Title: Francis Coffyn to the American Commissioners, 23 March 1778
From: Coffyn, Francis
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Honored Gentlemen,
Dunkirk 23d. March 1778.
Referring to the letter I had the honnor of writing to you the 14th. instant whereas the Treaty you have gloriously concluded in the name of the united and Independant States of America with the Court of France, is no more a mistery Since it has been declared by his Christian Majesty’s ambassador to the British Ministry, I hope you’ll indulge the liberty I take in congratulating you on this happy and long wish’d for event, which being intirely due to your wise conduct, in the negociation, will for ever lay both Countrys under the greatest obligation towards the Honorable Commissioners who have operated and concluded this Salutary work which will secure to America an everlasting Independance, and to both States the mutuall advantages they may Expect from the wise principals on which the Treaty is grounded.
Notwithstanding the wretched prospect that Great Britain has now before it, which is plainly manifested by the dayly fall of the Stocks the obstinacy of the Ministry will probably prevail on the bribed majority in the British Senate to make a last and I think a vain Struggle, by a declaration of warr. As this setts me intirely at liberty from the restrictions I was Subjected to by my Commission, I hope you’ll be pleased to consider the real and uninterrested attachment I have Shewn to the American cause from the beginning of the revolution, (tho’ then attended with some danger to myself,) and in consequnce favour me with the continuation of your confidence and your orders in any thing where I can be of service to America or to the Subjets of the united states, and you may firmly rely, that I have no greater ambition now, then openly to exert every nerve that may contribute to the wellfare of the States of which you are the representatives. These are, and will ever be the unvariable Sentiments with which I have the honnor to Subscribe myself, Honored Gentlemen Your most Humble and most devoted Servant
Frans. Coffyn
The Hble. Benjn. Franklin, Silas Dean, & Arthur Lee Esqrs. at Passy.

P.S. All the English vessells now laying in this harbour (the Smugglars Excepted,) have been Stop’d this morning by order of the Court. The Captains of the French vessells fearing a retaliation if they should be met in the channell, dare not proceed to Sea. This perplexes Capn. Chandler, as he wishes to be more usefully employed, he wants to go to Nantes by land, was he even obliged to walk there; if you wanted a pilot for any vessell bound to America, I think he would do. As Capn. Henry Johnson knows this man, he can tell you more about him, and I request you would be pleased to communicate to me your intention relating this man, and the other Americans which may in future arrive here, as the approaching warr will put a Stop to the facility of sending them to Nantes by water. I remain ut supra.

Endorsed: Coffin 23d March 1778 Reced. open from Dr Franklin April 6th to answer A.L.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Lee, 23 March 1778
From: Lee, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Chaillot 23 March. 1778.
Mr. Lee presents his most respectful Compliments to Dr. Fraklin and will have the pleasure of waiting on him tomorrow forenoon to take leave and hopes the Copy of the Treatys will be ready for him.

Addressed: Honble / Benjamen Franklin Esqr.
Notation: W. Lee 23 March 1778 to BF.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, [23 March 1778]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Aux Galeries du Louvre ce Lundy matin[March 23, 1778] a 10 heures ¼
Il faut Mon illustre confrère que je vous importune encore il fait un temps si terrible que je ne puis vous aller voir.
C’est un usage dans L’Académie que quand il arrive quelque chose d’agréable à un academicien comme d’être nommé à un nouvel employ à une nouvelle dignité L’académie lui députe plusieurs de ses membres pour lui faire compliment sur cette nouvelle dignité. Tout le monde veut que vous preniez demain à Versailles Le Titre et la qualité de Ministre des Etats unis de L’Amerique Septentrionale. Mandez moi je vous prie ce qui en est afin que comme Directeur je nomme cette députation qui fera je vous assurre le plus grand plaisir à tous mes confrères et comme c’est demain Académie à cause de la fête de Mercredy vous me ferez grand plaisir de me marquer par un mot ce qui en est demain avant deux heures, afin que je puisse m’acquitter promtement d’un devoir qui me fera tant de plaisir. On a remarqué que vous aviez un chapeau blanc à votre audience de vendredy. On a pretendu qu’il y avoit quelque chose la dessous. J’ai dit que vous aviez un chapeau blanc que vous preniez souvent quand vous ne trouviez pas l’autre que je croyois qu’il n’y avoit pas d’autre mystere. Je ne sais si j’ai eu tort ou raison. Pardon de ce long billet je ne puis m’empecher cependant d’ajouter encore les nouvelles assurrances de l’Enchantement où je suis que les choses ayent si bien prosperé.

