Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 19 November 1781
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam November 19th 1781
Your obliging Letter of the 7th instant I had the honor to recieve on Saturday night by Mr Fox, to whom I shall be happy to shew every Civility in my Power, according to the Recommendations of your Excellency and Mr Franklin.
I have recieved a Letter from Captain Jackson and another from my Boy at Bilbao, which inform me of their Intention to embark for Salem in a Privateer which was to sail the 16th, so that I suppose they are now at Sea bound home. I thank your Excellency however for your kind offer concerning my Son.
As to the Goods, the question still is what is to be done with them? There is here a Capt. Grinnel, a sober prudent Man, who has long used this Trade, to whom I read your Excellency’s Observations concerning the sending the Goods off at this season of the year. He is of your Excellency’s Opinion, concerning their going through the English Channel, but is confident that from this time till Christmas, or a little later, it is the safest time of the whole Year to go North about. He says there is no danger from Privateers or Cruisers, and that a good Vessell, taking Advantage of the first Winter East Winds, may go with the utmost safety to the Ship and Cargo, although the Master and Crew may expect a little hardship from the Cold and the Wind. He insists upon it, if he had the Care of any Interest, public or private, he should chuse this season for safety in preference to any other. He knows the Vessels, and says they are very good, and that they are fast Sailors. If the Goods are to go, I should advise to give him the Command of one of the Vessels.
But the Question is how We shall get the Goods into our Possession? They are now in Possession of one of the owners of the Ships, who I expect will detain them until his demands are satisfied. There is no Law that I know of which authorizes him to detain the Goods, but Le droit du plus fort, ou du plus subtil. But what avails a Claim of Law in favor of the United States, in a Country where such a State is not acknowledged? It is certain no Action could be maintained in favor of the United States in any Court of Law in this Country. So that We lye at Mercy. Mr. De Neufville owns half of one of the Vessels and a Quarter of the other: but it is another of the Owners, I am told, who has possession of the Goods. I am promised Information some time to day of the Terms that will be insisted on. Come. Gillon, I am told, engaged these Ships, and the Goods were put on board before the Charter Parties were signed. He went out of the Texel without signing them, and one of the owners sent Orders to the Captains not to sail until they were signed, which was the Reason of their being left behind. Our hands are in the Lions Mouth. If the Terms shall not appear reasonable, what shall We do? To sell the Goods here at Vendue I fear would sink half their Value: but We had better lose half than the whole: and if this Measure should become necessary, I should think it most adviseable for your Excellency to desire Messs. Fizeaux and Grand to appoint somebody to sell them, and recieve the Money, pay out what is necessary to be paid, and keep the rest subject to your Excellency’s Orders. Come. Gillon has not complied with his Engagements to the owners; but this is a breach of a mere personal Obligation on his part, for which the Continental Goods are not responsible in Law or Equity: but the owners have possession of them, and We can have no Advantage of Law to get them out of their hands: so that I suppose a Composition must be made with them.
I think it manifest that my Letters to your Excellency have been opened, which I wonder at the more as I have delivered them all to the House of Fizeaux and Grand for greater safety of Conveyance. I believe none of your Excellency’s Letters to me have been opened. The Impressions of the Seals have been all bright, smooth and fair.
With great Respect, I have the Honour to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble Servant
J. Adams
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esq.

Notation: John Adams Novr: 19. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 19 November 1781
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

By extraordinary coincidence Elkanah Watson, the twenty-three-year-old merchant and avid diarist, dined at Passy on the evening that Franklin would receive, at midnight, the present letter announcing the victory at Yorktown. Watson’s description of the events of that evening and the following morning—or at least a version of it—was published in Men and Times of the Revolution; or, Memoirs of Elkanah Watson (New York, 1855), a narrative edited by Watson’s son Winslow C. Watson based on his father’s journals and letters. Winslow’s “anxiety to secure brevity” and to avoid anything of a “private and confidential character,” however, induced him to radically condense and rewrite his father’s material. What we offer below is from Watson’s own hand, excerpted from a revised journal that he prepared in 1821 based on his now-missing original. Although it exhibits the self-consciousness of hindsight, his impressions are still vivid, and the occasionally awkward language retains an immediacy that was suppressed in the published revision. More importantly, this text offers one of the very few detailed descriptions of Franklin’s demeanor in Passy, and the only glimpse we have into his emotional state just before and immediately after the momentous dispatch arrived from Vergennes.

On [November] 19th. I dined and spent the evening with Franklin, at Passy; arriving at an early hour, I observed him in a distant room reading, in the exact position he is represented in an excellent engraving, his left arm resting on a table, and his chin on his right hand thumb. I was soon conducted to him, and was cordially received, as usual. From a long habit of mixing with courtiers and men of eminence, as well in America as in Europe, he possesses an urbanity of manners, in connection with his venerable locks suspended over his shoulders, and his personal dignity, which commands reverence and respect; and yet so natural and fascinating in his deportment, that I always find myself perfectly at ease in his presence. Although he loves adulation, he woos it and hugs it to his heart in a manner unperceived, and therefore diminishes naught from his sterling merit. Not so with the vain boaster, trumpeting his own fame above all the fraudulent men who float upon borrowed plumes. Such men are always detected; soon sink into contempt, and hold a short run with posterity. But the name of Franklin will freshen with posterity, and increase in fame, through a long line of generations, while America shall bear a name. To resume— after detailing the traiterous conversation of Silas Dean at Brussels, where he vegetates, and is buried in forgetfulness and contempt; he asked me if I knew he was a musician, and then conducted me across the room to an instrument of his own invention, fixed as a harpsichord. On my intimating a wish to see him perform, he immediately placed himself before it with his habitual condescension, touching the ends of his fingers on a moistened piece of sponge, and commenced playing with his right foot, bearing upon a treadel fixed in the manner of a spinning wheel, which turned a set of musical glasses, presenting their edges in perpendicular positions, in the shape of saucers graduated of different sizes, so as to produce all the requisite tones. He touched the edges with the ends of his fingers, playing a Scottish pastoral tune, in sweet delicate melody, which thrilled me to my very soul.— Besides, the novel spectacle was highly gratifying to my high toned American pride, to contemplate a native son of my native state, a distinguished philosopher in his 76th year, exhibiting on an instrument of his own invention, which he has named Harmonica. In the evening we were joined by the celebrated Dr. Bankroft, also a native of Massachusetts; a distinguished chemist and politician; a sound whig, although a resident in London. It is supposed he is an agent sub rosa of the British ministry, feeling out the road to peace.
Our conversation turned principally on the interesting subject of the grand military combination of America and France to subdue the army of Cornwallis, in Virginia. Our last information up to that evening was, that de Grasse had entered the Chesapeake with 24 sail of the line; that Washington’s and Rochambeau’s armies had united, and were pressing towards Virginia; that de Barras with seven sail of the line had left Rhode Island, to unite with de Grasse. That the British fleet of about 23 Sail of the line had left New York with an army of 10,000 Men on their way to the Chesapeak. That a reinforcement of Ships were on their way from England, and shou’d they have arriv’d in time cou’d place the respective fleets on a ballance but de Grass was in possession of the ground between the British Army & Navy. In this interesting Crisis on which the fate of a young empire was in some measure depending—and where so many chances being suspended in dreaded poize; an anxiety was excessive, & our hopes & fears in quick succession predominated. We weighed probabilities — balanc’d vicissitudes — dissected the best Maps; and finally it resulted in a disheartening foreboding, that the English Fleet wou’d intercept de Barras at the Capes of the Chesapeak and thus gain a superiority, and with their [vaunt?]ed bravery urg’d by dispair dash into the Bay— close with, & distroy the French Fleet — Land their Army & brake up Washington’s quarters. Thus our unhappy Country would again bleed at every vein— & the war commence de nouvo with fresh vigor on the part of our implacable enemy. As Franklin’s great influence at the Court of France was the primary cause of producing this bold enterprize; it can be easily concieved how strong must have been his excitements in our alternate views of probable results.
At times his Philosophy seem’d to abandon him in gloomy despondency — & then viewing the issue in an opposite light, his hopes wou’d flash into a concertion of compleat success. Altho’ in his 76th year, yet his whole machinery appeared in a state of elasticity, and in active play— So much was he exhilerated when hope predominated. At 11 o’C I return’d to Paris in gloomy despondency, sighing over the distresses of my bleeding Country, & soon retired. At the dawn the insuing morning a tremendous rapping at my door arrouz’d me from a restless slumber. But gracious GOD how was I delighted & astonish’d in recieving the following circular under cover from Dr. Franklin with his congratulations. The circular was in french, copied by a copying Machine in English thus— the machine he informs me was invented by the ingenious Mr. Watt of Birmingham

