Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Earl of Shelburne, 10 May 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Shelburne, William Petty, Earl of

My Lord,
Passy, May 10th. 1782.
I have received the honour of your Lordships Letter, dated the 28th past, by Mr Oswald, informing me that he is sent back to settle with me the Preliminaries of Time & Place. Paris as the Place seem’d to me Yesterday to be agreed on between Mr Grenville & M. de Vergennes, and it is perfectly agreable to me. The Time cannot well be settled ’till this Court has received Answers from Madrid and the Hague, and untill my Colleagues are arrived. I expect daily Messrs. Jay and Lawrens; Mr Adams doubts whether he can be here, but that will not hinder our Proceeding.
It gave me great Pleasure to learn that Mr Lawrens is discharged entirely from the obligations he had entred into. I am much obliged by the Readiness with which your Lordship has confer’d that Favour. Please to accept my thankful Acknowledgements.
I am happy too in understanding from your Letter that Transports are actually preparing to convey our Prisoners to America, and that Attention will be paid to their Accommodation and good Treatment. Those People on their Return will be dispersed thro’ every Part of America, and the Accts. they will have to give of any Marks of Kindness received by them under the present Ministry, will lessen much the Resentment of their Friends against the Nation, for the Hardships they suffer’d under the past.—
Mr Oswald rests here awhile by my Advice, as I think his Presence likely to be useful.—
With great & sincere Respect, I have the honour to be, My Lord, Your Lordship’s most obedt and most humble Servant
B Franklin
Rt. Honble. the Earl of Shelburne

Endorsed: 10th. May 1782 Doctr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edmund Clegg, 10 May 1782
From: Clegg, Edmund
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond Sir
London May 10: 1782
I Received a Letter from Mr Wyld dated the 29th of April, the 4th instant. I waited to have your reply to the one or other of my former ones to you, but being disappointed; I trouble you with this.
I find as I wrote before, that they are gone so far in the Country in getting ready to go over that delays will now be of very bad Consequence to them all & I am in such suspence as is in some respects inconvenient. I always advised them in my Letters, not to be over hasty: But as matters now stand with them—I do, most humbly, & earnestly beg; the utmost you can do towards their safe Passage; and proper directions as to the mode of embarking— I know if you knew their Situation—you would tenderly feel for them, & if kind Providence ever brings us safe over— I am firmly perswaded You will be so far from repenting your Patronage: that you will look forwards with pleasure to the fruit arising from the Planting of such a concern which I hope, when Wars are over, will Yeild you Prospects of promoteing the rising greatness of your country in the Arts of Peace.
It is my Judgement that the Silk business will be the first brought to perfection— But I could tell with more certainty if I knew the kinds of Silk the Country Produces— I hear some Gentlemen of Large Fortunes from the Neighbourhood of Derby are designing to go over to set up their Trade in that Country which is the throwing of Silk— I have no knowledge of them, But I think if they were to put the raisers of Silk into a Perfect Method of reeling it from the Worm—that would be a very great improvement. Neither the Assiatics nor many of the Europeans do that business as it ought to be, a very little extra, trouble and care would add near 10 per Cent to the Value of Raw silks.
I long to see the day, when we shall be able to unite in One our own Intrest and that of the Country which We have so fully set our Hearts upon—and beg leave to say expectation is upon the tiptoe for a favourable reply from you. In the mean time—I am Hond: Sir Your most obedt & most humble sert
Edmund Clegg
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin LLD &c

Addressed: Monsr à / Monsuir Franklin / Passi
Notation: Edmund Clegg London. may 10 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Dana, 29 April 1782 [i.e., 10 May 1782]
From: Dana, Francis M.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

  St: Petersbourg April 29th.[i.e., May 10,] 1782. OS.
  Dear Sir,

In your letter to me of the 11th. of May last, which I received in Holland, you proposed the money I might have occasion for there, and shou’d take up on account of the United States, shou’d be considered as part of Mr: Grand’s credit which you procured me on the house of Messrs: Strahlborn & Wolff of this city. The proposition was perfectly agreable to me, and I have governed myself accordingly. In Holland I took up Three hundred pounds sterlg: of Messrs: Fezeau & Grand. I also drew upon you for about One hundred pounds in favour of Messrs: De Neufville & Son. The sum mentioned in the letter of credit has been due to me since the 15th. of last March (.N.S.). I have this day taken up of Messieurs Strahlborne & Wolff a sum which, together with what I have heretofore received of them, and the Four hundred pounds received in Holland, amounts to the sum mentioned in the letter of credit; so that according to your proposition there is an end of that. I must therefore request you to furnish me with a credit for another year, as soon as may be convenient, that I may not be under a necessity of breaking in upon your arrangement with Mr: Grand. The first letter may be either cancelled as to the residue, or the second given for so much less. I shall hope for your answer by the return post, and the second letter of credit, if convenient to you. Near two months will necessarily intervene.
We yesterday received the news that the States General had on the 19th. of April (.N.S.) acknowledged the independence of the United States. This event gave a shock here; and is not well received, as they at least profess to have flattered themselves that the mediation wou’d have prevented it, and otherwise brought on a partial peace between Britain and Holland. This resentment, I believe, will not be productive of any ill consequences to the Dutch Republick. We have a report that Charlestown is evacuated by the enemy. You wou’d greatly oblige me by a communication of any news you may receive from our Country from time to time. Shou’d you be too much engaged yourself, a letter from Mr: Franklin, to whom I beg you to present my regards, wou’d be very acceptable.
I am with much esteem, Dear Sir, your most obedient & most humble Servant

    Mr: Franklin
    His Excellency Benj: Franklin Minister Plenipotentiary &c
    By the Post of the 4th. of May


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Grenville, [10 May 1782]
From: Grenville, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris Friday 10. [May 10, 1782]
Mr. Grenville presents his Compliments to Mr. Franklin and will with great pleasure do himself the honour of breakfasting with Mr. Franklin to morrow between 9 and 10 o Clock. Mr. Grenville was at Versailles to day, and should have been sorry that Mr. Franklin should have given himself the trouble of calling at Paris this Morning. The Courier shall certainly take particular care of Mr. Franklin’s Letters.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Hilliard d’Auberteuil, 10 May 1782
From: Hilliard d’Auberteuil, Michel-René
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
à Paris le 10e. Mai 1782
J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer une épreuve de mon ouvrage, ma mauvaise santé m’a privé de rendre mes devoirs à votre excellence, et a aussi retardé l’impression, mais je vais reparer le tems que j’ai perdu malgré moi.
Je suis avec respect de votre excellence Le très humble & très obéissant serviteur
Hilliard D’auberteuil

Notation: Dauberteuil. 10. May 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Hodgson, 10 May 1782
From: Hodgson, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear sir
London 10 May 1782
I have duly rec’d your sundry favors to the 27th Ultimo the exchange of Prisoners I hope will take place in the course of next week— The Transports I am told are ready & there remains nothing to be settled so that as soon as the necessary Forms of Office are gone thro’ I expect they will be sent away.

Administration have at my request given directions to the Navy Agents, at the several ports of embarkation, to supply such Prisoners as may stand in need with Slops to an Amount not exceeding 20 s. each Man, so that they will gt away decently & comfortably provided with necessary’s for the Voyage.
You will see the necessity of not losing Time in forwarding to me such Letters as you may chuse to send to Congress or Individuals by the Cartel Vessells & perhaps it may be prudent to send duplicates by different Vessells, If I do not hear from you in Time I shall send to Mr Thompson a Copy of the Agreements into which I have entered, in order that Congress may not be uninformed on the Subject, as it may be necessary for them to give some Directions on the Occasion.
I presented to the Noble Personage pursuant to request your thanks for his kindness & attention to your People & Yet if the Publick form, a true Estimate of the Principles of great Men, the true kindness from Principle & Conviction lies in another Quarter of Administration & as that party is the strongest I, in my own Mind have no Doubt but that every reasonable Concession will be made, so that we may indulge ourselves with the pleasing hopes of seeing Peace in our Days upon solid & permanent Principles.
I had the pleasure some little Time ago of dining with your Friends, Dr Priestley, Dr Price, Mr Jones & Mr Paradise, who all desired to be remembred to you in the kindest manner. Mr Jones in particular seemed to fear he had not rec’d a Letter from you, which he believed you had honoured him with.
Mr Grand has not remitted me, I believe my disburse will amount to about £280— I am not quite certain, but when the Prisoners are gone I will make up the Acco’t, & if more convenient for me to draw, than you to Remitt I shall act in Conformity, the disburse at present is no Inconvenience to me.
I return you my best thanks for your kind Communication, not a little mortified, that I am deprived of the pleasure of paying my Respects to you on an Occasion at once so honorable & agreable—however I hope the Business will be as effectually done by those in whose hands it is at present.— May I trespass so far on your Friendship as to request you wou’d give me the earliest Information of the apparent Conclusion of the Business one way or the other, I mean when it comes to the Point, that there either will or will not be a Congress to Treat on Terms of Pacification, if on such an Occasion you wou’d be Kind enough to dispatch a special Messenger, I will pay his Expences & satisfy him for his Trouble directing him to come in the most expeditious Way possible because the common post will not give Time enough the Information that may be of use, so soon as Secretarys Secretarys will receive it with the greatest Esteem & Respect I remain Dr sir yrs Sincerely
William Hodgson
Benj. Franklin Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edmund Clegg, 11 May 1782
From: Clegg, Edmund
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond Sir
London May: 11: 1782
I this day recd Your Packet enclosing—two Letters one for me—A Coppy of one sent Mr Wyld the 31 March with another now with the Pass—& the other two Letters of Recommendation— I find both by Yours & Mr Wylds, that We have Misunderstood the Conference betwixt him and You— I wrote by Mr Hodgsons Conveyance last night, and yet I thought it my duty to own the rect: of Your Papers for which I return you my most humble thanks.— I have another reason for troubling you with this viz The ignorance of my Country frds in attempting to take over any English Manufactured Goods for now they are informed of their danger it will not only be the highest folly for their own sakes—but an insult upon your Patronage— I Purpose therefore to set out with the Papers to morrow night by the Coach—to set them right in that matter, and to Perswade them if they can now by any means do it, to wait for a Peace; as I did always earnestly advise them— I do not think Mr Wyld Capable of a design’d deception, but having seen little of the great World, and having been very little conversant with men of high rank—I think his ready admittance to so high a Character as I have the Pleasure and honor now to address—may have made him a little too sanguin and impatient to be gone at all events. However he has set me quite right as to the expences of the Voyage— His representation of the Company being Persons of Property was also very Just, except a very few which the rest will assist— Indeed I find no fault with them but that of being too Precipitate in their Resolution of going now at all events & as it is so, I design to run all hazards with them, if I find they really can no way will avoid going this summer, on acct: of the steps they have taken, when I get down.
I have taken much pains to see Mr Laurens—and was this morning able to see him for the first time. He recd me with Polite kindness but the event was Just as I expected. “He told me he had, had many Applications, but his Situation did not allow him to attend to them—as he would not committ a transgression”— I reply’d I was affraid before I waited upon him—that the delicacy of his Situation, would not allow a more favourable attention. I had his promise of some Notice at a future time.
I am so anxious to be on the other side the Atlantic—and at the same time, to have my frds act with the best Prospects before them, they can—considering, how they have push’d themselves forward, that I don’t know any thing I could have done more to prevent hasty steps hurting them and again acknowledge our obligations to you to put us, as far as you can out of danger.
I am Hond: sir Your most obt & Very Humble Sert
Edmund Clegg
His Excellency B: Franklin Pleny &c &c

