Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Arthur Lee, 6 May 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir/
Paris May 6th. 1779
I had not the honor of receiving your letter till today, tho it is dated the 3d. It came by the Penny post.
It was by Mr Adams’s information, when on board, that I understood the Alliance “had now a good Crew,” & I cannot express my concern on hearing from you that it is otherwise. The persons & property of so many of our Countrymen; the valuable Merchandize; & the essential stores for the United States & that of Virginia which are on board the fleet at Brest, are of such infinite importance to our Country, that I cannot help trembling for their fate, since I have lately learnt that M. le Motte Piquet will protect them no farther than in his course to the West Indies, & that our Coast swarms with Privateers fitted out from New York, Rhode Island, & Augustine.
The supplies for the State of Virginia were those, which, as I have often had the honor of mentioning to you, were obtaind some time ago from the Crown, consisting of Brass Canon, Mortars, Bombs & Ball. The articles which my Brother sollicited your assistance in procuring, are a second order, & as necessary for the defence of the State as the first; which first only I have fulfilled except in those articles which the house of Penet engaged for, but did not send.
The Gentlemen going to & shipping goods for America, I know lamented that their repeated requests thro the Commissioners to the Ministry for a Convoy quite to America, were unsuccessful. They had waited several weeks, & at a great expence, in expectation of it; when the Commissioners sent them a Copy of M. de Sartines final answer to their reiterated applications dated Feby. 6th. & containing these words— “Si ceux qui sont actuellement à Nantes, ayants destination pour les Etats Unis, descendent promptement la Riviére ils seront escortés jusqu’au dela des Caps & plus loin encore, c’est à dire, pendant tout le tems qu’ils voudront suivre la route du Convoi des Batimens françois destinés pour les Isles de l’Amerique.”
It was a great mortification to them, that the Alliance was not mannd nor any certainty when she woud be so; which obliged them to put themselves under the french West India Convoy as the best & only one that then offerd.

I presume therefore, that it was not their being satisfyd with a Convoy half the way, that prevented them from applying to you, since your late appointment, to obtain for them a more sufficient one; but their knowing that application had already been made often, by you & the other Commissioners, without success. It is also probable that their being under sailing orders in Brest road, deprived them of knowing the State of the Alliance at Nantes; but it is most sure, that they woud have been extremely happy to have seen her return to Brest as their Convoy. They had every reason to expect this woud be the Case, if she got men at Nantes, because you had directed them to be informd, that you had given orders for her to Convoy them, which it was understood her want of men only prevented. I cannot therefore doubt but that the wishes of all the American Gentlemen that the Alliance shoud Convoy them, coincide with mine, tho circumstances have prevented them from being expressed.
It was from a persuasion of this, & from an anxiety for their safety as well as for that of the important supplies that go with them, that I venturd to submit to you my opinion of the utility of ordering the Alliance immediately to Brest, which I still most earnestly wish may, if possible, be done.
Most of these Gentlemen have already experienced the miseries of being made prisoners; to which there is too much reason to apprehend they will return, if they are left upon our Coast without Convoy.
It is a long time too since Congress have heard from their Servants in Europe. Mr. Izard & myself have written to our Constituents, in expectation of our dispatches going in safety by the Alliance or under her Convoy, upon matters in which the public honor, interest, & safety are deeply concernd.
I am sorry to have troubled you with so long a Letter, but out of the fulness of the heart, the tongue speaketh; and I am filld with the most anxious concern for the fate of the fleet, if it is to be left unprotected in any part of the voyage.
I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your most Obedient Humble Servant
Arthur Lee
Honble. B. Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 6 May 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

a Versailles le 6. May 1779.
J’ai reçu, M, la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire Le 3. de ce mois concernant les effets et munitions de guerre demandès par les Etats de Virginie et de Maryland. Vous n’ignorez sans doute pas, que la premiére de ces provinces a obtenu des arsenaux du Roi, par le canal de M. Lée, des canons et autres effets d’artillerie pour une somme considèrable, et que le tout doit etre actuellement en chemin pour l’Amérique; vous jugerez d’après cela, M. qu’en faisant une nouvelle fourniture pour la Virginie, vous vous exposeriez a faire un double emploi. Quant au Maryland personne ne s’est addressé à nous de sa part; nous ignorons les envoys qui peuvent lui avoir été faits, et il paroit que vous ètes dans la même ignorance; cependant il conviendroit que vous fussiez instruit, avant de faire de nouveaux achats: j’attendrai donc, M, que vous ayez bien voulu me donner des eclaircissemens sur cet objet avant de mettre votre demande sous les yeux de Mté.
Au surplus, M, quand même elle seroit agréée dès-àprésent, il seroit impossible de charger les effets donc il est question sur le vaisseau qui conduira en Amerique M. le Chr. de la Luzerne, parce que le depart de ce Ministre est trèsprochain, et qu’il y auroit de grands inconvénients soit à le retarder, soit a embarasser la marche de son vaisseau par des marchandises. Si cependant vous aviez des effets prêts à être embarqués, je ne doute pas que M. de la Luzerne ne concoure à satisfaire vos desirs autant que cela sera en son pouvoir et je pense que vous ferez bien de vous entendre là-dessus avec luy./.
M franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 8 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Sir
Passy May 8. 1779.
I have received the honour of your Excelly’s: Letter of the 3d. Instant. I am very Sensible of the King’s Goodness, in granting Liberty to the Americans who have been taken Prisoners in the English Service as by that means his Majesty Lessons the Number of the Prisoners that may be exchanged for his own Subjects; and I think we ought whenever we can Show our Gratitude by procuring liberty for such of his Subjects as may be in the same Circumstances. We had in America, by the last Accounts many more Prisoners of the Enemy than they had of our People: and I will write to the Congress to advise the obtaining by an Exchange the Discharge of Such French Prisoners as may be confined in New York, tho’ I have no doubt of its being done whenever the Cartel shall take place there.
Capt. Jones informs me, that among the English Prisoners brought from Senegal, there are 16 Americans, who having been taken by the English in the unfortunate attack of Quebeck Jan. 1. 1777. had been sent as Slaves to Africa; and that they have petition’d to obtain their Discharge in order to serve under him, and have an Opportunity of taking satisfaction for the cruel tratment they have received: He has apply’d to the Commandant for them, but has received for Answer, that the Garrison having Surrendred conditionally that the Troops in it should be sent to England, it is not in his Power to give them up without Orders from Court. Your Excellency can best judge if this Matter is practicable, either by our replacing them with as many English, or by any other means.
Capt. Jones also writes to me that the Officer mention’d in the enclos’d Memorial has been very Useful in disciplining his Marines, and that he wishes if possible to have him upon the Cruise agreable to his Petition, which is therefore submitted to your Excellency’s Consideration.
I am, with great Respect,
M. De Sartine


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 8 May 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 8 May 1779.
I am honor’d with your favor of the 26th Inst. and am truely sensible of your friendly Goodwill which you so obligingly Express in answer to my representation which forecast made me judge incumbent, from dread of events. I am happy to advise you that the Arrival of the General Mercer loaden with Tobacco to my address will effectualy prevent any checks to my too extended Conections.
Captain Robinson Master of the General Mercer arrived here the 5th Instant he has Number of Letters for private persons not a single one for you, as he saild from Virginia and only lately had the Command of this Ship given him his coming this way I apprehend was not known he left Patomack River 25 March, the relation published by Mr. provost was not represented in America in the colours he has painted an advanct party [torn: it] was said had been repulsed but of little Consiquence on the other hand there had been many Scirmishes in which the Enemy always suffer’d considerably.

This Vessel I shall dispatch with all posible deligence. I hope in the course of three Weeks to have her to Sea. Monsr La Motte piquet lays at Isl D’Aix with the Outward bound Ships for the United States, he has under his Command five Ships of the Line five frigates and a number of Armd Merchant Men of which our three Ships compose a part.
The Number of small Arm’d Vessels fitted out at New York great obstruct our Navigation they run into the Bays and intercept all Ships inwards or outwards. New York and Rhode Island are so situated we never can carry on any Trade til they are reduced. It is imposible to describe the wants of the provinces all European Goods are selling at 20 for 1. Bills I have receivd on you were bought at 10 for 1. It is incredible the Capital required to send a Vessel from America to Europe. Could the plan I laid before you last July be put in practice it would give a quick Sensation to the Value of Continental Money.
I have the honor to be with due Respect Sir your very hlb Servant
John Bondfield
His Excellency Benj Franklin Esq

Addressed: His Excellency B. Franklin / Plenepoteny from the United States / a / Paris
Notation: John Bondfield. Bordeaux 8e. may 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon, 8 May 1779
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce samedi 8 may [1779] a passy
Mon áme est plus calme mon chér papa, depuis qu’elle s’est déchargée dans la vôtre; depuis qu’elle ne craint plus que mile j ＋ ＋ ne se retire chéz vous, et n’y fasse votre tourment et celui de votre chér fils: plus je refléchie a sa démarche à ce sujét et a la proposition que vous a fait mr de C＋＋, moins je conçois qu’un homme de son age, qui est peu venu chéz moi; ait imaginé de vous offrir de méttre votre confiance, votre amitié, dans une pérsonne dont il ne peut connoistre n’y les talents, n’y le caractére; je le plaindrois sincérement si dans ses affaires pérsonnélles, il ne méttoit plus de refléctions et de soins:
Dans la malheureuse histoire que je vous ai conté l’autre jour; dans les léttres que je vous ai montrés; vous avéz vû l’áme de votre fille a découvert; une éxtrésme sensibillité, de la franchise, une trop grande facillité, nulle méfiance pour se garantir du mal, parcequ’elle ne le soupçonne pas, n’étant pas capable d’en faire; un besoin d’aimér et de l’estre, qui l’a fait se livrér trop promptement a ceux qui affichoient la bonté et la vértu; voila mon ami la cause de toutes mes peines. Aimeraisje moins? Non sans doutte, non; mais j’aimerai moins viste; la raison, la réfléction viendront a l’aide d’un coeur trop tendre et trop foible: plus je m’éxamine et plus je vois, que l’envie d’estre utille a quelqu’un que je croyois malheureux et peu riche; m’a conduit dans un piége affreux: mile j ＋ ＋ préconisant sans césse la vértu, qu’elle n’a jamais pratiqué; la dellicatésse qu’elle ne sent pas; la franchise, qu’elle ne connoist point; a sçuë aprés s’estre brouillée dans sa famille; s’estre fait chassér de deux maisons; m’abusér au point de tournér toutes ses avantures téllement a son avantage, que je la plaignois, l’aimois, et n’ai jamais voulu écouttér les avis multipliés que j’ai reçus de me méfiér de son caractére; que lorsque j’ai pensés payér de ma vie, l’ingratitude, la fausseté avéc lesquelles elle m’a abusé: mon mari sera encore lomgtems peut estre subjugué par elle; mais j’ose éspérér, que mon attention a lui plaire, la tendrésse de ses enfants, le mépris que tous nos anciens et bons amis ont conçus pour cette fille, et qu’ils ne dissimuleront pas; lui ouvriront un jour les yeux; en attendant, je me livre entiérement a l’addrésse qu’élle vá méttre a taschér de me donnér tous les ridiculs possibles; il étoit important a mon repos; que mon pére, mon bien bon ami fut instruit; quand au public qui m’a toujours jugés avéc indulgence; je continuerai de lui laissér voir en moi, une conduitte simple, honneste, sans prétention, un grand attachement pour mon mari, mes enfants, mes amis, et surtout pour la vértu; je ne dirai point de mal de mile j ＋ ＋; malheureusement pour elle son caractére lui en fait assés:
Adieu vous, que je réspécte, que j’aime, mon bon mon aimable papa; gardés mon secrét dans votre áme, gardés y aussi mon coeur que j’y dépose pour le guérir de ses bléssures et de sa foiblésse:
Je vous attends ce soir pour le thé, jamais jamais je n’eus plus de besoin d’éstre quelques heures avéc vous:


