Agents. I have sent above £100 Subscription Money within this Month or otherwise the prisoners wou’d have had no Allowance att all. The only Truth in Digges Letter is the Acco’t of the No of Prisoners,—
I shall not have an Opportunity this post of making the enquiry about Mr T. but it shall be done & you shall be informed in my next— I hope there was not any impropriety in the request made in my last. If there was you will be so free & candid as to tell me so. My only meaning was to be put upon perhaps a Level with deputy Secy’s & Clerks in Office in Case there shou’d be a probability of the great desireable Event taking place, I am with great Respect Dr sir your most obedt servt
William Hodgson

 Feby 20 sent Mr. Wren 60
}
£150

 Do Mr Sawrey 40

 March 17 do to Do 30

 do Mr Wren 20

Dr. F.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Carmichael, 14 April 1781
From: Carmichael, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
Madrid 14. April 1781.
Some time ago I made you a volontary promise to contribute to your pleasure by introducing to your Acquaintance Mr. Giuste late chargé d’Affairs of Vienna & Tuscany at this Court— He now to the great regret of all his Friends here puts it in my Power to fulfill my Engagements & to add to the Number of these few of the Many who have desired your Acquaintance, that have merited your Esteem— I have had the honor of being known to this Gentleman since the first Week of my arrival in this City & have ever found in him that Liberty of sentiment and conduct which disdains a line of Action that Many short sighted Politicians frequently deem the most essential part of their Duty. But I wander from my Subject, which is merely to present this Gentleman to your Acquaintance & that of your philosophica[l] Friends. He in a very short Conversation with yourself, Will do himself more Justice than I can do in many Pages.—
I have the honor to be with sincere respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most obliged & most humble Sevt.
(signed) W. Carmichael.
His Excelly. B. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 15 April 1781
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Nantes 15 Avril 1781
A mon retour de L’Orient j’ai trouve une Notte de votre part, (sans datte) que me demande des Renseignements a sujet de la Pacotile que notre Ami feu Monsr. Dubourg avait confié a mon Frere—. En reponse a cette Demande J’ai l’honneur de vous remettre les Copies de 3 Lettres que J’ai ecrit—Scavoir

A Monsr. Breton le 4 Août 1779
A Monsr. Dubourg le 10. 7bre. 1779
A la Vve. Massé le 6 fevrier 1781.—
Lesquelles trois Lettres contiennent tout ce que je scais, & tout ce que je peux dire a ce sujet— J’ai entre mes Mains trois Oppositions au sujet de cette affaire—du 18. 8bre. 1779 de la part de la Vve Massé— du 28. 8bre. 1779—de la part de Monsr Breton—du 19 Janvr. 1780— de la part de Monsr. Andre Micheaux et quand je receverai quelque chose J’en disposerai suivant les Regles de la Loi; mais comme l’affaire est dans les Mains du Congress, c’est a dire dans le Bureau d’emprunt, je crois qu’il sera bien de la laisser la. Je voudrais etre quitte de toutes ses Oppositions, car dans le fond la chose ne me regarde pas, J’ai par Amitié a Monsr. Dubourg pris ses Marchandises & par son Ordre je les ai remis a Mon Frere, ainsi c’est mon Frere & pas moi, qui doit repondre a toutes les Questions qu’on me fait. Je vous prie de remettre cette Lettre & toutes les Copies a la personne que vous a demandé les Informations. Je suis avec le plus profond Respect Votre affectioné
Monsieur Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Franklin Bache, 16 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bache, Benjamin Franklin

My dear Child,
Passy April 16. 1781
I received an English Letter from you in February last, and a french one since of the 26th of March. You do well to write often to me, because it always gives me Pleasure to hear of your Welfare, tho the Affairs I am engag’d in do not permit me so often to write to you. I have heard lately from your Papa & Mama, who were well with the whole Family. I enclose a Letter they sent to me for you. Your Mother has been doing a great deal of Good, by promoting a Subscription among the American Women to send good Things to the Army for the Comfort & Encouragement of the Soldiers. I send you a Copy of a Letter I received from the Secretary of the French Embassy at Philadelphia, & also one of the Papers she caus’d to be printed and distributed on that Occasion, with a Translation of it into French. There was a great Sum collected. Be diligent in your Studies, that you also may be qualified to do Service to your Country, and be worthy so good a Mother. Your Friend Cockran is well, and always enquires after you. Your Cousin sends his Love to you, and I am ever Your affectionate Grandfather
BF

