Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henry Grand, [18 June? 1783]
From: Grand, Henri-Maximilien (Henry)
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir
            Wednesday Morn. [June 18, 1783?]

          I was thinking you might perhaps be desirous to see la Procession du Bon Dieu, a most
            magnificent Shew, with an excellent Band of Martial Musik & as they are to make a
            full Stop at St. Joseph our house is the very best place to enjoy that Sight. Not Knowing precisely what time they’ll begin
            their March between 11 & 1 o.Clock, I think the first is the hour for coming.
          That will not prevent your being back at Passy at ½ past one or 2 at latest.

          I Should have done my self the honour of waiting upon you personally were it not that I
            just begin to be convalessent & that am not Strong enough yet.
          I crave to be Kindly remembered to your grand Son & that you will believe me with
            due Respect Sir Your most obedt. & most humble servt.

            Hy. Grand
            To morrow Thursday is the Fête & Procession du bon
              Dieu.

          Addressed: The Honourable / Doctor
            Franklin / Passy.
          Notation: Henry Grand.


Title: David Hartley to the American Peace Commissioners: Propositions for the Definitive Treaty, [19 June 1783]
From: Hartley, David
To: American Peace Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John,Jay, John,Laurens, Henry

          When the American peace commissioners saw David Hartley at Versailles
            on Tuesday, June 17, they told him that Congress had issued an order on April 24 opening
            American ports to British vessels—or so they understood from credible private
              sources. They were expecting official
            confirmation in the dispatches from America that were due to arrive any day. In
            reporting this to Fox, Hartley observed that if it were true, it would obviate the need
            for a commercial convention. As the Americans had responded to his proposed article of
            June [14–18] with silence, a reaction he considered “very significant,” Hartley believed
            that they should focus on concluding the definitive treaty. Indeed, he told Fox, he and
            the commissioners had arranged to meet on June 19 “to draw up a project of the
            definitive treaty.”

          At the June 19 meeting, held at Franklin’s residence, the parties agreed to suspend
            negotiations for a temporary commercial convention “upon the presumption of the American
            Ports being actually open to British Ships.” Hartley then presented the commissioners
            with this set of propositions, calling them “Memorandums for consideration” since they
            were subject to Fox’s approval. They
            were prompted by the complaints of Quebec fur traders, who had lost access to American
            furs. Fox had forwarded these complaints to Hartley in April, along with instructions on
            what to propose by way of regulations.

            [June 19, 1783]

          Mr Hartleys Propositions for the definitive Treaty.
          1. That Lands belonging to Persons of any Description, which have not
            actually been sold, Shall be restored to the old Possessors without Price.
          2. That an equal and free Participation of the different carrying
            Places, and the Navigation of all the Lakes and Rivers of that Country, through which
            the Water Line of Division passes, between Canada and the United States Shall be enjoyed
            fully and uninterruptedly by both Parties.
          3. That in any Such Places, within the Boundaries assigned, generally
            to the American States as are adjoining to the Water Line of Division and
            which are not Specifically under the Dominion of any one State, all Persons at present
            resident, or having Possessions or Occupations as Merchants or otherwise may remain in
            peaceable Enjoyment of all civil Rights and in Pursuit of their respective
            Occupations.
          4. That in any Such Places adjoining to the Water Line of Division,
            as may be under the Specific Dominion of any particular State, all Persons at present
            resident, or having Possessions or Occupations, as Merchants or otherwise, may remain in
            the peaceable Enjoyment of all civil Rights, and in pursuit of their Occupations untill
            they Shall receive Notice of Removal from the State to which any Such Place may
            appertain; and that upon any Such Notice of Removal a Term of three Years Shall be
            allowed for Selling or withdrawing their valuable Effects, and for Settling their
            Affairs.
          5. That his Britannic Majestys Forces not exceeding [blank] in Number, may continue in the Posts now occupied by
            them contiguous to the Water Line, for the Term of Three Years, for the Purpose of
            Securing the Lives, Property and Peace of any Persons Settled in that Country, against
            the Invasion or Ravages of the neighbouring Indian Nations, who may be Suspected of
            retaining Resentments in Consequence of the late War.
          6. That no Tax or Impost whatsoever Shall be laid on any Articles of
            Commerce, passing or repassing through the Country, but that the Trade may be left
            entirely open for the Benefit of all Parties interested therein.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Patience Wright, 19 June 1783
From: Wright, Patience
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Honred Sir
            London June 19th 1783

          Mr Mascall is on his Way to Settel in Philadelphia—he was amongst the first men who
            wrote against the American War, and one of the first in the London association
            &ce—his Stedy behavour against the Wicked Medlars of the Ministry—and he faithful in the Cause of The Rights
            OF THE
            People—Brott on a Suffering and percecution—from Lords Mansfield and other Men in Power
            which has deservedly Recomended him to the favour of America—
          Mr Mascall has a Knowledge of Phisick, Brot up an appotacary—Cymistt &ce has a
            Strong understanding, Knows the laws of England has Read Men and Books, and been usefull
            in the Cause of America and Intends Spending the Remainder of his Days in that Contry of
            Peace and Liberty—
          I am Sir with the higest Esteem your faithful friend and humbl Servnt

            Patience Wright
            To Doct Franklin

          Addressed: To / His Exelency Doctr
            Franklin
          Notation: Wright 19 June 1783.


Title: Henry Laurens to the Other American Peace Commissioners, 20 June 1783
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Other American Peace Commissioners

            Gentlemen,
            London 20 June 1783.

          Permit me to refer to what I had the honor of writing to you the 17th. You will
            recollect my Suggestions, as soon as we perceived the falling off, from those warm
            Assurances which had been pressed in March and April, they were not ill founded; I
            dalayed a Week in hopes of Intelligence & left you with Reluctance; the temper of
            the times forbids even an essay. What a happy Country is this, where every thing
            pertaining to the Public, is rendred to them in public Newspapers; see the inclosed,
            containing nearly as accurate an Account of certain recent Occurrences, as if it had
            been penned by one of the Parties. It might indeed have been made a little stronger.
            Modest Men are sometimes restrained from attempting a public
            good, from a dread of the Effects of Envy, of being held up in an invidious Light. It
            would be cruel to disturb them. I have learned nothing from America, save what you may
            have read in the Prints. Tomorrow I shall proceed to Bath and be waiting for
            Intelligence as well from Your selves as from Congress. Some Consolation arises from
            reflecting that while I am endeavouring to mend my Health, you suffer no Inconvenience
            from my Absence. With sincere Regard & respect, I have the honour to be, Gentlemen,
            Your obedient & most humble Servant

            (signed) Henry Laurens
            To their Excellencies the Ministers Plenipoy. from the United
              States of America, at Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Franklin Bache, 20 June 1783
From: Bache, Benjamin Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            My dear grand Papa
            Geneva June 20th 1783

          I write you to informe you that I reciev’d the books you mentioned in your letter of
            the 7th of June I have obtain’d another
            prize the same as my last but one rank more advanc’d I told you in my last letter that I was
              well, but I had the fever again and Mr
            Marignac went with me into the country for few holidays upon my arrival in Town the
            Fever left me but not being well I still take physic for that excuse my dear grand Papa
            the schortness of my letter and Beleive me for ever Your most obidien and Dutiful
            son

            B. Franklin Bache

            I am a Scolar of the 1st classe

            Mr and Mrs Marignac present you their respects as well as Johonnot
              who incloses a Word or two. My
              compliments to my Cousin

          Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur
            Franklin ministre / Plenipotentiaire des etats unis / de L’Amerique aupres de sa majèsté
            / tres chretiènne / a Passy près Paris
          Notation: B. F. B. to Dr. Franklin
            Geneva, June 20 — ’83


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Dana, 9 [i.e., 20] June 1783
From: Dana, Francis M.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir
            St. Petersbourg June 9th. 1783. O.S. [i.e., June
              20, 1783]

          Having occasion to write to Mr: Grand on the 21st. of February last to enclose to him a
            bill of Exchange for 6666,, 13. Liv: T: drawn by Mr: Robert Morris upon him, in my
            favour in part of my salary, I acquainted him that the Credit he had given me here,
            wou’d be out on the next March, and that
            I shou’d stand in need of another in a short time; and referred him to you for
            particular information upon the subject. I have not yet been honoured with an answer to
            my Letter; nor has any further Credit
            been opened here for me. This omission will soon oblige me to have recourse to the
            Credit of £2500. which was given for another purpose. I hope however you will be pleased to give
            directions to Mr: Grand for another years Credit, as no bills have since come to hand, and I am totally destitute of money except that I break in upon the above
            particular Credit, the whole of which I expect soon to have occasion for, as the main
            difficulties, which were raised here, have been removed, and an audience will be granted
            to me the moment the Definitive Treaty shall be concluded.
          I have the honour to be with much respect and esteam, Sir, Your most obedient &
            most hble Servant

            His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr: Minister Plenipotentiary
              &c


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles-Guillaume Le Normant d’Etioles, 20 June 1783
From: Le Normant d’Etioles, Charles-Guillaume
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur Le Docteur,
            Neuïlly sur Seine ce 20e. Juin 1783.