Addressed: Monsuer à / Monsr Franklin / Passi
Notation: Edmund Clegg London. 11. May 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Hilliard d’Auberteuil, 11 May 1782
From: Hilliard d’Auberteuil, Michel-René
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris ce 11. Mai 1782.
J’ai l’honneur d’envoyer à votre excellence quatre nouvelles épreuves. J’espere que cette 3e. partie pourra être achevée d’imprimer la semaine prochaine.
Je suis avec respect de votre excellence Le très humble & très obéist. servr.
Hilliard D’auberteuil


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Percival, 12 May 1782
From: Percival, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Manchester May 12. 1782.
Doctor Percival requests the honour of Doctor Franklin’s acceptance of the inclosed Volumes, as Memorials of his cordial Esteem and respect.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Rouaix, 12 May 1782
From: Rouaix, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Toulouse ce 12e mai 1782
Je viens d’apprendre par une lettre du superieur général de nôtre congrégation, que vous avés bien voulu accepter la dédicace d’une these générale de philosophie dans nôtre college; et je m’empresse de vous temoigner, combien je suis flatté de rendre un hommage public a un des plus grands physiciens de ce siecle, et au representant D’un peuple, qui fixe L’attention de L’univers entier. Je regarde cette circonstance comme la plus glorieuse de ma vie; et je croirai avoir assés fait pour ma gloire si cet hommage est digne de vous.
Je suis avec respect Monsieur vôtre très humble et très obeissant serviteur
Rouaixprofesseur de philosophie au college de Lesquile

Notation: Rouaix, Toulouse 12 May 1782.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to David Hartley, 13 May 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hartley, David

My dear Friend,
Passy, May 13. 1782.
I have just received your Favour of the 3d. Instant. I thank you much for the good News you give me, that “an Order is issued by your Government for the Release of all the American Prisoners everywhere, an Order not partial or conditional, but general and absolute.” I rejoice with you in this Step, not only on Account of the unhappy Captives who by it will be set at Liberty and restor’d to their Friends and Families, but as I think it will tend greatly towards a Reconciliation, on which alone the hope of a durable Peace can be founded. I am much indebted to your good Brother for a very kind and obliging Letter, which was mislaid when it should have been answered. I beg you would present to him my thankful Acknowledgments, and my very Sincere Respects. I join with you most heartily in the Prayer that ends your Letter, Da pacem, Domine, in Diebus nostris!
I am ever, my dear Friend, Your most affectionately
B Franklin
D. Hartley Esqe

Addressed: To / David Hartley Esqe / Golden Square / London
Endorsed: D F Ap 13 1782


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Mary Hewson, 13 May 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hewson, Mary (Polly) Stevenson

My dear dear Friend
Passy, May 13. 1782
I received your very kind Letter by Mr. Whitefoord, with the Books, which I think a judicious Collection, and hope the Reading of them by my Grandson may have a good Effect, in rendring him more worthy of the Happiness you are providing for him, in the Education of your Daughter. I suppose the Letter I had sent to you before Mr Whitefoord came here the first time, got to hand, tho’ you do not mention it. I submit to your Reasonings & Judgment on the Subject of the Proposition I made. I remember Dr Hawkesworth’s Saying, that you had the most logical Head of any Woman he ever knew. In this Affair I now doubt my own Head, and suspect it was rather a Project of my Heart. The Truth is, I love you both very much, and wish to be with you any where:—but I dread exposing my good old Friend to the Fatigues and Inconveniencies of such a Journey, and therefore say no more of it at present. Embrace my Godson for me, and my Grand-daughter-in-law. My Love to them all, and believe me ever, my dear Friend, Yours most affectionately
B Franklin
Mrs Hewson

Notation: Passy May 13— 82.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Earl of Shelburne, 13 May 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Shelburne, William Petty, Earl of

Passy, May 13. 1782
I did myself the honour of Writing to your Lordship a few days since by Mr Grenville’s Courier, acknowledging the Receipt of yours of the 28th past by Mr Oswald. I then hoped that Gentleman would have remain’d here some time; but his Affairs it seems recall him sooner than he imagin’d. I hope he will return again, as I esteem him more the more I am acquainted with him; and his Moderation, prudent Counsels, & sound Judgment, may contribute much, not only to the speedy Conclusion of a Peace, but to the framing such a Peace as may be firm and long-lasting.
With great Respect, I am, My Lord, Your Lordships most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
Rt. honble. the Earl of Shelburne

Endorsed: Passy 13th May 1782 Benjn: Franklin Esqr. Rx. 22d by Mr. Oswald In Mr. Oswald’s 21 May 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Silas Deane, 13 May 1782
From: Deane, Silas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Ghent May 13th, 1782.
The Letter which you did me the honor to write to me on the 19th. ultimo, did not come to hand untill last evening— I pray you to accept of my thanks for your attention to Mine of the 30th, of March, and I can but flatter myself that Congress will be induced by your Letters to take decisive measures, on the subject of my acco’ts. As I did not expect an answer to my long political Letter, I shall not make any observations on your short one; further than to say that I am free to join with you in an appeal to Time & Experiance to determine whether independant Sovereignty, in the hands of a Democracy, ought to be preferred by the United States, to the British Constitution free’d from the Innovations, & coruptions which have in the course of Time crept into it.— After all the clamor raised on account of my intercepted Letters, & the harsh Epithets which have been so lavishly bestowed on me, both in Europe, & America, the whole rests on the above question, which it is possible that we may both of us live to see determined, & then & not before can it be said whether my resentments, & passions, got the better of my reason, & judgment in the Letters which I wrote, & which were in part intercepted by the Enemy, & a part of them betrayed by persons in whom I had placed an unlimited, but I now find, a mistaken confidence.— The present age is unquestionable the most enlighten’d of any, of which the History, has come to our Knowledge, & it stands indebted to you, for many of the most useful discoveries, & Improvements, & I have the satisfaction to find from your writings, & history, that however widely we may differ at present, yet for more than 50 years of your long & useful Life, your sentiments on Civil Government, & on the true Interest of America, were no way materially different from those which I expressed in my Letters.— But it is immaterial at present to enquire what your, or my political sentiments formerly were, the great object before us, is to secure the peace, Liberty & safety of our Country in the best manner, & on the most solid Basis possible.—& so far as either of us, suffer our resentments, & passions to get the better of our reason & judgment, on the important Question, we shall justly become the subjects, of public censure.— You believe that the peace, Liberty & happiness of our Country, will be best secured, & supported, by a close alliance with France & the House of Bourbon, & under an independant Democracy; I have the misfortune to think differently & to believe that America as she was formerly the most happy & free Country in the World, whilst under the British Constitution, though far from being then enjoyed in its purity, so that if now remitted, to that parent State under the same Constitution, modified to local circumstances & reformed of every abuse or defect complained of, our Country would enjoy greater Liberty, peace & safety, than can be hoped for, under any other Constitution whatever— A great part, perhaps the majority of our Countrymen are on your side the question, & time & Experience alone can determine which of us is right, but in the meantime it is both cruel, & unjust in us to treat each other, as Enemies, on this acco’t, you say that I am considered, as having abandoned the cause, of my Country, & as having with Arnold espoused that of its Enemies— I take these to be sentiments transmitted to you from America, I am confident that they can not be yours; since it is well Known, that I have not betrayed any public trust, & that I have ever condemned the conduct of Arnold as freely, as I from the first condemned that of those violent Demagarques who improved every circumstance, & accident of his life to push him into desperate measures.
My case therefore in every point of view differ from his.— I have neither correspondance, or interest, or the prospect of any in G. Britain—the small remains of my fortune, the most of my Friends, & Family, & all my future hopes, & prospects, are in America, I have therefore every motive, to make me wish for the liberty, & happiness of my Country, & I can with great sincerity declare, that if America shall on experiment find herself happier, & more free under the present system, than she ever was, or could expect to be under the other, however modified, & reformed, that I shall rejoyce, to find that I have Judged erroneously, & that I have both written, & spoken at least imprudently, on this subject.— I will not trespass farther on your Time, than to assure you, that however greatly your sentiments may have been changed, that I retain the same respect, & Esteem for you, as when I had the honor to be numbered among your Friends.
I have the honor to be the greatest degree of both sir Yours &c
S,D,
Hon, B Franklin Esqr,