P.S. Le Petit Basile qui arrive dans ma chambre veut à toutes forces que j’ouvre mon billet pour vous dire qu’il est bien aise que vous soyez ambassadeur et qu’il vous en fait son compliment.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Wharton, 23 March 1778
From: Wharton, Samuel
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
London March 23 1778
I find a Disposition among several of my Friends to lend Money to the United States, And I am desired by One of Them, to request the Favor of you to furnish Me with the Manner, in Which the Loans must be made, and inform Me, What Interest The United States give.
Mr. Thornton waits, so that I have not Time to add More, Than my hearty Congratulations On the Recognition of American Independence. I am Ever with the truest Esteem Dear Friend Your’s most Affectionately.
I have sent you the News Papers by Mr. Austin and Bearer.

Addressed: A / Monsr. / Monsr. François / Chez Monsr. Chaumont / Passy.
Notations in different hands: S. W———n March 23. 78 / S. Wharton


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to James Hutton, 24 March 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hutton, James

Passy March 24. 1778
My dear old Friend was in the right not “to call in question the Sincerity of my Words where I say Feb. 12. we can treat if any Propositions are made to us.” They were true then, and are so still, if Britain has not declared War with France; for in that case we shall undoubtedly think ourselves obliged to continue the War as long as she does. But methinks you should have taken us at our Word, and have sent immediately your Propositions in order to prevent such a War, if you did not chuse it. Still I conceive it will be well to do it, if you have not already rashly begun the War. Assure yourself that nobody more sincerely wishes perpetual Peace among Men than I do; but there is a prior Wish, that they would be equitable and just, otherwise such Peace is not possible, and indeed wicked Men have no right to expect it.
I grieve for the Death of good Mrs. Falconar. Is there any Children? Adieu. I am ever Yours most affectionately
B Franklin

Notation: Mr Huttons Letter of March 4th & BF answer of Mar. 24. 1778. Dr. F.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Lee, 24 March 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, William

Passy, March 24. 1778
Dr. Franklin’s Compliments to Mr. W. Lee and informs him, that the Treaty of Alliance, is ordered by the Court of France, to be kept a Secret, ’till they think fit to publish it.

Addressed: Honble William Lee Esqr / Chaillot.


Title: Jonathan Williams, Jr., to the American Commissioners, 24 March 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Nantes March 24. 1778.
Since my last of 21st Instant I have nothing to inform your Excellencies relative to Business, the weather having been such as to prevent any operation.
The last post from Brest brings accounts of the Return of Monsr. la motte Picquet with his Fleet. He left our Ships in Latt. 42 Longd. 17 with a fine wind which continued fifteen Days. After Seperation Monsr. la motte picquet fell in with 4 English Transports convoyed by a Frigate and a Sloop of war steering for the West Indies.
The Brune unfortunately seperated from the Fleet the second Night, not being able to carry sufficient Sail. The other Ships sail well especialy the Dean and Independance. It gives me great Pleasure to have so good accounts of the Frigate, and I flatter myself she will be equal to any of her Size in any navy.
I beg leave to congratulate you on the acknowledgement of our Independance by the Court of France, which I hope will prove benificial and honourable to both Nations. I have the Honour to be with great Respect Your Excellencies most obedient and most humble Servant
Jona Williams
Their Excellencys The Ministers Plenipotentiary of the United States.