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Landais, 8 May 1779
From: Landais, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Please your Excellency
aboard the alliance May 8th. 1779
Since I received your orders to Sail for Port L’Orient, I have been Waiting in this River for a boat Loaded with provisions, and fear wind; but now having all aboard and the Wind S E. I am getting under Sail and Expect to be to-morrow at Port-Louis. I have at présent theerten passengers beside the honble. John Adams, his Son and Servant. Please to Write me yours orders about them. I Received a Letter from monsieur De Ray De Chaumont by which he mention that I am to have for Six month vitals aboard, as there is Some goods aboard I Suppose belong to Some of the officers, as I Learned yesterday, I Want to Know What I am to do if I have not room Enough for to put the Said Vitals.
I Received your two Letters Concerning Mr. Herckiah Ford, and M: Wuibert, I have give them the Cabin as I thought your Letters required it.
I am With Respect Your Excellency Most obedient most humble Servant
P: Landais
His Excellency B. franklin Minister-Plenipotentiary of the united States of america./.

Notation: P. Landais May 8. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Priestley, 8 May 1779
From: Priestley, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
London 8 May 1779.
The person who will deliver this letter is a priest of the Roman Catholic persuasion, and one of my antagonists in metaphysical matters, but a man of a very liberal disposition, and with whom I have spent many an agreeable hour. He is so obliging as to undertake to deliver to you my Treatise on Education, and my Correspondence with Dr Price. I shall very soon, by means of Mr Magellan, send you a copy of my new philosophical work, which, if you should have leisure to look into it, I flatter myself, will give you some pleasure.
I have just seen, but have had no opportunity to read, a pamphlet in favour of the doctrine of Necessity printed, I think, in 1729, and dedicated to Truth. Is this the tract you told me you wrote, and could not procure me a copy of? I cannot help being desirous of knowing this circumstance.
All your friends are well. You need not doubt that we often talk of you, but we fear there is no prospect of peace, or consequently of our seeing you in England.
In all events, I am, Dear Sir, yours most sincerely,
J Priestley

Notation: Priestley 8. May 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Francis Coffyn, [9 May 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Coffyn, Francis

Sir
[May 9, 1779]
If one Nicolas Davis should come to Dunkirk, and Demand Assistances as an American in distress, I desire you not to give him anything, he having already defrauded us of great sums. I have the honour to be &
Mr. Coffin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Fizeaux, Grand & Cie., 9 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Fizeaux, Grand & Cie.

Gentlemen
Passy May 9. 1779.
I received your obliging Letter of the 3d. Instant, with two Pamphlets, for which I thank you, and shall be glad of any others of the Kind that are esteemed to be well written.
I have received lately two Letters from one Nicolas Davis, who is now in Amsterdam at the House of Jan. Hendrik Conse in de Warmoes-straat, and asks me for Money. I am afraid that if he can find out that you are our friends, he will apply to you likewise; therefore I write to put you on your guard & to request that you would not advance him a farthing. He came to us at Paris in January 1777, and pretending to be an American who had served the India Company some years as an Officer in their Troops, but thought it his Duty rather to serve his Country in this War, he prevail’d on us to furnish him with some Money to bear his Expences thither, We advanced him about 30 Louis & sent him to Havre to take his Passage in a french Ship the seine then bound for Martinique & then to the Continent. At Havre, just going off he shew’d an open Letter of Recommendation we had given him for America, and on the Credit of it took up as much more money, from our friend, giving him a Draft upon us for the same, which we thought ourselves obliged to pay. At Martinique he by the same Means got a Credit with our Agent there, & took up the Value of 120 Louis more being afterwards taken in the Ship by the English before the Commencement of hostilities just on going out of Martinique, the Captain claim’d his Vessel as being french & bound to another french Island but this Man inform’d that she was really bound to Boston on which she was condemned at Antigua. Since which he has been with the English at Philadelphia, and I Suspect has abus’d the Recommendation we gave him in other Instances that have not yet come to our Knowledge. It is amazing that after all this he should have the Effrontery to apply again to me for Money. I would rather punish him, if I Knew how. But I suppose it will answer no End to prosecute him in Holland. I wish however, that you Could by Some means learn whether he has still any letter of recommendation from me, and if he shows it get it from him, for I am afraid he may make farther Use of it in defrauding. It Would be well to caution your Magistrates to have an Eye on him.
With great Esteem I have the honour to be Gentlemen
Mrs. Fizeaux Grand & Com.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Paul Jones, 9 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Jones, John Paul

Dear Sir,
Passy May 9. 1779.
I received your Favour of the 1st Instant, I have made the Application you desire in behalf of the Officer who wishes to have leave to go with you, and for the Americans who are come from Senegal, and I hope for a favourable Answer.

I need not tell you that I wish you a good Voyage, and all the Success that I am sure you will deserve; being with great Truth, Your affectionate Friend and most obedt humble Sert.
B Franklin
Honble. Capt. Jones

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Cape. Jones / Commandant la Fregatte / Le Bon homme Richard, / au Service des Etats-Unis / à L’Orient.
Notations in different hands: Letter from Doctor Franklin May 9th. 1779. / No.4 Letter from his Excellency B. Franklin to Capt Jones May 9th 1779—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 10 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Passy, May 10th. 1779
I received the honour of yours of the 29th past from Nantes. I hope you are before this time safely arrived at L’Orient. M. De la Luzerne is making diligent Preparation for his Departure, and you will soon see him. He and the Secretary of the Embassy are both very agreable and sensible Men, in whose Conversation you will have a great deal of Pleasure in your Passage. What Port the Ship will be ordered to I have not yet learnt, I suppose that it may be partly left to the Captain’s Discretion, as the Winds may happen to serve. It must certainly be most agreable to you to be landed in Boston; as that will give you an earlier Sight of your Family; but as you propose going immediately to Congress, being landed at Philadelphia will have some little Advantage, as it saves half your Journey. I shall take care to procure the Order to the Captain from M. De Sartine, which you desire; tho’ I should suppose showing the Original Letter of that Minister, which you have, would be sufficient. No publick Dispatches are arrived here since you left us. I see by the Virginia Papers that the 6th of February, being the Anniversary of the signing of the Treaty, was observed with great Festivity by the Congress &c at Philadelphia. From Holland I have just received the Resolution of the States General, of the 26th past, to Convoy their Trade, notwithstanding Sir Joseph York’s Memorial, and to fit out directly 32 Ships of War for that purpose; which is good News and may have consequences.
I have the honour to be, with great Regard, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
Honble: Jn. Adams Esquire.

Endorsed: Dr Franklin May 10. ansd 17th. 1779


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Chaumont, 10 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Chaumont

Dear Sir,
Passy May 10. 1779.
I received the Letter you did me the honour to write to me the 1st. inst. That inclosed for the Marquis de la Fayette was sent to him directly. The other for M. de Sartine, was carry’d to Marly by my Son; but he being at Paris, it was brought back and delivered to him there the next Morning. His Answer has been ever since expected, to be return’d by your Express, but not arriving, we suppose he has sent it by some other Opportunity. All Paris now talks of the Marquis de la Fayette’s going to America with Troops, &c. From Holland I have certain Advice, that the States General have come to a Resolution to give Convoys to their Merchant Ships, notwithstanding the last Memorial of Sir Joseph York: and to fit out immediately 32. Sail of Men of War for that purpose. This Resolution was taken the 26th past. With the greatest Esteem and Affection, I am ever, Dear Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
M. De Chaumont.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Peter Allaire, 10 May 1779
From: Allaire, Peter
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir/
London 10 May 1779
An Offer has been made me, which I think worthy Your Attention, as it may be of Infinite service to the fleets & Armies of America.
A person has Applyed to me to furnish any Quantity (not less then 20 lb weight) of Doctr: James’s fever Powders, so well known all over Europe, for fifteen Shill, Ster. an Oz. Each Oz Contains 12 Packages, and the price that James & Newbury sells that at is 2/6 each paper, & to Goverment at 30/per Oz, I am Offered them at one half.
The person before the Death of the late Doct James, was Imployed by the Doctr: for many Years to make them, but since his Death, his Son & Newbury, have Discharged him & having a pattent the Secret is of very little service to him in this Kingdome.
Inclosed I send You Two Oz for Your Inspection & Examination.
If You approve of them & the proposall I shall be happy to think I have been of some little Service to my Country.
I can at all times send them to Calais. I shall Esteem it as a favour, Your Answer to the Above proposal & am With Respect—Your Very humb Servt
P. Allaire
N 61 Titchfield Streeta few lines without any Signature will be SufficientBenj: Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chaumont, 10 May 1779
From: Chaumont
To: Franklin, Benjamin

L’orient ce 10 may 1779.
Vostre Excellence, Monsieur Le Docteur, peut envoyer quand il luy plaira Sa Benediction au Cape Jones, Je crois qu’il sera en rade le quinze pour partir au plus tard Le vingt, ce que je vous prie de dire a ceux qui s’interessent a son sort. J’attends L’alliance &ca tous Les Jours. Le Cape. Landais m’a ecrit qu’il attendoit unne Barque de Nantes Retenue en riviere par les vents Contraires. Il m’a demandé que Je luy tins prest icy plusieurs objets qu’il trouvera en arrivant. Recevez L’asseurance de mon tendre et Respectueux attachement
Leray DE Chaumont