          N’ayant pas été assés heureux pour rencontrer votre excèllence, Je crois devoir vous rendre compte de mes
            dernieres démarches auprès de M. le Comte de vergennes. J’ai
            eû l’honneur de le voir Dimanche dernier, et il m’a parû toujours dans les dispôsitions
            les plus favorables en faveur de Mrs. d’Eberstein dont les malheurs et les miens, non mérités, ont
            affecté Sensiblement Son ame paternelle. Je n’ay pas vû avec moins de Sensibilité que
            MM. de Rayneval et hénin Sont affectés des mêmes Sentimens et qu’ils S’empressent de
            concourir au même bût, c’est à dire, à celuy de ne pas les envoyer en amérique les mains
            vuides.
          Je Suis assés instruit des Circonstances et M. le Cher. de Chatelux ne m’a point caché
            que dans ce moment cy il y a peû d’espérance de fortune dans la partie du commerce, tous
            les magazins du Pays etant combles de marchandises arrivées de toutes parts depuis la
            Signature de la Paix. Il ne reste donc de ressource dans ce moment que celle des
            Concèssions plus ou moins nombreuses et plus ou moins avantageusement placées que par
            votre crédit et celui de M. de vergennes vous voudrés bien demander pour eux au Congrés.
            Mais que leur Servira pour le moment cet avantage 1°. si elles ne Sont compôsées d’un
            assés grand nombre d’acres pour que nos Jeunes gens qui n’ont aucune ressource du Côté
            de la fortune puissent en Sacrifier une partie pour faire cultiver l’autre et 2e. si on
            ne les obtient gratuitement. En vain objecteroit-on qu’ils Sont fils d’un bon Pere. M.
            de vergennes n’ignore pas que ma fortune quoique brillante en apparence, mais toute
            viagère, á Souffert depuis quelque tems de tels échecs que je ne puis y porter de
            nouveaux Coups Sans injustice envers mes autres Enfans. Quoique le Ministre Sache et
            approuve toutes mes raisons, il est trop discret et trop réservé pour demander que les concèssions qui Seront accordées Soyent gratuites. Mais
            Je crois pouvoir vous assurer que Mr. de vergennes verroit ce Sacrifice de la part du
            Congrés comme une marque de Reconnoissance des Services essentiels qu’il luy á rendûs
            ainsi qu’a votre Patrie. Votre excèllence conviendra que c’est un petit Sacrifice en
            comparaison de ceux que ce Ministre á obtenûs du Roy en faveur des americains. Je crois
            cependant qu’il Seroit indiscret de lui en parler parcequ’il est de Sa façon de penser
            de ne vouloir en aucune circonstance être éxigeant. Mais Je crois que Si vous consultés
            á Cet Egard M.M. de Rayneval et hénin, ils ne vous dissimuleront pas tout l’interêt que
            prend M. de vergennes á Cette affaire. Daignés donc Servir de Second Pere á Mrs.
            d’Eberstein. Ils Sont au moment d’arriver icy pour se rendre en Amérique et Je compte
            incèssament être en état de vous faire voir en vous les présentant qu’ils ne Sont point
            indignes de vos bontés.
          J’ay l’honneur d’être avec Respect de votre excellence, Monsieur Le Docteur, Le très
            humble et très obeissant Serviteur

            Lenormant Detioles


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sir Edward Newenham, 20 June 1783
From: Newenham, Sir Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            My Dear Sir—
            Leige 20 June I783-

          Hearing that the Irish Parliament will immediatly be dissolved, I am obliged to return to Dublin without having
            the pleasure of paying my respects to you, & Congratulating you, upon the final
            completion of your Glorious Cause—
          I am now at the house of William Augustus Miles Esqr: whose writings have rendered
            Essential services to the Cause of Liberty; he Early & warmly Supported the rights
            and Priviledges of your Excellencys fellow-Subjects in america; he intends to Visit Paris before he
            returns to England, therefore I beg leave to Introduce him to your Excellency, &
            shall consider any Civilities you or your Amiable & Virtuous Grandson Shew him, as
              personaly conferred upon me—
          Wishing you Every happiness that this Life can bestow—I have the Honor to remain, My
            Dr: Sir with the most Sincere Respect & Esteem your Excellencys Most obliged &
            Humble Sert

            Edward Newenham

            PS Lady Newenham & my Son
              have charged me to present their best Respects to your Excellency & your
              Grandson—

          Addressed: To / His Excellency Doctr:
            Benj: Franklin / Minister Plenipotentiary from / the United States of America / Passy /
            Paris—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes: Three Letters, 20 June 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

          I.

            Mr Franklin
            A Vlles. Le 20. Juin 1783.

          J’ai reçu, M, la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de mecrire en faveur du Sr.
            James Price; je l’ai communiquèe à Mr. le garde des Sceaux, et ce chef de la
            magistrature vient de me répondre. Vous avez la réponse ci-jointe; vous y verrez les
            mesures qui seront prises [que] pour
            mettre le Sr. Price en etat de Suivre, Son procès contre les Srs. Bonfield et Haiwood.
            Il alloit lui faire expédier un sauf-conduit pour un an et qu’il chargeoit M. le
            procureur général de Bordeaux de le
            prévenir dans le cas où le Sr. la framboise traduiroit le Sr. Price pardevant les
            Consuls de Bordeaux.

          II.

            à Versailles Le 20. Juin 1783.

          Je ne puis me dispenser, Monsieur, de vous envoyer les piéces cy-jointes. Vous y verrés
            que le Sr. Pauli, négociant à Paris, se trouve Créancier d’une somme considérable du Sr.
            Penet, agent de L’Etat de Virginie. Je
            ne doute pas, Monsieur, que vous ne vous portiès á solliciter en faveur de ce
            particulier, et que L’Etat de Virginie ne se fasse un devoir de remplir des engagements
            contractés en son nom et pour Son compte.
          J’ai L’honneur d’être trés parfaitement, Monsieur, vôtre trés humble et très obéissant
            serviteur

            De Vergennes
            M. franklin

          III.

            A Vlles le 20. Juin 1783.

          J’ai communiqué à Mr. le Mis. de Castries, M, vos nouvelles
            reclamations au sujet de la saisie faite par les Srs. forster Sur le produit des prises
            faites par la frégate américaine l’alliance; Ce Ministre vient de me
            répondre que cette affaire a été évoquée au Conseil, et qu’elle ne tardera pas à y ètre
            jugée aussitôt que les formalités requises auront êté remplies.
           Mr franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François-Marie-des-Neiges-Emmanuel de Rohan-Poulduc, 21 June 1783
From: Rohan-Poulduc, François-Marie-des-Neiges-Emmanuel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur,
            A Malte le 21. Juin 1783.

          J’ai reçu avec la plus vive sensibilité la médaille que Votre Excellence m’a fait
            parvenir, et le prix que je mets à cette acquisition ne laisse pas de bornes à ma
            reconnaissance. Ce monument de la liberté Américaine, d’un événement que Votre
            Excellence a eu la gloire de préparer et de conduire, tient une place distinguée dans
            mon Cabinet comme votre nom, Monsieur, mérite d’occuper la première dans la liste des
              grands-hommes.
          Lorsque le hazard ou le commerce ameneront dans les Ports de mon Isle quelques-uns de
            vos Concitoyens ou de leurs bâtimens, Je serai empressé de les accueillir, ils
            trouveront auprès de moi tous les secours qu’ils pourront réclamer, et Je verrais avec
            un plaisir infini naître quelque liaison entre cette nation intéressante et mes Sujets,
            surtout si elle pouvait servir à convaincre Votre Excellence des sentimens distingués
            avec lesquels Je suis Monsieur, De Votre Excellence, Très affectionné serviteur,

            Le Grand Maître,ROHAN
            S. Exc. Mr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Michel-Guillaume St. John de Crèvecœur, [before 22 June 1783]
From: Crèvecœur, Michel-Guillaume St. John de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir,
            [before June 22, 1783]

          The Marquis de Castries Shew’d me Yesterday the Model of the Edict which he proposes
            obtaining for the Establishment of the 5. Pacquets boats. I desired him to Send it you, Ere he had
            presented it, which he will Shortly do, I beg You’d Read it attentively & Send him
            back all your observations thereon,— Woud you be Kind Enough to Inform the Countesse de
            Houdetot, in what part of the Town that big Wire is to be had, that She may place a
            Second Electical Rod.
          I am With Respect Sir Your Very Humble Servt.

            St. John

          Addressed: a Son Excellence / Monsieur
            Benjamin Franklin / ambassadeur des Etats unis de Lamèrique / a Passy
          Notation: de Crevecœur


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Franklin Bache, 23 June 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bache, Benjamin Franklin

            My dear Child,
            Passy, June 23. 1783.

          I received your late Letter, and am
            pleas’d to see that you improve in your Writing. I have also receiv’d the little Drawing
            of a Country-house, which seems to be prettily done, and shows that you advance also in that Art. I write by this Post to Mr. Marignac,
            requesting that he would permit you to come and see me and stay with me during the
            Vacation of the Schools. I hear you have
            been sick, but I hope you are recover’d
            and strong enough to undertake the Journey; and then it may do you good, and help to
            confirm your Health. Your Cousin remembers his Love to you, and I am ever your
            affectionate Grandfather,

            B Franklin
            My Love to Johonnot I have lately heard from his Friends and yours who
              are all well.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas and Mary Barclay, 23 June 1783
From: Barclay, Thomas,Barclay, Mary
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Auteuil 23rd June 1783./.

          Mr. & Mrs. Barclay presents their Complimts. to Doctor Franklin,
            and will have the Honor of Waiting on him at Dinner on Thursday.