Notations: Nantes 24th. March 1778 J Williams Lettr / Jonan. Williams to The Ministers Plenpy U.S.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Duchesse de Civrac, 25 [March?] 1778
From: Civrac, Marie-Anne de La Faurie de Monbadon, duchesse de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Bellevue le 25 [March, 1778?]
Mesdames desirent que monsieur franklin vienne les voir a bellevues aujourdhui, ou demain si ces affaires le lui permetent. Elles ont chargé mde de civrac de faire parvenir leur volonté a mr. franklin. Les ocasions de l’assurer de tous ces sentiments est infiniment pretieuse a la duchesse de civrac.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Wren, 25 March 1778
From: Wren, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Portsmouth 25. March 1778.
I communicated the intelligence of yours of the 21st. to the Officers at Forton, and they to the people, which gave the whole body of them great pleasure and contentment.
I believe Mr. Newsham will soon send such a representation of the quiet behaviour of those in close confinement (except one) as added to your attempts in their favour, will soon procure their enlargement. I have received all Mr. Thorntons letters down to that of the 22d. instant.
I shall, Sir, with your leave soon draw on you for the £11.9.6. the amount of the bills sent to Mr. T. and will it be amiss Sir if at the same time, I draw on you for the whole, or a part of the £37. the remainder of a £100? One weeks dinners more is now due to Mrs. Harrison. I have the pleasure, Sir, to inform you that I have accomplished one thing with great ease and satisfaction. I spoke to the Officers about reducing the number of their messes from eleven to about five or six, that it might diminish the charge of dressing the victuals. They received it, and consented, with so much good temper that I thought it a good opportunity to inform them, that indeed only a certain sum as yet, was appointed for the defraying this expence and tho’ I most sincerely wished it might hold out as long as they remained in this country, yet as that was uncertain, frugality became sound and perfect wisdom in them, as well as in those who had the management of this matter. They most cordially and unanimously assented to this. And they were so much surprized at Mrs. Harrisons charge for dressing victuals, that they even then made a proposal, if you approved of it, to take in lieu of the victuals as much money per week as shall be deemed a reasonable and modest estimate, and so to manage the sum granted as to make it go as far as possible. They purpose in this case to procure the additional victuals themselves from different houses, or have it dressed in part in the prison as shall be found practicable.
I should suppose that about £6. or 6. Guineas a week would be both sufficient and satisfactory. I told them that they should think of their plan again, and let it be a deliberate act, a well digested scheme; and I apprehended it might do. Whatever assistance Mr. Ducket can give them in the purchasing their meat will be readily afforded them.
And now, Sir, we must have your advice and order on this head. In my next I will give you the exact sum of one weeks expence of Mrs. Harrisons dinners.
Shall we in the future receipts, Sir, say received of you, or of Mr. Thornton, for indeed I wish to know which is right? And shall I send the receipts up immediately when taken or keep them till any period of time? I am, Sir, your most obedient humble Servant
Thos. Wren


Title: John Philip Merckle to the American Commissioners, 26 March 1778
From: Merckle, John Philip
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Gentlemen
Amsterdam 26th: March 1778:
I still Labour under the Disagreeable Necessity of once more making my Addresses to You; relative to the Arms I have purchased, Conformable to your list. The Person from Whom I engaged them insists very hard on my taking the same. I applyed to Messrs: Hornica fils & Co: to Comply with your direction, Who has refused with very unbecoming threats, respecting a disclosure to Sir J: York (Genteel Proceedings indeed). From a Natural Veneration and Sincere Attachment to the Cause, I have in Conjunction With my friends formed a Considerable Expedition and almost ready to Sail, and am threatened to be Stopped by the holder of the Arms, Which are ready to be delivered and are already proved. I shall be under the disagreeable Necessity of Commencing a Law suit against that House, Which dont seem to incline to fulfill your orders. My Incumbrance arrises from not being able to place such an Article in the cargo, or should have endeavoured to facilitate, on your Accounts, but as its out of my power at present, I pray you would order the Steps to be taken to prevent pernicious reflection and fatal Consequences. In expectation of your usual Judicious regularity I have the honour to be, with much esteem Gentlemen Your Humble Servant
Joh. Ph. Merckle

P.S. This moment I am informed that an Arrest is Issued Against me for the payment of Arms, and also to oblige me to receive the same.