Addressed: A S. Ex Monsieur / Monsieur Le Docteur franklin / Ministre plenipotentiaire des etats / unis d’amerique a la Cour de / france / (A Paris)
Notation: Chaumont May 10. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 10 May 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
La Haie 10e. May 1779
En reponse à la vôtre du 29, je commence par ce que vous me demandez concernant Mr. St——. Il est d’une des meilleures familles de Berne, & peut, en son temps, entrer dans la régence de sa patrie. Il est protégé par le Ministre de la Marine, & employé par le même en Hollande à des affaires particulieres, par Commission signée du Roi, que j’ai vue, ainsi que plusieurs Lettres du Ministre & de Mrs. le R—— de Ch—— & Baudoin. Je suis convaincu de tout cela par mes yeux, & par les aveux qui ont échappé dans un moment de vivacité au G—— F——. Je me suis apperçu dans diverses de ces Lettres, & par les discours de Mr. St——, que le Ch—— G——d étoit fort suspect au Ministre, à Mr. le R—— de Ch——, & à Mr. Baud——, qu’ils desiroient d’être débarrassés de lui, de le voir éloigné des affaires, & du secret de l’Amérique, & de voir Mr. De N—— ou un autre lui succéder. Cela me rappelloit naturellement, & fortifioit certains avertissemens que de braves gens m’avoient donnés 3 mois auparavant sur son crédit vacillant, son malheur en Suisse, son intimité avec Rich l’Espion de Sir J. Y, la partialité que son fils ne pouvoit s’empêcher de montrer dans les conversations (malgré les signes qu’on lui faisoit de se modérer devant moi) en faveur des Anglois, le Gendre commandant un corps contre les Am——, le crédit de l’Am—— indiscretement exposé dans l’affaire de l’emprunt, &c. & voyant que notre ami avoit autant de confiance en N——, qu’il en avoit peu en l’autre, j’ai pris le parti, bien malgré moi, mais en conscience, par devoir, & parce que j’en étois requis, de vous écrire, Monsieur, comme j’ai fait depuis le 25 Janv. dernier. Souffrez, après cela que je vous supplie d’avoir une conversation là-dessus avec Mr. Baudoin: il peut vous mettre parfaitement au fait de ce qui concerne Mr. St——, des ennemis qu’il s’est fait ici, pour s’être mêlé de cette affaire, & du sens dans lequel j’ai demandé vos ordres & les intentions des Ministres du Roi; & je sens maintenant, que vous ne pouvez ni comprendre ma demande, ni y répondre, avant d’avoir eu cet entretien avec lui.
Mr. De N—— n’avoit aucune connexion avec Mr St.; c’est moi qui, sur la priere de Mr. St——, l’ai adressé & fait connoître à Mr. De N——. Selon ses instructions il devoit choisir entre deux Maisons d’Amst——: celle de N—— en étoit une: il me consulta; je lui dis de ne pas hésiter pour Mr. De N——.
Je ne saurois montrer à G—— F—— vos Lettres en original depuis le 11 fevr. Le Chev. Gd. sauroit d’abord quelle part j’ai eue là-dedans et seroit mon ennemi mortel. Je ne puis pas non plus lui montrer votre derniere Lettre du 29, sans exposer le Ministre, Mr. le R—— de Ch—— & Mr. Baud—— avec moi. J’aime mieux lui laisser ignorer que j’en aie reçu une. Je lui donne avec plaisir des Extraits; mais il y auroit de la tyrannie à prétendre voir mes originaux; je ne pourrois à la fin plus rien vous écrire que sous la dictée, & selon les vues d’autrui, peut-être d’un Commis privé, tout dévoué au Chev. Je crois avec vous, Monsieur, qu’on est notre Ami; mais on peut subordonner l’amitié à des vues particulieres, souvent, sans le savoir, à celles d’autrui. Du reste, on est à présent tout accoutumé à ne voir que ce que je juge à propos; & nous sommes bien ensemble; car je puis être souvent utile.
Pour revenir à Mr. St——, vraisemblablement il sera bientôt fort loin d’ici pour affaires du Roi, que Mr. B——n sait. Aussi n’ai-je pas besoin de sa présence, pour veiller avec notre Ami & Mr. De N——, aux Intérêts de l’Am——.
Je sens de plus en plus, Monsieur, le besoin, à plusieurs égards, d’aller vous entretenir pendant une quinzaine de jours. Le supplément que vous m’avez alloué dernierement, me met en état de faire ce voyage, & de raccommoder un peu ma santé par la satisfaction de vous voir enfin. J’espere que ce sera dans 4 à 6 semaines.
Je suis sûr que Mr. De N—— réussira mieux qu’un autre à ce qu’il vous a promis, dès que les circonstances lui rendront la chose possible. Il seroit à souhaitter qu’on eût pris avec son prédécesseur la même méthode qu’avec lui, de ne s’engager à rien que lorsqu’il eût souscrit & garanti toute la somme. Le crédit Américain n’auroit pas été hazardé comme il l’a été.
Vous aurez vu, Monsieur, par ma traduction (faite fort à la hâte) de la résolution des Etats-Genx. du 26 Avril, qu’elle est encore un peu captieuse. Quoiqu’il en soit, la france a publié son nouveau tarif, dont Mr. l’Ambr. m’a donné copie, & que j’ai envoyé aux Gazettiers. Elle a bien fait. Toute la Hollande, excepté Amst. & Harlem, paiera 15 p% de leurs importations en Fce. Je me suis apperçu après coup, d’avoir omis, dans la liste des 32 Vaisseaux qu’on a résolu d’équiper ici, 2 Frégattes de 40 c. & 250 h. chacune. Je suis avec un grand respect, Monsieur, Votre très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur
D
Passy à s. Exc. Mr. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Ministre Plénipotentiaire des / Etats-Unis de l’Amérique / à Passy./.
Notation: Dumas May 10. 79


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Madame Brillon, [11 May 1779 or after]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt

10 May [i.e. May 11 or after, 1779]
Vous m’avez dit, ma chere fille, que vôtre Coeur est trop sensible. Je vois bien, dans vos Lettres, que cela est trop vraie. D’etre fort sensible de nos propres fautes; c’est bon; parceque cela nous mêne de les eviter en futur: Mais d’etre fort sensible & affligé des Fautes d’autres Gens,—ce n’est pas bon. C’est à eux d’être sensible là, & d’être affligées de ce qu’ils avoient malfait:—Pour nous, nous devons rester en Tranquilité, qui est la juste Partage de l’Innocence & la Vertu. Mais vous dites “que l’Ingratitude est un Mal affreux.” C’est vrai,—aux Ingrats— mais non pas à leurs Bienfaiteurs. Vous avez conferé des Bienfaits sur ceux qui vous en avez crus dignes. Vous avez donc fait vôtre Devoir, parceque c’est de nôtre Devoir d’etre bienfaisantes; & vous devez être satisfaite de cela, & heureuse dans la Reflection. S’ils sont des Ingrats, c’est leur Crime & non pas la votre; & c’est à eux d’être malheureux quand ils reflechissent sur la Turpitude de leur Conduit envers vous.—S’ils vous font des Injures, reflechissez que quoique ils peuvent être auparavant vos égaux, ils se sont placés par cette moyen audessous de vous;— Si vous vous vengez en les punissant exactement, vous les restituez leur Etat d’egalité qu’ils avoient perdue: Mais si vous les pardonnies, sans leur donner aucune Punition, vous les fixez dans cette basse Etat ou ils sont tombées, & d’ou ils ne pouvent jamais sortir, sans une vraie Repentance & pleine Reparation. Suivez donc, ma trés chere & toujours aimable Fille, la bonne Resolution que vous avez prise si sagement, de continuer à remplir tous vos Devoirs, comme bonne mere, bonne Femme, bonne Amie, bonne Prochaine, bonne Chretienne, &c., (sans oublier d’être bonne Fille à votre Papa) & à negliger & oublier s’il est possible les Injures qu’on peut vous faire à present; Et soyez assurée, qu’avec le Tems, la Rectitude de vôtre Conduite gagnera sur les Esprits même des Gens les plus mauvaises; & encore plus sur ceux des Personnes qui sont au fond d’un bon Naturel, & qui ont aussi du bon Sens, quoique pour le present peutêtre un peu egarées par l’Artifice des autres. Alors, tous vous demanderont avec Compunction le Retour de vôtre Amitié, & ils deviendront pour l’avenir des vos plus zélés Amis.
Je suis sensible que J’ai ecrit ici beaucoup de trés mauvais François; cela peut vous dégouter, vous qui ecrivez cette Langue charmante avec tant de purété & d’elegance. Mais si vous pouvez enfin dechiffrer mes Expressions obscures, gauches & impropres, vous aurez peutêtre au moins cette espece de Plaisir qu’on a en expliquant les Enigmes, ou en découvrant des Secrets.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— de Labussiere, 11 May 1779
From: Labussiere, —— de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

au Palais Royalle le 11 mai 79
Mr De Labussiere emprêssé de s’aquitér des devoirs que lui impose la reconnoisance des bontéz quil vient de recevoir a Londre de Miss chipley, est au déséspoir que des devoirs le Contrarie sur le desir quil a d’avoir l’honneur de remetre lui mesme a Monsieur Franklin ses Comiscions. Le bonheur eut étté double pour Mr. De Labussiere de joindre les témoignages d’amitié dont il est chargé a seux de réspect et d’estime quil a voué a Monsieur Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 11 May 1779
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Friend
Golden Square May 11 1779
Yours of May 4th. recd this moment. I cannot see the Commissioners of Sick & Hurt before tonights Mail, but I can equally give you an answr relating to the Prisoners because it was not longer ago than last night that one of the Commissioners calld upon me, in part to hear what was become of the Cartel Ship and anxious to proceed with the Exchange therefore without doubt you may proceed accordingly. The Commissioner, Mr Bell, who is a very well disposd person to forward the Exchange, suggested to me, to renew the application for the Exchange at Morlaix as much more expeditious. Your answer shall be immediately conveyd to the board of Sick & Hurt. If Morlaix should be chosen, I suppose a new passport would be necessary— Querry will a new passport be necessary if the second Exche. should be still at the same port as the first? I must conclude, not having this day a moment to spare. You will hear from me soon— On Nesbit fifteen Guineas, but never paid— On Vaughan twenty Guineas, wch I consider not as publick prisoners money, but private upon Your own Acct: therefore remains in my hand— All the other prisoners money has been expended a long while ago. I am Yrs &c. &c
D.H—
Compliments from another quarter

Notation: D.H. May 10. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edward Newenham, 11 May 1779
From: Newenham, Sir Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Geneva 11th May 1779
I have the honour to inform your Excellency, that I have this day, received a Letter from my worthy Friends Messrs: Folsh and Hornbostel of Marsailles, enclosing a Copy of his Excellencys the Count de Vergenne’s Letter to the Marquiss de Pilles Governor of that City, granting me and my Sons permission, at your recommendation, to remain there; having been constantly travelling ever since, I could not receive that favour Sooner, or I should have acknowledged the particular honour—
I remained at Marsailles, as long as I possibly could without creating a Diffidence or Distrust in Government; having assured the Gentlemen there, that I would not desire to Stay longer, than the Time, I might possibly receive a Letter of Leave; when that Time elapsed, I left that City with much regret; for I would not on any account be even looked upon with a Jealous Eye or Suspected of acting an unworthy part in a Kingdom, where I and my Sons had received accumulated favours—
Permit me to take this earliest opportunity to return Your Excellency my most Sincere thanks for the honour you did me, & to assure you, that you should not have received any discredit from mine or my Sons Conducts, and that your worthy Countrymen shall always receive a reciprocal friendship from me; The warm parts I took in favour of the Liberties of the united states of North America, are well Known in Ireland and England; The Journals of our Parliament record parts of them, by the Motions I made; and many of your Excellency’s Countrymen have felt my Love for them; Your Friendship will, if Possible, add to my former marks of regard to such of your Brave, Worthy and Virtuous Countrymen, as the fortune of War may render my Country a place of their Temporary Residence— Accident, only, prevented my being in that Land of Freedom last December; having agreed with Captain Smith of Chesnut street in Philadelphia, master of the Ship Resolution, for my passage with my Eldest Son; being determined (if I live) to settle part of my Family in the Jerseys or Pensylvania—
After a Tour through Italy with my Sons, whose health is re-established, I am now on my Journey to Ireland through Germany, and mean to take my Passage from Ostend or Calais, May I Entreat your Excellency will grant me, My Sons and one Servant a Protection against any American Ships of War that may meet the pacquet Boat in which we sail, and to add to that honour, by obtaining me & my Sons the like favour from his Majesty, in Case of meeting any of his Ships or Vessels of War in our passage from Calais or Ostend to England, & from England to Ireland.
I flatter myself that your Excellency will excuse the trouble & Freedom of this Letter, and you may rely upon my not disgracing your favour; I hope to be honoured with an Answer, directed to Sir Edward Newenham, Poste Restante, Ostend, where, I hope to be in about 14 Days—
I have the Honour to be, Sir, with Every sincere mark of Respect & Regard Your Excellencys Most obliged & most obedient Humble Sert.
Edward Newenham