          Addressed: His Excellency Benjamin
            Franklin Esqr. / Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Nathaniel Falconer, 23 June 1783
From: Falconer, Nathaniel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            My Dear Frend
            London June the 23 1783

          I Recived yours of the 18 this month this Day which Give me Great Joy to hear of your
            helth but much Surprised you have had no Letters Latter than you mentiond for a Mr
            Vaughan that Came in the Same vessell Told us he had Dispaches for you as Soon as I had
            Determined on my imbarcation I waited on Mr Charles Thomson to Let him know that if
            Congress had aney Dispaches I would Take Care off them but this Said Mr Vaughan I
            belived plaged Mr Morris and Told him he Should Go to France the Last part is Conjecter from his owne
            Conversation I must Confes I was not well pleased if there was aney Dispaches that a
            stranger Should be Trusted with them in preference to my Self Sir the preliminary
            articles of peace was Recived with Great Joy and was not kept back as you have been
            informd but was Given out to the publick as Soon as possable General Mifflin who is in Congress and makes his home at my house and is your most
            Steedey frend hass keep back nothing from me that past about you I understood from him
            that your Request was admitted in part for to Come home but keep it in Such amaner that
            if they Could not Carrey aproper person that they might Still keep you there another
            year there is asertain A Lee in Congress has Tried to make aparty again Mr Morris and
            your Self but has not been able to accomplish aney thing when I Came away nor I hope will never be able
            to Carrey his point for belive if he Did it would Be to Come Back under the Brish yoake
            again whe have Great Reason to belive Some among us have been in pay from this Countrey
            most of the war Sir the washington was Sauef arrived Long before I Saild and also Capt
            Barney Last from the havanah at Road Island with alarge Sum of money aboard all which
            was Sauef Lodgd in the Bank at philadla which Bank is in as Good Credit as the Bank of
            Ingland the procklamation of peace Came out from Congress the morning I Came away which
            was the 12 of april on my arrivall hear I found that they Did not no the peace had
            Reacht the Congress I Directly Sent one to the post office to Mr Tod to Send up to adminstration but it has Never
            apeard in aney paper hear tho they print Every Lie they Can Git hold off as to the
            Constitution of pensilvania being alterd Next October is the year for Chuesing the
            Councell of Cencors and then it must be two years before it is alterd I hope youl be blest with your health to Reach
            home Long before that time but Should be Glad of your oppion on that point as I no it
            will have Great wait I understood from Generall Mifflin that asalrey was Fixt on your
            Grand Son but what Sum I Cannot Recollect I Expect to hear from Mr Mifflin Every Day by aship was to Sail the 25 of May from
            our place aney information I Git Shall write you Directly as to Mr Morris Resing his
            office Depended on Congress Funding the publick Debts if they Did that I think he will
            Stay in another year which I thing they will notwithstanding the it is oposed So by Mr A
            L and his frends I Shall Call on Mr Strahan with the paper inclosed and Git him to print
            it if posable I Send you by this Convance aCoppy of the Duteys intend to be Layd by
            Congress which I Should have Sent before had I not thought you had Recd them mr mifflin
            Got them out of Congress for me I wrote
            to your Grand Son to Solicte your intrest to Send me over a mittretain(?) for the Ship
            olive Branch 225 Tons Britsh Built Nath Falconer master Carring 15 hands americaian
              Bottom if it Cant be obtaind by you Shall be obliged to make my Ship an Inglish Bottom hear and Goe
            under Inglish Coulars from hear till I Git to phild which will mortify me verey much I
            beg your answer as Soon as posable on this matter I will Redley Remitt or pay to your
            order all Expences I am my Dear frend with Great Respect your most Hbl Sr

            Nath Falconer
            My Compliments to your Grand Son and to Mr Hartley

          Addressed: Docter Franklin
          Notation: Falconer June 23 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baron de Borde Duchatelet, with Franklin’s Note for a Reply, and Other Applicants for Emigration, 24 June 1783
From: Borde Duchatelet, ——, baron de,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

          The cessation of hostilities and Franklin’s reputation as a
            philanthropist continue to inspire the hopes of prospective emigrants. During the five months covered by this volume, letters come
            from France, Italy, the Austrian Netherlands, Germany, and England. Petitioners appeal
            either to American national interest by detailing the essential skills they will bring
            to the new republic or to Franklin’s sentiments through heartrending tales of misfortune
            and thwarted ambition. The baron de Borde Duchatelet, whose letter is printed as a
            sample, does both.
          Paillet, a 24-year-old from Versailles, lists three reasons for writing to Franklin on
            May 17: the gratitude he feels toward his parents who have made sacrifices for his
            education, continue to support him, and wish to see him placed in a good position; his
            desire for travel, which was the path to wisdom for Lycurgus, Solon, Thales, and Plato;
            and the difficulty of securing a post at Versailles. It would be to Franklin’s glory if
            he were to provide Paillet with the means of fulfilling his obligation toward his
            parents and to secure him a job, presumably in America.
          Louis Terrier, having practiced surgery
            for six years in Guadeloupe, is now a professor at the collège
              de chirurgie of Marseille. Although he is unknown to Franklin, as he writes on
            May 21, he is nonetheless confident that the American minister will help him establish
            himself in America as a surgeon. He details his own training and explains the importance
            of his art. By contrast, Pietro Maggi of Milan, who writes in Italian on May 26, covers
            himself in humility, addressing his letter to the immortal Franklin, whose name is the
            glory of the century and who will be the object of admiration throughout the ages. The
            young man (he is not yet 24) explains that he received his law degree from the
            University of Pavia three years earlier, but his family’s poverty and an unspecified
            cabal have prevented him from finding work. He asks only for the privilege of serving
            Franklin and his country on any terms Franklin may decide.

          Another story of persecution and injustice comes from Germany. Herr Greyer explains in
            German on May 28 that he is a former court secretary and cashier from Minden an der
            Weser in Westphalia. He has been embroiled in a legal battle with his former superior,
            Hofmeister Albrecht, who accused him of embezzling money from the court treasury. Greyer
            fears that he will not be vindicated because Albrecht has friends more powerful than his
            own. Prevented from working in his homeland, he asks Franklin to help him make a new
            start in America. He has worked as a court secretary since he was 13 years old, in the
            provinces as well as Berlin, and is willing to bring this experience to bear at the
            American “Hof” (court). In particular, the American government might consider revising
            its court constitution along Prussian lines. If required, Greyer can provide references,
            but he is convinced that Franklin’s well-known altruism will cause the American minister
            to come to his aid.
          L. J. Lahaÿe, an arms manufacturer writing on May 31 from Nessonvaux Sous Olne, also
            seeks to escape local constraints on his ambition. He has been anxiously waiting for the
            United States to gain its independence so that he can settle there with his family and
            work in a firearms factory. His long, confused letter is full of bitter complaints about
            the low pay and lack of support for his trade in the Liège province. His skill (as we
            understand it) is in forging iron for gun barrels, and he hopes to bring with him to
            America the machine required for this work. He requests a large loan from Franklin and
            the other American commissioners, an investment that will be repaid many times over. He
            closes with a request for a meeting to discuss his ideas more fully.
          In a letter from Paris dated June 4, Mme Fournier la jeune introduces an unnamed
            relative who ardently wishes to go to Boston. The 26-year-old has apprenticed with a
            notary and has received an excellent education. As he comes from a large family, he must
            provide for himself, and he has asked for his father’s permission to go to the United
            States. Once there, he would try to distinguish himself in whatever field Franklin
            deemed suitable. His father consented on condition that Franklin look favorably on the
            plan. Mme Fournier and her entire family would be infinitely obliged if Franklin took an
            interest in this virtuous and commendable young man. In a postscript she sends the
            compliments of her husband.
          God willing, writes Owen Owen in English on June 11, he intends to go to America at the
            end of this summer or the beginning of the next. Does he
            need to apply to Congress for permission to settle there? A clergyman in the Church of
            England, and currently a curate in Stoke near Coventry in Warwickshire, he has no hope
            of advancement in the church as he cannot buy a benefice and refuses to flatter the
            powerful. His brother Edward, from North Wales, lived in Virginia and was in France
            about five years ago; if he is still alive, he should contact Owen or their brother
            Richard, a vicar in Carnarvonshire, to “hear of something to his advantage.”
          J. Gaupin is one of a group of three men in Brussels who desire to emigrate; he writes
            on their behalf on June 17. Two of them are capable of establishing a factory that could
            print wallpaper, playing cards, and calico: one, an expert woodblock engraver, manages
            one of the foremost wallpaper factories in Brussels, and the other is skilled in color
            printing as well as constructing wind- and watermills. The third man, son of an
            artillery officer, is a good engineer and mathematician, has worked as a land surveyor
            and builder, and speaks German, French, Latin, and Flemish. Before their departure, the
            first two each want an advance of a hundred louis and
            Franklin’s promise that Congress will sponsor their factory. The third demands the same
            advance and Franklin’s assurance that he will immediately obtain a job suitable to his
            talents.
          On June 26 Graf von Graevenitz writes in German from Vienna. As the youngest of 18
            children of a large aristocratic family, he has little hope of inheriting more than his
              name. After a career as privy
            councilor, Graevenitz’ health has deteriorated, and he dreams of retiring in the United
            States. He would prefer to rent or own a small estate in either Georgia, the Carolinas,
            or Virginia, not too far from other settlements. If money should be required, his only
            source of wealth is a small collection of paintings, which he would be willing to sell.
            A new country needs experienced and accomplished men like him, so Graevenitz is hopeful
            that Franklin, who has bestowed contentment, quiet, and peace on an entire country, will
            do the same for a single individual.
          Two days later, Delisle-Pierrugues sends a desperate plea from Draguignan in Provence.
            Although he inherited a considerable fortune, the events of the war have ruined him just
            as he was about to be made a judge at the cour des comptes.
            His education is all he has left. He was born in American climes and wants to return
            there to bury his bad luck. He will forget his downfall if he
            can obtain some employment in the service of the United States, be it in the army or
            somewhere else. He offers to provide letters of recommendation from prominent residents
            of Aix.
          Johann Philipp Breidenstein of Giessen writes on July 15 in Latin, disappointed that he
            has received no response to his letter of February 1. Franklin’s silence has not diminished his desire
            to emigrate and serve the American people, especially German immigrants, with useful
            knowledge. He begs Franklin to answer a fellow scholar.
          Another petition in Latin, dated July 19, comes from Jacob Augustus Hoppe in Bochnia,
              Galicia. He too is a scholar versed in
            many subjects and several languages, but in America he would be happy just tilling the
            fields. Hoppe asks Franklin for a recommendation and the assurance of a position.
            Moreover, before sailing, he needs a place to stay in Paris while he works on improving
            his English; he would gladly share the food of Franklin’s servants.
          To whom can the most unfortunate patriot turn for help but the most illustrious patriot
            of the universe? asks the sieur Tonon from Paris on July 25. He has been the victim of
            persecution but will not tire Franklin with the details of his ordeal. His chief passion
            and talent is agriculture, which he wants to pursue in America; his treatise, Détail des usages, indication des abus, et idées de réforme pour
              l’agriculture, was based on ten years’ observation. In the four years since he has been forced to
            abandon his profession, he has traveled through many countries and observed the
            lackluster state of European agriculture. America would benefit from someone who
            combines theoretical principles with practical knowledge, and with Franklin’s approval
            Tonon will raise the rural economy to a hitherto unknown degree of perfection. If he can
            be useful to another country after his own has rejected him, he will have suffered for a
            reason. He asks for a meeting with Franklin during
            which he will provide more details. Tonon signs himself as deputy of the Société
            Patriotique de Béarn.
          Granier de Pollier in Paris writes on July 26 on behalf of a friend, a man of quality
            living in the provinces, whose company of royal grenadiers has been disbanded, leaving
            him penniless and unemployed. He hopes to settle with his wife in Franklin’s republic
            and would like to know whether former French officers can find employment and at what
            salary, if Congress is offering land grants and assistance with cultivation, and whether
            he would be free to settle wherever he wants.
          Two young mathematicians, J. Chrétien Remmel and Jean Houba, who are well instructed in
            geometry and algebra, ask Franklin on August 9 for recommendations and free passage to
            America, where they hope to be usefully employed. They write from the château
            d’Issum.
          The chevalier de La Combe, writing from Tulle on August 20, has heard that Congress
            gives land grants to those who wish to come to America. He would like to know more about
            what kind of reception he might expect. Although well born, he currently serves as cadet
            lieutenant of the colonial troops in the Limousin region and does not have any money. He
            will not hesitate to emigrate if it gives him an opportunity to make his fortune in
            far-off lands.
          In Tournay, Joseph Maroteau, who addresses Franklin on August 22, is the head of a
            family that has fallen on hard times and would like to settle in the United States
            provided they receive support and protection from the American government. They are
            Roman Catholics but ardent supporters of civil and social order as well as religious
            tolerance. The family unites an astonishing array of talents: its members are
            experienced in commerce, accounting, agriculture, and mathematics, can write in French
            and English, and know how to make a great variety
            of fabrics. The father has invented a new kind of mill. Despite their gifts, they have
            had an undeserved and unforeseeable string of bad luck in all their endeavors. If
            Franklin knows of a business in the United States that could use their abilities, would
            he please extend his protection to an honest family?
          Misfortune has also befallen a relative of Mme Briant, a young man not yet 40 years
            old. She appeals to Franklin on his behalf on September 2 from Aix-la-Chapelle. In the
            past three years he has lost all his money and a great part of his family, and he has
            been abandoned by his best friends. He is honest and industrious, if perhaps too
            sensitive and delicate for this evil world. He and his wife want Franklin’s help and
            protection to settle in America. They have asked Mme Briant to approach Franklin, but
            she hesitates to arrive without an appointment. As she does not live in Paris at the
            moment, Franklin should respond to M. Debernieres, administrateur des hôpitaux, whose address she provides.
          A sieur Briaud, who writes from Caen on September 4, has been assured that Franklin
            helps workers to emigrate to America, where liberty favors all men of talent. He knows
            carpentry and turning and makes netting of all kinds, fly-whisks, and English-style
            fishhooks. A friend of his who also wants to emigrate has a grasp of experimental
            physics and chemistry and knows how to dye, starch, make gunpowder, and construct
            pendulum clocks. They will submit to both practical and theoretical examinations.
          From Göttingen comes a more specific business proposal in German, dated September 8.
            Johann Christoph Bauer is a glass and brick manufacturer who read in the Dantziger Zeitung that conditions for glassblowers are
            favorable in the United States. He offers a detailed account of how he would establish
            an American factory producing Flemish and mirror glass. Of course, this would require a
            substantial advance from Congress, which Bauer offers to repay in yearly
            installments.