I sent you some English Books, which I hope you have receiv’d; and I expect [MS torn]


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Marignac, 16 April 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Marignac

Sir,
Passy April 16. 1781
I received your Favour of the 21st February; It was a great Satisfaction to me to be inform’d that you had taken care to have my Grandson out of the Way of any Danger that might have arisen from your public Troubles, and I pray you to accept my Thanks. I hope those Troubles are now all over, and that you are happy in the general Tranquility, being with great Esteem, Sir,
M de Marignac


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 16 April 1781
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Leyden April 16th 1781
I yesterday had the honour of your’s of the seventh. The letter inclosed is a better satire on the nation which produced it. Is it possible that Arnold should shew his Face among Men after such a Letter? If it is not a bribe it is robbery committed in the American Service: for it is well known, that Arnold had no such Sum when the War began. He is now employed in stealing Tobacco and Negroes—so is Cornwallis: a fair employment for Peers—for Arnold is the Peer of them all. I think the Southern States will have the Honour after all, of putting the Continent in a right Way to finish the Business of the War.
All the Papers English, French and Dutch assure the World that I have succeeded in a Loan. I wish they would prove their Words. I am told it will do [so?] by and by so I am [sure?] that the nation will act vigorously by and by. I wish both may prove True: but I have not one Grain of your Faith nor Hope.
There are Capitalists who believe Us able and honest to pay, and that We shall prevail; and they have Inclinations enough they say to the Loan: but the true Motive of their Conduct is fear of being pointed out to Mobs and Soldiers, as Persons who have contributed to the Commencement or Continuance of the War with England. I wrote You some days ago that I had not succeeded at all and requesting your Orders how the Bills accepted should be paid. Some of them become payable the beginning of May, and on the fifteenth of that Month, the sixty six Bills amounting to Ten thousand pounds sterling, which were drawn in favour of Mr: Tracy, become due. I congratulate You on your Success at Versailles. If Spain would make a Treaty with Mr. Jay it would assist Us here. Everybody asks, why does Spain delay? You and I know very well but cannot tell. But so it is— one always negotiates ill when one is not in a Condition to make oneself feared. If America could dissemble enough to threaten other Nations with a return to Great Britain, they would be ready to hang themselves to prevent it: but America is too honest and sincere to play this Game. England would have all the Mountains of Mexico and Peru in a few Years if America should join her. Yet We are slighted. God forgive them, and enable America to forget their Ungenerosity.
America has fought Great Britain and Ireland for six years and not only Great Britain, but many States of Germany, many Tribes of Indians, and many Negroes their Allies. Great Britain has been moving Earth and Hell to obtain Allies against Us, yet it is improper in Us to propose an Alliance. Great Britain has borrowed all the superfluous Wealth of Europe in Italy, Germany, Holland, Switzerland and some in France to murder Us, yet it is dishonorable in Us to propose to borrow Money. By Heaven I would make a Bargain with all Europe, if it lay with me. Let all Europe stand still, neither lend Men nor Money nor Ships to England nor America, and let them fight it out alone. I would give my Share of Millions for such a Bargain. America is treated unfairly and ungenerously by Europe. But thus it is Mankind will be servile to Tyrannical Masters and basely devoted to vile Idols.
With Great Respect, Sir, your obedient Servant
John Adams
His Excellency Dr. Franklin.