Notation: Eduard Newenham Geneva 11. may. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Isaiah Robinson, 11 May 1779
From: Robinson, Isaiah
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honble. Sir
Bordeaux 11th May 1779
I arrived here a few days ago from Virga. in a Ship, built there, belonging to Philadelphia, having had leave of absence from the Marine Committee for that purpose. I should have done myself the Honor to have wrote You earlier, aprizing You of the well being of your Family, & Friends in America, had not the Chevalier de Crenis, who came passenger with me, and who is intrusted with Letters for You, proposed setting out for Paris, on our first arrival. He has been detained by Indisposition, but I hope will be enabled to prosecute his Journey in a Day, or two, Your letters by Him will afford You much later, & I doubt not much more Authentick Intelligence, than I can pretend to give You; to these therefore I beg leave to refer You on that Subject.
I trust Your Excellency will not deem me impertinent, or troublesome in Solliciting your information, & advice in an affair, that concerns myself. At the time my late worthy Friend Capt. Lambert Wicks had the Honor of bringing You to France, He, & I entered into an Agreement to share equally whatever prize Money either of Us might be entitled to from any Captures made on our different Cruizes, we had indeed no written Instruments executed between us to that purpose, but there are in Philada. several, who were witnesses of the Contract, the Depositions of some of whom with the proper Certificates I have bought with me; it is supposed in America, that from the number of Capt. Wick’s Prizes, his Quota must have amounted to a considerable Sum I have not learnt that any remittence has been Made, nor am I aprized of the proper Channel, thro which to atain to any certain knowledge of what may be done in the Business, since my Arrival here, I have been informed by a Gentleman, a Friend of Mine that a very Valuable part of the prize Goods, were a short time since remaining unsold at Pt. Lorient, I therefore take the Liberty to Sollicit your Excellency’s advice, & assistance in the Matter, not at all doubting, from your wonted goodness, & Candour, tho I have not the Honor of being personally known to You, Your affording it me.
As the Ship, General Mercer, in which I am will sail in a few Weeks for Philadelphia, is a remarkable fast Sailer, well armed, mounting Eighteen six pounders, & will be mann’d proportionably, it may be a good opportunity to send to Congress, or Your Friends, whatever you may have Occasion to dispatch in such Case You may depend on my utmost Care, & punctuality Should Your Excellency do me the Honor to write me, Youll please Order such Letters to be put under Cover to, or directed to the Care of John Bonfield to whom my Ship, and Cargoe are Adressd.
I have the Honor to be with most perfect Respect Your Excellency’s most Obedt. Servt.
Isaiah Robinson
The Honble. Benjn. Franklin Esqr. Paris

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjn. Franklin Esqr / Plenipotentiary / to the United States of America / at the Court / of Versailles / a Passy Pres Paris / de Vlles.
Notation: Isaiah Robinson Bordeaux 11e may 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sutton de Clonard, 11 May 1779
From: Sutton de Clonard, Jean, comte
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Ruë Colbert 11 May 1779./.
Mr. Stephen Merchant of Boston, is come from Dunkirk to Sollicite your Excellency for an American Commission to Enable him to Command the Cutter of 16 guns which I mention’d to you— I request you may gratify him therein. This Vessel will have a very good Crew, American & Irish; As She Sails extremely well, She must do considerable Execution—
Thomas Wilkinson, formerly Pilot for the Irish Channel, on board the Drake, is not yet order’d to Nantes for being Sent on the Cartel Ship, as you was kind enough to promise— He was lately order’d to remove from St. Pol de Leon, to a town call’d Fougere, where he now is. You’ll much oblige me in ordering his Speedy Exchange—
I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient, and most humble Servant
De Clonard

Addressed: To His Excellence B. Franklin Esqr / Minr. Plenipy. of the United States / of America / at Passy
Notation: De Clonarg Paris 11e. may 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 12 May 1779
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir
London 12. May 1779
My journey hither was a favourable one & I am in hopes will turn out to good account; I have not yet however been able to deliver all Your letters—those for the environs of London are yet in my possession, as I preferred keeping them a day or two to make a personal delivery of them, to the risqueing them by penny post. I this day deliverd Miss Shipleys— His Lordship was not at home to join in the general satisfaction & joy expressd by the whole Female part of the Family on hearing from Yourself that you were well & happy— I got a share of consequence by being Your messenger, and was rogue enough to wish (when I saw a hasty kiss given to B F at the foot of Your Letter) to have the beatitude transferrd to me— It is a shame for You to be so great a monopoliser of Hearts.
I understood from the Family that a french Gentn. (I beleive the Ecuyer to the Count D Artois) sets out in the morning for Paris, & I am to send this to the Bishops for forwardance by Him.

Our matter goes on seemingly very well; in a meeting between Mr. H and a certain great man, the later seemd to catch with avidity at Mr Hs. application for an audience, & this night at nine oClock is the hour appointed for a parley: I fear it will not be in my power to forward you the result of that parley by this conveyance; as I am under injunctions from Your Ruby-lipd Correspondant to send my letter this evening; I will however keep it to the last, and at any rate risque sending another letter to the Bishops in the morning. I write You from our friend Mr Hs where I am waiting his return from Westminster Hall & for his Roast beef.
Every thing seems working well for our Country & its cause; I hope no civil discord or nasty cabals will cast a cloud over the promisd fair & serene Western Sky. Arbuthnots Squadron is not yet saild from Torbay but will go with the first fair wind; If a few Ships of War and nearly four thousand Recruits (wch. is the force going with him) can do America any further injury, I am confidant She has my friend Govr Johnstone solely to thank for it; for He stands alone as to opinion that every exertion against America is now necessary for the Safety of this Country.
Ministry seem to speak out dispondingly of their affairs in Ama & particularly for the Southern army. The exposition of the correspondence between them & their Commanders in America has servd to open the Eyes of the people a little, and the Examination into the affairs of the Howes by the evidence wch. have already been given at the bar of the House of Commons, is likely to damn them compleatly; It now appears that instead of vagabonds & poltroons the Americans are a vigilent, well disciplind, and a respectable Enemy. In the House of Lords yesterday, Ld Rockingham gave a very melancholly picture of the state of things in Ireland. It would seem to me that the period is not very distant when that oppressd people will seek relief to their distress from Congress’s & assosiations of their own. In the debate on this matter the disunion among both parties, Whigs, & Tories, was a good picture of the distraction of the times. Lord Rockingham makes a motion for the state of Ireland to be laid before the House— Lord Weymouth opposes it with the previous question— The Duke of Chandos & Lord Townsend support Lord Rockingham— The Duke of Grafton & Lord Shelburne oppose Him; & it all ends with giving the Marquis his Motion He cutting off part of His preamble.
The leaders of the Bedford party have veerd about very much of late, & are from all appearances going over to opposition. The quarrels among the Ministry has been the probable cause of this. Lord N and Lord G. G are at cat & dog if not at open rupture. Lord N——’s language is, that Lord G G is such a blundering ass & so great a fool, that it is impossible to act with Him; The other says that North is so treacherous as never to support his friends when in need and always leaves them in the Dark.— When rogues quarrel, it is to be hoped honest men will get at their right.—
There has been some accots from N York to Ministry by way of Corke that have not been good enough to give to the publick in a Gazette, consequently they were bad. The talk is that the accots from Byron in the West Indies are but indifferent,— These, together with the reports wch reignd very currently about ten days ago that overtures for Peace were negotiating, having ceasd, has causd the Stocks to fall two & a half per. Ct. lately & the City gentry are rather in the dumps. Hopeing to have an oppertunity given me to write in the morning by the same conveyance with this I shall not add further at present than that I am with very great esteem Dr. Sir Your very obligd and Obedient Servant
Tho Digges

Notation: May 12. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Landais, 12 May 1779
From: Landais, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Please Your Excellency
L’Orient May 12th 1779.
I Sailed from the River of Nantes the 10th. Instt. Came at anchor at Groay Island the 12th and into the harbour of L’Orient today, where Monsieur Ray De Chaumond Delivered me the Letter Your Excellency honnoured me with the 28th Ult. Containing Your Order to put my Self and Ship under Capt Jones Command accordinly I went Directly to Seek him and ask’d his orders. I think you Kindly for your wishes.
I am with the Greateast Respect. Your Excellency Most Obedient & Most humble Servant.
P: Landais
Excellency Bn. Franklin Minister Plenipotentiary of the united States of America

Endorsed: Capt. Landais May 12. 1779 Complies with the Orders
Notation: 8/


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Massachusetts Delegates to Congress, 12 May 1779
From: Massachusetts Delegates to Congress
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Philadelphia May 12th: 1779
The Papers enclosed will inform You of the unfortunate Loss of the American Brigantine Fair Play, with 18 of her Crew, on the 5th: Jany last, by the discharge of the Cannon of a two Gun Battery, near Port Louis in Guadaloupe—
The Governor of the Island thinking it reasonable that the Owners should recieve a Compensation for their Loss, recommended it to the Minister of the Marine of France, in a Letter whereof a translated Copy is enclosed but the Captain of the Brigantine having neglected to take duplicates of the Letter, rendered it necessary for the Owners, of whom Tristram Dalton Esqr. of Newbury port in Massachusetts Bay was one, to take additional Steps, for the recovering of their Interest.
We think it adviseable for Mr. Dalton to obtain a Compensation in the Way proposed by the Governor of Guadaloupe rather than by making a Claim thro’ Congress, on the Principle of Right: as the latter may require time, and produce an Altercation neither agreable to the Court of France nor Congress—and as we have no Reason to suppose that there was any Design in the Commandant of the Fort, to insult the Flag of the United States or injure the property or Persons of its Citizens—

Having stated the Facts we submit to your Determination the Measures proper to be pursued & remain Sir with the greatest Respect your most obt. & very hum Sert
S AdamsE GerryJames LovellS. Holten
Honble. Benj Franklin Esqr. Minister plenipotentiary of the united States at Paris

Addressed: Honble: Benjamin Franklin Esq / Minister Plenipotentiary of / the United States of America / at Paris
Endorsed: Tristram Dalton Esq Papers relating to the Loss of the Fairplay Brigantine—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georgiana Shipley, 12 May 1779
From: Hare-Naylor, Georgiana Shipley
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May the 12th 1779
You my dear Sir by your most flattering attention have anticipated my very wishes, this moment I have received from Mr Digges your kind letter & valuable present; it would be difficult to express the real pleasure they have both given me, we all are made happy from your account of your own health, my father desires me to say, that a life so precious cannot be too attentively preserved, long very long may it remain a continued blessing to Mankind.
You ask me “whether I may venture to own my correspondence with an Out-law.” Yes I will own it, nay glory in the having some little claim to the friendship & affection of the most respectable of Men.
My father sympathizes with you, in your feelings for the public calamities, the period of which I fear is yet far distant, but you have both this consolation, & a great one it is to minds like yours, that you have done every thing which judgement & integrity could suggest to avert the misfortunes that over-whelm us.
This is the third letter I have written to you lately, reckoning the one Mr Vaughan sent for me, besides which Anna-Maria writ a few lines by Gen Verdiere, it is unreasonable to intrude so often upon your goodness I therefore hasten to conclude, pray continue to believe me Your gratefull & affectionate
Georgiana Shipley
Will you forgive me, but a lock of Hair from a head I value so much, is all I have now to desire.