“Copy of a letter from the Comte de Vergennes, Prime Minister of France, to Mr. Franklin, dated Versailles, 19th Novr., 1781, 11 o’C at night. (Note, dated the precise moment I Left Franklin’s house— and exactly one month from the day of surrender—)

‘Sir:
“I cannot better express my gratitude for the news you often communicate to me, than in making you acquainted that the Duke of Lauzan arrived this afternoon with the agreable News that the Combin’d Armies of France & America have forced General Cornwalis to capitulate. The English Garrison came out from York Town the 19th Octr. with honors of war, & laid down their arms as Prisoners.
‘About 6000 troops, 1800 Sailors 22 Stand of Colours and 170 pieces of Canon 75 of which are brass are the trophies which signalize this Victory. Besides a Ship of 50 guns which was burnt, also a Frigate & a great Number of transports.
‘J’ai l’honneur d’etre &c. &c.
DE Vergennes’”

The same day I waited on his Excellency with many American & French to Offer our congratulations. He appeared in an ecstacy of Joy, observing, “there is no parallel in history of two entire armies being captured from the same enemy in any one war.”
The American character now rose to an enviable height — the joy of all classes of people was excessive. Paris was brilliantly illuminated three successive nights on this glorious occasion — which settles our controversy definitively with England. On my return to Nantes I found all the Cities in my rout in a blaze of illumination; & Nantes in the midst of it, on my arrival.

Versailles Le 19. 9bre. 1781 11 heures du soir
Je ne puis mieux, Monsieur, vous temoignér ma reconnoissance des nouvelles que vous voulés bien me Communiquér qu’en vous faisant part que M. Le Duc de Lauzun est arrivé Cet après midi avec Lagreable nouvelle que les troupes Combinées de france et d’amerique ont forcé Le General Cornwalis a Capitulér. La Garnison angloise est sortie d yorck Town Le 19 octobre avec Les honneurs de la Guerre et a mis bas Les armes comme prisonniers. Environ 6000. hommes de troupes, 1800. matelots ou nègres, 22. Drapeaux et 170. pieces de canon dont 75. de bronze sont Les trophées qui signalent Cette victoire, independamment d’un vaisseau de 50. Canons qui a Eté brulé ainsi qune fregate et un asses Grand nombre de transports.
Mon billet vous sera rendu a Votre reveil, Monsieur, et je suis assuré qu’il vous fera partagér la satisfaction que jEprouve.
J’ai lhonneur dEtre avec un sincere attachement Monsieur, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
De Vergennes
M. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comtesse de Golowkin, [after 19 November 1781]
From: Golowkin, Wilhelmina von Mosheim, comtesse de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[after November 19, 1781]
Mr. le Baron de Blome arive chez moi, mon bon Papa, et m’apporte les bonnes nouvelles venûes par Mr. de Lauzun, je vous en felicite de tout mon Coeur, et de toute mon ame, et j’aurois ètè vous embrasser moi même, si je ne partois dans ce moment pour Paris, ou je resterai 2 jours, à mon retour je me dedommagerai.
Je vous prie, Mon cher Papa de me confier pour un moment la Carte que Mr. Le Veillard avoit hier de la Maniere dont Cornwallis ètoit enveloppè. Je vous la renverrai dans l’instant, vous feriés un plaisir extrême à Mr. de Blome, et à moi.

Je vous embrasse mille fois tendrement mon cher et bon Papa.

Addressed: à Monsieur / Monsieur Le docteur / Francklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chevalier de Kéralio, 20 November 1781
From: Kéralio, Agathon Guynement, chevalier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

mardi 20e. 9bre. 1781.
Embrassons nous, mon bon ami, et vive l’amérique et la france: notre excellente Douairiere est dans l’ivresse de la joie et me charge de vous en faire part. Son fils guillaume est attendu avec les relations; il vient sur la frégate l’andromaque. Ce brave jeune homme s’est distingué de la maniere la plus éclatante à l’attaque d’yorck; il a attaqué une forte redoute seule ressource des anglois, s’en est emparé en montant un des premiers sur le parapet avec une valeur digne de ses ancêtres, et a fait mettre bas les armes aux ennemis.
Mr. le comte de Maurepas a voulu tout savoir, il a tout écouté et de mr. de Segur et de mr. de Lauzun, avec le plus grand intérêt, et a fini par dire, je meurs content.
   Je vous embrasse encore une fois, mon Digne ami, vous Savés combien je vous aime et vous respecte.
Le CHR. De K.

Si vous avez, ou quand vous aurés quelques détails, ayés la bonté de me les communiquer.
  Notre bonne amie est à versailles depuis Samedi.

Notation: Chev de Karalio 20. Nov 81


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Kéralio, [on or after 20 November 1781]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Kéralio, Agathon Guynement, chevalier de

[on or after November 20, 1781]
I received my dear Friend’s kind Felicitations, and thank him for them, and beg him to accept mine in Return. The well founded Joy too of our excellent and most amiable Friend, doubles mine. Her great Sensibility sometimes gives her Pain, but the same must make her Pleasures more exquisite. I enjoy with her the great Honour her Sons have acquir’d in fighting so bravely for our glorious Cause; and rejoice that one of them is return’d in Safety to her Arms.— God bless the whole Family.
Enclos’d are all the Details, that I have receiv’d: I send them, as you desir’d it, tho I imagine you have receiv’d such as are more ample.
With sincere & great Esteem & Affection, I am ever Yours
BF.
M. le Chevr. de Keralio


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis d’Amezaga, with Franklin’s Note for a Reply, 20 November 1781
From: Amezaga, Ignace d’Urtado, marquis d’,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris Ce 20 9bre 1781
Je Vous fais de tout mon Coeur, Monsieur, sur votre bonne fortune en Amerique, Mon Compliment. La santé de Mr de Maurepas, m’affecte si vivement que la prise de Cornwallis, ne ma Pas procuré les transports que J’aurois eû, sans la Situation dun homme a qui Jai été extremement toujours attachée. Je vous prie de ne pas douter de la Sincerité des Sentiments Plain d’estime et de veneration que Jay Pour Vous, et avec Lés quelles Jay L’honneur d’etre Monsieur, Votre très humble et Très obeissant Serviteur
U M DAMEZAGA

[In Franklin’s hand:] That I thank him for his kind Congratulations. That it is indeed a most happy Event. And that I hope he will ere long do me the honour of taking his Soup with me that we may embrace upon it.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbés Chalut and Arnoux, 20 November 1781
From: Chalut, abbé ——,Arnoux, abbé ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

paris mardi 20. 9bre [1781]
Les abbés de Chalut et Arnoux assurent de leur attachement respectueux Monsieur franklin, ils le felicitent et se rejouissent avec lui de la prise de Cornualis et de toute son armée. Ils luy demandent la permission d’aller diner avec lui à Passy dimanche prochain pour Celebrer, Le verre à la main, Cet heureux Evenement.