            Monsieur
            paris à L’hotel de Bresse cul de sac des quatre vents ce 24e. juin.
              1783.

          M’etant rendu a passy pour avoir L’honneur de vous y faire ma Cour, et vous entretenir
            d’objets qui m’interessent, permettè que je vous detaille par lettre mes motifs, ayant
            etè icommodè depuis lors jusqu’a ce jour par une varietè de chaud et de froid qui me
            saisit a mon arrivèe.
          Les malheurs excessifs que j’ay eprouvès, bien plus sensibles que ceux dont belisaire
            se plaignoit, m’ont determinè à quitter
            dècidement une ingrate patrie ne desirant d’autre vengeur que les reproches que mes
            ennemis auront à se faire eternellement. La providence m’ayant dèpartis des
            Connoissances dans L’agriculture; ainsi que vous en pourrés juger Monsieur, par le
            double du diplôme dont le feu Roy m’avoit honnoré, et que vous trouverès ci inclus; Comme je n’ignore pas que L’homme est fait
            pour se voüer au travail pendant sa vie, je desirerois m’occuper utilement le peu qui me
            reste à vivre a des deffrichés qui en faisant mon bonheur put faire par suite celui de
            mes successeurs dans la patrie que j’adopterai. Comme les moeurs pures et tranquiles
            sont celles que j’adopte, je pense avec raison que je ne puis arriver a ce but qu’en me
            transplantant dans un pays oû la corruption n’a pas pris encore heureusement racine,
            celui de votre patrie me semble le plus propre à remplir mes vües, et Comme je regarde
            tous les hommes de bien, egaux entre eux, ma naissance ne doit point faire un obstacle à
            ce qu’on me regarde avec cet oeuil de fraternité doû nait la concorde generale; je vous
            prie donc Monsieur, d’apres la sinceritè de mon avoeu de me mander si je puis esperer
            une reponse favorable de votre part, ou si vous preferè de m’indiquer un jour pour
            conferer avec vous sur les moyens que vous voudrè bien me procurer, et ma reconnoissance
            sera aussi etendue que les sentimens sinceres et respectueux avec
            lesquels j’ay L’honneur d’etre Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant
            serviteur

            LE
              Bon. DE
              Borde Duchatelet

          Endorsed: That America is open to all
            the French, who have Permission of their Government to go there. That Strangers of good
            Character are receiv’d there with open Arms. That if he desires to confer with me on the
            Subject, he will find me at home every Morning except Tuesdays & ready to give him
            every Information he may desire.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Crèvecœur, [24 June or 1 July 1783]
From: Crèvecœur, Michel-Guillaume St. John de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir
            Paris Tuesday Night— [June 24 or July 1, 1783]

          I forgot the other day To Inquire of you where I cou’d procure Two of Your Medals, which I have Imprudentely promised in
            Normandy—after Fruitless Inquirys, I find myself obliged to ask you that Question, being
            Anxious To procure them Ere I Leave the Capital which will be on Saturday—
          I am with unfeigned Respect Sir Your Very Humble Servt.

            St. Jean
              DE
              Crèvecœur

          Addressed: a Son Excellence / Benjamin
            Franklin Ecuyer / Plènypotentiaire des Etats unis de Lamérique / Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Hodgson, 24 June 1783
From: Hodgson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Dear sir
            London 24 June 1783

          I beg leave to introduce to your Notice & Civilities the Bearer Seward Esqr &
            his Friend Mr Graves, they are Gentlemen of Fortune & Letters going to France for
            their Pleasure, not the least of which will be that of paying their respects to you.
            Mr Seward is a Member of our old Club & well known to most of your Friends here,
            every attention you shall pay him will be pleasing to them & particularly so, to
            Dear sir Your much obliged Hble Servt

            William Hodgson
            To His Excellency Benj Franklin Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Loge des Commandeurs du Temple, 24 June 1783
From: Masonic Lodge, Commandeurs du Temple
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            A L’o∴ de
              Carcassonne, d’un lieu éclairé ou régnent la paix, le Silence et la Charité, Le 24e.
              du 4me. mois de l’an 5783.
            de la V∴ L∴ et de l’ere vulgaire Le 24 Juin 1783./.

          A la Gloire du Grand Architecte de L’Univers
          La R∴ L∴ Saint Jean
            Sous Le Titre distinctif des Commandeurs du Temple A L’O∴ de Carcassonne
          Au trés digne trés Vertueux, & très Respectable frére Docteur
            Franklin, Ministre, Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de L’Amérique auprés de la Cour de
            france à L’O\ de Paris
          S∴ F∴ V∴
          T∴ T∴ C∴ & T∴ R∴ f∴

          A La reception de vôtre planche en
            datte du 1er. du 3me. mois là Loge fut extraordinairement assemblée; a peine eumes nous
            fait Lécture de ce que vous nous faites la faveur de nous Ecrire, que vôtre admission
            fut celebrée avec tous les transports de la Joye la plus vive. Il etoit impossible de Contenir nos freres. Les
            applaudissements et les Vivats les plus rédoublés retentissoint de L’orient à
            L’occident. Cépendant voulant donner à vôtre agrégation tout L’eclat dont elle est
            Susceptible, la fête Sollemnelle en fut renvoyée a la st. Jean. Nous ne vous en donames pas avis parceque nous
            respectons trop vos occupations. Ce jour est enfin venû aprés avoir été bien desiré,
            vous trouverés cy joint le detail de nos travaux mais vous ni [n’y] verrés pas quoique
            on aye pû dire, Cette Joye et ces transports dont nous etions penétrés, en vain
            tenteroit-on de les peindre.
          Le Comte de Caux absent n’a point eû
            L’honneur de vous répresenter et vous l’avès fait vous meme. Un peintre excellent
            Italien et Maçon a Copié votre portrait daprès Veilles peintre en mignature Sur L’Email
            à Paris. Ceux qui ont eû le bonheur de
            vous voir ne peuvent Se méprendre à Ses traits. C’est cette image qui a été apportée en Triomphe
            Le Jour de votre affiliation. Une deliberation de la L’oge ordonne
            quelle restera perpetuelement dans notre Temple./.
          Quoique eloigné de nous par ce moyen vous serès toujours present à nos assemblées.
            C’est la que vous recevrés nos homages et que vous Serés témoin de ces vœux ardents que
            nous formons pour la Conservation des jours d’un homme d’un Sage et d’un Savant qui n’a
            pas dedaigné de sunir plus étroitement à nous.
          Nous avons la faveur d’etre par les N∴ M∴ A∴ N∴ C∴ T∴ C∴ T∴ D∴ & T∴ R∴ f∴ Vos trés affectionnès freres

            Vidal
              DE ST
              Martial vble. en exce: [vénérable en
              exercice]par Mandement de La R∴ L∴ f∴ Thoron sre
              [secrétaire]Sêlé et timbré par nous garde des sceaux timbres et archives David
              p∴ t∴

          Notation: Les francs Maçons de
            Carcassone. 24 Juin 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Vaughan, 24 June 1783
From: Vaughan, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            My dearest sir,
            London, June 24, 1783.