Addressed: A Monsr Monsieur Franklin / Passy / pres de / Paris
Endorsed: Miss Ga Shipley


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Vernon, Jr., 12 May 1779
From: Vernon, William Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 12th of May 1779
In February 1778 I embarked with the honble. John Adams Esqr. on board the American Frigate the Boston for France, for the purpose of acquiring a competent knowledge of the Language, manners, customs, manufactures, exports & imports of this Kingdom. I arrived here in April following; and having found, after three Months experience, that the frequent & inevitable company of those who spoke my native Tongue prevented one of the principal & most essential motives of my voyage being answered, I retired into the Country, where I remained ’till the end of February last. It being, Sir, the intention of my Father that I should enter into a Counting-House for twelve or eighteen months, & I myself being sensible that it is the only means of gaining a knowledge of the Commerce of France, I have made the strictest enquiry for the House of the greatest reputation & most extensive correspondence here; from which it appears that that of Messrs. Feyers freres is upon the most solid foundation & the best adapted in every respect to the ends which I seek. But the improbability of an admittance into it without proper letters of recommendation deters me from attempting it, and (join’d to an ardent desire that I have to execute as soon as possible the views with which I left my native Country & to answer as far as in me lays the expectations of a Parent) induces me to take the Liberty of addressing you upon this subject & of desiring (through the medium of a letter with which I was honored to you by the Honble. John Handcock Esq) that you would take the trouble of writing a few lines to those Gentlemen in my behalf, & of engaging Mr. Le Grand the American Banker, who is a particular Correspondent of theirs, to give them a line in my favour.
I flatter myself, Sir, that you will not hesitate to comply with my request, when you reflect that you will render essential service to one whom a continued remorse disquietes for the loss of that time which ought to be employed in acquiring some knowledge that may make him a fit member for Society, & may qualify him for rendering some service to his Country which will ever be his chief ambition. I beg, Sir, that you will excuse this freedom & accept of the assurance of the most sincere respect & the sentiments of esteem with which I have the honor to be Sir your most obet. & most hlb servant
William Vernon JUNR.

Addressed: A son Excellence / Benjamin Franklin Ecuyer / Plénipotentiaire des Etats Unis / de l’Amerique / à Paris
Notation: William Vernon junr. Bordeaux 12. May 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Tristram Dalton, 13 May 1779
From: Dalton, Tristram
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Philadelphia May 13th. 1779
I take the Liberty of enclosing to You sundry Papers, relative to the Loss of the Brigne. Fair Play—which Vessel was sunk, last Jany, by Shot, fired from a small Battery, on the Island of Gaudaloupe—
The Depositions of Andrew Giddings & S Mc Clintock, the two principal Officers on Board said Brig, contain the particular Circumstances of this unhappy Misfortune—
The Letter from the Governor of Gaudaloupe, to the Minister of the Marine Department in France, shows his Opinion, that Indemnification ought to be made to the Sufferers, & recommends the same accordingly—

Capt Giddings not having taken proper Care to procure authenticated Copies of the Governor’s said Letter, render’d it Necessary, in the Opinion of the concerned, for me to repair to this City, for further Advice—
The enclosed Letter, which the Honl Delegates from the State of Massachusetts, have favor’d me with, shows their Advice as to the Mode of my Proceedings— And the Letter to Monseigr Sartine, which the Minister of France in America has honored me with, evinces his Opinion, in Corroboration of that of the Governor of Guadaloupe, to be, that Indemnification be made us—recommending the same—
The Appraisement of the Value of the Vessel by Gentlemen of Character, under Oath, and who are not interested, must leave the Owners free from Suspicion that they ask any thing more than Justice—indeed, the Sum mentioned therein of 26666 & ⅔ spanish milled Dollars, would have been no Inducement for them to have sold the Brig, when they took into Consideration the Probability of a most successful Cruize, which she was then entring upon—
Having, Sir, thus referred to the several Papers enclosed, I presume to ask the Favor of your kind Assistance to put this Affair in such a Line, at the Court of France, as that the Owners may receive full Indemnification for their Loss— giving Orders for any Intelligence, you may think proper, to be forwarded to me at Newburyport in the State of Massachusetts—
I cannot omit beseeching your Attention also to the Case of the Families of the Eighteen Men, who, by this Accident, unhappily perished—and to the remaining part of the Crew, who lost all they had on Board—Any Allowances made on this Acct we wish might be distinguished from the Indemnification to the Owners—and that the whole, which may be granted, be paid into the Hands of Jonathan Williams Esq—or to his Assigns, if He is not in France—subject to my further Directions—
Asking your Excuse for this Interruption to your public, and infinitely more important Concerns, I beg Leave to acknowledge myself to be, with the greatest Respect and Esteem, Sir Your most obedt hble Servt
Tristram Dalton
Honle Benjn Franklin Esqre—

Endorsed: Mr Dalton’s Letter relating to the Loss of the Brigt. Fairplay, Valuation Families of Persons drowned, &c,


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Hyacinthe de Magellan, 13 May 1779
From: Magellan, Jean-Hyacinthe de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Dr. and most Respected Friend
London 13 May—79
You’ll allow me these epithets, for the sake of my hearty wishes whatever relates you or to yours. This Vol. lately published, is sent by the author, whose heart you Know well to be as a friendly one, as he is an upright and worthy man. He told me, that he had nothing particular to add: and only to assure you of the Continuation of his and of every other Common friend, good wishes for your wellfare and of all mankind at Large for such is in reality the large Scop, or aim of your actions.
Dor. le Begue du Presle, will Receive, I hope, in a few weeks, some sheets I’ll send, to Compleat a set of Miller’s botanical Collection, a work which you must know, has been Carried into execution, by our worthy friend Dr. Fothergill, who desired I should send it to you, in order to be safely forwarded, if possible, as a present from him to the Philos. Society at Philadelphia. He had no time to write to you at present, or perhaps, nothing moreover to say in the present critical circumstances of the times: only whished to present you with his friendly wishes & Respt.
N.B. The principal part of the above botanical work is already in the hands of our friend Dor. le Begue du Presle: and I have already told him of its destination as soon as it should be compleated.
I ever am from the botom of my heart my dear Dor. & Friend your most obedt. hble. obliged
Magellan

Notation: Megellan 13 May 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 14 May 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
L’orient May 14 1779
The Day before Yesterday, We arrived here, in two Days from Nantes, all well:
There is a Frigate now turning into this Port, which is said to be Le Sensible, & if this is true, I hope, it will not be a long Time before We get to sea.
The Chevalier de La Luzerne I hope is sensible of the Value of every Moment in the last half of the Month of May towards a Voyage to America.— If We wait untill the Middle of June, We May very well chance to have a Passage of Eleven or Twelve Weeks.
In my last Letter I mentioned my Hope that the Chevalier would go to the Northward. It is true that I am much interested in this, but I hope my own share in this Buisiness, did not entirely suggest that Wish.— The greatest Concourse of British Men of War is undoubtedly at present between the West India Islands and those Parts of America which lie between Rhode Island and Georgia. Captain Jones in a Vessell from Baltimore, whom I saw at his arrival in at st Nazare which was last sunday night in a Passage of Thirty days told me there were three British Frigates cruising in the Mouth of Cheasapeak Bay. As We have had no Arrival from Philadelphia so long there is great Reason to believe that there is more than one Vessell of War of the Line or Frigates cruising in Delaware Bay.— Therefore I think the Chance of getting safe into Port, is ten Times greater at Boston than Philadelphia, and I presume the Chevalier, wishes to avoid a Captivity as well as myself, altho in such an unfortunate Case he would probably be treated with more Politeness than I should.
The Transportation of his Baggage by Land, as well as that of Mr Gerard is a Thing that deserves Attention to be sure—But it had better go by Land, to Boston than by sea to New York. As to Mr Gerards I presume, he will bring nothing to Europe with him but what is absolutely necessary, as every Thing he has will fetch in America twice as much as would replace it in Europe—and in this Way Insurance & Risque will be avoided.
Mr Chaumont gave Us the Pleasure of his Company this Morning at Breakfast. His son made Us a Visit before. Both are very well.
I should be obliged to you, if you would present my Compliments to his Lady and Family, and now I have begun with the Ladies, if you think it worthwhile you will oblige me much by making my Compliments acceptable to Madame Bertin, Madame Brillon and Madame Helvetius, Ladies for whose Characters I have a very great Respect. I have the Honour to be with great Respect sir your humble servant
John Adams
His Excellency B. Franklin Esqr

Notation: Jonh Adams L’Orient may 14 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chaumont, 14 May 1779
From: Chaumont
To: Franklin, Benjamin

L’orient ce 14 may 1779.
Si vostre Excellence etoit icy, Monsieur Le Docteur, elle verroit avec plaisir Le pavillon americain flotter sur des Vaisseaux franco-americains. J’espere que toutte Cette flotte Legere appareillera du vingt trois au vingt Cinq. Vous devriez venir luy donner vostre Benediction patriarchale, elle en auroit Bezoing, Car les officiers de L’alliance sont prest a devorer leurs Capitaines et Ceux du Bonhomme Richard ne sont pas en trop Bonne intelligence. Je veux Relire L’histoire ancienne pour voir si les peuples qui ont amenés de grandes Revolutions sur le globe, sagitoient entre eux ayant mesme un ennemy a Combattre, et si Cela a été J’en Conclueray que vostre amerique sera le principe d’unne grande Revolution, Car vostre agitation est forte. Et en verité, Je n’ay encore vu de vostre païs, que vostre Excellence parfaittement Sage et Excellente. Aussi avez vous Entraisné Nostre veneration, et Je Crois que sans vous nous n’aurions pas tant aimé vos gens du Nouveau Monde, ils me font assez travailler icy a les accorder et a leur procurer leur immense necessaire.
Si vous n’estes pas en Campagne Je vous suplie d’envoyer aussitost que vous le pourez Ma Lettre a M. de la fayette et Celle a M. de Sartines.
J’embrasse vostre Excellence avec Respect et de tout mon Cœur.
Leray DE Chaumont
M. Adams est toujours CharmantM. Le Docteur franklin.