Les deux abbés font leurs tendres et sinceres Compliments à Monsieur le petit fils.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Guillaume Jaume, 20 November 1781
From: Jaume, Guillaume
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Lyon 20. 9bre. 1781.
Je suis prié par l’aimable jeune homme Mr. Johonnot de vous envoyer le Prospectus cy inclus de la pension d’Ecully. Il espere y recevoir mieux qu’a Geneve l’education qui lui convient. Je le pense de même.
Mr. son pere à qui il a demandé cette faveur paroit porté à la lui accorder. Il a demandé un Prospectus. Je le lui ai envoyé.
Ce cher Enfant m’ayant eté recommandé par Mrs. Les Abbés de Chalut, et Arnoux, mes bons amis, J’ai promis à Mr. son Pere de partager mes soins paternels entre son fils, et le mien Elevé dans cette pension, lié d’amitié avec le tres interessant Bostonien pendant le petit sejour qu’il a fait chez moi.
Vous avés des Droits, Monsieur, sur touts les cœurs français. Puissaije avoir un jour l’avantage de vous convaincre des sentiments distingués avec lesquels Je suis Monsieur Votre tres humble, et tres obeissant Serviteur
Gme. Jaume

Notation: Gme. Jaume Novr. 20th 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gabriel-Louis Galissard de Marignac, 20 November 1781
From: Marignac, Gabriel-Louis Galissard de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Genève ce 20. 9bre. 1781
J’aurois repondu plûtôt â vôtre lettre dattée du 31e. 8bre. que Mme. Montgomery m’a remise le 12e. 9bre. jour de son arrivée, si son Domestique devant retourner à Paris ne m’avoit tenu en suspens jusqu’à aujourd’huy, qu’il est parti pour l’Italie; Je suis pénétré des marques de bienveuillance & de protection, que vous me donnès continuellement, je ne pourrois y repondre, qu’en redoublant, si cela se pouvoit, mes soins pour les jeunes gens, que vous me Confiés & principalement pour le jeune Bache; Mais soyès assuré, Monsieur, qu’il ne dépendra pas de moi, qu’ils ne remplissent vos vuës, & vôtre confiance en moi.
Vôtre petit fils est un excellent enfant, bon cœur, bon caractére, souffrant avec peine les censures, peut-être par hauteur, quoique ce soit le seul article, ou je lui en trouve trop; assez courageux pour se défendre contre quiconque l’attaqueroit injustement, mais point quérelleur; l’œil observateur, & le montrant par le peu qu’il dit: il notera sur un Cahier ses dépenses pour vous les montrer & exécuter vos ordres; il a été très sensible à ce que Montgomery lui a remis de vôtre part.
Johonnot paroit avoir beaucoup de talent, raisonner très bien, très sensément, mais ne pas toujours agir de même; sa bonne volonté, & l’attention, qu’il apporte à mes avis, contribueront beaucoup à le corriger; il a pris en jeune étourdi le mauvais ton de la bonne compagnie, un peu hableur, babillard, mais dans quelques temps j’espère vous en donner de meilleures nouvelles, sa montre subsiste, mais non son argent, il l’a perdu: Qu’il ignore, s’il vous plait, ce que je vous écris, il pourroit se décourager, s’il s’imaginoit que je le connois si bien, l’honneur étant le principal mobile de ses corrections.
Je ne vous dirai rien de Montgomery, il est entré depuis avant hier chez moi, un peu tard pour son avancement mais la tendresse maternelle excuse bien des choses; Cette Dame a peine à trouver une pension à sa fantaisie, je lui en ai montré ce matin une, étant de mes parens, ma délicatesse m’avoit empêché de lui en parler plûtôt, elle est si aimable, que je desirerois qu’elle fut au mieux.
Excusés, je vous prie, mon barbouillage; outre mes occupations ordinaires, la mort de mon frére Docteur en Médecine, & les embarras de son hoirie absorbent tous mes momens de loisir, je n’ai donc que le temps de me dire avec une consideration distinguée, Monsieur Vôtre très humble & très obeissant Serviteur
G. L. De Marignac


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis-Pierre Dufourny de Villiers, 20 November 1781
From: Villiers, Louis-Pierre Dufourny de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Votre Excellence
Paris le 20. 9bre. 1781
Comme François et surtout comme homme ennemy de toutte opression qu’il me soit permis de vous félicitter de l’heureux événement qui prépare la confirmation de l’Indépendançe des Etats-unis. J’admire la bravoure de vos guérriers, la mâle prudence de leurs chefs et meslant mon enthousiasme à celuy de vos compatriottes je vois en vous le principal moteur de la plus mémorable des revolutions. Que ne puis je vous faire connoitre dans toutte leur étendue les regrets de l’elitte de nos citoyens qui n’osent vous témoigner combien leur joye est augmentée de la satisfaction que vous eprouvés enfin apres tant de travaux et de perpléxités. C’est leur langage général partout ou ils se rassemblent et j’ai la satisfaction de trouver dans leurs coeurs ainsi que dans le mien les sentimens de la veneration la plus respectueuse.
Je suis Votre Excellence Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Dufourny DE Villiers

Rue St. André des Arts pres la rue Contrescarpe maison de Madme. la Combe
  J’ai a communiquer a Son Excellence une opération tres importante pour les Etats unis et la prie de m’indiquer le lieu le jour et lheure ou elle sera visible.

Notation: Dufourny de Villiers 20. Nov. 1781.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Anna Sophia de Bohlen, 21 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bohlen, Anna Sophia Susanna de

Madam,
Passy Nov. 21. 1781
I receiv’d the Letter you did me the honour of writing to me the 26th of last Month: In answer to which I ought to inform you, that I was born in America now near 76 Years since; that I never was in Ireland till the Year 1773, which was for a few Weeks only, and I did not pass from thence to America with any Person of my Name, but return’d to England, nor had I ever any Knowledge of the John Franklin you mention. I have exact Accounts of every Person of my Family since the Year 1555, when it was established in England, and am certain that none of them but my self since that time were ever in Ireland. The Name of Franklin is common among the English of the two Nations, but there are a Number of different Families who bear it, & who have no Relation to each other. It would be a Pleasure to me to discover a Relation in Europe; possessing the amiable Sentiments express’d in your Letter; I assure you I should not disown the meanest. I should also be glad if I could give you a satisfactory Account of your Family; but I really know nothing of them. I have therefore not the honour of being related to them, but I have that of being Madam, Your


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chevalier Dubuysson, 21 November 1781
From: Dubuysson des Aix, Charles-François, chevalier
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris Ce 21. 9bre. 1781
Avant mon départ de phidelphie Mr. Lauvel [Lovell] m’avoit chargé de trés gros paquet pour votre Exellence. Mr. Pethers [Peters] et Mr. Jenifer et plusieurs autres dans toutes ils avoient La bonté de vous Rendre Compte de la maniere dont j’ay Servi dans la merique depuis Cinq ans, Le Congré a bien voulu aussy me recommander directement aux Ministres de france faveur d’autant plus grande que je suis le premier Etranger pour qui il a Bien voulu faire Ecrire a Mrs. de Castries et de segur.
L’Etat de la Caroline du Nord Satisfait de ma maniere de Servir et voulant me dedomager des quatres Blessures que j’ay m’a bien voulu honorer du titre de brigadier général de Ses Troupes.
Ajant été Echangé par la flotte francaise je Suis parti de Philadelphie Le 24. Septembre, muni de toutes Ses recommandations j’avoit Lieu desperer dêtre vû icy avec plaisir, mais le vaisseau le franclain dans lequel jétoit passager ajant Eté conduit en angleterre jay été obligé de jetter tout mes paquet a la mer Exepté les lettres de recommandation pour Les ministres, Le Reservé du Congré, qui me Concerne et La lettre que j’ay lhonneur de vous envoyer.
J’auray Lhonneur de vous faire ma Cour Le plus tot possible et Entrer dans toutes les détails que vous pouvés désirer vous demander votre appuy auprés des Ministres et vous assurer du profond respect avec lequel j’ay lhonneur dêtre Votre Exellence Votre trés humble et trés obeissant Serviteur /.
Le Chr. Dubuysson
D: franclain