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 13[–17] May 1782
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Friend,
London, May 13[–17]th. 1782.
I wrote you a long Letter dated May 1st. 1782. by Mr. Laurens, who left London on Saturday last, but I will add a few Lines now by a Conveyance, which I believe will overtake him, just to tell you two or three Things, which, I believe, I omitted in my last. Perhaps they may not be of any Consequence; but, as they relate to my own Conduct, I could wish to have you understand them.
After several Conferences with the late Ministry, I gave in the Paper called the Breviate, on the 7th. of February; but I never received any Answer from them. They resigned on the 20th. of March.— Upon the Accession of the new Ministry I heard Nothing from them upon the Subject; nor indeed did I apply to them. I did not know whether that Paper would not come into their Hands by Succession; and I doubted whether it might not be more proper for me to wait till I heard from them. While I remained doubtful about this, I received your Letters, which determined me to go to Lord Shelburne. (This was about the Beginning of the present Month) I communicated to him some Extracts, such as those about the Prisoners, &c. and likewise the whole of your Letter of April 13th: containing the Offer of the late Ministry, the King of France’s Answer, together with your Reflections in the Conclusion, respecting Peace. As you had given me a general Permission, I left with him a Copy of the whole Letter.
Upon the Occasion of this Interview, Lord Shelburne told me, that he had made much Enquiry in the Offices for the Correspondences and Papers which had passed between the late Ministry and me; but that he could not meet with them. He expressed a Regret that he had not conversed with me at an earlier Day; with many Civilities of that Kind. In Short, I had been backward to intrude myself, and he expressed Regret that he had not sent to me. Upon this Opening, on his Part, I stated to him the Substance of what had passed between the late Ministry and myself, and I left a copy of the Breviate with him. He gave me a very attentive Audience, and I took that Opportunity of stating my Sentiments to him as far as I could upon every View of the Question. Upon his expressing Regret that he had not seen me sooner, I told him that I always had been, and always shall be, most ready to give any Assistance in my Power towards the Work of Peace. I say the same to you.
I do not believe that there is any Difference of Sentiment between you and me, personally, in our own Minds upon Independence, &c. &c.— But we belong to different Communities, and the Right of Judgment, or of Consent and Dissent, is vested in the Community. Divide Independence into six Millions of Shares, and you should have been heartily welcome to my Share from the Beginning of the War. Divide Canada into six Millions of Shares, I could find a better Method of disposing of my Share than by offering it to France to abandon America. Divide the Rock of Gilbralter into six Millions of Pieces— I can only answer for one Portion. Let Reason & Justice decide in any such Case, as universal Umpires between contending Parties, and those who wish well to the permanent Peace of Mankind, will not refuse to give and to receive equal Justice. I agree with you that the equitable and the philosophical principles of Politics can alone form a solid Foundation of permanent Peace; and that the Contraries to them (though highly patronised by Nations themselves and their Ministers,) are no better than vulgar Errors: but Nations are slow to Convictions from the personal Arguments of Individuals.— “They are jealous in Honor, seeking the Bubble Reputation, even in the Cannon’s Mouth.”— But until a confirmed Millennium, founded upon wiser Principles, shall be generally established, the Reputation of Nations is not merely a Bubble. It forms their real Security.— To apply all this, in one Word, let all Nations agree with one accord, to beat their Swords into plough-Shares, and their Spears into Pruning-Hooks— or—Give me wooden Walls to Great Britain!
I have nothing further to add. My Reason for writing this was just to communicate to you in what Position I had delivered over my Conferences and Arguments with the late Ministry, into the Hands of the present. And I will conclude with your own Words, may God send us all more Wisdom.
I am ever most affectly. Yours
D. Hartley

P.S. 17th. may 1782. Since writing the above, I have likewise left a Copy of the enclosed Preliminaries with Lord Shelburne.

  May 1782.
  Preliminaries.

1. That the british Troops shall be withdrawn from the thirteen Provinces of North America, and a Truce made between Great Britain and the said Provinces, for [blank] Years. (suppose 10 or 20 Years)
2. That a Negotiation for Peace shall bonâ fide be opened between Great Britain and the Allies of America.

3. If the proposed Negotiation between Great Britain and the Allies of America, should not succeed so far as to produce Peace; but that War should continue between the said Parties; That America should act; and be treated as a neutral Nation.
4. That whenever Peace shall take Place between Great Britain and the Allies of America; the Truce between Great Britain and America shall be converted into a perpetual Peace, the Independence of America shall be admitted and guarrantied by Great Britain, and a commercial Treaty settled between them.
5. That these Propositions shall be made to the Court of France, for Communication to the american Commissioners, and for an Answer to the Court of Great Britain.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Pownall, 13 May 1782
From: Pownall, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr Sir.
Richmond Surrey May. 13. 82.
I have long been seeking an oportunity of doing what I have long desired to do. The Sending you on the poor Widow Barry’s Account. Mr Almon’s Acct of the Publication & Sale of my Topographical Description of America with the enlarged & corrected Map annexed— The Following is Copy of the Account deliverd to me by him. The Ballance of which is made up by the Copies of that Work delivered in at the same time.
Copy. State of the Account of Gov Pownall’s Description of America.
1776 April 6. Printing 17 Sheets at £2 pr Sheet

Number 1,000
34:
0:
0

Paper for Do 34 Rhms. at 16/
27:
4:
0

12 Sheets of the Impression burnt in the fire at the Savoy
43:

4

Old Plate repeatedly altering & engraving the new Plate
53:
10:
0

Paper for the Plates
7:
4:
0

Printing the Plates
10:
0:
0

Colouring & joining the Maps at 9d
37:
10:
0

Sewing 900 in blue paper at 6d
22:
10:
0

5 Rhms of hand-bills for sewing in different Magazines
15:
10:
0

Advertisements in the Country Papers viz Norwich Hereford Leicester &c &c
22:
10:
0

Advertisements in the London Papers
  27:
  9:
  0

300:
11:
0

June 81
   *N.B. from these 96 I took out for presents 8 & three more which I have in my own hands. TP

  96
  Copies Delivd to Gov’ Pownall

April 82—
  112
  not sewed

12
  to Mr S Wharton.

14
  in hand

776
  sold at 8/6
312:
16:
0

I have gott packed up this day 75 Copies Sewed & 112 unsewed—. Which Mr Bridgen of Pater Noster Row will forward to Mr Bowen as You desired—& I hope he will give you advice thereof— I hope Events will once more open by peace the Communications & Correspondence of Friends. I was in hopes to have had legal authority to have communicated with You on this Subject of Peace But as there is one Person who always objects to me I now see I shall never be employed in Europe. I must not therefore venture to write either what steps I took or what the operation & effect of the steps I took in consequence of your Letter which I communicated to his Majestys Ministers. I am Dr Sir Your very humble Servant & I hope that Peace between our Countries will again before either You or I dye permett me to say how much I have been Your old invariable friend of four or five & twenty Years Standing
T Pownall.

P.S. I am puzzled about sending the Plate. I don’t care to venture it in the Package with the Printed Copies I do not know how farr it may endanger their Safety in the passage


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 14 May 1782
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 14 May 1782
By an Express which past thro’ this City on Sunday and by all the Letters by Yesterdays post from Spain we are informd America has declared War against Portugal and Hostilities are commenct by the Capture of Six rich Brazil Ships which they name. Captain Paul Jones is said to be the Hero. The portuguese Consul at Bayonne has sent orders to all Captains at this Port sailing under portuguese Colours to wait Instructions from Lisbon. Premiums on Portuguese Vessels have risen from 4¼ to 30 per Ct. This information is said to be brought by an American schooner arrived in Spain. This intelegence I think it my duty to Inform you.
I have the Honor to be with due respect Sr. your most Obedient Humble Servant
John Bondfield
To His Excellency B Franklin Esqr

Addressed: Son Excellence / Benjamin Franklin Esqr / Ministre Des Etats Unies de l’Amerique / Paris
Notation: J. Bondfield 14 May 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Hilliard d’Auberteuil, 16 May 1782
From: Hilliard d’Auberteuil, Michel-René
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris le 16e. may 1782.
Je prie votre excellence de vouloir bien me renvoyer sans retard, les épreuves que j’ai pris la liberté de lui adresser, parceque le retard gêne les imprimeurs, qui n’ont pas assés de caracteres pour attendre plus longtems.
J’ai l’honneur de lui envoyer les feuilles K L & M, dont j’ai deja lu de premieres épreuves.
Je suis avec la consideration la plus respectueuse de votre excellence Le très humble & très obeissant serviteur
Hilliard D’auberteuil

Notation: Dauberteuil 16. May 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 16 May 1782
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond sir.
Nantes May 16. 1782.
It is current on Change to day that the Americans have declared War against Portugal. I can not conceive how this accot can come yet every body seems certain it is true. I beg if there is anything in it that you will let me have a Commn for the Spry to cruise against the Portuguese. She may pick up a rich Prize on her Way home.
I shall be obliged to you if you will answer my Letter of the 26 March about the Prisoners I put to Board the Expence will run high if something is not done & I surely ought not to lose it.
A Vessell from martinique is just arrived with News of a bloody Engagement between Mr de Grasse & Mr Rodney & the Fleets were left repairing in sight of each other, it is said the advantage was on the side of the French but there does not appear any decisive Accot.
A Vessell is arrived at L’Orient from Boston I have Letters as late as the 15 April but no news.
I am with the greatest Respect & affection yours most dutifully & Affectionately
J Williams J

Capt Jona Coffin of Nantucket is now with me & desires to be respectfully remembered to you he has brot me 135 hhds of Tobacco.