Addressed: The Honble: Messr: Franklin & Deane / á / Passy
Notation: Merckle 26th. March 78 Reced. open from Dr Franklin to answer Apl. 6th. AL.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon, [26 March? 1778]
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce jeudi [March 26, 1778?] a passy
Oui mon ami j’irai demain déjeunér avéc vous, mais je ne puis vous allér trouvér avant dix heures: mon mari ne pourra pas estre de la partie étant obligé d’allér a paris pour affaire. Il me charge de vous assurér du regrét qu’il a de ne pouvoir allér boire votre vin pour vous prouver le cas qu’il fait de vos conseils; il prendra sa revanche la semaine prochaine et je l’accompagnerai parceque j’ai toujours été convaincu de la verité que “deux plaisirs valent mieux qu’un.” Il me semble que c’est la ce que vous appellés de la moralle voyés mon bon papa comme on se forme a votre écolle. En vérité je suis quelquefois étonné de mes progrets.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [ ——— Montécot], 26 March 1778
From: Montécot, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A number of letters like this that make concrete and, as far as we know, fruitless offers can conveniently be discussed together here. At about the same time as Montécot’s proposal, but with no date, comes one to the commissioners from Louis-Gabriel Le Roÿ in Paris. He is a master carpenter and cabinet-maker for French officers, and the enclosed prospectus shows that he is the only one of his kind. He has invented a folding table for the field, light, solid, easy to handle; one will seat six, and a number put together one hundred or more. On April 19 he writes again to say that when the commissioners were being received at court he and M. Mouchin, gunsmith of Liège, called with a memorandum and a prospectus about other articles of furniture; if he is to get no answer, might he at least have back his papers?
At some time in April (the day has been obliterated) the marquise de Chasseneuil writes from near Ste.-Foy on the Dordogne. Franklin has encouraged her to think that he would provide the address of an American to whom she could sell her wine directly. The vineyards promise well, and should yield at least 22,000 bottles of red and white. She proposes that whoever he names should sell the lot, according to quality and to the price of other French wines in America; she will pay the expenses and duty and commission. Tell her to whom to write, or forward this letter to a correspondent who will choose a safe ship and provide the address. Her vineyards are within a dozen leagues of Bordeaux and half as far from St. Emilion; the red is on a par with that of Bordeaux and the white resembles Graves. She will furnish a sample, if desired, before making permanent arrangements. On November 5 she writes again. Enough of the vintage is ready so that some American in Bordeaux might wish to try it. Or give her an American consignee; the sea voyage will greatly improve the wine. Until she hears she will let no one taste it.

On April 5 the baron de Schönfeld, in Paris, forwards a letter from the directors of the best arms manufactory in Germany. On the 10th Pierre Arnoud Tesché, another German director, offers the resources of his firm in Solingen, near Cologne, which makes the finest side arms in Europe. Merely give him the full specifications of the weapons needed, and name the French port to which they are to be sent; he will then quote fair prices for everything, and the first delivery will give such satisfaction as to eliminate all chance of dealing elsewhere. On the 26th F. Daribau ainé, in Agen, points out that his leather, from the royal tannery, is the best in the kingdom; orders are promptly filled, and shoes of good quality cost only 3 l.t. 10 s. the pair. Four thousand are on order for the crown; he will gladly furnish samples.
On May 7 Lefebvre de Longeville, in Paris, recalls that he saw Franklin in mid-April to tell him of the loss of Dubourg’s ship, and left him a sample book of type from a local foundry. The business is for sale, and is a rare opportunity; foundries usually remain in families. The government would doubtless oppose exporting one, and precautions would be necessary. A memorandum from him, dated the 6th and enclosed with the letter, stresses the importance of printing and the certainty that American presses will continue to be busy. But there seem to be no type foundries; printers must have obtained their type from England, and will need their own if the United States are to be self-sufficient. The foundry in question is well known and well equipped; although it will need improvement, artisans of all sorts are available, and type can easily be sent to America. Sending the foundry itself in wartime would be unwise, because it could not be replaced if lost; and providing even two or three workmen for it would be difficult. To keep it producing in Paris to supply French printers, on the other hand, would hold the work force together until the end of the war and furnish revenue to recoup some of the purchase money. On May 13 D. Monttessuy, a Parisian banker who supplies the French navy with wood, sailcloth, rope, and tar, offers with Sartine’s approval to furnish the same goods to the United States. On June 11 Sikes, also in Paris, offers to demonstrate a pantograph or measuring machine of his invention, and encloses printed illustrations of the instrument. The Académie royale des sciences has already approved it.