Mon adresse chez Made. La Mise. De Monestoy rue de Bourbon fg. St. germain.
  Jay laissé Mr. Bitche [Bache?] Beaucoup mieux portant

Addressed: His Excellency / Doctr Franklin / Versaille
Notation: Le Chev. de Buysson Nov. 21. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 21 November 1781
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr Sir
Madrid 21— Novr 1781
It seems as if my chief business here was to fatigue you and our good Allies with incessant Sollications on the Subject of the ill-timed, & I had almost said cursed Bills drawn upon me by Congress. It is happy for me that you are a Philosopher, and for our Country that our allies are indeed our Friends. Amicus certus in re incerta cernitur. This Court continues to observe the most profound Silence respecting our Propositions, I cannot as yet obtain any answer to any of my applications for Aids. Heretofore the Minister was too sick & too busy, at present his Secretary is much indisposed. I have requested that he wd. lend us for the present only as much as wd. satisfy the Bills of december viz 31,809— Dollars— no answer—what is to be done. I must again try & borrow a little, & as usual recur to you. Thank God no new Bills arrive. If they did I should refuse to accept them—only a few straggling old ones now & then appear. Wd [would] not the Court of France on your representing this Matter to them enable you to put an End to this unhappy Business. Thirty thousand pounds stirling would do it, I am sure the Evils we shd. [should] experience from the protest of these Bills wd cost even France a vast Deal more— You see my Situation. I am sure I need not press You to deliver me from it if in yr power— I cannot yet believe that all the assurances of this Court will vanish into air. I still flatter myself that they will afford us some Supplies tho not in Season. I think we might very safely offer to repay the french Court the proposed Sum, in America, for surely Congress wd not hesitate to prefer that to the loss of their Credit.
I enclose a News Paper which gives us Reason to indulge the most pleasing Expectations— God grant they may be realized. I have a Letter from Mr Gerry dated at Marble head the 9 Octr. He was then in daily Expectation of hearing that Ld Cornwallis & his Army were our Prisoners. He describes the last Harvest as very abundant & the general State of our affairs as very promising—much more so indeed than ever they have been.
I am dr Sir with sincere Regard & Attachmnt Your obliged Hle Servt
To Doctr Franklin 21 Novr 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Andrew Limozin, 21 November 1781
From: Limozin, Andrew
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Most Honoured Sir!
Havre de Grace the 21rst November 1781.
I did my Self the Honour to write to your Excellence the 10th of this Month about the american Captn John Lander & his first Lieftenant called Wilcocks likewise Subject of the thirteen United States of America both being confind here by the order of the General Commissary of the Navy in this Port, without having given them the least Notice of the reason that they are confind for. These two unfortunate officers send almost every day to my house to Know when they are to be releasd, & what they have done. They are claiming for my assistance & for Comfort; the Commissary hinders me from giving them the least altho I have received orders from their owners of Dunkirk to help them as much as it lays in my power.
The Silence of your Excellence gives them room to think that I have refus’d them my protection; in which case they are very much mistaken. For nobody in the whole World is more inclind than I am to serve the Lawfull Subjects of the United States of America.
The Silence of your Excellence makes me afraid that my Letter did not reach you. I beg leave of your Excellence to give me leave to repeat my beseech in the behalf of these two unfortunate Americans, who are thought perhaps guilty because being not masters of the French Tongue they can’t Speak for their justification. Give me leave likewise as a Sincere & most Warm well wisher to the American Cause to congratulate your Excellence about the good News arriv at Brest from America by the French Frigat the Surveillante, of which I have an exact acct.

I am with the Highest regard of your Excellence The most obedt & Humble Servant
Andw Limozin
His Excellence Dr. Ben: Franklin Passy.

Notation: Limozin 21 Nov. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dorcas Montgomery, 21 [November] 1781
From: Montgomery, Dorcas Armitage
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honor’d Sir
Geneve [November] 21th. 1781
I have to request the favor of your forwarding the inclosed, which will be Handed to you by a Mr. Pigott a worthy Character who has treated your Grand-son and all the Americans here with much Civility. And Suffice it to say, for the present, that He is a Friend to America.
My Compts. attend Mr. T. Franklin and Mr. H— Grand.— Mastr. Bache writes by this conveyance.
I remain Honor’d Sir with due respects your Most Obedt Huble. Servt—
Dorcas Montgomery

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjn Franklin Esqr. / Minister Plenepotentiary / From the United States of / America to the Court of Versailles / A Passy
Notation: Montgomery Dorcas Geneve 21. 1781.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Isaac Gouverneur and Samuel Curson, 22 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gouverneur, Isaac,Curson, Samuel

Gentlemen
Passy, Nov. 22. 1781
I received the Letter you did me the Honour of Writing to me the 1st of September. It was by Order of Congress that I directed the Offer of Money to be made you, but it would be a Pleasure to me if I could be otherwise useful to you. If you have furnish’d any Correspondent here with a distinct Account of your Property in the several retaken Vessels you mention, and he finds any Encouragement to attempt the Recovery of it, perhaps I can assist him. If you have as yet employ’d no Person, or have no Correspondent here, I would recommend to you Mr. Jonathan Williams, a very intelligent active & exact Merchant in Nantes, or Mr Grand, our Banker in Paris, or as Mr Barclay Consul for America in France is just arrived whom you may probably know, perhaps he will be the most proper Person. I heartily wish the Recovery of your Liberty, and have the honour to be Gentlemen
Messrs Gouverneur & Curson


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to George Hobart, 22 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hobart, George

Passy 22d Nov. 81
Mr Franklin presents his best Respects to Mr Hobart, thanks him for the Notice of his Departure, and heartily wishes him a good Journey. Enclos’d is a Letter for Mr. Pownall.
The late Event, if it might contribute to bring forward a Reconciliation, would indeed as you observe be a happy one: But I do not think your Nation yet sufficiently dispos’d to it: I can only assure you that any reasonable Measures to that End, should have every Assistance in my Power.
à M. Hobart


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Vaughan, 22 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vaughan, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Passy, Nov. 22. 1781
I received your late Favour without date, and immediately ordered 100£ Sterling in the Hands of Mr Hodgson to be at the Disposition of Mr President Laurens. Please to inform me how he does. My last Informations which came from the Lieut of the Tower thro’ Sir Grey Cooper, were that he was very well, & that he was perfectly satisfied with the Treatment he received.
The Congress have offer’d to exchange Gen. Burgoyne for him. I sent over to Mr Burke, who was anxious for the Liberty of his friend Burgoyne, a Copy of the Resolve, & requested him to negociate it. I have not since heard from him.—
I have no Acquaintance at Lisle. If you will point out to me in what manner I can be useful, I will endeavour it: But I suppose the Gentlemen you mention will effectuate that small Affair.— Permit me to trouble you with another. A young Lad of Carolina, at School here, has requested me to forward the enclos’d. If you can procure him an Answer it will oblige me. The Events of War have prevented his paying duly his Pension.—
I have long miss’d the Pleasure of your Correspondence. By some Expressions in your last I conjecture you are lately married. If so, I wish you most cordially every Happiness that State can afford. I long to receive the philosophical Papers. Your Brother is well at Madrid & much lik’d there. Present my affectionate Respects to your good Father & Mother, and believe me ever, with sincere & great Esteem, Dear Sir,
  Col Laurens was well at the Capitulation.
Mr B. Vaughan