Addressed: His Excellency / Doctor Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henry Laurens, 17 May 1782
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Ostend 17th May 1782.
I had the honour of addressing you under the 30th Ulto. by Post, a duplicate of which will accompany this, in order to guard against the Effect of a Miscarriage in the first Instance and I beg leave to refer to the contents.
On the 10th. Current, and no sooner your very obliging favour of the 20th. preceding reach’d me in London. Being then on the point of leaving that Place I defer’d a Reply untill my Arrival on this side; this happen’d yesterday too late to catch the Post of the day, except by a single Letter, put into my hands, I believe, by Doctor Price, which I sent forward.
I sincerely and heartily thank you Sir, for the cordial contents of your last letter, but from the most mature reflection and taking into consideration my present very infirm state of health, I have resolved to decline accepting the honor intended me by Congress in the Commission for treating with Great Britain, and I find the less difficulty in coming to this determination from a persuasion in my own mind that my assistance is not essential, and that it was not the view or expectation of our Constituents that every one named in the Commission should act. I purpose to repair to or near to Mr. Adams and enquire of him whether I may yet be serviceable under the Commission to which I had been first appointed, that, for borrowing Money for the Use of the United States, if he speaks in the Affirmative I shall, tho’ much against my own grain, as is well known at our little Court, proceed in the Mission with diligence and fidelity, otherwise I shall take a convenient opportunity of returning to give an account there, of having, in the course of two Years and upwards, done nothing excepting only, the making a great number of Rebels in the Enemy’s Country and reconciling thousands to the Doctrine of absolute and unlimited Independence—a Doctrine which I asserted and maintain’d with as much freedom in the Tower of London as ever I had done in the State House at Philadelphia and having contentedly submitted to the loss of my Estate, and being ready to lay down my life in support of it, I had the satisfaction of perceiving the coming in of Converts every day. I must not however conclude this head without assuring you, that should you think proper to ask questions respecting American Commerce or the Interest of any particular State I will answer with Candour and the best Judgment I am possess’d of, but of that judgment I sincerely protest I have the utmost diffidence. God prosper your proceedings in the great work, you shall be called Blessed by all the grateful of the present Generation and your Name will be celebrated by Posterity. I feel myself happy in reflecting that in the great outlines for Treaty, our opinions exactly coincide, that we shall not want the countenance and assistance of our great and good Ally and that you have so honest a Man as Mr. Oswald to deal with for preliminaries, I know him to be superior to all chicanery and am sure he will not defile his Mind by attempting any dirty thing.
I intreat you Sir, to present my humble respects to M. de Vergennes and thank his Excellency for his polite Expressions respecting me, and be so good as to say all that shall appear necessary in excuse for my non appearance at his Court.
Lord Cornwallis call’d on me the day before I left London, and was as you may suppose, very anxious to know when he might probably hear from me on the subject of his Release, let me therefore request your opinion in Answer to what I had the honour of writing in my last concerning that affair; I wish it may prove satisfactory to His Lordship, by enabling me with your consent and concurrence to cancel a debt which does not set easy upon me, and which cannot, with honour to our Country, remain unpaid. I think we shall not, ’tis impossible we should, incur displeasure by doing an act of common justice, and our authority may be fairly implied.
His Lordship declares he has no intention of returning to America, but desires to be reinstated in his Legislative and Military Characters in his own Country; and I am of opinion that in the former Station he will rather be friendly to us than otherwise. For my own part, if the War continues, I should not be uneasy if His Lordship were to go to Chesapeak again.
I have a thousand Compliments and goods wishes to present you from Friends in England, where, Males and Females, I am sure you have at least so many; your own remembrance will lead you to individuals of your old acquaintance. To morrow I intend to proceed for Brussels and thence probably to Hague and Amsterdam, my movements must unavoidably be as slow as Water Carriage. My weak under limbs cannot bear continual thumping on the Pavement in the Rough Machines of this Country, and the feebleness of my Pocket will not admit the indulgence of a more convenient vehicle. I beg Sir, you will write to me at the house of Mr. Edward Jennings, or under the protection of any other friend in that City that will be at the trouble of finding out a Voyageur, who is at all times and in all places with the highest Esteem and Respect.
Sir, Your most Obedient and most humble Servant
Henry Laurens
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esq. Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris, 17 May 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Office of Finance May 17th. 1782.
In the Letter which I had the Honor to write to your Excellency on the seventeenth of last Month I mentioned the Communications of his Excellency the Minister of France here by which I was empowered to draw to the Amount of six Millions in monthly Installments of half a Million each. He has since informed me that no Monies will be paid by his Court except on my Drafts and in a Letter of the thirtieth April on the same Subject he says. “Il me paroit Monsieur, que vous pouvez regarder les Fonds des mois deja ècoulés comme ètant à votre Disposition; cependant comme on ne me le mande pas positivement, je desire que vous mettiez le Dr. Franklin en etat d’informer, quelques semaines d’avance, le Ministre des Finances du montant des Fonds d’ont il aura besoin. Il me paroit que cette Operation seroit simplifie a notre Egard, si vous tiriez sur M. le Dr. Franklin douze Lettres de Change que vous lui adresserez a lui meme et dont il touchera le montant aux Epoques indiques. Il s’arangera ensuite avec votre Correspondant pour le payement de vos traites particulieres.”— It is in Consequence of this that I have drawn the Bills contained in the enclosed Letter to Mr. Grand which is left open for your Perusal— Your Excellency will be pleased to arrange this Matter with Mr. Grand so as best to answer the purposes intended.— You will also be pleased Sir to pay over to Mr. Grand on my Account such Monies belonging to the United States as may be in Europe distinct from those to be advanced by the Court for the current Year. I am extremely desirious of having a State of these Matters so as to know what Dependance can be made on the Funds which are at our Command. You would therefore confer upon me a very particular Obligation by transmitting the best state in your power. I mentioned to your Excellency in a former Letter that I would write to you on the Subject of your Salary more particularly than I then did but I have since spoken and written to Mr. Livingston with Relation to those Matters and he will I expect write to you and to all our foreign Ministers very fully— We have not yet heard any Thing of the Alliance and therefore conclude that she must have been delayed in Europe.— I hope this may have been the Case for if she sailed on the first of March according to my Orders she must have met with some unfortunate Accident.— I hope soon to hear from your Excellency indeed I perswade myself that in the very critical Situation of Affairs at present we cannot be long without receiving very important Intelligence.
I have the Honor to be with great Respect & Esteem Sir your Excellency’s most obedient and humble Servant
Robt Morris

  His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esquire Minister plenipo of the United States of America at Passey near Paris
  Second
Endorsed: Mr Morris May 17. 82 He has drawn on me for Six Millions Letter from Mr de la Luzerne to him Orders all Money in my Hands to be paid to Mr Grand.— Desires a State of our Accts.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Morris: Two Letters, 18 May 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
Sir.
Office of Finance 18th May 1782
I have left the enclosed Letter open for your Excellency’s Perusal and am to request that you will be Pleased to apply to the Court and learn what Opportunities may Offer for making the Shippments of Money within directed. The Alliance was Spoken with twenty seven Days ago off the Banks of Newfoundland being then bound for this Port. If she has not changed her distination I have very little hopes of her arrival as there are now no less than seven Ships of the Enemy in our Bay. But I am not without hopes that she may arrive in Boston altho she must run the Gauntlet to do even that as there are two Ships one of them of fifty Guns now cruizing in Boston Bay— Indeed the Vigilance of the Enemies numerous Cruizers is so great and they are so much unchecked by any Apprehensions that it must be by a kind of Miracle if any Vessel escapes them—

I am with perfect Respect & Esteem Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedient and humble Servant
Robt Morris

P.S. Enclosed is a List of the Bills drawn on you in favor of Mr Grand—
  His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr. Minister plenipoy. of the Unted States
  Second

Endorsed: Mr Morris

II.
Sir.
Office of Finance 18th. May 1782—
I am to pray your Excellency to take Charge of the enclosed Letter to Messrs. le Couteulx and Co. You will remember Sir that the Court by their Minister here empowered me to draw twelve hundred thousand Livres, I drew only for Eleven hundred and ninety five thousand Livres intending the Remainder to be in Part Payment of the Bankers Commissions and Charges. I have some Reason to believe the Court have only paid the Sum drawn for which your Excellency can know from Messrs le Couteulx. If they have paid no more I must request of you Sir, to procure the remaining five thousand Livres from the Court for Messr le Couteulx and I must farther pray you to inform Mr. Grand of the Result as I have given him eventual orders for Payment of their Account.
I have the Honor to be with perfect Esteem & Respect Sir Your most obedient and humble Servant.
Robt Morris

  His Excellency Benjm. Franklin Esqr. Minister Plenipoy. of the United States.
  third
Endorsed: Mr Morris


Title: Soulavie: Account of a Conversation with Franklin, [before 20 May 1782]
From: Soulavie, abbé Jean-Louis Giraud
To:

In 1801, Soulavie published accounts of two conversations he had with Franklin on the nature of geological and political upheaval. At the conclusion of their first conversation in August, 1781, Franklin suggested that the abbé send Vergennes an account of his discovery that the British had fomented unrest among Protestants of the southern regions of France. This is the topic to which Franklin and the abbé returned in 1782.

[before May 20, 1782]
 … L’année suivante (1782) M. Francklin désira la publication de ces découvertes. Il s’était formé dans le sein de la France un parti contraire à la guerre de l’Amérique et cette publication, suivant M. Francklin, devait persuader à ce parti la nécessité de représailles. Le journal de Paris, disait-il, adoptera un article aussi curieux, écrit de manière qu’en observant tout ce qui est dû à la vérité de l’histoire, les protestans ne puissent s’en offenser.
SOULAVIE. Je consens de publier une note sur les pièces (précitées) plutôt que mon opinion; mais je pense que le gouvernement français est trop instruit pour ne pas connaître les situations relatives des deux nations. Cette publication ne changera ni les projets de l’Angleterre ni les destinées du royaume. Suivant le clergé, suivant les politiques, des catastrophes semblent se préparer en France, les anglais n’y sont pas étrangers. Ils se vengeront de ce que nous vous avons aidé en secret à secouer leur joug. Observez en France quels sont les esprits qui désirent les catastrophes et ceux qui les redoutent. Les uns et les autres persistent également à nous en menacer; les derniers nous en avertissent chaque jour. Vous ne lisez pas l’année littéraire. C’est un journal trop méprisé. Il renferme cependant les craintes de l’archevêque de Paris; dont le conseil est le point central des affaires du clergé du royaume, auquel on porte de toutes parts de vives plaintes sur la chûte insensible des sentimens religieux, et sur la formation graduée d’un esprit d’indépendance républicaine. Ceux qui craignent le plus une catastrophe, sont des fanatiques qui persécutent même les paisibles observateurs des évènemens, et ceux qui la désirent, me croyant du complot, me prendront pour un faux frère qui le dévoile au public. L’Angleterre, suivant les diplomates les plus instruits, est l’amie, l’alliée naturelle de nos philosophes, et elle punit quiconque ose en France la contrarier dans ses vues et ses plans. Elle pousse le fanatisme de ses intérêts et de son patriotisme au point de perdre quand elle le peut, tout français qui a des sentimens de dévouement au roi, quand ce sentiment lui porte quelque préjudice; et on ajoute que le ministre français qui a mis en avant un bon sujet, l’abandonne dans le péril où il l’a mis, et le laisse devenir à Paris, la victime secrète de la puissance britannique. On assure que la politique française est la même à l’égard de l’Autriche. Si cela est vrai, cette politique dénaturée et dégradée, est bien dans le cas de jeter la France dans un état d’apathie, parce que l’astuce et l’énergie des cabinets de Londres et de Vienne, sont les deux premières qualités de leur diplomatie. Quoiqu’il en soit, je vais rédiger l’article tel qu’il doit être publié dans le journal de Paris, je connais Cadet Devaux qui l’insérera, et je m’y porterai avec d’autant d’empressement, qu’à côté du tableau des bouleversemens républicains et politiques que l’Angleterre se propose d’opérer en France, vous approuverez tout comme moi la publication des remèdes moraux qu’un état sage et prudent oppose aux dégats des révolutions et de l’anarchie, dont nous avertissent à l’envi, le clergé et les philosophes.
Extrait du journal de Paris, du mercredi 26 juin 1782, no. 177, pag. 715, sur les anciens projets des anglais de changer en république nos provinces méridionales protestantes.
“M. de Voltaire et les historiens de Louis XIV n’ont point suivi le détail des opérations clandestines de la Grande-Bretagne pour fomenter la rebellion et pour changer nos provinces en république; c’était le projet du cabinet de Londres. Le haut Uségeois, le Vivarais, le Velay, le Gévaudan, devaient former une république défendue par des rochers la plupart inaccessibles: le pays n’était pas encore percé de ces magnifiques et somptueux grands chemins que les états de Languedoc ont fait construire. Ce projet de la cour de Londres a été suivi pendant plus d’un siècle. Louis XIII, ayant fait la paix avec elle en 1629, réserva la publication de ce traité pour le camp de Privas, ville qu’il vint assiéger avec le cardinal de Richelieu. En la proclamant, le roi fit déclarer aux habitans que le parti n’aurait désormais aucun secours à attendre de cette nation; malgré les traités de paix, l’Angleterre suivit toujours le même systême, surtout sous la reine Anne; elle soudoya les révoltés qui se soulevèrent cinq fois sous Louis XIV. Elle eut des correspondances secrètes avec les seigneurs mécontens; et elle eut des caissiers à portée des rebelles. J’ai entre les mains un état des sommes que la reine Anne a employées à cette opération. Les détails de cette histoire secrète sont encore ignorés, on sait seulement que Louis XIV agréa le traité conclu par ses officiers avec le trop fameux Cavalier qui demanda, pour se soumettre, d’enrégimenter ses troupes, qui obtint des grades militaires et des pensions, et qui finit ses jours en Angleterre.
“La bonne intelligence qui règna entre la France et la Grande-Bretagne sous le régent, termina les dissentions. Tous ces pays livrés, dans des tems plus modernes et plus heureux, aux soins politiques de M. le maréchal duc de Richelieu, de M. le prince de Beauvau, de M. le comte de Périgord, ont changé totalement de face. MM. de Saint-Priest, intendans, père et fils, ont beaucoup contribué à cette révolution qui s’est faite d’une manière paisible et insensible. Les académies établis dans les villes principales, ont permis aux connaissances cultivées dans la capitale, de refluer dans nos provinces. Les arts, les manufactures, protégés singulièrement par MM. les archevêques de Narbonne, de Toulouse et d’Aix qui président aux états de ces provinces, ont favorisé une heureuse diversion; le commerce et l’agriculture fleurissent dans les montagnes Cévenoles moins élevées et dans la plaine: le fanatisme n’y existe plus. Les ennemis de la nation ne pourront jamais se servir de ce malheureux instrument pour opérer la révolte; et les têtes méridionales n’ont plus d’énergie que pour la défense de la patrie et la gloire du roi, contre les ennemis de l’état; on a aimé Louis XV et on y adore Louis XVI.
Lorsque je publierai mon Histoire de l’établissement et des progrès du protestantisme en France et en Europe, mon tems n’aura point été entièrement perdu si je parviens à résoudre le problême politique que j’expose de la sorte.
  Lorsqu’une portion d’une puissante monarchie s’est abandonnée aux troubles domestiques et aux guerres religieuses, pendant plusieurs siècles, et que la rébellion s’est soutenue dans l’état et a résisté à un monarque, quels sont les moyens politiques les plus sages et les plus conformes à l’humanité, que la raison et l’expérience ordonnent pour rétablir la tranquillité publique? Signé, Soulavie.”