          Having an opportunity of writing you by the Dutch envoy from London, I cannot omit
            sending you a line to tell you that I see nothing more that is amiss here than you know
            of, notwithstanding Mr Knox & two or three people pretend that the Loyal Colonies
            are to have the trade to the islands. If
            you keep firm, & good humored, I hope you will in the end lose nothing. From what I know however of this & of the last
            ministry, things will go down better, if put them upon the footing of reasonableness and
            kindness, & the necessity & concordance of circumstances, rather than upon any
            other footing. John Bull has been fed a long time upon dainty food of his own dressing, and he does not like to see other people prescribing to him.— Your former proceedings have been
            successful, principally because you had people of better sense at home than you now
            have. At least I, who am a timid conciliating man, am apt to think so. You may be wiser
            at Paris however than I am, but I wish you may not push the manner of conducting the thing too far, for we are on the whole irritable.
          There are strong symptoms that the king does not relish the present ministry, and if he
            were to change, it is likely enough he would think of our friends. He has gained, &
            the ministers have lost credit, by the disputes about the Prince of Wales’s
              establishment; to whom the king has
            been very liberal hitherto, as to money.— Lord Shelburne is gone to Spa, with Lady
            Shelburne; but Mr. Pitt stays at home.— The prince is very far from being pleased, they
            tell me.
          I am very sorry for the accident to your electrical machine, the box containing which,
            appears to be damaged; but I have
            ordered a new one to be forwarded immediately.— I am sorry that so much of the summer
            slips away without your coming here. If you do not come with your son, it will be the very deepest
            disappointment of my life; of which be assured.
          I am soon going to be releived from the troublesome state I am in with my family. They
            embark this week. My time will then be my own again; and, unless I see an honest reason why I should not write, or these Bystanders should occupy me, you & Mr Jay will often hear
            from me probably, if matter occurs.
          I remember some time ago I was desired to enumerate the virtues of castor oil, &
            the mode of taking it. Its first virtues
            arise from its being an innocent evacuant, & which
            gives no pain when it operates. The West Indians add a
            thousand others; as for the gravel, & so on.— The mode of taking it is putting a table spoonful, more or less according to constitution or
            use, into a little cold water, or into milk or brandy or rum. I use the former method;
            and when the oil is good, that is, not rancid, it is not
            unpleasant altogether in point of taste.
          I am keeping open my letter to learn news for you, without missing however my
            opportunity.
          NB. My friends not returning in time I close this
            letter, with my usual assurances that I am, my dearest sir, your ever devoted, most
            affectionate & grateful,

            Benjn: Vaughan

            P.S. In speaking above, I wish
              to convey, that it will not be wholly well taken to be cavalier-like & cold about
              the English connection. I do not indeed see how sensible men here could help
              themselves upon this subject, but men who have not sense may feel less embarrassed on
              the subject;—and though they may be forced to come to, at last, yet they will first
              try to get many other methods of putting an end to the business.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbé Girault de Kéroudou, 25 June 1783
From: Girault de Kéroudou, Georges, abbé
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur,
            Paris Le 25. Juin 1783./.

          Votre excellence verra que L’ouvrage Cy joint â été imprimé par ordre du Bureau
            d’administration du College de Louis Legrand; C’est à Ce titre que Je prends La Liberté de
            vous L’adresser pour La societé de Philadelphie, persuadé de son utilité pour
            L’education publique dans Les etats Americains Comme dans La france; dumoins M. Le
            President Rolland, autheur de Ce recueil n’â Jamais eû d’autres vuës. Il y â plus de
            vingt ans que Ce respectable magistrat Consacre avec un Zele infatigale tous Ses moments Libres à travailler pour L’education publique, et notre maison Luy â
            des obligations qui Surpassent tous Les efforts de notre reconnaissance. Permettez moy
            de vous presenter Le respect Le plus profond avec Lequel J’ay L’honneur detre, Monsieur,
            Votre trés hble et trés obt. serviteur

            Girault De Keroudou,grand-maitre-adjoint
              du College de Louis Legrand./
            M. frankelin./.

          Notation: Girault de Keroudon 25 Juin
            1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Alexander Lermonth, 25 June 1783
From: Lermonth, Alexander
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Honoured Sir,
            Paris 25th June 1783

          Please to pardon this Address from an American Gentleman that has not the agreeable
            pleasure of Your Acquaintance, but from the Amaible Character you bear in life and in
            the World in General by that you are Well known to be a Gentleman of a most humane
            Temper and dispossition and one who a Heart that feels for every Man brought up in that
            Line and Capasity and thro. Unhappy Misfortunes is under the disagreeable necessity to
            let his Case be made known to so worthy a Gentleman as you are, permit me to inform you
            that I Traded from Edinton North Carolina to the Island of Saint Eustatua for Sixteen
            Years, in the Cource of that time I reallized by Trade a Fortune of Eight Thousand
            Pounds Sterling— This was all taken from me by Admiral Rodney when he took that Island.
            I with many more American Gentlemen had every thing taken from us we had in the
              World, I was then reduced from Living
            in Afflueence and plenty to a State of Want and distress. I went
            from Saint Eustatua to a Neighbouring Island called Saint Thomases from thence I got a
            Passage to Ostend in Flanders, having a Correspondant there that owed me Money but upon
            my Arrivall found he was dead by that means lost the debt he contracted with me, when in
            Saint Eustatua, I came to Paris from Flanders in hopes to meet with a Gentleman that
            owed me some Money but can hear nothing of him, by that means I am disappointed in my
            Expectations, permit me to Inform you that my Misfortunes and disappointments has
            reduced my present Circumstances to a much lower Eb than ever I was before, its true I
            am a Stranger in a manner to you, notwithstanding I have had the pleasure to see you in
            Philadelphia a good many Years ago, I was acquainted with a Good many Merchants there
            permit me to say that I always Lived in Affluence & plenty before my Misfortunes, I
            am here a Stranger in a Strange Country not having Money at present to enable me to pay
            for the Common Necessarys Life requires, from my distressed Situation I hope it may
            prevail upon your heart so far to pitty me, so that you may be pleased to assist me with
            a little Money. You may depend its like death to me to be reduced to the disagreeable
            necessity to ask a Favour at your hands, depend its far from my heart my Principles or
            dispossition to do a thing of the kind was it not real distress’ obliges me at present
            to it, your kind Compliance to my request will for ever oblige with due Esteem and
            Regard Your Excellencys Most Obedt. very humble Servt.

            Alexr. Lermonth
            His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

          Addressed: His Excellency Benjamin
            Franklin Esqr. / Ambassador Plenepotentiary from the / United States of America to the
            Court / of France at Passy / near Paris
          Endorsed: Cost a Guinea


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Job Bunker, 26 June 1783
From: Bunker, Job
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir.
            St Malo June the 26th. 1783—

          I Take the freedom in wrighting unto your honour baging for your Assistance to Enable
            me to Guit out of this Cuntry into my one which is Amarica & was born in the Iseland
            of Nantucket & have fought two yrs in the first of the warr untill I had the misforten to be taking & Carried in England & After made my Ascape in
            france & Ever Since have ben fighting for them whare as I have ben un Sucksesfull,
            & at this Presant time am So Dreand of money that am not Able to Clear my Self of my
            Boarding. After Seling All the Clothing that I Could Spare am in want of 300 hundred
            Livers. Also I have made A Request unto mr Dessagray for A Passague on Board of his Vessell that is
            Bound for Amarica & will Saill within 20 Days from this & he Refuses me without
            I Give him 400 hundred Livers in Hand before I Sail which is not in my Power at Presant
            & If yr honour will Consider my Situation & Assist me in this Dark &
            malloncoully Situation I will Endavour to Reinbust the Same unto yr honour by yr honour
            in Amarica. I Pray yr honour to Consider my Situation at this Presant time & Request
            the favour of yr Answer to me by the Next Post & in Ending I Subcribing my Self unto
            you yr humble Servant to Serve

            Job Bunker

            Pscript
            I have Saild in the Station of 2d. Lutenant Ever Since I have ben
              in their Employ & have made my first Cruse with Monsieur Guidlo in the Duches of
              Paling Nack & have hed A high
              Recommendation of my Bravery & qualification, in Every Point from him in this
              town

          Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur
            Benjamin Franklin / Ambassadeur des Etats Unis de LAmericque / a Passy pres / Paris
          Notation: Bunker June 26. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Pecquet: Memorial, [c. 26 June 1783]
From: Pecquet, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Excellence,
            [c. June 26, 1783]