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 22 November 1781
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam Nov. 22. 1781
Last Evening, was brought to me, the Proposals of the owners of the Ships, in the following Words. “To take from the owners of the Vessells the Liberty and the Aurora, at the Rate they shall be found to amount, not only of purchase Money, but also of all other Expences made thereon till the day of taking over the Said Vessells. Further to pay the half of the Freight Money, that are agreed, and to give Sufficient Surety to the full Satisfaction of the owners for all Costs and Damages that may be Suffered to the owners by reason of this Sale of the Said Vessells, and the delivery of the Goods that have been loaden therein or by what reason it may be concerning this matter.”
From Several Hints I had heard I had expected that the Goods would be detaind for freight or other demands: but these Proposals are more unreasonable than I ever expected.— The owners affirm the goods to be answerable to them by the Laws of this Country. This I dont believe. But the question cannot be decided without a Lawsuit, and it is doubtfull whether We can maintain one.— But if We could, a Lawsuit in all Countries, is a caustick Remedy, which ought never to be resorted to but in desperate Cases.— It will draw the Business out into an unknown Length—in the meantime our brave soldiers are freezing for Want of Hose and Blanketts. Mr De Neufville, professes to be very fair, and Says that We may have his shares in the Vessells at any terms We think just, but the other owners, will agree to nothing but the above Proposals.—
The first Thing for us to do is to get Possn. of the Goods. If We had this We might Sell them or send them in other Vessells which We could have on better Terms. Mr. De Neufville, is under Embarrassments, of some sort or other and certainly has not the Forces to extricate the Goods for us.— If your Excellency would impower Messrs Fizeau & Grand to consult Lawyers, bring a suit, or perhaps apply by the favour of the French Ambassador, to Authority, to have the goods restored to the Possession of Congress or their servants, or to the House of Fizeau & Grand as in the Service of Congress or your Excellency, perhaps this would be the Way, to get the best Terms.— If by the Laws, the Goods are answerable for any Charges these must be paid. The Goods may in that case be sold in Part or in the whole, for repayment, or another & better Vessell may be bought or hired to carry them home. I have the Honour to be
Dr Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Rodolphe-Ferdinand Grand, [22 November 1781]
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
[November 22, 1781]
Suivant vos ordres du 29. 8bre., j’ai remis à Mrs fizeaux Grand & Ce. à Amsterdam pour l’acquit des acceptations de Mr. John Adams écheantes en 9bre., Quatrevingt dixneuf Mille deux Cent soixante dix florins qui ont couté suivant la notte cy jointe 224,228.10.6. l.t. dont le Compte général se trouve débitté.
Ces Remises ne pourvoyent pas aux besoins futurs de Mr John Adams pour les mois suivants, et à cet égard je crois nécessaire de vous faire Connoitre la situation du Compte général; il en résulte que j’ai payé & ai a payer d’icy à la fin de Xbre., déduction faitte du solde du dernier Compte et de ce que j’ai reçu depuis,

cy
1.142.061 l.t.

si le trésor Royal paye le solde des deux

Millions accordés, j’aurai a recevoir encore
  816.000

ainsi il me manquera pour acquitter vos

propres engagements d’icy à la fin de l’année
  326.061 l.t.

sans les dépenses courantes, ni par conséquent les remises qu’il faudroit faire à Mr. Adams.
Comme vous désirés voir les Comptes de M. Deane, j’ai L’honneur de vous les remettre icy avec la Lettre qu’il m’écrivit en me les accompagnant.
J’ai l’honneur &c./.
Copie de la Lettre de Mr. Grand a Monsieur franklin Le 22. 9bre. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, [22 November 1781]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

De Paris ce Jeudy après-midy [November 22, 1781]
Voila deux Jours mon Illustre Docteur, que je me propose d’aller vous faire mon compliment Sur L’heureux évenement de York, mais que cela m’est impossible. Demain, J’espere que Je serai plus heureux, et comme Mde Le Roy désire d’être de la partie, Mandez moi Je vous prie, Si vous voulez nous recevoir, et nous donner Un morceau à diner à tous les Deux. Je ne puis vous exprimer la Joie que m’a causé cet évenement et pour vous, et pour nous. Je me Suis bien rappellé votre reve. Adieu Mon Illustre Docteur, Je me flatte que vous etes bien persuadé, de tous les vèritables Sentimens, qui m’attachent a vous pour la Vie.
Le Roy

Mille et mille complimens Je vous prie à Monsieur Votre petit Fils.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre des Etats unis / de LAmérique en son / Hôtel / a Passy


Title: William Temple Franklin to John Adams and John Jay, 22 November 1781
From: Franklin, William Temple
To: Adams, John,Jay, John

Dear Sir,
Passy, 22d Nov. 1781.
Since the Letter I had the honour of writing to your Excellency on the 19th. Inst, the Duke de Lauzun is arrived at Versailles from Virginia, with the glorious News of the combined Force of America & France having forced General Cornwallis to capitulate. The English Garrison marched out of York Town on the 19th of Octr. with the honour of War, & laid down their Arms: the Troops consisted of about Six thousand Sailors & Negroes 1800, 22 pair of Colours, & 170 Pieces of Cannon, of which 75 were of brass.— Besides which, a Vessel of 50 Guns with a considerable Number of Transports were burnt. These are the only particulars which have as yet transpired of this important Event. In a few Days will be publish’d the Articles of Capitulation, when I shall immediately forward them to your Excellency.
Hoping that your Negociations may partake of the good Effect of this Victory, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your Excellencys affectionate & obliged humble Servant
W.T. Franklin

Notation: W.T. Franklin 22d. Novr. 1781


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 23 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Passy, Nov. 23. 1781.
I congratulate your Excellency on the late great Event.
I received yours of the 12th. I wrote my Mind fully on the Subject of the Goods in mine to you by Mr. Fox, which I suppose must have come to your hands soon after that Date. Gillon wrote to me that Mr. Searle & Jackson were gone to France. As it is so long since, and they are not arrived, I suppose it may be true that they are gone to America. I expect the Consul, Mr. Barclay, here in a few Days. If you think his assistance relating to that Matter may be of Use, I will propose his Proceeding to Holland. I can only repeat that if I have any Authority over those Goods, I transfer it all to you.
With great Respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
His Exy. J. Adams Esq.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Pownall, 23 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Pownall, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Passy, Nov. 23. 1781
I received your Favour by Mr Hobart. I caus’d an Application to be made to Almon in Behalf of Mrs Barry, but do not learn that it is like to meet with any Success. As the Transaction was between yourself & him, no other Person but you can claim with Authority: I must therefore beg for the poor good Woman’s Sake, that you would do something effectual in it.
I also request that you would send the Copies you mention to me here, directed to the Care of Mr Bowen at Ostend; and that the Plate may be pack’d with them.—
I wish most heartily with you that this cursed War was at an End: But I despair of seeing it finish’d in my Time. Your thirsty Nation has not yet drank enough of our Blood. I am authoriz’d to treat of Peace whenever she is dispos’d to it, but I saw Inconveniences in Meeting & Discoursing with you on the Subject, or with any one not avow’d by your Ministry; having already experienc’d such, in several Instances.— Mr Hobart appeared not fully acquainted with your Ideas, and as he could not communicate them, I could make no Judgment of them. My best Wishes attend you, being with the old long-continued Esteem, Dear Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
Govr Pownall


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte de Benyowzky, 23 November 1781
From: Benyowski, Maurice-Auguste, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

fait a Paris le 23 Novembre./ [1781]
Le Comte de Benyowzki presentant ses hommages a Son Excellence, lá prie de vouloir bien lui accordér un moment d’audience particuliere, il attendra a cet effet, Les ordres de Votre Excellence, pour sçavoir le jour, et l’heure de Sa commodité.
Son tres humble, et tres obeissant Serviteur
Maurice Comte DE Benyowzky


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Holker, 23 November 1781
From: Holker, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris le 23. 9bre. 1781.
M. Holker présente bien ses respects à S.E. Monsieur franckelin et le remercie de l’invitation qu’il lui fait d’aller diner dimanche prochain chez lui, attendu qu’il part demain pour Sens et n’en Sera de retour que dans le courant de la Semaine prochaine.