Notation: J. Adams. April 16 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Huquier, 18 April 1781
From: Huquier, A. Benoist
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
Orleans ce 18 avril 1781
Jay eu Lhonneur de vous Ecrire le 26 fevrier Dernier quil mavoit Eté remis d’Envois de Mr Grand de Paris deux Petites Caisses, avec injonction de ne les Expedier que Suivant vos ordres. Jesperois de Jour a autre les recevoir. Aujourdhuy Je recois Lettre de Mr Jn Williams de Nantes qui les Reclame: mais Je ne puis, ni ne dois les Expedier sans votre ordre. Je vous prie d’avoir la Bonté de me les faire passer aussitot et dy Joindre une Declaration de ce quelles renferment, afin Deviter La Saisie qui pouroit en Etre faite, sur une fausse Declaration. Jay lhonneur dEtre avec un profond Respet Monseigneur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
A. Benoist Huquier

Notations in different hands: Benoist 18 April 1781 / ansd. 21 apl 81.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Nogaret, 18 April 1781
From: Nogaret
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Vlles. Le 18 avril [1781]
Vous avés poussé l’honneteté bien loin. Si un bon tableau peut se passer de bordure, un ouvrage comme le votre n’a pas besoin d’être bien couvert. En me l’annonçant, vous m’avés mandé que vous desiriés qu’il parût avec la décence convenable à la Cour. Je ne Suis pas heureux, si vous me croyés homme de Cour parce que je vis dans ce païs là. J’ai peutêtre donné lieu à cette presomption par ma fidelité au cérémonial. Je me doute que vous n’aimés point toutes ces qualifications qui, dans le fait, ne Sont que des mots, et n’ajoutent rien du tout au merite. Je change. Vous m’avés corrigé, en ne me donnant pas vos ouvrages nuds, et, en me traitant dans vos Lettres, avec une distinction, dont l’excès passe la représaille. Si je m’avisais d’ajouter, comme je le devrais à vos tîtres, je perdrais de plus en plus dans votre esprit: j’aime mieux, pour mon interêt, vous priver de ceux même que la Cour vous donne. Voila qui est fini: L’Excellence disparait; Je ne vous vois plus que comme l’homme du monde le plus uni, le plus modeste, et le plus eclairé. Bon! Vous allés dire que je quitte les façons pour passer aux complimens. Vous auriés tort; je ne vous complimente point: La verité part, et vous ne pouvés m’en Scavoir mauvais gré, quand c’est vous même qui faites jouer la canoniere.
J’ai grande envie de devenir meritant auprès de Vous: voyons, que faut-il faire? J’achete à tout prix l’avantage de vous voir prendre avec moi le ton si Simple et Si naturel de votre sagesse anglaise.

Scavant Minos de la Pensilvanie,
Dans votre coeur, faut-il, pour être mieux
Sacrifier à la philosophie
Le Solecisme et la cérémonie
dont le français est Si fort amoureux?
Des vous aux tu je passe, si tu veux.
Tu prêtes fort à ma douce manie:
C’est mon metier de tutoyer les Dieux.

Puisque vous vous humanisés, Monsieur, comme ces divines creatures du tems passé, on peut vous proposer d’honnorer de votre presence l’hôtel Girardin, déja célébre par une visite de l’Empereur. Je ne vous parlerai pas de moi pour vous attirer; je vous parlerai de vous même. Vous êtes amateur: j’ai un petit cabinet qui merite d’être vu une fois. Que je jouisse de l’avantage de vous y posseder un moment! Ajoutés ce plaisir à celui que j’ai de voir que Paris est content de la traduction de notre Eripuit, et que votre portrait fait, comme Je l’avais prevu, la fortune du graveur.
Vous passés tous les mardi devant ma porte. Si vous avés la bonté de venir quelque jour me visiter, je me croirai autorisé à vous aller presenter mes hommages. Je ne suis pas homme à porter la reconnaissance jusqu’à l’importunité; Mais ce Serait aussi trop peu de vous remercier par une simple Lettre. Quoique voué à un genre de litterature purement agréable, je ne Sens pas moins le prix d’un ouvrage instructif. Vous me faites eprouver le besoin d’aller vous temoigner de vive voix, et mes obligations et mon respect.
J’ai l’honneur d’être avec ces sentimens Monsieur votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur
FELIX Nogaret
Mr. franklin