          Jean Bapte. Pecquet agent interprete de la Nation françoise à Lisbonne à l’honneur
            d’exposer à votre Excellence, qu’il a été assez heureux pour rendre, depuis le
            Commencement de la rupture entre les Etats unis de l’amerique et L’angleterre, des
            Services essentiels aux differents matelots américains que les hazards de la guerre ont
            amenés dans ce port, principalement, avant que la france Se fut declarée en faveur de
            l’amérique, et bien avant que le Congrés eût dans cette ville une personne pour pourvoir
            à leurs besoins.
          Le zele et le desinteressement qu’il y a mis, lui font esperer que votre Excellence ne
            trouvera point de disproportion entre l’importance de ces mêmes Services, et la nature
            des recompenses qu’il prendra la liberté de lui indiquer.
          Dès l’année 1775. il retira du bord de plusieurs fregattes angloises une grande
            quantité de matelots américains. Le parti que les Anglois avoient pris de les garder
            constamment prisonniers à leurs Bords, le fit recourir à plusieurs artifices pour les
            delivrer. Ils lui ont toujours reussi; et jusqu’à l’epoque de la declaration de la
            france, il a eu le bonheur d’en Embarquer au moins quatre cent. Sur les vaisseaux
            negriers de sa Majesté très Chretienne, qui en differents tems avoient relaché dans ce
            port. Il joint ici une note de tous ces vaisseaux et du nombre a peu près de matelots
            dont chacun à été chargé, moins pour reclamer un remboursement qu’il n’a jamais eu
            l’intention de demander, que pour donner à votre
            Excellence une idée juste de la nature des Services qu’il a rendus au Congrés.
          Lorsque Sa Majesté très Chretienne Jugea à propos de se declarer ouvertement en faveur
            des états unis, l’Exposant fut nommé agent interprete de la nation françoise à Lisbonne,
            par un brevet du Consul general, et avec l’agrément de la Cour. C’est en cette qualité
            qu’il a continué à rendre ses Soins aux infortunés matelots qui se trouvoient à Bord des
            vaisseaux anglois qui entroient dans ce port. C’est pour lors que prevenu que le sieur
            Dohrman etoit chargé de pourvoir aux besoins des Américains, il lui conduisit tous ceux
            que sa vigilance put lui procurer, et c’est de cet instant que le dit Sieur Dohrman lui
            a remboursé les comptes de fraix qu’il lui a produits.
          C’est aussi a cette epoque qu’il engagea Monsieur Le Chevallier de Montaigu capitaine
            du vaisseau de guerre anglois Le Ramilies, a lui delivrer Sur le reçu du Consul general de france, cinq prisonniers américains
            qu’il avoit à Son bord.
          Malgré le Secrét que l’Exposant a toujours taché de mettre dans toutes Ses demarches,
            il n’a pu cependant eviter de devenir Suspect au Ministre anglois. Il avoit été
            plusieurs fois reconnu dans les courses nocturnes qu’il faisoit autour des vaisseaux
            anglois pour recueillir des matelots que sa presence engageoit à se jetter à la nage;
            plusieurs fois l’on avoit fait feu Sur lui. Mais ce qui le decouvrit entierement fut
            l’enlevement public du capitaine Benjamin Wikés, qu’il retira du milieu de plus de vingt anglois
            par lesquels il avoit été surpris à terre. Dès cet instant le Sr. Walpole ne menagea plus rien, il se plaignit au
            gouvernement, et presenta Son zele à Secourir les américains,
            comme une infraction à la neutralité que la cour de Portugal avoit adopteé. En
            consequence il lui fut ordonné de se retirer du Royaume. Il instruisit Monsieur Le chargé des affaires de
            la Cour de france, et Mr. Le Consul de cet incident. Tous deux de concert firent connoître la pureté
            de ses demarches. Bientot ce premier fut autorisé par la Cour de france à demander
            l’abolition du decret qui ordonnoit sa retraite; en Sorte qu’au bout de quelques mois,
            il eut la Satisfaction d’être rendu à sa famille, et à ses fonctions d’agent interprete
            de la nation françoise.
          Ce desagrement n’a été que personnel à l’Exposant; les américains n’en ont point
            Souffert. Un fils qu’il a auprès de lui, et quelques personnes qu’il avoit preposées
            leur rendirent tous les Secours dont ils avoient besoin, pendant tout le tems qu’il lui
            fut impossible de le faire lui même. Mais une fois libre il les a secourus plus
            ouvertement; la liberté même qu’eut de le faire peu de tems après au nom de la france,
            en écartant tous les risques ne fit que redoubler son zele.
          Le certificat ci-joint de son Excellence Monsieur L’ambassadeur de france, celui de son
            Excellence Monsieur L’ambassadeur d’Espagne, ceux de Monsr. Le Consul general de france,
            et du vice-consul chargé des affaires du Consulat, celui enfin de Mr. Dohrman negociant
            de cette ville, et agent du congrés, que l’Exposant prend la liberté d’envoyer à votre
            Excellence, lui Seront un Sur garant de la verité de ce qu’il vient d’avoir l’honneur de
            lui exposer. Il ose Se flater en
            conséquence, que votre Excellence representera Ses
            Services au congrés des Etats unis, et qu’elle en obtiendra une gratification
            proportionnée aux depenses excessives qu’il a faites, et aux peines qu’il s’est données
            pendant le tems des hostilités entre les Etats unis de l’amérique, et L’angleterre. Dans
            cet espoir il prie votre Excellence d’agréer les vœux qu’il fait au Ciel pour votre
            conservation, et les assurances du profond respect avec lequel il a l’honneur d’être, de
            votre Excellence Le très humble, et très obéissant Serviteur

            Jan Baptis Pecquet
            A Son Excellence Monsieur Franklin, Ministre Plenipotentiaire des
              Etats-unis de l’Amerique, près de Sa Majesté Très Chrétienne.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 26 June 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Vlles. le 26. Juin 1783

          Vous trouverez ci-joint, M, le sauf-conduit que le Roi a bien voulu
            accorder au Sr. Price; cette pièce mettra ce particulier en état de Suivre tranquilement
            et sûrement ses affaires. Mr. Dudon, procureur-général du parlement de Bordeaux,
            préviendra M. le garde des sceaux dans le cas où le Sr. laframboise ou autres feroient
            des poursuites contre le Sieur Price.

            Mr. franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Chevalier de Cambray-Digny, [before 27 June 1783]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Cambray-Digny, Louis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de

            [before June 27, 1783]

          Dr. Franklin requests the honour of Mr. Cambray’s Company at dinner
            on Sunday the 29th inst.

            Passy, June 1783
            The favour of an Answer is desired


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand: Memorandum, 27 June 1783
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Paris 27 Juin 1783

          Etat de Situation actuelle
          Pour satisfaire aux payemens qui restent à faire, & liquider
            & payer tout ce que je connais d’Engagemens pour le Congress, il faudrait les Sommes
            suivantes aux Epoques ci-après, sçavoir

              £ 400,000
              en Juillet

               500,000
              en Août.

               500,000
              en Septembre

               500,000
              en Octobre

              1,900,000
              en tout

          Si Monsieur Franklin ne voit pas jour à se procurer cette Somme, il
            faudrait forcement, comme j’ai déja eu l’honneur de l’en prévenir, cesser des
            aujourd’hui tout payement, puisqu’il m’a été signifié des Sommations pour rendre
            acceptées, ou non, les Lettres qui sont à l’acceptation chès moi.

            Signée Grand.
            Copy—

          Notation by Franklin: Etat de nos
            Besoins 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [John] Hunt, 27 June 1783
From: Hunt, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Rue de Clery Friday Evening June 27th: 1783

          J. Hunt has the Honor to present his most respectful compliments to
            his Excellency Dr. Franklin, and will do himself the pleasure; agreeable to his
            Excellency’s kind invitation, to dine with him on Sunday next.

          Addressed: His Excellency Dr. Franklin /
            Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierres, 27 June 1783
From: Pierres, Philippe-Denis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur,
            Paris, le 27 Juin 1783.

          Vous devez être étonné sans doute de ne point recevoir de ma part les Exemplaires des
            Constitutions de l’amérique que je vous ai promis le 20 du courant, jour que j’ai eu
            l’honneur de vous voir.
          En vous quittant j’ai été chez M. de Néville. On m’a montré le nouvel Embargo mis sur
            cet Ouvrage; c’est une Note que M. le Garde des Sceaux a écrite à côté de la permission,
            la voici: à condition que l’ouvrage passera encore sous les yeux
              de M. le Comte de Vergennes avant d’être distribué. On m’a dit qu’il étoit à
            propos que j’en envoyasse un Exemplaire à M. le Comte de Vergennes, c’est ce que j’ai
            fait en rentrant chez moi: j’y ai joint la Lettre dont je vous envoie copie. J’attends la réponse de ce Ministre pour la
            faire passer aussitôt à M. le Garde des Sceaux qui l’enverra à M. de Néville, pour enfin
            après tout cela m’autoriser à faire la distribution.
          Vous voyez, Monsieur, que Paris ne ressemble point dutout à Philadelphie, & qu’il
            nous faudroit ici un second Franklin, s’il pouvoit en exister deux, pour nous délivrer
            de toutes ces entraves, entraves que je ne puis ni ne dois condamner, puisque je suis
            citoyen.
          Cela ne m’empêche pas, Monsieur, de faire en attendant relier & brocher, & je
            serois en état actuellement de vous livrer tous vos Exemplaires, si les Reglemens
            auxquels je suis assujetti m’en donnoient la liberté. Aussitôt que je serai dégagé de
            toutes les entraves que je viens de vous détailler, j’aurai l’honneur de vous en faire
            part.
          Je suis avec un profond respect, Monsieur, Votre très-humble & très-obeissant
            Serviteur

            Pierres
            M. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Pigott, 27 June 1783
From: Pigott, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Hond: Sir
            Pent near Geneva 27 June
              1783.