Notation: Chaumont May 14. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 14 May 1779
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir
Londo 14. May
The reason why you could not find out W. Peters by your letters was that they were directed to Nottingham instead of Liverpoole.—I have done the needful towards Your request & make no doubt of soon hearing frm him for He is in want.

I gave You a few lines by private conveyance the 12th. Int since which nothing conclusive has been done on the matter I then wrote upon. The beginning of the Business & the stage it is now in promises well, but I am too apt perhaps to doubt of real sincerity. It has been opend by one to three or four others & will from them go to another one to night or tomorrow. In such situation you may easily guess how little I have to say & where the doubt hangs. I am in tolerable spirits about it & hope soon to say more to You.
I Am very truly Your Respectful & Ob Sert
Arthur Hamilton

Notation: May 14 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Paul Jones, 14 May 1779
From: Jones, John Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored and dear Sir,
L’Orient May 14th. 1779.
I have this day received your esteemed letter of the 9th—The Alliance arrived here the 12th. and the Sensible is this day arrived at Port Louis (at the entrance of this Harbour)—There is also this day arrived here a Cutter of 18 Guns from Cherbourg—this last I hope will be added to the Armament—the Pallas with the rest of the small Vessels from Nantes have not yet appeared—and the Cutter called the Leveller from Brest is still absent.
In this situation it is impossible for me to say exactly when this little Armament will be ready to Sail—but I hope to have the Bon homme Richard transported from the Port into the Road on Sunday or Monday next with her Provision and Principal Stores on Board.— I am exceedingly Sorry that I cannot with certainty point out the day When the Marquis ought to take leave of Paris—but it will in My Opinion be Unadvisable before the 20th. or 22d. as the arrival of the absent Vessels must depend on the Situation of the Wind.—
I should be unworthy of your generous confidence should neglect to ask your Advice in any difficult situation. The Gentlemen who command Pallas and the other Vessels as they are under the American Flag will naturally expect American Commissions— I have reserved the four blank commissions for this purpose which you entrusted to my disposal—but I will not bestow them in France without your approbation.—If you approve of it I can conclud these Commissions thus
“To continue in force until revoked by Congress, by His Excellency the American Ambassador at the Court of France, or by the commander in chief of an American Squadron.”—
Instead of the customary conclusion, thus—
“To continue in force until revoked by this or a future Congress.”—
By the former of these conclusions the Commissions can be revoked should it be found expedient when the business for which they are given is compleated.— I am sorry to inform you that the Frigate le Monsieur that was expected to be under my Orders is Sailed— We Shall however I hope be able to proceed without her.—
Since the Arrival of the Alliance I have taken some pains to inform myself with respect to the Misunderstanding on board that Ship.— The Captain appears to me as a Sensible well informed Man—and there seems to be more than enough of Cabal and prejudice among the Officers— I have hitherto taken no part between them—and I am afraid that “they have too contemptible an Opinion of one anothers Understanding” to be reconciled thro my mediation— It is therefore, as well as to prevent disorders in any other of the Vessels, that I wish for a sufficient number of Officers properly Authorized to hold Courts Martial.— I hope we shall have but little occasion to hold shuch Courts—but without the means of holding them I do not see how it will be possible to keep little Minds in proper Awe.— The first Lieut. of the Alliance I am told is about to leave that Ship— And he will be inexcusable if he does so without leave—Yet I think the Service will Sustain but little loss thro his leaving it.— It is my duty further to ask your Opinion on the propriety of my giving my own Commissions to Lieutenants in the Navy and to Officers of the Volunteer Soldiers that I have inlisted.— If you Approve of it I can make these Commissions revocable at any time.— I submit the thoughts in this letter with profound deference to your Superior Understanding— I know that I have expressed myself but ill—but I have neither time to Copy nor Correct.— I am ever with heart felt affection your Excellencies very Obliged Friend & Servant
Jno P Jones

N.B. I recd. a letter this day from the Marquis by his Aid de Camp which I have not time to Ansr. therefore You will greatly Oblige me by communicating to him Such part of this letter as concerns him &c.—
His Excellency Dr. Franklin.

Notation: Capt. Jones May. 14. 1779


Title: William Temple Franklin to Francis Coffyn, 14 May 1779
From: Franklin, William Temple
To: Coffyn, Francis

Sir
May 14.—79.
I am Directed by my Grand father to transmit you the enclosed Commission for a Privateer, together with the instructions to the Commander and the bond to be signed by the Owners you are desired carefully to attend to the filling up of the Blanks both in the Commission and Bond.
In the Commission opposite to this (✻) mark, after the words “belonging to” the owners are to be inserted as also opposite to this (‡) mark after “The said” in the Bond their names are to come in nearly at the Top after that of the Capts. you will easily perceive how the other Blanks are to be filled up by what goes before & what after.
I Likewise enclose a Copy of the oath of allegiance to the united states which it is necessary the Captain should take in your Presence before you deliver him the Commission.
I have the honour to be &c.
W. T. F.
M. Coffyn.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Schweighauser, 15 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

Sir
Passy May 15 1779.
I have before me your favour of the 27th. past, & the 1st. & 6th. of May. In these Letters there are several Things upon which you ask my direction, such as the Demand of the Mate and Seamen of the Brigt. Morris, the Propriety of Sending away the Same Brig without Convoy or detaining her till the next, and the Affair of the Swedish Captain’s not having produced any Act of Property, which you think excludes his Pretention to Damages. In every thing that relates to Maritime Customs and Usages, and to Commerce, you can certainly, from the Knowledge you have obtained by experience, judge much better than me, who am totally unacquainted with such Matters; and as you act by Powers from the Committee of Congress convey’d to you thro’ their late Agents for Commercial Purposes, it Seems to me that you are fully impower’d to judge and determine in these Cases, without being at the Trouble, and Losing the time, consequent of consulting me at such a distance which must often be attended with great Inconveniencies. With regard to the Swedish Ship in particular, you have in your Possession all the Papers relating to the Transaction from wich any Knowledge of the facts can be obtained; and I must leave it to you to [learn ?] from them how far the Captain is entitled or not to Damages:
I shall pay the Bills you advise me of, amounting to 65100..10..0. Tho’ not as approving your Accounts, because I have not yet had time to consider them, I can only Say at present, that the charge of Commissions at 5 per Cent on the Delivery of the tobacco’s Seems to me very extraordinary, of which I Shall Say more in my next.
I have the honour to be Sir
Mr Schwieghauser


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georges-Marie Butel-DuMont, 16 May 1779
From: Butel-Du Mont, Georges-Marie
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
à Paris ce 16. Mai 1779
J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer un Billet d’associé et trois autres billets dont vous pouvez disposer pour entrer à L’assemblée publique que la société libre d’Emulation tiendra le Vingt de ce mois dans une salle de l’hôtel de soubise.
Je suis avec une profonde vénération, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très Obéïssant serviteur
Du Mont Secrt. de la société.

Notation: Du Mony Paris ce 16e. may 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Beckwith, 17 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Beckwith, John

Sir,
Passy, May 17, 1779.
Having assured you verbally that I had no authority to treat or agree with any military person, of any rank whatever to go to America, I understand your expressions, that “you will take your chance if I think you may be useful,” to mean that you will go over without making any terms with me, on a supposition, which you also mention, that my recommendation will be regarded by the Congress, and that you shall thereupon be employed in our armies.
Whoever has seen the high character given of you by Prince Ferdinand (under whom you served) to Lord Chatham, which I saw when in London, must think that so able an officer might have been exceedingly useful to our cause, if he had been in America at the beginning of the war. But there is a great difficulty at this time in introducing one of your rank into our armies, now that they are all arranged and fully officered; and this kind of difficulty has been found so great, and the Congress has been so embarrassed with numbers of officers from other countries, who arrived under strong recommendations, that they have been at above 100,000 livres expence to pay the charges of such officers in coming to America and returning to Europe, rather than hazard the discontent, the placing them to the prejudice of our own officers who had served from the beginning, would have occasioned. Under these circumstances they have not merely left me without authority, but they have in express terms forbid me to agree with or encourage by any means, the going over of officers to America in expectation of employment. As to my recommendation, whatever weight it might have had formerly, it has in several instances been so improperly employed through the too great confidence I had in recommendations from others, that I think it would at present be of no importance if it were necessary; but after that above mentioned of so great a general, and so good a judge of military merit as Prince Ferdinand, a character of you from me would be impertinence.
Upon the whole, I can only say, that if you choose to go over and settle in our land of liberty, I shall be glad to find you there on my return as a fellow citizen, because I believe you will be a very good one, and respected there as such by the people. But I cannot advise or countenance your going thither with the expectation you mention. With great esteem, I have the honour to be, &c.
B. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Woestyn frères, 17 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Woestyn frères

Gentlemen
Passy May 17. 1779.
Before the Rect. of your last favour of the 11 Inst. I had assured M. Le Roy who wrote me on the same subject that tho’ I could not take a Part in your Ship I was very Sensible of the Honour you proposed to do me by giving her my Name, and therefore should make no objection to it. But since you desire my Consent in Writing, I hereby give it; wishing most sincerly to her and her Owners all the success that can be imagined. I have the honour to be, Gentlemen your most obedient
Mrs. Woestyn, Neg. Dunkerque


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Marc Le Fort, 17 May 1779
From: Le Fort, Marc
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Marseille le 17: may 1779.
Nous sommes très reconnoissans de la peine que vous avés pris de nous faire part, par votre lettre du 23. juillet de l’année passée, de ce qui etoit venu à votre connoissance concernant le rembours ordonné par le congrès de Williamsbourg de la valeur du senau l’Elegante & la Cargaison & qui a eu son Effet, pour la somme de 5000 pounds; Nous prenons encore la liberté de recourir à vos bontés & vous prier de vouloir donner Cours à lincluse pour le sr: Antoine Gautier notre preposé & chargé de nos affaires à Williamsbourg, le recommander aux Magistrats pour l’aider à se faire rendre compte du Capne. Collineau de Bordeaux qui a mal agi dans la gestion du susdit Senau & refuse de vuider ses mains des fonds qu’il a en maniement;
Nous vous prions de plus Voulloir engager le Congrès de Williamsbourg de recevoir en depost du sr: Ante. Gautier la somme de sept mille pounds en payant l’interest annuel de 6% le dit Gautier nous marquant en date du 17. Janvier dernier que le Congrès ne prenoit plus d’argent à interest, nous savons cependant que divers particuliers en ont placé de meme en d’autres Provinces, & nous craignons que ce ne soit Un pretexte dont se sert le sr Gautier pour garder ses fonds en maniement. Si vous pouviés nous procurer les moiens de retirer cette somme par lettres de Change, ou autrement, nous Vous en aurions une veritable obligation. Daignés Monsieur prendre en Consideration cette affaire, & agréer les sentimens de la respectueuse Estime avec laquelle nous sommes Monsieur Vos très humbles & très obts serviteurs
ppre. de Mrs. faure Douneau & Cie: Le Fort
Nous evaluons le pound 17 l.t. 5 s. argent de france.Mr. B. Franklin à Passy

Notation: Le Fort 17. May 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Morel, 17 May 1779
From: Morel, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Versailles ce 17. Maÿ 1779.
Je prens la liberté de présenter a Votre Excelance; Le Tableau des forces actuelle de la france; Tant par Terre, que par Mer; ouvrage que J’ai deja eu L’honneur de présenter aux Princes; et Seigneurs de La premiere distinction ainsÿ qu’a quelque uns des Ministres Etrangers.; M. Le Marquis de La Faÿette a qui J’ai eu L’avantage den offrir; ma fait L’honneur de me demander si Jen avoit presenté une pareille à votre Excellance; sur ce que il ma fait l’honneur de me faire dire que c’est ouvrage pouroit peut être vous faire plaisir cest ce qui me détermine à avoir L’honneur de vous presenter ce fruit de mes Mediocres Talens;
Je Serai Trop heureux si mes Travaux peuvent Mériter L’honneur du suffrage de votre Excelance.
Je Suis avec Le plus profond respect de Votre Excelance Le Trés humble et Trés obeissant Serviteur
Morelfils dun ancien officier auservice des Troupes du Roi.