L’article, concerté entre M. Francklin et l’auteur de ces mémoires, parut tel qu’on le publie ici, sauf l’article des remèdes politiques pour dissiper l’anarchie. En effet, le journal de Paris renvoya la note sur les moyens politiques d’apaiser les troubles d’un état, en observant que la France n’avait jamais été plus paisible, ni dans une situation plus éloignée des révolutions, ce qui rendait, disait-on, cette épisode étrangère au journal. Je vais indiquer ici ces moyens d’étouffer l’anarchie destinés à paraître dans le journal de Paris à la fin de la note précédente.
La diversion est le seul moïen de tempérer les troubles d’un état. Elle consiste à
Occuper les esprits d’un genre de littérature opposé aux séditions; aux écrits polémiques et aux factions: peste publique dans un état.
  Les occuper du commerce en grand.
  Les occuper du beau idéal dans les arts.
  Les occuper des plus grandes entreprises en édifices nationaux.
  Les occuper du persiflage des excès et des erreurs passées, soit politiques, soit religieuses (mais avec de grandes précautions).
  Les occuper de plaisirs, de fêtes, d’amusemens, de modes, de danses et de luxe.
  Amollir les caractères turbulens; s’assurer par toutes les voies, des chefs qui survivent; mais s’en assurer par négociation.
M. Francklin avouait que la diversion était le seul moyen de tempérer l’esprit séditieux des peuples, après les catastrophes.
M. Francklin n’accordait point une entière approbation au dernier des moyens relatif à l’amolissement des mœurs. Il disait que les sociétés établies en Europe étaient trop amolies. Il avouait cependant que le fanatisme, l’anarchie et les vices qui ont de l’impétuosité, proviennent d’un égarement d’esprit, que la violence et la force irritent, au lieu de corriger. Il dit que le moyen principal de tempérer les citoyens qui en étaient tourmentés, consistait à négocier avec les factions; mais il pensait que l’amour des rois et l’amour de la liberté républicaine étaient deux sentimens énergiques et louables qui avaient fait de très-grandes choses, et tandis que dans sa patrie les deux partis opposés en étaient venus aux mains pour décider quel parti, royal, ou républicain, l’emporterait; il était pénétré d’une vénération sentimentale pour Louis XVI, qu’il regardait comme le premier fondateur des Etats-Unis.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 20 May 1782
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond: Sir
Philadelphia May 20th. 1782.
We have had no Arrivals from France lately, therefore could not possibly hear from you— Your last Letter is dated in January, and was handed us by Mr. Vaughan, who had the misfortune of being taken on our Coast, and carried into Newyork; whence he came here on Parole— Our Coast has for some time past, been lined with British Cruizers, which have done infinite Injury to our Trade, our port is at present intirely blocked up by them, so that nothing can get in or out; this Stroke of the British, we feel more than any hitherto experienced; it has caused a general Stagnation of Business among us, and I am afraid the consequences will be fatal to many in Trade.—
We have just received very disagreeable Reports from the Westindies, of a Victory obtained over the French Fleet, which, if true, will in all probability frustrate the intended Expedition against Jamaica; there are some grounds for doubting these reports, but our fears on this occasion seem to overcome our doubts—

There is no possability of sending you the papers by this conveyance, as the Letters are to be carried by the post to some other port, whence they will be conveyed, I believe, by a Frigate, but this circumstance is kept secret—
I have the pleasure to inform you that Sally & the Children are well, I purpose sending them into the Country for a couple of Months during the Summer, to avoid the disorders, which you know young Children are subject to, at that Season in Town— We all join in Love & Duty to yourself— With affectionate regards we also desire to be remembred to Temple & Ben.
I am ever Dear & Hond. Sir Your affectionate Son
Rich: Bache
Dr. Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency / Dr. Benjamin Franklin / Minister Plenipoy: from the United States / of No: America at / Passy
Notations in different hands: receiv’d & forwarded by your humble St L’orient 2. augt. 1782. Jonatn. Nesbitt &c. / Rich: Bache Philadelphia May 20th. 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henry Laurens, 20 May 1782
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ostend 20th. May 1782
The Letters inclosed under Cover with this were detained in order to have been forwarded by Mr. Young for whom I have been waiting some days, he is now arrived & determined to proceed to Hague, therefore I embrace the opportunity of Mr. Bacon who has promised care of the Packet & to deliver it without delay.
Henry Laurens.

Notation: H. Laurens.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Coppens fils, 21 May 1782
From: Coppens, ——, fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Mÿ lord
Dunkirk the 21th. Maÿ 1782.
Captain John Moultson native of America has Crused several times With the Privateers the subtle and the Victorÿ Which both I have fitted out. I am just readÿ to send him on a new Cruise with the Schooner the Sophia mounting twelve Carriage guns four pounders and Seventÿ men. The news being brought in town the War Was declared bÿ the United States of america against Portugal, I Take the libertÿ of requesting your Excellencÿ to give me a Commission of War for Captain Moultson that he maÿ with the Said schooner the sophia cruise under American Colours, & against the Ennemÿs of the united States, I hope your Excellencÿ Will not refuse such a favour, if I offer to deliver either in your hands or to the admiraltÿ office of Dunkirk a bail of guarrantee for Such an expedition, I shall Look as a dutÿ to give your Excellencÿ notice of the successes of the Sophia.
I am With Great Respect Mÿlord Your Excellencÿ’s Most Obedient humble servant
Coppens fils.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Earl of Shelburne, 21 May 1782
From: Shelburne, William Petty, Earl of
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Whitehall 21st May 1782.
I am honour’d with your Letter of the 10h Inst. and am very glad to find that the conduct which the King has empower’d me to observe towards Mr. Laurens and the American Prisoners has given you pleasure.
I have signified to Mr. Oswald His Majesty’s pleasure that he shall continue at Paris till he receives orders from hence to return.
In the present State of this business, there is nothing left for me to add, but—my sincere Wishes for a Happy Issue, and to repeat my Assurances, that nothing shall be wanting on my part, that can contribute to it.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre Bonnefoux, 22 May 1782
From: Bonnefoux, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
paris le 22 mai 1782
Notre professeur de philosophie, dont vous avés bien voulu accepter la dedicace, vient de me marquer qu’il a eu l’honneur de vous écrire pour vous en remercier. Il me parle en meme tems de l’academie des sciences de Toulouse que je vous avois indiquée pour vous representer et il m’observe que lorsque la thèse Sera Soutenue le plus grand nombre des membres de Cette Compagnie Sera à la Campagne. Comme il desire de donner tout l’éclat possible à un acte public qui doit être Soutenu Sous vos auspices, il desireroit que vous voulussiés bien écrire à Mr. le marquis de grammont, qui est à la tête des magistrats Municipaux de Toulouse, pour le prier de vous representer. Avec cette lettre, que Vous auriés la bonté de M’envoyer meme Sans y mettre d’adresse, il Se charge d’avoir une assemblée très brillante. Comptant Sur votre complaisance à cet egard, il a retenu la lettre que vous aviés écrite à l’academie et il la Suprimera. Je Suis bien faché, Monsieur, de vous donner encore cet embaras; mais je me flate que vous ne desaprouverés pas le Zele du professeur qui ayant l’honneur de vous avoir pour mecene, ne veut rien épargner pour donner de l’eclat à Son exercice. Mr. le marquis de Grammont Sera très flaté de la preferance que vous lui donnerés et il rassemblera avec lui tout ce qu’il y a de plus distingué à Toulouse, pour faire les honneurs de la these. J’espere que vous voudrés bien M’envoyer Cette lettre le plutôt qu’il vous Sera possible, à la Doctrine chretienne rue des fossés St. Victor à Paris.
J’ai l’honneur d’être avec un très profond respect Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur
BonnefouxSuperieur-général

Notation: Bonnefoux 22 May 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from J. F. Frin & Co., 22 May 1782
From: J.F. Frin & Co.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris 22 mai 1782
Nous avons l’honneur de vous remettre ci joint une 4e. de change en votre propre Traite du 23 Juillet 1781 à 10 jours de vue sur M Richard Backe [Bache] de Philadelphie laquelle, ainsi qu’il est dit au dos d’icelle, doit etre payée en france; nous vous prions, Monsieur, de vouloir bien l’accepter & de nous la faire repasser ensuite; Cette Te [Traite] est de 600 l.t. à l’ordre de M Thomassin qui nous a chargés d’y faire remplir cette formalité.