          I have a long time intended to address you this Letter concerning the Situation of your
            Grandson at Geneva as being such which I am persuaded would not receive your approbation
            if you was acquainted with the necessary circumstances. It is now some weeks that He had
            a Fever, the cause of which may be reasonably attributed to his unhealthy dwelling
            improper diet & ignorance on the part of his Rulers. His apartment in no respects
            betters than that of a Prisoner, it is so confined with Walls, included in a little
            Alley & crowded with other Cotemporarys who sleep in the same Chamber that it would
            be Almost a miracle that He should escape some Pestilential Disorder. I am so sensible
            of the very urgent Necessity for him to change his abode that I have taken the liberty
            of going to Mr Mariniac, & desiring He might come to Pent for the benefit of the Air
            till his Health was established. Altho’ I have gone myself & have frequently sent Mr
              Webb who is equally sensible of the
            necessity & propriety of the measure from unknown reasons we have not been able to
            obtain the desired End. I propose going again this day but much doubt if I shall
            succeed, as I understand some such request was refused Mr Ridley, whom otherwise
            proposed conducting him to Paris.
          Your Grandson demonstrates many very estimable qualitys
            which exclusive of other circumstances entitles him to very different management than he
            experiences. If Mr Ridley is now returned to Paris, He will probably strengthen the
            Evidence which I have given. In regard
            to his Learning I wish It be of such quality & degree as to answer your
            expectations, persuaded at the same Time that It originates not on the part of the young
            Man, whom is neither wanting in disposition or natural abilitys, but every Telemachus
            has need of a Mentor. It is with reluctance that I find myself called upon to represent Objects as striking to my
            Senses & so little agreeable as when they have a tendency to [torn: do
            ot]hers detriment, but my Zeal for America [my pers]onal respect for You & my
            regar[d for your] Grandson makes it a needfull Duty. Be assured Sir I have none, nor can
            have any other Motive. I think Sir no time should be lost in coming to some resolution
            either of removing him from this country, or of placing Him in a more advantageous
            manner.
          The little prospect of any Amendment in the Politicks of England has almost brougt: me
            to a determination of going to America in the following Spring which I hope will prove
            another promised Land. I have the Honour to be with the
            most sincere respect and Regard Hond: Sir Your very faithfull & obedt Sert

            Robert Pigott

            Mrs Pigott desires me to present her most respectfull compliments.
              Since writing the above I have brought away your Grandson who presents you his duty
              & is greatly better.

          Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur
            Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiare / des Etats Unis de l’Amerique / a Passy / pres
            Paris


Title: The American Peace Commissioners to David Hartley: Answers to Propositions, [29 June 1783]
From: American Peace Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John,Jay, John,Laurens, Henry
To: Hartley, David

            [June 29, 1783]

          Answers to Mr Hartleys six Propositions for the definitive
            Treaty—
          To the 1st This matter has been already regulated in the 5th &
            6th Articles of the Provisional Treaty
            to the utmost extent of our Powers: The Rest must be left to the several States.
          2d All the Lakes, Rivers and Waters, divided by the Boundary Line or Lines, between the
            United States and his Britannic Majesty’s Territories shall be freely used &
            navigated by both Parties during the whole extent of such Division. Regulations
            concerning Roads, Carrying Places and any Land Communications between said Waters,
            whether within the Line of the United States or that of his Majesty, together with the
            Navigation of all Waters and Rivers in America belonging to either
            Party, may be made in the Negotiation of a Treaty of Commerce.
          3d & 4th That in all Places belonging to the United States in the Country adjoining
            to the Water Line of Division, and which, during the War were in his Majesty’s
            Possession, all Persons at present resident, or having Possessions or Occupations, as
            Merchants or otherwise, may remain in the peaceable Enjoyment of all civil Rights, and
            in pursuit of their Occupations, until they shall receive Notice of Removal from
            Congress, or the State, to which any such Place may appertain, and that, upon any such
            Notice of Removal, a Term of two Years shall be allowed for selling or withdrawing their
            Effects, and for settling their Affairs—
          5th That his Britannic Majesty’s Forces not exceeding [blank] in number, may continue in the Posts now occupied by them, contiguous to
            the Water Line, until Congress shall give them Notice to evacuate the said Posts; and
            Garrisons of their own shall arrive at said Posts, for the purpose of securing the
            Lives, Property and Peace of any Persons settled in that Country, against the Invasion
            or Ravages of the Neighbouring Indian Nations, who may be suspected of retaining
            Resentments in consequence of the late War.
          6th The Consideration of this Proposition may be left to the Treaty of Commerce.

            Passy 29 June 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Bethia Alexander, 29 June 1783
From: Alexander, Bethia
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            St. Germain ce 29 Juin [1783]

          Je suis chargée d’une invitation pour vous mon cher Docteur, qu’il
            faudroit bien que vous acceptiez. Madame la Comtesse de la Mark a été desolée de ne vous avoir pas vu avant
            hier, pour se dedommager elle veut absolument que vous veniez passer une Journée chez
            elle ici et pour eviter un refus elle vous donne a choisir tous les Jours du mois
            prochain Jusqu’au vingt et un— Vous n’aurez point d’escaliers a monter comme vous savez,
            et vous n’y trouverez que Madame de la Mark et nous— Fixé bien vite le Jour Je vous
            prie, et mandez le moi. Mes complimens au petit cousin—qui est prié aussi dites lui que
            demain Je commence ses Noix— Adieu mon cher Docteur Je vous embrasse mille fois, et Je
            vous promets pour le Jour que vous viendrez un baiser longue d’une aune— Votre

            B: Alexander

          Addressed: A Son Excellence / Son
            Excellence Monsieur Franklin / Embassadeur des Etats unis de L’amerique / a / Passy
          Notation: Alexander 29 Juin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Hancock, 30 June 1783
From: Hancock, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Dear Sir
            Boston June 30. 1783

          I beg leave to introduce to your Excellcy Mr. DeValnais the bearer, late Consul of
            France, here; who is going home wth his lady. I take the Freedom to refer your Excellcy, to
            this Gentleman, for the particulars relative to the present Scituation of Affairs in
            America after so advantagious a Settlement of Peace, with which, I in the most cordial
            manner take this opportunity to Congratulate you.
          Mrs. DeValnais is nearly connected wth my family, and Mr DeValnais his Conduct, during
            his residence among us, and in the Office of Consul as far as I have had any knowledge
            of the Same, entitles him, I think, justly to the favor of the court & ministry of
            France.
          As I rely much upon the honor of my former acquaintance wth your Excellcy, permit me to
            ask an interest in your Friendship, influence & credit, in behalf of Mr DeValnais,
            in order to his more effectually accomplishing the business he is going upon wth the
            Court and Ministry of France—
          I have the honor to be with peculiar esteem & regard (tho. at present much
            afflicted with the gout) Dear Sir Your most Obedient and very Hble Servt

            John Hancock
            His Excellcy, Doctr Franklin

          Addressed: His Excellcy / Doctr.
            Franklin / Minister Plenipotentiary from the U. States / of No. America to the Court of
            / France / at Versailles / per favor of Mr DeValnais


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Andrew Limozin, 1 July 1783
From: Limozin, Andrew
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir
            Havre de Grace 1rst July 1783.

          I have the honor to inform your Excellency of the Safe arrivall of the Continental
            Frigate the General Washington Captn Barny which left Philadelphia on the 7th. Ulto in
            the Evening. She is consign’d to my care being apointed Agent
            for the United States of America for the Port of Havre.
          I take the freedom to annex to this Severall Letters directed for your Excellency &
            arrivd by the Said Packet.
          I have the Honor to Subscribe my self with a great regard Sir of your Excellency The
            most obedt. & very Humble Servt.

            Andw Limozin

            Captn Barny setts of just now with his dispatches for the
                Court.
            His Excellency Dr Ben: Franklin Esqe. Minister Plenipotentiary of
              the United States of America Passy

          Notation: Limozin 1er. Juillet 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Philip Schuyler, 1 July 1783
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Dear Sir
            Albany July 1st. 1783

          Permit me to introduce to your Excellencys attention John Carter Esqr. my son-in-law
            and Colo: Wadsworth of Hartford they
            have been joint agents for supplying the french troops who have served in America. Count
            Rochambeau, General Chatlus and other of
            the General Officers have afforded me the pleasure of signifying to me, how well the
            Army was served, and how perfectly contented
            they were with the conduct of those two Gentlemen. They are going to sollicit in France,
            payment of the bills which have been drawn in their favor by the intendant of the
              Army. It is probable that you may able
            efficiently to intervene in their behalf, and permit me to intreat Your assistance to
              them.—
          Accept Sir of my best congratulations on the prospect of a speedy peace, and the
            perfect establishment of our independance. America is so much indebted to your
            exertions, on these important occassions, that I am persuaded every one of her honest
            citizens is pervaded with those sentiments of Gratitude, regard and esteem which I have
            the happiness intimately to feel.—
          I have the honor to be with unfeigned Sincerity Dr. Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient
            Servant

            Ph: Schuyler
            His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr &c


Title: The American Peace Commissioners to Prince Bariatinskii, [2 July 1783]
From: American Peace Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John,Jay, John,Laurens, Henry
To: Bariatinskii, Ivan Sergeevich

          On Tuesday, July 1, at the weekly gathering of ministers at
            Versailles, Vergennes informed the American peace commissioners that the Anglo-French
            treaty had been settled, pending British approval, and the time had come for them to pay
            official visits to the Russian and Austrian ministers who would be signing the treaty as
            mediators. The commissioners did so the next day, calling first on the comte de
            Mercy-Argenteau, who was not at home, and then on Prince Bariatinskii, who received them
            “very politely.” Arkadii Markov, who had been sent to Paris in April to join
            Bariatinskii as a co-mediator, arrived during their visit and warmly acknowledged their
            intention of calling at his residence later that day. (He was not at home when they
            did.) Before the summer heat became unbearable, they also called on the ministers of the
            Netherlands, Sweden, and Denmark, leaving their cards.
          Because neither Russia nor Austria had yet recognized the United States, John Adams
            wondered whether those ministers would need to consult with their courts before
            returning the visits. He need not have
            worried. Austrian representatives had been wondering since January how they could lure
            Franklin into making an official overture, allowing Joseph II to confer recognition and
            launch trade negotiations. When
            Mercy-Argenteau received notification in April that he would be receiving full powers
            and instructions for serving as a mediator in the treaties of France and Spain, he
            observed to the emperor that signing the Anglo-American treaty as well would provide the
            opportunity for establishing the trade relations they had been seeking. By the end of April, he and the Russian
            ministers had agreed that they would
            participate in the signing of the Anglo-American treaty if asked. This must have been what prompted Vergennes in
            May to sound out the American commissioners quietly as to whether they would “prefer” to
            invite mediation. They did not.
          As the time for signing the treaties approached, however, Vergennes must have known
            that the mediators would still welcome a role in the Anglo-American treaty and were
            prepared to recognize the American commissioners. Protocol required that the Americans
            pay the first visit. The imperial ambassadors returned those visits the next day,
            leaving cards.