Notation: Morel Versailles 17 may 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Stephen Sayre, 17 May 1779
From: Sayre, Stephen
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam 17th May. 1779
I this moment arrived in the City, & have only time enough to request your Excellency, if not done already, to send me Letters of recommendation for the Govr. of Martinico, or Dominica, as I mean to sail from hence to St Eustatia, from thence visit those Islands.
I am with all possible Respect your Excellency’s most obedient Servant
Stephen Sayre

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Benjn Franklin / Embassadour extra: / de Americque. / a Paris—
Notation: Sayee Stephen 17 May 1779.—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to All Captains and Commanders of Vessels of War, [18 May 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: All Captains and Commanders of Vessels of War

Gentlemen,
[May 18, 1779]
The Bearer of this, Mr. George F. Norton, a Native of Virginia, and returning thither with his Family, has, during his Residence in England, manifested on all Occasions his Attachment to the Cause of Liberty, and his Compassion towards his Countrymen confin’d in the English Prisons, many of whom he has assisted in their Distresses with a liberal Hand, as they have acknowledged to me with grateful Expressions of their Obligation to him.— I therefore recommend it earnestly to you, that if in his Passage you should happen to meet with him, you would not consider him as an Enemy on Account of his having lived in England; but treat him as a Friend & Countryman with all Civility, not retarding him in his Voyage, but affording him all the Assistance in your Power that his Situation & Circumstances may render necessary. With best Wishes for your Success in your Cruizes, I have the honour to be Gentn Y. m. o. h. S.—
BF.M. P. of the U.S.
To all Captains & Commanders of Vessels of War, Privateers & Letters of Marque belonging to the United States of America,
At Passy, this 18th. Day of May— 1779.—

Notation: Pass for Mr Norton.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 18 May 1779
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr Sir
—18 May—79
Mine of the 12th. & 14th. Inst. have I suppose got safe to hand— The last would give you some idea how matters stood at the parting of our friend with another personage in regard to a certain matter: The opening was auspicious & the parting favourable to our wish— Since that period till yesterday the affair remaind in embrio; others I apprehend were consulted upon the occasion of the first parley, and those others recommended it should be laid before a principal or cheif Phisician, which I suppose was done on Sunday last. As I apprehended the business alluded to ought to be pushd forward or settled with as much expedition as possible for fear of any other interposition, I urgd my friend to look to another consultation— He did so very lately, & the answer was “I will speak to you soon I am not yet ready for you.” In this situation it now rests—appearances tell me the Phisick is working powerfully— You know what a heavy dose it is.
Genl Howes evidence is yet before the House, & from the vast strength of proofs as to improbability of success in Ama. it would appear that Ministry will give up the idea of subjugation— Howe has 10 or 12 more Officers to call in proof thereof, and their weight of evidence is to be ballancd by about as many Mac’s from the Highlands and twenty or thirty American Torey refugees now in England with Joe Galloway at their head. The fleet for N York & Georgia is still at Torbay, & likely to be there while these western storms prevail— Sr. J. Wright has returnd to London a little down in the mouth.
I am very truly & wth much esteem Yrs.
V. J. D——D

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur—B—F—/ Passy
Notation: Digges 18. May 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 18 May 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Lahaie 18e. May 1779
Vous verrez, par l’imprimé ci-joint, que je n’ai point tardé de faire usage de ce que vous m’avez envoyé dernierement. Les mêmes pieces sont insérées aussi dans les gazettes Hollandoises.
Voilà dequoi il faut remplir les papiers, & non des altercations entre particuliers, tristes effets de la mésintelligence, de l’ambition peut-être & de l’envie.
J’espere que ma démarche, ci-jointe, auprès du Gd. Pre., aura votre approbation.
Il n’y a rien de nouveau ici. Une personne bien instruite a voulu parier tout ce qu’on auroit voulu, en bonne compagnie, qu’un grand personnage saura bien traîner & éluder les convois pour les munitions navales jusqu’à-ce que la guerre soit finie. Tant pis pour lui: cette mauvaise volonté diminuera d’autant son crédit, & l’amour que lui portoit la nation. Pour nous, il ne nous importe guere qu’on donne ou non ces convois: mais il nous importe d’avoir un fort parti ici contre tout ce qu’il voudroit faire de plus pour la Cour Br., & Dieu merci nous l’avons.

Je suis avec un très-grand respect Monsieur Votre très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur,
D.
Copie d’une Lettre que j’ai écrite au Gd. Pre. d’Hollde.

Monsieur
Lah. 7e. May 1779
Mr. l’Avocat Tullinghh d’Oldenbarnevelt m’a adressé un paquet de papiers, duplicats & triplicats, contenants Requête au Congrès-Général des Etats-Unis de l’Amérique, Procure en blanc, & nombre de Pieces justificatives, pour servir à réclamer & constater la proprieté Hollandoise d’un bâtiment & Cargaison de Rotterdam, pris il y a deux ans environ par un Armateur Americain, & condamné comme propriété Angloise par l’Amirauté de Charlestown en Caroline; avec priere de faire parvenir ces papiers à mes Amis en Amérique, & de les intéresser à cette cause, pour que protection lui soit accordée, & justice rendue. Il a ajouté de bouche, que comme il ne paroissoit pas à propos que, dans les conjonctures présentes, la République intervienne dans cette affaire, Vre. Exc. avoit conseillé aux Réclamants, de se servir de mon Ministere pour la fin susdite.
Je me ferai un vrai plaisir, Monsieur, de rendre service aux sujets d’un Etat, sous la protection duquel je goûte depuis longtemps la douceur de vivre, si je puis obtenir quelque assurance de la part de Vre. Exce., que mes offices ne déplairont point au Gouvernement, & qu’il les verra, au contraire, d’un oeil analogue à la bonne intention qui me porte à les rendre.
Je suis avec un très-grand respect, &c.

Je ne m’attendois pas à une réponse par écrit. Le Pre. ne pouvoit me la faire sans trop se commettre. 3 ou 4 jours après j’allai lui en demander une de bouche. Il m’avoua qu’il m’avoit renvoyé cette affaire dans les termes qu’on me l’avoit dit; & que je ferois plaisir de m’en mêler, pour éviter un éclat & des désagrémens à l’Etat.

J’ai déjà expédié tout cela conséquemment en Amérique.
Passy à Son Exc. Mr. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats-unis de l’Amérique / à la Cour de France / à Passy./.
Notation: Dumas May 7. 79


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Chaumont, 19 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Chaumont

Dear Sir,
Passy May 19. 1779.
I am sorry and very much ashamed of the Quarrel on Board the Alliance: But I beg you would not form an Opinion of the Americans in general from this Accident. Where a Number of Men of whatever Nation are together with little or nothing to do they are apt to be mutinous and quarrelsome. I hope when they are fully employ’d they will behave with more discretion and more good Nature to each other. At this Distance I cannot judge between them. They are now under the Orders of Commodore Jones, whose Authority exercised with Prudence and Temper, will I hope be sufficient to compose these Dissensions and re-establish good Order and Harmony among those People, and to him I must leave them.
I forwarded immediately your Letter to M. De Sartine and the Marquis de La Fayette. I suppose you have herewith their Answers.
I hear from Holland that a Bill of M. Holker fils, drawn on you and accepted, is gone back protested for Nonpayment. I suppose this Accident happened by your being out of Town. I am sorry I did not know of it in time to prevent its being return’d. I hear it is gone back to America via St Eustatia. As that is a round-about Voyage, a Letter from you by the Ambassador may reach Mr Holker before the Protest arrives, and you may by that means save his Credit. It is for this Reason I mention it.
With the sincerest Esteem, I am Dear Sir, Your most obedt humble Servant.
B Franklin
M. De Chaumont.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 19 May 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Lahaie 19e. May 1779.
Aujourdhui les Marchds. d’Amst. & de Rottm. présentent des Requêtes à L.H.P. Celle d’Amst., courte & ferme, se plaint de la réponse évasive qu’ils ont reçue de l’Amirauté, qui, sans tenir compte de la Résolution du 26 Avr., prise après celle du 26 Janv., laquelle avoit annullé la resolution du 19 Nov. dernier, qui excluoit les bois de constructn., leur a repondu n’avoir point reçu ordre d’accorder des convois illimités: ajoutant, que ce n’est pas pour être frustrés de la sorte, qu’ils ont consenti à payer double droit d’Entrée & de Gabelle.— Celle de Rottm., aussi énergique que volumineuse, représente à L.H.P. la ruine inévitable de leur ville, si leurs requêtes, tant auprès d’Elles qu’auprès du Stadhr. continuent de rester sans effet.— Vendredi L.h.p. besogneront sur ces deux requêtes.— Le Cte. de Welderen avoit eu ordre de L.h.p. de demander à la Cour d’Angle., en vertu de l’Article XII. du Traité de 1674, une révision politique des Jugemens rendus par les Juges du Royaume au sujet des prises faites sur les Hollandois: Ld. Weymouth a répondu, que les Loix du Royaume ne permettoient pas une telle revision. Ainsi les Anglois se croient en droit de ne pas observer un art. du Traité parce qu’il ne leur convient plus, un autre, parce que les Loix de leur royaume s’opposent à son exécution.
Je suis avec un grand respect, Monsieur Votre très-humble & très obéissant serviteur
D

J’ai pour garant de tout ceci notre Ami. Cette Lettre partira demain par voie de Rotterdam, pour gagner un jour sur la poste d’ici.
Dans ce moment je viens de recevoir la Visite de Mr Nicolas Davis. Il étoit allé se présenter à l’Ambassadeur, qui me l’a envoyé. Je l’ai reçu conformément à ce que vous m’en dites, Monsieur, dans l’honneur de la vôtre du 9e. May.
Passy à S.E. Mr. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Min Plenip. des Et Un. de l’Am. / en France / à Passy./.
Notation: Dumas May 9. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Lafayette, 19 May 1779
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Paris 19he May 1779
Inclos’d I have the honor to Send you a letter from Mons. de Gimat giving an account of a very dangerous division Betwen the officers of the Alliance—that I had foreSeen long ago, and I believe Some thing or other Must be done, in this affair.
I also send you the ideas for prints I have Somewhat increas’d, and I Could indeed Make out an immense Book upon so Rich a Matter— but, My dear doctor, tho’ I hate the British Nation, I however am oblig’d to Confess that those Ministers and theyr Executors are unhappily of the Same Nature (whatever Corrupted it Might be) as the rest of Mankind— do’nt you feel any Shame in thinking those people are by theyr features Some thing like men? But as they Must be known By the future American posterity, I great deal love our project, and want to be Concern’d in it as much as possible.
I’ll do Myself the honor of waïting on you friday Next, and whatever intelligences I may Collect among, and Get out from Ministerial Bosoms on american affairs I will Communicate to you.
With the Sincerest affection and esteem I have the honor to be Dear Sir Your most obedient and Most humble servant
Lafayette

They Say ireland is Rather in Motion; Do You think a corps of two thousand Men with four thousand Spare arms Might not Crowd awround them Many lovers of Liberty, and Many Ennemies to the English tyrannical governement.