Proposition
Ce 26. mars 1778.
On propose une fabrication de monnoye telle qu’on la désirera, avec un métal d’une couleur grise blanchâtre, intérieure et extérieure, qui plait a la vûe, comme impossible a contrefaire par de faux fabricateurs, dont l’invention a eté trouvée il y a plusieurs années par le Sr. Baillot demeurant a Paris, qui donnera son secret aprés avoir fait la dite fabrication.
La couleur blanche qui est sur ce métal, n’est qu’un blanchiment qui n’a eté imaginé que pour plaire a la vûe dans le commancement; il dure fort peu de tems, et dés qu’il est passé, le métal reprend sa couleur grise qui ne change plus.
Le Sr. Baillot joint au présent un Echantillon de ce métal qui a eté fabriqué chez luy a Paris le 3. Juin 1777. sous les yeux du ministre.
Mr. Montécot avocat en parlement rue du doyenné du Louvre et Mr. Boncerf rue Dantin ont connoissance de ce metal.
Mr. De Lessart Maitre des Requêtes en a aussi connoissance.

Notation: Baillot, Paris 26 Mars 78


Title: William Alexander to [William Pulteney]: Extract, 26 March 1778
From: Alexander, William
To: Pulteney, William Johnstone

Dear Sir
Dijon 26 March 1778
I wrote you a letter from Paris Immediately before I Set out for this place. On my arrival here I found one from our friend Williams which had been Addressed there. He seems to think there is little room for accommodating the Law Suit, from the obstinacy of one of the Brothers. I may be mistaken but am not of his opinion. Ben spoke indeed Cautiously and as a Man unwilling to make concessions that might Expose Him to Censure from his friends where the Interest of the whole family is Concernd and where no specific terms were offerd. But I coud give you the most Convincing reasons to prove that He earnestly wishes an amicable Setlement. In fact I wrote Williams a letter in his presence and with his approbation the result of a Conversation between us, In which it appeard to me he was very seriously uneasy least his plainness and the humour of his Brother at new Incidents arising, should Carry Matters further. He even said in words, “I have still some remaining affection for Him and woud be happy on reasonable terms to make Him easy.” All this you may If you think proper, Communicate to the Principal tutor.
There is a rule almost infalible in setling Matters with a wise Man, that as on the one hand he is not to be surprised into improper concessions by false and artificial views of things, you are always sure of Him on the other hand upon a fair State of equity and mutual Interest; so that were our friends understanding only to be Consulted I coud almost venture to say positively what will do and what not. The necessity he is under of Consulting friends may make a little tho’ not a great difference, because I am Convinced he has more weight with Them than They with Him.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ralph Izard, 27 March 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Izard, Ralph

Sir
Passy. March 27th. 1778
The Bearer says he is a native of Charles town South Carolina, and he wants a Pass to go into Italy. I do not well understand the account he gives of himself. He seems to me to be lost, and to want advice. I beg leave to refer him to you, who will soon be able to discover whether his account is true. I have the honour to be, very respectfully, Sir Your most obedient humble Servant
(Signed) B. Franklin
Honble Ra: Izard Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Desglanières, 27 March 1778
From: Desglanières, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

The plan enclosed in this letter, for taxation and local government, is one of several schemes submitted to Franklin for the purpose, at least ostensibly, of furthering the best interests of the United States. On March 30 Lambert, in Paris, sends with a covering letter a long memorandum on the best means to suppress begging. On April 21 the directors and syndics of the Aunis chamber of commerce expatiate on the advent of the United States as a great power; this astonishing revolution will change all political systems and create strong Franco-American commercial ties. Would Franklin like to know about the origin and growth of local trade with America? On June 4 Moucherel, in Nancy, explains that for more than half his forty-eight years he has made a comparative study of the laws of France and Lorraine, and has published two works on the subject. He is going on to devise a new criminal and civil code, drawn from the same two sources but clearer than they are, more enlightened, and less costly to the litigants. This system of uniform law would be suitable for the new American republic; it is arranged under forty-one headings for the civil law and twenty-eight for the criminal. The code would have to be adapted to local conditions, which cannot wisely be evaded though their evils may need correcting.