Addressed: A Son Excellence / S.E. Le Docteur / franckelin en Son / hôtel / à Passy
Notation: Mr. Holker Nov. 23. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Philip Mazzei, 23 November 1781
From: Mazzei, Philip
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Florence, 23. Novr: 1781.
Having never recd. an answer from your Excellency to any of my letters ever since I left Paris, I should not take the liberty of troubling you again, was I not induced to it by what I think a just motive. Mr. Penet wrote me that he had directed to your Excellency the papers mentioned in my last of 16 August, as soon as he recd. them, which was in July 1780, & that he had written to you in the mean time that he was to pay me some money on account of the State of Virginia, desiring to know where to direct to me. I have sufficient reasons to doubt what he writes, or says, but as I am obliged to justify my conduct to the State, I must beg again that you will please to favour me with an answer to the above said Letter, which Mr. Favi says to have forwarded to your Excellency. Should it be to great a trouble to send your answer for me to Mr. Favi, it might be sent to the bureau of Count de Vergennes, under a cover directed to Mr. de Billerey, Chargé des Affaires du Roy a Florence. I have the honour to be most respectfully, Sir, Your Excellency’s most Humb. & most Obednt. Servt.
Philip Mazzei


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henry Royle et al., [23 November 1781]
From: Royle, Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[November 23, 1781]
We who have hereunto subscribed our Names being persons brought up in the Manchester manufactures, and of which we have skill to manage the same particularly the Callico making and printing, with a particular method of Carding and spinning the Cotton, and being dissatisfied with the present Governors of this Country for reasons too notorious to be mentioned, and of which the Bearer hereof can satisfy you, Do hereby make a tender of our services in the Character of Traders to come and settle in the province of Pensilvania and there establish the sd. Business together with the silk and fustion Business in their fullest perfection, if we can obtain the following Conditions and the Bearer here of adjust the remainder of the Business which we commit to his management.
First That we will transport ourselves from the places of our several and respective abodes to such place as shall be agreed upon for the place of rendezvous between the Bearer and you.
Second That on our arrival at such place of rendizvous we desire to be maintained at the expence of the united states of America, till a good and wholsome Vessel arrives to take us our wives Children and Effects on board to carry us to America, which said Vessel shall be provided fitted with proper and necessary accommodations for ourselves and families Victualed supplied with a sufficient number of seamen a Physician surgeon and every other needful accommodation for such a Voyage at the expense of the united states of America.
Third That such vessel shall take the advantage of the first potent Convoy that sails either from France or Holland for the Continent of America.
Fourth, That on our arrival in America we will be under no restraint controwl or Command whatsoever but have the preveledge of every of the Citizens of the united states of America,
Fifth That provide we take Models of and introduse into the said United states any kind of Engins for manufacturing Cotton Wool sheeps Wool Worsted or silk such as before our arrival there were unknown to the Manufacturers of that Country, that we will have the sole and only preveledge of making using and vending the same for the first seven years, which said Term shall be computed and reckoned from the Erecting of the same unless the Board of trade of some of the provinces will enter into Arbitration Articles and pay such sum to the Inventor or Importer of such Machine or Engine as such Arbitrators shall allow to be just, and from which time the same to be free.
Sixth That on our Arrival in America we will be exempted from military or Marittime duty or any emergency whatsoever either in the state Malitia provincial Troops or Continental Troops.
Seventh That for such preveledges to us to be granted we will establish according to the best of our Skill and judgment the Callico printing and Fustion Business as on the same footing as the same now are carried on in Manchester Boulton &c.
Eighth. That we will on acct. of our passage assist on Board the Vessel in which we embark during the Voyage with the whole of our abilities as landsmen,
Ninth that on matters being adjusted according to those Articles and the good opinion of the Bearer hereof we are assured within ourselves of bringing along with us persons who are no parties hereto and not a few which are the most ingenious weavers in the County of Lancashire besides persons skilled in the making of the Machines and Engins used in the manufactory that the bearer hereof can inform you of.
N.B. We think proper to observe that its not the hope of acquiring Riches, nor being destitute of means wherewith we are able to support ourselves and families, that induces us to emegrate or to desire so to do, But the assurance we have that the Cause you have imbarked in is the Cause of God, knowing that the origin of all Government is in the people and seeing the oppression you laboured under when subject to the British Government and feeling the Chavalier hand of oppression that our Rulers lay upon all the governed, which we do acknowledge to have in part stimulated us to the desire of leaving this Island and becomming useful subjects in a free State governed by Honest Men.
Signed this 23rd. of Novr. 1781 at Hatherlow near Stockport
Henry RoyleThomas HoltJoseph HeathcoteJohn RowbothamJohn Schofield

To his Excellency Benjin. Francklin LL.D. Plenipotentiary from the united states of America at the Court of his most Christian Majesty Louis the 16th. of France, J. Adams Ambassador therefrom at the Court of their Highmightinesses the States of Holland, or any other person resident at either of the sd. Courts who are Authorized from the Congress of the united States of America to transact business on their Acct. at the place of their residence

Notation: Henry Royle, Ths. Helt, Joseph Heathcote, John Rowbotham & John Schofield. Manufacturers at Hatherlow near Stockport. 23. Nov. 1781.—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Dubuysson, 24 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Dubuysson des Aix, Charles-François, chevalier

Sir,
Passy, Nov. 24. 1781
On reading over again, and reconsidering your Papers, it did not appear to me necessary that I should write to the Ministers in your Favour, the Recommendations you bring directly from Congress being superior to any that could proceed from me; and it would be absurd in me to suppose that mine could add weight to them. Being however truly sensible of your Merit, I wish you Success in your Application: and have the Honour to be Sir,
Le Chevalier Du Buysson


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 24 November 1781
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond: Sir
Philadelphia November 24th 1781
I am happy in having so good an opportunity as the present to let you know that we are all well; Sally would have wrote, but the Marquis La Fayette’s & General Du Portail’s sudden departure, together with her necessary engagements in the Nursery, will not admit of it an opportunity will present itself in a few days from this port, which she means to embrace— We have received no Letters from you lately, the last was dated 14th May, accompanied by some of Ben’s Letters, which are always very acceptable; we have recd. likewise his picture. Mr. Villiard has never made his appearance here, when he does we shall shew him every Civility in our power— I have received Bills for your last years Interest of Money in the Loan Office, but necessity has obliged me to dispose of them here for Cash; the many demands on me for arrearages of Ground Rents, which during the depreciation of paper Money, were not called for; the necessary repairs to your Dwelling house, such as new shingleing part of the penthouses on both sides the House; new Spouts; one a Copper one, in the room of the leaden one taken away by the public in the year 1777, for which I never could get any payment, besides other demands, and the nonpayment of my Salary as P M General, having now upwards of three years due to me; I say all these things as it were pressing upon me at the same time, has necessitated me to dispose of your Bills, a Liberty I hope you will forgive me for; and you may rest assured that should I be able to receive the amount of my Salary soon your Bills shall be replaced— A new arrangement is likely to take place in the Post Office department, Congress have taken it into their heads, that a P M General & Assistant, instead of the present arrangement of Comptroller & Surveyors will be sufficient to transact the whole business; and upon this new plan, some of the States particularly the New England States are desirous of appointing a new postmaster General; they wish to put in Mr. Hazard; this matter was put to vote before I knew a tittle about it, thinking myself ill used, I had determined to have resigned, but upon consulting some of my Friends, was dissuaded from it, there the matter rests & thus I am to be requited for my past Services; all that gives me concern in this Business is that if I am displaced, it will convey to the World an Idea that I have not done my duty; but thank God, nothing of this sort can be alledged against me, I shall therefore endeavor to reconcile my self to the worst that can happen— Sally and our four little ones are well, they join me in Love & Duty. I am ever Dear sir Your Dutifull & Affectionate Son
Rich Bache
Dr. Franklin