Nous avons l’honneur d’etre avec la considération qui vous est due Monsieur Vos trés humbles et trés obéissans serviteurs
J. F. FRIN ET Compe.Banquiers Ruë Du Carouzel
M le Dteur Francklin à Passy./.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur Francklin / A Passy
Notations in different hands: J. F Frin 22 May 1782. / Repe le 26.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Mary Hewson, 23 May 1782
From: Hewson, Mary (Polly) Stevenson
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Kensington May 23. 1782
We rejoice in these frequent opportunities of hearing from you. Mr Oswald brought your letter to day; I had not the pleasure of seeing him, but my mother had. As he offered to take an answer, I sit down just to give you a line to tell you we are all well; my mother has been very ill since I wrote last, but is quite recovered. I think she seems to have given up the thought of visiting you, tho’, I believe, not convinced that my logic is good. I received your letter by Mr Hodgson, and returned an answer, which I hope you have received. I have not time to say much now. I am glad you approve the books, and I hope your grandson will find pleasure in them. I will send more by the first opportunity.
Adieu! Believe me ever your affectionate
Mary Hewson

Addressed: Dr Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte de Lacepède, 23 May 1782
From: Lacepède, Bernard-Germain-Etienne de La Ville sur Illon, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A agen en guienne le 23 mai 1782
Je suis parti de paris avec un grand regret, celui de n’avoir pas pu vous rendre mes devoirs chez vous. M le roi, Monsieur, a bien voulu se charger de vous le peindre, et de vous prier de m’honorer toujours de vos bontés. Pardonnez moi, Monsieur, de vous en entretenir aussi, et de chercher à me dédommager de la peine que j’ai eue, en vous en parlant. Le premier volume de ma physique va paroître incessamment; on aura l’honneur de vous en présenter de ma part, un exemplaire. Puisse mon ouvrage, Monsieur, plaire au grand homme qui a rendu de si grands services à toutes les connaissances physiques, et qui en fondant un nouvel empire a créé la science sur laquelle je me suis déja essayé. Je suis avec le dévouement le plus tendre, et toute l’admiration et toute la vénération possibles Monsieur Vôtre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
  LE CTE. DE LA CEPÈDE

Notation: Le Comte de la Cépede Agen le 23 May 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edward Newenham, 23 May 1782
From: Newenham, Sir Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir—
Neuchatel (en Swisse) 23th of May 1782
According to my fathers orders I take the liberty of sending to your Excellency the enclosed Irish papers; by which, & his letters to me, it seems that Ireland will soon be as free & independant a nation as England, & that England will soon recover her ancient glory.
With the sincerest wishes for the preservation of your Excellency’s health & happiness I have the Honor to be your most obt: & very humble Servant.
Ed: Newenham


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame de Baussan, [before 24 May 1782]
From: Baussan, Madame N.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[before May 24, 1782]
Voila, tres cher papa, un diné qui a bien de la peine a Saranger, vous avès la bonté de Moffrir vendredy, prochain, les ouvriers dont ma maison est pleine me demandoient jusqu’a dimanche pour me livrer une Salle a Manger, ou je pusse avoir l’honneur de vous recevoir Convenablement. Ce dimanche est le jour destiné a vos Compatriotes, et le vendredy me paroit être Celuy que Vous préferés, il faut donc, cher papa quelqu’impatience que jaye de vous recevoir vous demander de remettre a Celuy de la semaine prochaine qui sera le 24 de Ce Moy, la faveur que vous voulès bien me faire de Venir diner chès Moy avec Monsieur votre petit fils jespere que nous pourons engager Me Brillon et toute son aimable famille a vous accompanger et Ce sera pour Moy une grande joye que de vous reunir, ne moublies pas je vous prie, vous chagrineries bien fort le sincere attachement que vous Mavès inspiré et avec lequel jay l’honneur dêtre, Votre tres humble et tres obeissante
N. Baussan
M. de Baussan et Mr de Mâchault, Veulent que je vous présente l’hommage de leur Souvenir.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin ministre plénipotentaire / des états unis de lamérique / a passy


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Anne Ogle, 24 May 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Ogle, Anne

Madam,
Passy May 24. 1782
I received the Letter you did me the Honour of writing to me some time since, and did apply for the Permission you desired, which was promised me. Having heard nothing farther of it, I imagined it had been sent directly to Boulogne. I have just received your second Letter, of the 21st Instant, and shall immediately apply again. I suppose it has been forgotten, as I cannot imagine that there is any Objection to it, and I have no doubt of obtaining it.
I am, with Respect Madam, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
M. Ogle.—

Addressed: A Madame / Madame A. Ogle Dame / angloise, / a Boulogne-sur-mer.
Notation: B. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Winchcombe Henry Hartley, 24 May 1782
From: Hartley, Winchcombe Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Soho Square May 24th. 1782
It is with the greatest pleasure I take up my pen to acknowledge your remembrance of me in yours to my Brother and to thank you for those expressions of regard which I can assure you are mutual. My brother has desired me to copy some letters and papers by way of sending you Duplicates. I am particularly happy at the employment because the greatest object of my Parliamentary life has been to cooperate with him in his endeavours to put a period to this destructive War & forward the blessed work of peace.
I hope to see him again in that situation where he can so well serve his Country with credit to himself, and while I have the honor of being in Parliament, my attention will be continued to promote the effects which will naturally flow from those principles of freedom and Philanthropy you have both so much supported. While I copy his words my own feelings & judgement are truly in union, and I have but to add the most ardent wish that peace and happiness may crown the honest endeavours towards so desirable an end.
I am Dear sir with the greatest respect and esteem Yours sincerely
W. H. Hartley
Dr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Nogaret, 24 May 1782
From: Nogaret
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Compiegne Le 24 May [1782]
Sage Docteur! homme pour qui c’est peu d’etre en général utile au monde; Je vous dois des remercimens, et je vais vous demander une nouvelle faveur. Laissez nous ma femme et moi vous marquer notre reconnaissance par une preuve de notre veneration pour vous. Ma femme, depuis Longtems, me persecute pour que j’obtienne de vous la permission de vous laisser peindre en miniature: Elle desire vous avoir en médaillon pendu à son Col. Comme elle n’est pas jeune et que ses respectueux sentimens vous sont connus, quel inconvenient verriés vous à accorder cette grace à celle qui vous voit avec la tendresse d’une fille pour son Pere, et l’admiration?.. Je me tais de peur de vous deplaire en disant quelque chose de plus. J’ai un peintre qui a le merite de saisir parfaitement la ressemblance: Je viens de lui faire faire, il y a quinze jours Le portrait de notre nouvel Archevêque M. de Juigné; Je lui ai fait peindre Made. La Comtesse d’artois et Les Princes: je suis sûr de son talent, et je voudrais profiter du moment où je puis disposer de lui. On ne vous volera pas plus de deux heures de votre tems; c’est beaucoup; Mais qu’est-ce que cela pour repondre au voeu de deux personnes dont le coeur est penetré de sensibilité? Qu’est-ce que cela pour repondre au desir pressant d’une femme jalouse de faire voir, par cette enseigne, qu’elle vous a gravé dans son esprit et dans son coeur? N’allez pas lui faire un refus dans l’intention de menager sa bourse. Le peintre me doit son etat, il me presse depuis longtems de lui fournir quelque occasion de nous marquer sa reconnaissance: il se trouvera heureux de Saisir cette circonstance d’obliger ma femme; et il n’aura jamais aussi bien travaillé, ni d’aussi bon coeur.
Je suis à cette heure à Compiegne près de mon fils qui etudie au college Royal de cette ville. Je serai à Versailles Le 20 Juin: J’aurai L’honneur de vous aller presenter mes hommages en passant. Vous me dirés quel jour enfin vous voulez bien prendre pour sceller chez moi notre connaissance le verre en main. Vous me dirés si vous permettés que Le peintre se rende chez vous quelque jour, et l’heure de votre commodité.
Accordés à ma femme ce qu’elle desire, et je m’engage à porter la reconnaissance jusqu’à ne vous rien demander Jamais que la continuation d’un attachement, qui nous honnore beaucoup sans doute, Mais qui, j’ose dire, est pourtant du à l’affection et au respect avec lesquels j’ai l’honneur d’être, in nomine amborum, totus tuus fidelis, et beneficiorum memor
FELIX NOGARETau College Royal de Compiegne

Vous n’auriez peutêtre jamais pensé qu’un crapaud pût se priser. J’en ai pourtant tué un qui l’était de maniere que je n’ai pu consoler son maitre qu’en faisant son epitaphe. Quoiqu’elle ne vaille rien, je vous l’envoye pour la Singularité: le fait est interessant pour un naturaliste.
Je joins encore ici une Lettre imprimée dans laquelle je me suis permis de parler de vous page 12.