Endorsed: M. Nogaret
Notation: Nogaret Felix 18. Avril 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 18 April 1781
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond sir.
Nantes April 18. 1781.
It is found absolutely necessary for Mrs Williams to take a Journey & reside some time in a high Country in order to reestablish her Health. In consequence of this and in order to produce to you all my Accounts & Vouchers I have determined to go to Passy, first leaving Mrs Williams at St Germain, she recovered her Health, when she was last ill, at that Place, & it is therefore the most probable one to succeed a second time. We propose to leave this on the first of next month and as we shall travel but very slow with private Horses it will be about the 10th before we arrive.— When you have seen my Accounts I trust you will be satisfied with my Conduct and continue your Confidence in me if there should be any new supplies ordered. Mr Laurence I understand has a particular Mission to procure pecuniary Aids, and if he succeeds in this I suppose there will be purchases to make, By the Connections I have formed & the Offers of service that are made to me from every part of the Kingdom I am sure I am as able to do the Business to advantage as any man what ever. I would however reccommend that no Cloaths of any kind should be made up here. I am convinced that it is very disadvantageous. We do not want Taylors in America & we can please ourselves much better, besides Cloaths made up take up four Times the Bulk that Goods do & consequently the Difficulty in transporting them is 4 Times as great.—
When I have the pleasure of seeing you I will take the Liberty of giving you all my Ideas on this subject, in the mean Time I beg you will reccommend my Services to Mr Laurens, if he has occasion for them.—
I travelled with Mr Payne (Common Sense) from L’Orient hither, I find he is a strong Enemy to Mr D, he professes not to be so to you but on the Contrary expresses himself respectfully of you. He says however he laments that you should be the Friend & supporter of Mr D— I suspect he is a little of a Leeite tho’ he professes no attachment to him, but I am sure he is attached to Iz and they you know run in the same Line. We agree exceeding well together & are growing intimate. I confess I like him as a Companion because he is a pleasant as well as a sensible man, and I heartily wish that Party had not so good an assistant; I trust however that when he has been a little longer in Europe, & is made acquainted with Lees Rascality he will, like all other good men, dispise the Wretch.
I am with the greatest Respect & Esteem Dear & hond sir most dutifully & affectionately Yours
Jona Williams J

Notation: J. Williams Apr 18. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbé Morellet, [19 April 1781]
From: Morellet, abbé André
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
jeudy. [April 19, 1781]
Ma soeur ma niece et mr. marmontel etant près de s’aller etablir à la campagne cet etè ont un grand desir d’aller vous voir dimanche matin jour auquel made helvetius leur donne à diner. Si vous leur accordes cette permission j’ose vous prie d’y joindre une autre grace celle de leur envoyer votre carosse seulement pour se rendre chès vous me. helvetius les ramenera chès elle. Si quelque affaire vous empechoit de vous preter à cet arrangement faites moi le plaisir de me le faire savoir avant dimanche. Vous saves avec quelle satisfaction je vous vois toujours toute ma famille partage à cet egard mes sentimens ainsi que le tendre et respectueux attachement que je vous ai voué pour toujours. Je suis avec tout le devouement possible Monsieur Votre très humble et très obeissant Serviteur
L’abbé Morellet
Si vous avies la bonté d’envoyer votre voiture je vous prie qu’elle soit à paris avant 9 heures.

Addressed: à Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / ministre plenipotentiaire des etats unis / de l’amerique / à Passy.
Notation: Morellet L’abbé


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Achille-Guillaume Lebègue de Presle, 19 April 1781
From: Lebègue de Presle, Achille-Guillaume
To: Franklin, Benjamin

a chatillon sous Bagneux ce 19 Avril 81
Je prie votre Excellence d’agreer Les assurances de mon respect et supposer qu’elle n’ait plus besoin des Lettres de William Pen, de vouloir bien les remettre au porteur de ce billet, parceque jai promis de les rendre a mon retour a Paris qui sera mardi ou mercredi.
Si votre excellence a occasion d’envoyer a Paris faire quelque commission je lui serai obligé d’y faire porter chez moi le volume des Transactions Philosophical at the American Library.
Jai oui dire qu’il est arrivé nouvellement des Americains des Etats unis: j’espere apprendre en allant faire ma cour a votre excellence a la fin du mois, que mon frere est de retour auprés du general wasingthon, comme mr Laurens me l’a fait esperer.
V. T. h. s.
Lebegue De Presle

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / Ministre des Etats Unis de L’Amérique / a Passy
Notation: Begue de Presle 19 avril 1781.