Endorsed: Marquis de la Fayette & Col Gimat 19 May 79 relative to the dangerous Animosities on board the Alliance.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Bazin: Receipt for China and Earthenware, 20[–21] May 1779
From: Bazin, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May 20[–21], 1779

    1779
    Fourni a Monsieur francklin, Par Bazin Md fayancier rue des fossés st Germain L’auxerrois, hôtel de Lizieux a Paris

20 May
  15.
Douzaines d’assiettes fayance blanche a 6 l.t.
90l.t....
"..."

2.
Grands plats ronds
  9...
"..."

  6.
  Dits plus petits
  12...
"..."

12.
  Dits d’Entrée
  14...
8..."

12.
  Dits d’Entremets
  12...
"..."

4.
  Grands plats Carré
  6...
"..."

  4.
  Dits petits
  4...
16..."

  2.
  Grands plats ovals
  9...
"..."

  2.
  Dits moyens
  6...
"..."

  2.
  Dits
  4...
"..."

  4.
  Dits
  4...
16..."

  4.
  Dits
  4...
"..."

  2.
  Terrines ovals
  24...
"..."

  2.
  Saladiers
  3...
"..."

  6.
  Coquetiers de porcelaine blanche
  7...
4..."

  14.
  Pots a jus Id
  24...
10..."

  1.
  Moutardier et Cuilliere doré
  8...
"..."

  6.
  Caraffes a lEau de Cristal
  4...
4..."

  24.
  Goblets a glaces de Cristal
  6...
"..."

  24.
  Assiettes porcelaine bleu
  48...
"..."

  1.
  Jatte porcelaine de sèvre a fleurs
  12...
"..."

  2.
  Couvercles de theyeres
  8...
"..."

  2.
  Seaucieres et plateaux
  4...
8..."

  1.
  Theyere blanche
  1...
10..."

  12.
  Goblets de Cristal Taillé
  7...
4..."

  12.
  Dits unis
  1...
4..."

  2.
  Pots a lEau blanc
  1...
10..."

  1.
  Cuilliere a Moutarde
  "...
18..."

  1.
  Jatte bleu
  1...
4..."

  Port a passy
  15...
"..."

353l.t.
16 s"

Jay reçu de Monsieur francklin la somme de trois cent cinquante trois Livres seize sols pour solde du present memoire a paris ce 21 may 1779
Bazin

Endorsed: Bazin’s Acct for Earthen & China Ware 353 Livres.. 16s.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Paradise and William Jones, 20 May 1779
From: Paradise, John,Jones, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hotel du Port Mahon, Rue Jacob, May 20th, 1779.
Mr. Paradise and Mr. Jones present their best respects to Dr. Franklin. They are just arrived at Paris; and, as they were desired by their worthy friends, Dr. Price and Dr. Priestley, to deliver to him their publications, they have left the books and letters at Passy, where they propose to have the honor of waiting upon the most respectable of patriots and philosophers, on any morning when they hear that he is likely to be at leisure.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel W. Stockton, 20 May 1779
From: Stockton, Samuel W.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
The Hague May 20th. 1779.
I did myself the honor of writing to you the 28th. ulto.—it rather gives me pain to trouble you so soon after, but the kindness expressed in your’s of the 18h. March that I might rely on such friendly offices as might be in your power, gives me my best apology.
I think myself unfortunate, that (from the present scantiness of my finances) I am deprived of paying my personal respects to you at Paris before I depart for Ama.: I am obliged therefore thro’ this channel to tell you how much I shall thank you for any dispatches you may expect soon to forward for Congress, and as I know of no immediate conveyance from this country, you will permit me to remain in hopes of your friendly attention: In the mean time, as I am informed Mr. Pringle intends to leave Paris for this Country about the last of this month, may I request you for a few recommendatory letters, by him, to individuals in different parts of Ama. as I know not in what part of the continent I shall arrive? And as I have for this last year been in the public service, I need not say how much I shall be obliged for a few lines in my favor to The Honble The Committee of Congress for foreign affairs, if you think it proper. As a foundation for these letters I beg leave to subjoin the following copies (the original of the first being in your own possession) without troubling you with others.— “Dear friend. London May 16. 1778. The bearer Mr. Stockton, brother of your friend Richard Stockton Esquire of New Jersey, wishes much to be introduced to you. I have not had the pleasure of Mr. Stockton’s acquaintance, but my brother is intimate with him, and assures me that, upon all occasions, from the beginning of the controversy between the United States & this Country, he has shewn himself a zealous & steady assertor and supporter of the rights of America. May I therefore be permitted to recommend Mr. Stockton to your notice & protection. I am with the greatest respect & esteem, dear friend, your’s most affecty. His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr. &c &c &c. Saml. Wharton.”
You will permit me to add an extract of a letter from Wm. Lee Esqr. to Mr. Cushing of Boston dated March 8th. 1779. “Dear Sir. I am happy to have it in my power to introduce to your acquaintance a worthy countryman Saml Witham Stockton Esqr. This gentleman has been some time with me in the service of his country, to which he has rendered considerable advantages, and which has much more to expect from his abilities & zeal in the cause of liberty. He now returns home & may possibly visit your city, in which case I beg leave to recommend him to your friendship & civilities &c &c.”
There is no news of importance here— Your cautionary letter to Mr. Dumas respecting Nicholas Davis has prevented the latter from imposing on several persons in this country.— I was induced to hope for some advantages for Ama. from the conferences at Teschen.—
The Prince of Or——e is again endeavoring to delay the equipment of the convoys, & the timid, lethargic souls of the 7 Provinces, I am afraid, will require a declaration from Spain or an attack upon their convoys by the English, before they will be thoroughly awakened, or before the patriotic party in this country can get the better of the intrigues of the Br: Court.
I am just now informed by a letter from Amsterdam of Mr. S. Sayre’s being in that city, having arrd. there a few days ago from Copenhagen by water.
I have requested Mr. Pringle to wait upon you for the above mentioned letters, before he leaves Paris— Your good offices in this instance will greatly add to my obligations & gratitude for your friendliness already experienced.
That you may long continue in health & the discharge of your public duties, and at length once more give Ama. an opportunity of personally testifying her highest & most grateful approbation for your important services in her glorious cause, is the sincere & most ardent wish of Sir Your most obliged & most respectful Servant.
Saml. W. Stockton.
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: To / His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esquire / Minister Plenipotentiary at / the Court of Versailles &c &c &c / at Passy / near Paris.
Notation: Stocton S. W. 20 May 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 20 May 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 20 May 1779.
J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer, M, un mémoire qui concerne M. de Vatteville, issu d’une des meilleures maisons du canton de Berne; vous verrez que cet officier souhaiteroit d’entrer au Service des Etats-unis: les témoignages avantageux que l’on donne de ses talents militaires, me persuadent que le Congres feroit une très-bonne aquisition, et si des obstacles invincibles ne vous arrêtent point, je vous serois particulierement obligé si vous voulez bien seconder ses desirs./.
M. franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 21 May 1779
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr Sir
21 May 79
I was in hopes to have given you some tidings as to the bargain I was about to make for the House but as yet I am little advancd. My Brother this day slightly urgd the necessity of another meeting &a. on the business but it was “a serious matter deserving contemplation & should be attended to”—
I have done the needful as to Mr W——P——s but have not yet got his answer as to what He wants &ca—; I am told he is very poor. Should he want a small supply I have wrote him I will assist him as to negotiating the Bill. It is not unlikely He may draw upon Me for a small sum on yr. accot & I suppose it will not be disagreeable to you for me to repay myself by drawing on you. If you will allow Me to include in such bill the sum I advancd J. Brehon & four others (ie £20— for wch. You have seen a bill & promisd a friend of Yrs. You would pay) it will be a help to Me & lighten in some measure a heavy debt I have for similar services; for I can assure You I am not at present cursd with a great deal of ready Cash.

I was favord this Eveng with a sight of the letter which coverd the underwritten note & am desired to give to you with Comps &c &c.
The Commrs for Sick & hurt Seamen &c—present their Comps to Mr———, and return him thanks for the communication in his note to Mr Bell relative to the Milford transport which saild with the Amn Prisoners; And as by the orders the Commrs at present are under, further numbers will be sent as long as there are any English Prisoners taken by Americans to be returnd in Exchange for them, they would be obligd to Mr ——— for any information he may be able to give them, or for procuring such as may be relied upon, as to the number of such Prisoners on the other side the water, as well as for giving such intimations there, as may be the means of having the numr of Prisoners to be returnd for the next hundred that will go from hence, at hand to be embarkd without detaining the vessel unnecessarily— By Mr ——— not mentioning any thing relating to Morlaix, the board concludes he has not recd any ansr upon that point, & should be glad, if He thinks proper, that it might be mentiond again, as it would be a much more convenient port.
The Cartel Vessel is not yet returnd & every party concernd wonders very much at her delay as the winds have been fair
A Packet from Ja——a is arrivd & brings no news that is yet let out consequently none good. She saild the 4 Apr—& might have brought accots from St. Kitts to the 25 March.—
The following illustrious names are summond to give evidence to the Ho. of Commons as to the expedience of the prosecution of the Amn War & to over throw the testimonies of Lord Cornwallis Genl Grey, Coll Montresor, Capt Hammond &c &c. &c—
Jno Maxwell Esq. Jos Galloway Esq—Andw. Allen Esqr— Jno Patterson Theos. Morris—Enoch Storey—& Jebas Fisher— I think they should have added James Delancy

Addressed: A Monsieur Monsr. Franklin
Notation: Digges 21. May 1779.