Notation: Richd. Bache Philada. Novr. 24. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert R. Livingston, 24 November 1781
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Philadelphia, 24th. Novr. 1781.
Majr Genl Du Portail will have the honor to present this. Congress in consideration of their Long & faithful services in this country have grantd permission to him & Colls. De Laumoy & Gouvion to revisit their friends in Europe for the winter.
As the merit of these Gent [Gentlemen] has procured for them particular marks of the esteem of Congress they wish them to be distinguished by the notice of their Sovereign, And for that purpose have directed that they be recommended to you, & that you be requested to present them at Court in such manner as will bespeak for them the attention they justly merit.
Congress are persuaded that this task will be particularly agreeable to you as they are indebted to your care for the useful services of these gent. & as nothing is more acceptable to a man of real merit than to be made the means of displaying it in others. I have the honor to be sir with great respect & esteem Your Most ob & hum: Servt.
Dr. of a Letter to Docr Franklin recomg. Genl DuportailNo. 3


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jean de Neufville & fils, 26 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Neufville, Jean de, & fils

Gentlemen,
Passy, Nov. 26. 1781
I received the honour of your Letter, dated the 12th Instant, wherein you inform me that “the Owners of the Vessels will certainly ask a much greater Advantage on the Freight now, both on Acct of the Season and the Want of Convoy, as on Acct. of the heavy Expences they were put at by Come. Gillon’s leaving their Ships behind; but if Proposals were made to buy the Ships, they would (you think) be very reasonable.” and farther you tell me “that the Owners of the Ships hold the Goods in Possession as a Security to their Claims; and that nothing can be done without a previous Agreemt. being enter’d into with them.”— You do not mention to me what Freight they expect, what Price they ask for their Ships, nor what Damages they claim for Gillon’s leaving them; so that it is impossible for me to form any Judgment or make any Answer to those particulars. But I think the forcibly detaining a Property worth 50,000£ Sterling in order to secure a Demand of that kind, which cannot reasonably be very great, is a most ungenteel & unjust Proceeding. And as you are the principal of those Owners, I hereby acquaint you, that I am ready to pay those Damages, if any are found due by impartial Arbitrators, after they shall have considered that Gillon cruised as he says ten Days off the Texel for those Vessels to come out to him, which their Owners forbid them to do. But I expect and demand that the Possession of the Goods be first delivered to Mr Adams; and if that be refused, & you continue to detain them, it is my Intention to refuse Payment of the Bills that were accepted on their Account. I have the honour to be, with much Respect, Gentlemen,
Messrs. de Neufville & Son


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Trumbull, 26 November 1781
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Trumbull, John

Sir,
Passy Nov. 26. 1781.
I have lately received from your Father for your Use, a Bill of Exe [Exchange] on Paris, at 30 Days sight, to the Amount of one thousand three hundred & fifty Livres Tournois: I this Day sent it to Mr. Grand, Banker, Requesting him to get it accepted & when due to receive the Money & hold the same at the Disposition of your Father or self. I mention’d both, not knowing whether you were not at Sea, or even in Case you were not, whether you would have occasion for the Money. In Case you should, you may draw on Mr. Grand to the amount already specified.—
I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most humble Sevt.
B Franklin
J. Trumbull Esqr

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Trumbull, / Gentilhomme Americain / aux soins de Messrs. / Gardoqui & fils / Negts. à Bilbao
Endorsed: Dr. Franklin Passy 26 Novr 1781 Answerd


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Adams, 26 November 1781
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Amsterdam Novr 26th 1781.
I presume You have a Copy from Congress of their Instructions to me of the 16th of August: but as it is possible it may be otherwise, I have inclosed one. I have communicated them to the Duke de la Vauguion, who says they are très bien vues, très bien combinées. I shall do nothing in the business, without communicating it beforehand to him, with the most entire Confidence, and recieving his Approbation and Advice. He informs me, that he has not yet recieved any Instructions from his Court respecting it. These Instructions have arrived in a very proper time to counteract another insidious trick of the British Ministry, in agreeing to the Mediation of Russia for a seperate Peace with Holland.
With unfeigned Joy I congratulate your Excellency on the glorious News of the surrender of Cornwallis, to the Arms of the Allies. How easy a thing would it be to bring this War to an happy Conclusion, if Spain & Holland would adopt the System of France, and cooperate in it with the same Honor and Sincerity? There is nothing wanting but a constant naval Superiority in the West Indies and on the Coast of the United States, to obtain Triumphs upon Triumphs over the English, in all quarters of the Globe. The Allies now carry on the War in America, with an infinite Advantage over the English, whose Infatuation nevertheless will continue to make them exhaust themselves there, to the neglect of all their possessions in other parts of the World.
I have the honor to inclose to your Excellency some proposals made to me by the House of Ingraham and Bromfield respecting the Continental Goods. These are two Merchants from Boston, who have established a House here. They are industrious Men, and I believe well capable of performing what they propose, which is submitted to your Excellency. With great Respect I have the Honour to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble Servant
J. Adams
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr

Notation: John Adams Novr. 26. 1781


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon, 26 November 1781
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce 26 novembre a nice [1781]
Je reçois a l’instant une lettre du grand voisin qui me paroist inquiét et qui me dit que vous l’éstes aussi mon bon papa; rassurés vous mes bons amis mon état est en verité meilleur que je n’osois l’éspérér, le régime que lorry me fait suivre, et le beau soleil qu’il m’a conseillé d’allér chercher me réussissent par merveille; mon ame toujours tendre, toujours aimante pense chaques jours a l’aimable societé de passy et tasche d’allégér l’énnui de l’absence en écrivant éxactement tous les huit jours a ses amis, une semaine au voisin le veillard et l’autre a vous mon bon papa; mais a deux cent cinquante lieuës de distance les torrents, les riviéres qu’il a falluë travérsér pour arrivér a nice, arréstent quelquefois les couriérs, et pourroit faire soupçonnér mon éxactitude a qui ne connoistroit pas mon coeur, je ne crains n’y de vous n’y de mon voisin cétte injustice parceque vous m’aimés et sçavés trop bien comme je vous le rends:/:
Je ne sçais si a mon age les voyages forment encore, mais il me semble que mes idées se sont étenduës par les reflections moralles et par les différençes phisiques que la nature présente a chaques pas d’un voyageur un peu réfléchi; la variété des différents sittes m’a donné plus de respéct pour le grand architecte du grand tout et les passions des hommes semblables au fond, mais différentes au premiér appérçu, d’aprés le plus ou le moins de chaleur du soleil, d’aprés les loix et les usages divérs des pays qu’ils habittent, d’aprés les intérésts de la société et de chacun en particuliér tout cet éxamen m’a convaincu que l’homme cét animal qui veut éxpliquér la nature qui rit de ses éfforts en épaissit son voile lorsqu’il croit le penetrér, que l’homme cet éstre orgueilleux n’est vraiment quelque chose de passable que lorsqu’il sent assés son impuissance pour invoquér la raison et se laissér guidér par elle; d’aprés cet éxposé mon aimable papa vous jugerés aisaiment que je n’aurai rien gagné du costé de l’amabillité que vous me conseillés il faut vous résoudre mon ami a me retrouvér a ce que j’éspére un peu plus éstimable que par le passé et rien de plus; toutes les jolies fémmes que j’ai vuë m’ont amusé, mais je voyois le sort de leurs vieux jours pardessous leurs roses et leurs appas, et j’ai dit, gardons mon oppinion, ma vértu, et mes amis.
Ce n’est pas tout d’avoir franchi des monts, traversé des torrents, longé des précipices; tout au travérs de ma raison j’ai bien parfois sans que cela paroisse ma petite folie; non contente de voir grondér les flots de réflêchir sur la témérité de l’homme qui se hasarde sur ce térrible et dangereux élement, j’ai voulu en tâter mon ami et le récit de mon voyage maritime vous étant du de plein droit, écouttés je vais vous le conter:
Le 20 octobre, il est entré a ville franche une frégatte éspagnolle nomée la Sancta Ruffina commandée par le Capitaine Don pédro caguanéra, montée de 42 piéces de Canon, ayant sous son éscorte une hourque hollandoise et une polacre génoise, chargées de familles angloises, mahonnoises, et juives que le duc de Crillon renvoyent de minorque a gesnes, ce qui a été cause de leur relâche dans cétte rade. C’est un furieux coup de vent d’est qui les y a forçés; notre curiosité a été excittée, nous avons voulu voir la frégatte et éssayér un peu de la mér, en conséquence le 22 le temps étant trés calme, le vent de nord souflant légérement nous avons attendu l’heure de midi pour voir si le vent ne renforceroit point, mais s’étant rangé a l’ouest et presque calmé nous nous sommes hasardés sur cét élément pour faire 4 mille sur un batteau pêcheur et sommes arrivés heureusement a bord de la frégatte Espagnolle; le Capitaine homme vif et tout a fait honneste et aimable nous a comblés de pollitésse, il vouloit absoluement nous retenir a disnér il nous a conduit dans tout le bastiment en voyant que nous ne voulions pas acceptér le disnér de famille qu’il nous offroit avec une cordiallité charmante, il a fait apportér des biscuits et d’éxçéllent vin qu’il nous a préssé de prendre, et nous a fait reconduire par son neveu avéc son canot; ce neveu par parenthése est la plus belle et la plus douce Créature qu’on puisse imaginér, et chose bien rare surtout aux éspagnols il a le tein un peu plus frais que ma fille aînée; au retour, comme le vent avoit fraichi et que nous l’avions de prouë, le coeur de ma fille cadétte et le mien ont eté un peu éprouvés du mal de mer, cependant a un moment prés notre routte a été trés guaye; nous avons causé de choses divérses et la convérsation s’étant fixée sur l’objét intéréssant, la guérre; l’officier éspagnol qui nous reconduisoit ayant entendu que nous parlions du comte d’éstaing, nous a dit avoir servi sous ses ordres lorsqu’il commendoit la gallhispayne, et avéc une profonde inclination il s’est écrié, bel ombre et di grandé valoré; voila comme vous voyés mon bon papa une grande narration pour un très petit voyage, mais comme tout intérésse lorsqu’on est loin de ses amis, je crois qu’il ne vous sera pas indifférent de sçavoir que qu’oiqu’étourdie du batteau mon voyage maritime m’a fort amusé:
Vous trouvérés cy joint une notte relative au commérce qui s’établira nécéssairement entre le port de marseille et les états unis; mr Brétons trés galant homme connu de mr grand votre ami, désireroit dans le Cas ou vous auriés besoin d’un corréspondant a marseille que votre choix tombat sur lui; d’aprés la réputation generalle de probité et de sagésse qu’a ce mr Bretons, je Crois mon chér papa que le Congrés ne pourroit que s’applaudir d’avoir mis sa confiance en lui; nous l’avons vu souvent pendant notre séjour a marseille. C’est un homme doux, attentif, et qui nous a paru mérittér la réputation de sagésse et de phillosophie dont il jouit:
Amitiés sans nombres je vous prie a mr votre fils et a nos bons voisins, de toute la Collonie Nisarde.

[In Mr. Brillon’s hand:] Moy, Mon cher Papa je vous embrasses tout Simplement, tout bonnement Vous et votre Caro picolino Figliolo de tout mon Coeur.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Louis de Lolme, 26 November 1781
From: Lolme, Jean-Louis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Paris, Nov. 26. 1781 Hôtel de Portugal rue de Mail
The last time I was in Paris I did myself the honour to call at Passy, in order to pay my respects to you, when I was not so fortunate as to meet you: as I should be extremely sorry to experience now the same disappointment, I take the liberty to acquaint you with my being in Paris, and should be very happy if you would condescend to inform me of the properest time for me to call at your house, supposing you think proper to receive my visit.
I send you inclosed the proposals of the periodical paper I prepare to publish: the reason of my coming to Paris, is to procure the admission of it in France: this is a favour not very easy to be obtained; though I have received some encouragement from a person well able to make me succeed.
I have the honour to be with very great respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble Servant
J L DeLolme

Notation: De Lolme 26. Nov. 1781.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame ——— Modenx de Saint-Wast, 26 November 1781
From: St. Wast, Madame —— Modenx de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce Lundy 26. 9bre 1781
Madame De Saint Wast fait mille tres humbles Complimens a Monsieur francklin, Elle Se flatte qu’il n’a pas oublié la promesse qu’il luy a faite de luy faire L’honneur de Venir diner chez Elle Mercredy prochain avec Monsieur son petit fils. Messieurs De La haute et de st. Wast luy font mille complimens; La Santé du dernier est beaucoup meilleure.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur francklin / A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from D’Amezaga, [27 November 1781?]
From: Amezaga, Ignace d’Urtado, marquis d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

paris mardy matin [November 27, 1781?]
Ouy Monsieur, jay partagé votre satisfaction. Avec Le plus grand plaisir Dimanche, nous boirons, a nos generaux sy La charmante douariere sy trouvoit avec son fils; que cela seroit heureux: au reste par tout ou je me trouveres avec vous je seres avec un des hommes pour Le quel jay Le plus destime et de veneration
URTADO MARQUIS DAMEZAGA
mr amelot est a paris avec une attaque dhemoroÿde terible


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 27 November 1781
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond. Sir,
Philadelphia November 27th. 1781.
The Marquis La Fayette having been detained by bad Weather a day or two longer than he expected, I embrace the opportunity of saying again that we are all well; I have committed my Letter of the 24th. Inst. with the Newspapers to the care of General Duportail who accompanies the Marquis to France— As they visit their native Country crowned with Laurels, they will no doubt meet a most welcome reception,—The Marquis, during his command in Virginia, has shewn all the Abilities of a Veteran, he is univerally beloved on this side the Atlantic, & we hope to see him again in the Spring, should his Services be wanted in another Campaign—
Our good General came to Town from the Southward last Evening, I am told he purposes spending his Winter here, his late Successes will give him a little respite from the Toils & Fatigues of War; this may be truly said to be the first holladay he has had, since the commencement of it— With sincere Wishes that the Marquis may have a happy sight of his Friends in France, I have the honor once more to subscribe myself Dear Sir Your hond. & affectionate Son
Rich Bache
Dr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Kéralio: Two Letters, 27 November 1781
From: Kéralio, Agathon Guynement, chevalier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
Mardi, Le 27e 9bre. 1781.
Je reçois, mon Digne et respectable ami, la Lettre que vous avés eu la bonté de m’écrire, et les détails qui y étoient joints. Recevés en mes sinceres remerciments. Esperons que ce glorieux évenement nous donnera La paix et que vous jouirés du fruit de vos travaux.
Notre céleste amie est toujours dans l’ivresse de la joie. Son fils est arrivé samedi dernier en bonne santé, un peu bruni, mais c’est l’ombre des lauriers dont il s’est couvert qui le fait paroitre ainsi; il est retourné ce matin à versailles; autrement il eut été vous rendre ses devoirs: recevés en attendant l’hommage de son respect et celui de la tendre vénération avec laquelle je me ferai à jamais gloire d’être, Votre très humble et tres obéissant Serviteur
Le CHR. De Keralio

II.
mardi, le 27e. 9bre. 1781.
Je quitte, mon très respectable ami, notre incomparable Douairiere qui a été bien touchée de votre lettre; elle me charge de vous en faire ses tendres remerciments, et de vous inviter à Diner pour Samedi, 1e. decembre; L’ambassadeur de Suede en sera et peutêtre celui d’Espagne.

Notation: Keralio M. Le Chr. 27. 9bre. 1781.