Endorsed: Felix Nogaret


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Vergennes], [on or after 24 May 1782]
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[on or after May 24, 1782]
Si les deux jeunes gens qui doivent joindre Made. Ogle sont américains, et s’ils ne sont pas au service de l’angre. [angleterre], ils pourront sans inconvénient habiter Boulogne; le Commandant de cette Ville est deja prèvenu.
Made. Newenham n’a pas besoin de passeport pour entrer en france; Elle aura seulement l’attention de ne point faire son séjour dans un port de mer.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin, Ministre / plénipre. des Etats-unis / de Vergennes.
Notation: Madme. Newenham


Title: Franklin: Passport for a Portuguese Vessel, [after 24 May 1782]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[after May 24, 1782]
Having seen & examined certain Authentic official Papers which shew that the Ship La Nostra Signora d’achagat et St Joao a Portuguese Vessel of about one hundred and eighty Tons, Commanded by Capt. Jozé Raymundo, is by the special Permission of his most Christian Majesty, destined to St Domingo, loaded with Provisions, Wine, Flour, & other necessary Commodities for the sd Island, and that the Ship & Cargo appertain to the Subjects of his sd most Christian Majesty, our good Friend & Ally; I do hereby Certify the same to all Captains & Commanders of Vessels of War, Privateers & Letters of Marque belonging to the United States of America: & Request them not to impede the said Ship, but to afford her in her intended Voyage every Assistance she may stand in need of.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Henry Laurens, 25 May 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Laurens, Henry

Sir,
Passy, May 25. 1782
I am now honour’d with yours of the 17th. I had before receiv’d one of the 17th. which remain’d unanswer’d, because from the Words in it, “when I reach the Continent, which will probably happen in a few Days,” I flatter’d myself with the Pleasure of seeing you here. That Hope is disappointed by your last, in which you tell me you are determined not to act in the Commission for treating of Peace with Britain. I regret your taking this Resolution, principally because I am persuaded your Assistance must have been of great Service to our Country. But I have besides some private or particular Reasons that relate to myself. To encourage me in the arduous Task, you kindly tell me I shall be called Blessed, &c. I have never yet known of a Peace made, that did not occasion a great deal of popular Discontent, Clamour and Censure on both Sides. This is perhaps owing to the usual Management of the Ministers and Leaders of the contending Nations, who to keep up the Spirits of their People for continuing the War, generally represent the State of their own Affairs, in a better Light, and that of the Enemy in a worse, than is consistent with the Truth: Hence the Populace on each Side expect better Terms than really can be obtained; and are apt to ascribe their Disappointment to Treachery. Thus the Peace of Utrecht, and that of Aix la Chapelle were said in England to have been influenc’d by French Gold, and in France by English Guineas. Even the last Peace, the most advantageous and glorious for England that ever she made, was you may remember violently decry’d, and the makers as violently abus’d. So that the Blessing promis’d to Peace Makers, I fancy relates to the next World, for in this they seem to have a greater Chance of being curst. And as another Text observes, that in the Multitude of Counsellors there is Safety, which I think may mean Safety to the Counsellors as well as to the Counselled, because if they commit a Fault in Counselling, the Blame does not fall on one or a few, but is devided among many, and the Share of each is so much the lighter, or perhaps because when a Number of honest Men are concern’d the Suspicion of their being byas’d is weaker as being more improbable; or because defendit Numerus; for all these Reasons, but especially for the Support your established Character of Integrity would afford me against the Attacks of my Enemies, if this Treaty takes Place, and I am to act in it, I wish for your Presence, & for the Presence of as many of the Commissioners as possible, and I hope you will reconsider and change your Resolution. In the meantime as you have had Opportunities of conversing with the new Ministers and other leading People in England, and of learning their Sentiments relating to Terms of Peace &c. I request you would inform me by Letter of what you think important; Letters from you will come safer by the Court Courier than by the Post; and I desire you would, if you should continue determined not to act, communicate to me your Ideas of the Terms to be insisted on, and the Points to be attended to, respecting Commerce, Fisheries, Boundaries, & every other material Circumstance, that may be of Importance to all or any of the United States.
Lord Shelburne having written to me on the Subject of the wish’d for Peace, I acquainted him in my Answer sent by our Friend Mr. Oswald, that you were one of the Commissioners appointed by Congress to treat with Britain, and that I imagin’d his Lordship would therefore think it proper to discharge you intirely from the Obligations you enter’d into when you were admitted to Bail, that you might be at Liberty to act freely in the Commission. He wrote to me in Reply that you were accordingly discharg’d immediately. His Lordship mention’d nothing of any Exchange being expected for you. Nevertheless I honour your Sensibility on the Point, and your Concern for the Credit of America that She should not be out-done in Generosity by Britain, and will chearfully join with you in any act that you may think proper, to discharge in Return the Parole of Lord Cornwallis, as far as in our Power may lie; but as we have no express Authority for that Purpose and the Congress may possibly in the meantime have made some other Arrangement relative to his Exchange, I conceive that our Act should contain a Clause reserving to Congress the final Approbation or disallowance of the Proceeding. And I have some doubt whether Lord Cornwallis will think himself well freed from his Engagement and at Liberty to exercise his military Employments, by Virtue of any Concession in his Favour made by Persons who are not vested with authority for that Purpose. So that on the whole perhaps the best and surest way will be our writing immediately to Congress and strongly recommending the Measure, However I will do what you shall think best.
I heartily wish you Success in any Endeavours you may use in Holland for raising a loan of Money. We have press’d rather too hard on this Court, and we still want more than they can conveniently spare us. But I am sorry that too scrupulous a Regard to our Wants and Difficulties, should induce you, under the present Infirmity of your lower Limbs, to deny yourself the necessary Comfort of an easy Carriage, rather than make any use of the public assistance, when the Public must be much in your Debt. I beg you would get over that Difficulty and take of me what you may have Occasion for.
The Letter you forwarded to me, was from America’s constant Friend the good Bishop of St Asaph. He speaks of you in Terms of the highest Esteem & Respect.
Mr. Oswald is gone back again to London, but intended to return immediately. Mr. Grenville remains here, and has received Power to treat, but no farther Steps can be taken till Spain & Holland have impower’d Ministers for the same Purpose.— I shall inform you and Mr. Adams (if he does not come) of the Proceedings from time to time, and request your Counsels in Cases of any Difficulty.
I hope you will not think of hazarding a Return to America before a Peace, if we find any hopes of its being soon obtained. And that if you do not find you can be useful in the manner you wish in Holland, you will make me happy by your Company & Counsels here.
With great & sincere Esteem, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
Mr. President Laurens

Endorsed: Doctor Franklin 25th. May 1782. Recd at Bruxelles from Amsterdam 8th. June Answd. Lyon 24th.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [David Hartley], 25 May 1782
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Friend,
London, May 25, 1782.
Yours of the 13th instant I received by Mr. Oswald. I did not doubt but that the news of a general and absolute release of the American prisoners which Lord Shelburne was so good to communicate to me, in answer to that part of your letter of the 5th of April in which you speak so pathetically of sweet reconciliation, would give you much sincere and heartfelt pleasure. God send that it may be the happy omen of final reconciliation and durable peace. I should be very happy to hear that good news from you, and in any way to contribute to it. Having on that subject communicated, the preliminaries dated May 1782, to Lord Shelburne, you may be assured that I have no reservations upon that head respecting America, in any circumstances or condition whatever. You know all my thoughts upon that subject, and the principles upon which they are founded, and therefore that they are not changeable.
It would give me the greatest pleasure if I could hope for any opportunity of seeing you. I could say many things which are otherwise incommunicable, and which perhaps would contribute to facilitate the road to peace. I think I see, in many parts, much matter to work with, out of which a peace, honourable to all parties, and upon durable principles, might be established.— No degrading or mortifying conditions, to shorten peace and rekindle war. Perhaps I might not say too much if I were to add that simply the adoption of reason among nations, and the mere rectification of obsolete and gothic absurdities, which carry no gratification, would afford a fund of remuneration to all parties for renouncing those objects of mutual contention, which, in the eye of reason, are no better than creatures of passion, jealousy and false pride. Until the principles of reason and equity shall be adopted in national transactions, peace will not be durable amongst men.
These are reflections general to all nations. As to the mutual concerns between G.B. and N.A., reconciliation is the touchstone to prove those hearts which are without alloy. If I can be of any assistance to you in any communications or explanations conducive to peace, you may command my utmost services. Even if a French minister were to over hear such an offer, let him not take it in jealous part. Zealously and affectionately attached to my own country and to America, I am nevertheless most perfectly of accord with you, that justice and honour should be observed towards all nations. Mr. Oswald will do me the favour to convey this to you. I heartily wish him success in his pacific embassy. Yours ever most affectionately,
G. B.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Hilliard d’Auberteuil, 25 May 1782
From: Hilliard d’Auberteuil, Michel-René
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce Mardi 25e mai 1782.
Je saisis avec empressement l’occasion d’assurer monsieur franklin de mon respect et de mon attachement sincere et suis de son excellence Le très humble & très obeissant serviteur
Hilliard D’auberteuil

P.S. Je desire que le petit monument que j’ai voulu ériger à la mémoire de la pauvre mis Mac Rea, Paraisse agréable à lui et à ses amis
Dl

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ambassadeur des états unis / de l’amerique. / A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Anne Ogle, 25 May 1782
From: Ogle, Anne
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sr.
Boulogne Sur Mer 25th May 1782
In consequence of your most Obliging application, two days ago I received a Visit from the Commandant of this place—to inform me he had an order from the Minister to Cross examine me, I think I must call it. I told him Mr. Franklin knew my family tho’ I had not the honour of being personaly known to him—our conference ended with his saying—he would immediatly write and as soon as he got an answer acquaint me with the determination—be it how it will be asured Sr. I shall always think myself greatly indebted to you for your polite atention to me—believe me to be with great respect Sr. your most Obedient and much Obliged servant
A Ogle


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Hodgson, 27 May 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hodgson, William

Dear Sir,
Passy, May 27th: 1782.
You mention that Administration have at your request given Directions to the Navy agents at the several Ports of Embarkation to supply the Prisoners with Slops to the Value of 20 s. each.— Please to inform me whether this is the Goodness of Government, or whether you have engaged to pay it?
I have been so incessantly occupied, as not to be able to write by those Transports, your Letters directed to Mr. Thomson, with a Copy of the Agreement, and a Copy of my Letter impowering you to make it, will be sufficient. And I have no doubt that the Congress part of the Engagement will be honourably executed.
When you happen to see again those Friends of mine whom you mention, be so good as to assure them that I love them much, and wish the more for Peace, as it may afford me another opportunity before I die of enjoying their Sweet Society.
I hope you have received the 200£ that by mistake had fallen into the hands of your Namesake in Aldersgate Street.
You may rely on my complying punctually with your Request contained in yours of the 10th: Instant.— You certainly merit from me every thing that can afford you any kind of Satisfaction.
With great & Sincere Esteem, I am, &c:
B Franklin.
Mr: Hodgson.(Copy)

Notation: Copy of a Letter from Dr. B. Franklin, to Mr. Hodgson, dated Passy May 27th: 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Barclay, 27 May 1782
From: Barclay, David Junior
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Respected Friend.
London 27th: of 5th: mo: 1782.
I embrace the opportunity of my Friend Baron Dimsdale to convey to Thee two attempts on the Character of our late valuable Friend Doctor Fothergill, another more at large is in the press—
I am—Thy respectful Friend.
David Barclay.