            [July 2, 1783]

          Mr. Adams, Mr. Franklin, and Mr. Jay, Ministers Plenipotentiary of
            the United States of America to treat of peace, have called to have the honor of
            visiting His Excellency the Minister Plenipotentiary of Russia.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Franklin Bache, 2 July 1783
From: Bache, Benjamin Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            My dear grandpapa,—
            Pente July 2. 1783—

          I received your kind Letter of the 23 June the 29 of the same mounth I was very glad
            when I read that you desir’d me to come at Passy during the Vacation of the School to
            See you, I have been Sick, but I Am now recover’d and Strong enough to undertake the
              Jorney. By the Complasance of Mr
            Pigott I went I great many times beffor my sickness to dine to his house with Johonnot
            when he heard that I was sick He made me come to his country house where I recover’d my
            health. Remember my Love to my cousin, I only expect an occassion to undertake the
            agreable Jorney to See you.
          I am You most obedient and dutiful Grand Son

            B Franklin B.
            Be So good as to render the inclos’d to his addess

          Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur
            Franklin Ministre Plenipotentiare / des etats Unis de L’Amerique auprès / de Sa Majesté
            trés Chretienne / A Passy / Pres Paris.
          Notation: B. F. B. to Dr. Franklin July
            2—’83


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Fabre Dubosquet, 2 July 1783
From: Dubosquet, Fabre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur
            Paris le 2. jeuillet. 1783

          Il ÿ a Pres de trois ans que Présenté chez Vous Par Mr. paul jones Commodore des états
            unis de lamérique, Nous Dissértames un peu de temps Sur les qualités D’un Métal pour le
            Doublage Des Vaisseaux Dont Mr. Paul jones Vous avoit remis un échantillon. Ce nouveau
            Doublage Monsieur, est aujourdhuÿ a sa perfection; ainsi que les Cloux de fer Vernissés,
            qui doivent l’assujetir au Vaisseau. Les lames ont cinq Pieds De longueur sur 18 pouces
            de hauteur, Si elles etoint Moins ambarrassantes, je les ferois Porter a Passÿ;
            Cependant Comme il seroit tres intérréssant que Vous les Vissies si lorsque Vous
            Viendres a paris Vous Voulies Me faire lhonneur de passer ches Moÿ, et de Me prevenir du
            jour ou je Devrois attendre Vostre èxcelence, Nous confererions sur tous les points dont
            cet objet est suscéptible; elle trouvera cÿ joint, les lettres patentes, que jaÿ obtenu
            et des observations qui aideront a la Mettre au fait De ce Doublage.
          Je suis avec beaucoup de respect Monsieur Vostre tres humble Et tres obeissant
            serviteur

            FABRE
              Dubosquet

            Pr. [Premier] gentilhomme de la grande fauconerie De france, rue
              poissonière, apres la bariére ste anne.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles-Henri Titius, 3 July 1783
From: Titius, Charles-Henri
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur!
            à Dresde le 3me. Juillet 1783.

          Je meriterois le titre d’ingrat si je laissois passer l’occasion qui se presente de
            Vous assurer de mon estime parfaite et de la plus vive réconnoissance que je Vous ai,
            pour toutes les marques de bienveillance et d’amitié que Vous daignates m’accorder
            pendant mon séjour à Paris, ou j’avois l’honneur de Vous voir souvent chès Msr. le Comte
            de Buffon, nôtre vénérable ami: acceptés
            donc l’hommage que Vos vertus meritent d’un homme réconnoissant, qui fait gloire de les
            publier à ses concitoyens.
          J’ose en même tems Monsieur, recommander à Vos bonnes graces celui qui a l’honneur de
            Vous remettre les présentes, c’est le Sr. Thieriot, Marchand, qui va en amérique: daignés Monsieur lui accorder Vos
            recommandations pour ce pays; la connoissance parfaite que j’ai de Vôtre caractère
            élévé, me promet en avance que Vous daignerés condescendre à mes sollicitations; si
            j’occupois un rang plus haut, je Vous offrirois Monsieur mes foibles services, cependant
            je me flatte que Vous aurès la bonté de m’honorer de Vos commandements, si Vous m’en
            croyés digne, et la plus exacte exécution Vous fera voir combien j’en sais faire
            cas.
          Non content Monsieur de Vous avoir demandé une grace, j’y joints encore une autre, mais
            je me vois obligé d’entrer premierement au détail du fait: Il y a plus de cinquante ans
            qu’un certain Médécin içi, nommé Oehme inventa des médécines efficaces contre beaucoup
            de maladies, il gagna par ce moien un bien très considerable dans ce pays çi; je ne puis
            pas dire si ces remedes ont toutes les proprietés que l’inventeur leur attribue, car
            leur composition est un secret, cependant comme leur credit s’est soutenu jusqu’içi et
            que leur débit bien considérable s’etend presque sur toute l’Europe, l’on doit pourtant
            croire qu’ils meritent quelque attention: L’inventeur laissa après sa mort leur
            composition aux mains de son fils unique, qui fut aussi Docteur en Medécine; ce dernier
            étant mort au commencement de l’année courante, les laissa par Testament à l’école des pauvres
            de cette capitale, institut fondé sur la générosité des vénérables freres maçons, le
            profit qui en revient est donc pour cette école, ou l’on éleve actuellement cent et sept
            orphelins garçons et filles: c’est donc pour l’amour de ceux que je Vous prie très
            humblement de vouloir instruire le Sr. Thieriot si l’entrée des medécines inconnues est
            libre en amèrique, et de lui accorder Vôtre assistance pour y faire quelque debit. Vous
            voyés bien Monsieur que c’est un oeuvre de charité, soutenés le, je Vous en sollicite,
            les prieres de ces pauvres enfants pour Vous, seront agréables à nôtre maître suprème et
            sa grace Vous recompensera. Pardonnés ma hardiesse de Vous être à charge par une priere
            de ce genre, considerés seulement que c’est le sort des ames grandes et généreuses
            d’être attaquées de tous cotés de la multitude qui implore leur sécours. Au reste
            Monsieur soutenés moi aussi en avénir Vos bonnes graces, et soyés persuadé que rien
            n’égale à l’estime et à la vénération sublime avec laquelle j’ai l’honneur de me nommer
            Monsieur Vôtre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur

            Charles Henri Titius,
          Docteur en Medécine
              et Inspecteur du Cabinet de l’histoire naturelle de
          S. A. Erale [Son Altesse
              Electorale] de Saxe

          M. de Francklin

          Notation: Charles Henri Titius Dresde 3
            Juillet 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 3 July 1783
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Versailles le 3 Juillet 1783.

          M. De Vergennes a reçu avec le billet que Monsieur francklin lui a
            fait l’honneur de lui ecrire hier les paquets qui y etoient joints. Il le prie d’en recevoir ses sinceres
            remercimens, ainsi que l’assurance de son fidelle et inviolable attachement.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 4 July 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

            Sir,
            Passy July 4. 1783.

          I have the honour to communicate to your Excellency, by Order of Congress, their
            Resolution of the 2d of May. It will
            explain itself; and I can add no Arguments to enforce the Request it contains, which I
            have not already urged with an Importunity that nothing but a Sense of Duty could oblige
            me to use, when I see so clearly that it is painful to you as well as to me. I confide
            also much more in the Representation M. de la Luzerne has probably made to you on the
            Affair. I will only say, that from a perfect
            Knowledge I have of their present Situation, no Favour of the Kind from his Majesty
            could ever be more essentially serviceable to the United States, or make a more lasting
            Impression.
          I send withal an Address the Congress has just made to the several States, wherein you will see the Steps they are taking
            to procure the necessary Funds, for answering all Engagements; in which I have no doubt
            they will succeed. Your Excellency will also see there, the Manner in which I have
            written on the Subject; and you will
            find that the Contract of July last was ratified, and with Expressions of Gratitude, in
            January last, tho’ the Original
            Ratification is not yet come to hand. With great Respect, I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s
            most obedient & most humble Servant.

            B Franklin
            His Exy Ct. de Vergennes

          Endorsed: M de R
          Notation: Rep. le 18 Juillet


Title: Vergennes to Franklin and John Jay, [5 July 1783]
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Jay, John

            [July 5, 1783]

          J’ai reçu, Messieurs, la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de
            m’ecrire le 29 du Mois dernier et par
            laquelle vous demandez, au Nom des Etats Unis un Secours extraordinaire de 1900/m l.t.
          Le Roi se seroit fait un Plaisir, Messieurs, de prendre votre Demande en Consideration:
            mais l’Etat de ses Finances lui fait la Loi a cet Egard: bien loin que sa Majesté ait les Fonds
            necessaires pour solder les Depenses enormes de la dere. Guerre, Elle se trouve dans la
            Necessité de s’en procurer pour cet Effet par la Voye de
              l’Emprunt. Vous pourez juger par là
            que le Roi est dans l’impossibilité absoluë de vous accorder la somme qui fait l’objet
            de votre Demande; vous ne devez pas douter, Messieurs, du Regret qu’eprouve sa Majesté
            de ne pouvoir dans cette Occasion donner aux Etats Unis une nouvelle Preuve de son
            Affection; je n’en ai pas moins de m’etre trouvé hors d’etat de seconder votre Zêle en
            concourrant au Succès de vos Sollicitations.
          J’ai l’honneur d’etre tres sincerement, Messieurs, votre tres humble et très obeissant
            Serviteur.

            (signé) De Vergennes

          Notation by William Temple Franklin:
            Copy of Letter from his Excellency Count de Vergennes, to Messrs: Franklin & Jay.
            dated at Versailles the 5. July 1783.