Addressed: Dr. Franklin
Notation: David Barclay 27. May 1782.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Strahan, 27 May 1782
From: Strahan, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
London May 27. 1782.
I was favoured with yours of the 4th. December, and immediately delivered the Letter enclosed to Mrs. Strange, which she has no doubt long since told you.
I remember perfectly well receiving from you some Copies of Tully on Old Age printed in Philadelphia, but have totally forgot what became of them. Becket, into whose Hands I think they were put, can recollect nothing of them. He became a Bankrupt some time ago, so that had any remained unsold, they must have appeared in the general Sale of his Stock. However, on my Enquiry among the Trade, I found on Sale an Edition of the Book, seemingly printed from yours, which I sent you; and this, I hope, will answer your present Purpose.
I am happy to hear there is so great an Emulation upon the Continent for the Improvement of the Art of Printing, and I hope it will continue. Here all our Pressmen are spoilt by the hasty and slovenly Manner in which our numerous Newspapers and Magazines are printed; nor is there the least Encouragement for any one to carry the Art to any farther Degree of Perfection. I am now too far advanced in Life to think of it; but I shall be much obliged to receive from you a Sample of Didot’s Performances in that Way, as you kindly promise me.
I rejoice to see that you do me the Honour still to retain a Remembrance of our antient private Friendship, and in the present Prospect that Public Circumstances will not much longer divide us. That Event I long for, I will own, with no small degree of Impatience; sincerely hoping, that no Success on either Side, however flattering, will induce us to protract this unnatural War, which tends only to strengthen the Hands of our mutual Enemies, who are at the same time Enemies to the Liberties, civil and religious, of all Mankind.
Inclosed I send you a Copy of the Bill to enable His Majesty to conclude a Peace, &c. with the Amendments, as it passed the House of Commons last Friday. These Amendments, if I am not misinformed, were suggested by yourself; so it is plain that here is no Impediment to the accomplishing so necessary and so desireable a Work. Of the good Disposition of his Majesty’s present Ministers, you have already had ample Testimony.
The Person who I hope will have the Honour of to put this into your Hands, is a very valuable young Relation of mine, Miss Sally Beckwith, Daughter of General Beckwith, and Granddaughter of the venerable Dr Wishart, who, in consequence of some Misunderstanding with her Father, in which I think her blameless (for Particulars I beg leave to refer you to herself) hath taken the Resolution of emancipating herself from his Authority and trying her Fortune in N. America. She is really an accomplished young Woman; and laying aside all Consideration of her Birth, she is desirous of doing what she is extremely well qualified for, of superintending the Education of young Ladies either in a public or a private Way, or of following the Business of a Milliner, in which she has a very good Taste. She would indeed be a Jewel in any genteel Family that wanted such a Person. In short, she is one who will soon, if I am not much mistaken, attract your Notice and secure your Friendship. I have desired her to open her whole Mind to you, which you will find to be stored with all those Qualities you most admire in a Woman.
After what I have said of this amiable but at present distressed young Creature, and after you yourself have seen her, I am sure I need add nothing to obtain her your Patronage, which will be of infinite Service to her where she is going, and I will venture to say you will have the Thanks of the Community for honouring her with your Introduction; such firm Dependence have I on her Virtues, her Accomplishments, and in her Powers of Pleasing.
I begin now to flatter myself that we shall soon meet again. Mean while you have my best Thanks for your good Wishes, so kindly expressed in your last, towards my Family, who are all well (my Wife excepted who is now at Bath for the Recovery of her Health) and remember you with wonted Esteem and Affection. You will find your Wife the same plain honest Girl she was when she made choise of you above 20 Years ago, and myself writing at the same Desk where you first found me at a still more distant Period.
With farther Particulars I will not now trouble you, hoping soon to have an Opportunity of writing again.
I remain, with the greatest Esteem and Respect Dear Sir Your most obedient, and affectionate humble Servant
Will: Strahan
B. Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 30 May 1782
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
La haie 30e. May 1782.
Le porteur de la présente, Mr. De Berenger, Chargé d’Affaires de France à la Haie depuis cinq ans, allant faire un voyage à Paris, veut bien me faire la double faveur de le présenter, & de le présenter à vous: & il m’est bien agréable de vous le faire connoître comme aussi parfaitement bien intentionné pour la cause Américaine, que zélé pour le service & pour la gloire du Roi son Maître. C’est, Monsieur de Berenger qui communiqua en 1778 la déclaration de la Reconnoissance de l’Indépendance des Etats unis de la part de S.M.T.Chr.[Sa Majesté Très Chrétienne] à L.H.P. [Leurs Hautes Puissances], & qui, se trouvant le lendemain chez le Chev. York, qui lui reprocha d’avoir violé sa fille, lui répondit, qu’elle étoit émancipée, & qu’on ne lui avoit fait que ce qu’elle avoit demandé, pour lui faire plaisir.
Jamais je n’ai servi les Etats Unis avec plus de zele & de succès, que depuis 6 mois; & jamais je n’ai pu moins entrer dans les détails là-dessus, surtout sur le papier. Ce dont je puis en tout temps me glorifier plus hautement, c’est le sincere & respectueux attachement avec lequel je suis toujours & pour toujours, Monsieur Votre très humble & très obéissant serviteur
Dumas
Passy à S.E. Mr. Franklin, &c.

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Min. Plenipo: des Et. Un. / &c. &c. / à Passy./.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert R. Livingston, 30 May 1782
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Philadelphia 30th. May 1782
Since my last of the  instant, I have been honoured with yours of the 30th. March together with a copy of Mr. Adam’s Letter to you & the English papers—for all of which I am extreamly obliged to you. I am not at all disappointed at the manner in which the British administration have declared their wish for peace or at the reluctance they shew in parting with this country. To a proud nation the loss of three million of subjects must be mortifying. Every journyman weaver, in every petty village in England, conceived himself a sovereign even while working for the slaves of his supposed subjects. It requires a degree of magnanimity of which they are incapable, to surrender with dignity what they can no longer hold. They must suppose the politicks of the rest of the world to move upon weaker principles than their own if they imagine any offers they can make in their present debilitated situation, will detatch the bellegerent powers from each other till all the objects of their union are attained. Of what avail would the cessions they offer to make in the west Indies be to France if by our reunion with England her naval power was restored what security would she have for those cessions or even for the rest of her Islands? What she has offered Spain I know not. To us she has offered nothing which I have yet heard of, but her friendship & the blessings of her government. A seven years emnity has extinguished our desire for the first. And the present apparent happiness of the people of England & Ireland has enabled us to form a just estimate of the last.
I have told you that we have nothing to apprehend here from the offers of Britain. I have had no reason since to change that opinion, the way however to put it out of doubt is to enable us to expel the enimy from the continent this summer, the task is not difficult & the object is sufficiently important not to let it depend on other operations.
I am instructed by congress to prepare a memorial to the court of Versailles on the subject of the money due to the Americans who sailed with Capt. Jones—continual complaints are made here on that subject. Surely sufficient time has been allowed to settle this business. I must beg the favors of you to press it, & to draw & present a memorial to the Court if it can not otherwise be accomplished. Mr. Barclay will have orders to receive the money for them. I enclose an extract of a Letter from Capt Jones to me on that subject together with a list of the Ships & their force agreeable to which the divission should be made. I also enclose his account of the detention of the Brigantine Berkenbosh, together with a copy of Capt De Nefs certificate that the property belonged to british owners this is at first view a sufficient justification of his conduct & I hope will be deemed satisfactory, when it is considered that our courts are open for a further prosecution of the inquiry, if any injury has been unjustly sustained. I shall take the earliest opportunity to enquire into the other cases you mention. If I am rightly informed the insult to the coast of Norway is already avenged the vessels who are said to have committed it having been lost at sea, this puts a stop to any further inquiries about it. I shall however get this fact more fully assertained & write to you again on the subject.
I wish to know on what principle these applications are made to the court of France? If the powers who suppose themselves injured consider us as independant they should address themselves directly to the Ministers of Congress, if they think us the subjects of Great Britain they should apply to the court of London for redress— I am happy to find that you have not lost sight of the prizes detained by the danish court, & that you so happily availed yourself of the opportunity they afforded you to renew your application. This object ought to be pushed, not so much on account of the value of the vessels, as to shew that we know what is due to ourselves—
Enclosed is a resolution of Congress on the subject of accounts, which you will be pleased to take the earliest opportunity to carry into execution. You draw an agreeable picture of the french court, & of their favourable dispositions. They stand very high in the esteem of this country, & tho’ we entertain the hope of repaying by our commerce & alliance the frienship they have shewn us, we are not on that account the less sensible of our obligation to them. The distrusts, & jealousies, which secret enimies endeavoured to excite have died away, one succesful exertion in our favor will secure to them forever the affections of this country.
I take such an interest in the happiness of the Marquis De Lafayette as makes me learn with great pleasure the reception he has met with— No man is more worthy of the esteem he enjoys both here & at home— I have foreborn to write him for some time past, in expectation that he was upon his way, the same reason restrains me now. Should any extraordinary event have detained him, you will be so obliging as to mention this to him as my appology.
I am charmed with your idea of the medal to perpetuate the memory of York & Saraytoga the design is simple, elegant, & strikingly expressive of the subject. I can not however but flatter myself that before it can be executed your Hercules will have tasked your invention for a new emblem. I enclose a number of Letters that have passed between Genl. Washington & Genl. Clinton Robinson & Carleton chiefly on the subject of Capt Huddy who having been taken prisoner & confined for some time at New York was carried by a capt. Limpencut & a party of soldiers to the Jersey shore and there hanged without the least pretence. You will see an account of the whole transaction in some of the papers sent you. The Genl. in pursuance of his determination has ordered the lott to be cast. It has fallen upon Capt. Asgil of the guards who is now on his way to camp, a friend of his capt. Ludlow is gone to New York with the permission of the Secretary at war to see if Carleton can be persuaded to give satisfaction for the murder. It is a melancholy case but the repeated cruelties of the British has rendered some retaliation absolutely necessary how much soever they may hurt our feelings.
We are yet totally ignorant of the event of the battle in the west Indies which was fought the 12th. of April. You will see various & contradictory accounts in our papers—you will probably have better information in Europe— The Island of providence is taken by the Spaniards, Gillon commanded the fleet as is said upon that expedition. He yesterday arrived here with a number of vessels from the Havanah for whom we were in great pains, as this port had been closely blocked up for some time— I have the honor to be sir with great esteem & respect Your Most obt hum Servt
Robt R Livingston
No. 12His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Endorsed: Secretary Livingston No 12 May 30. 1782 recd. Augt. 6.— Money due to Ce. Jone’s Crews Dutch Vessel.— Danish Affair. Medal. Marquis de la Fayette. Lippincut. Gillon’s Arrival


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Grenville, 31 May 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grenville, Thomas

Sir,
Passy May 31st. 1782.
I do not find that I have any express Authority to absolve a Parole given by an English Officer in America. But desirous of Complying with a Request of the Duke of Richmond as far as may be in my Power, and being confident that the Congress will be pleased with whatever may oblige a Personage they so much Respect. I do hereby consent that Capt. Macleod serve in his military Capacity, in England, only, till the pleasure of the Congress is known, to whom I will write immediately, and who I make no doubt will discharge him entirely.— I have the honour to be Sir,
Mr Grenville