Grande Rue de chaillot a chaillot vis a vis l’orengerie ce 27 mars 1778.
L’amour de la liberté Americaine Dediée a Son Excellence Monseigneur Franklin ministre plenipotansier Des provinces unies americaines.
Oui, Monseigneur, c’est sur les pas de votre Excellence que l’on voit Renaitre Le patriotisme, qui conduit a L’amour de la liberté si cherie par Les nations. Quel bonheur vos Soins et vos peines ne viennt ils pas de rendre aux treize provinces, habitans de vos Concitoyens, bonheur qui couronera a jamais La carrier [carrière] de vos beaux jours. Vous courutes les meres, et par consequent ses dangers, pour pouvoir brisser les liens d’une Chaine d’esclavage q’une nation, la plus fiere, et la plus turbulante de Toute l’europe, avoit forgée, pour enchainer vos braves Americains en foulant aux pieds le precieux droit de la nature, et celui de leur Ancestres. Daignez Monseigneur recevoir mon allegresse, que je joins a celle de toutes les nations sous l’heureuze protexion par laquelle vous etes parvenu a mettre vos trese provinces Belliqueuze.
Oui Monseigneur j’ose le dire mille fois heureuze, avec l’aprobation de tout l’univer, sous la protexion d’un Grand Roy, qui est adorée de ses fideles sujets, et qui est toujours prêt a tendre la main aux opprimés, sans avoir aucune Envie de s’agrandire par aucune voie illicite.
J’esaine [j’essaime?] a toutes Les nations, La Confirmations de ce que j’avance en me renferment dans le profond Respect avec Lequel j’ai l’honneur d’etre, Monseigneur De Votre Excellence Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
DesglanieresLe vrai citoyen


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Johnstone, 27 March 1778
From: Johnstone, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
March 27th 1778
These few Lines Is to let you know the Sittiation I am in and the misfortune that has befallen me since I Left amereca. I Saild from dartmouth the 27th of June Last in a Sloop Bellonging to Mr. jon Mccob of kennebeck and bound for Martinicco and the 17th of July was taken by an armed Vessall belongin to berbaddouse [Barbados] and Carried us to St. Johns in Newfoundland and Put on bord of the Romney admirell Monttecu Commander. He wanted us to Enter wich we Refusd then he Sent us to Plimmouth whear we whear all put to Prison whear we all Remaind till the 5th of Decmber whear we being disstred for the want of Provishtion obliged us to Strive for our Leberty So we brocke out of Prison and I Maed my Excape in a Veassal Bound to Gurnsey whear I Ship on Bord of an English Cutter bound to St. Mallos in france Whear the Veasal and all the men are Stopd so then I applyed to the Comesaray for my Lebertty which he Could not but bid me apply to your honer which I houp will git my Clearance. I Remain your Most Humble and Obedtiont Sarvant
John Johnstone

P.S. My Place of abod is at woodstock In Connicticutt goverment and houp your honer will be so kind as to pitty your unforttunate Subject and Pleese to send an answer to the Comessaray of St. Mallos for my Leberty that I may Return to my Nattive Cunttary
Mr. Henary Francklin

Notation: J. Stone


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Duc de La Rochefoucauld, 27 March 1778
From: La Rochefoucauld, Louis-Alexandre, duc de La Roche-Guyon et de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Brest. 27. Mars. 1778.
Enfin Monsieur voilà donc votre Nation et la nôtre amies déclarées, et le liberateur de l’Amérique Plenipotentiaire public en france; on pourroit maintenant en sureté vous prier à un concert, et Milord stormont vous a cédé la place. Puisse cette union durer longtems et faire réciproquement le bonheur des deux pais. Je regrette bien de n’avoir pas assisté au moment où vous avez déploié votre caractere: mais je suis ici pour votre service, et la communauté d’interêts qui unit le Congrès avec la Cour de france me fait esperer que nous aurons l’honneur de vous posséder encore quelques années.
Est-il vrai que M. Deane retourne en Amérique? Il doit venir ici, et m’avoit promis de me voir en passant à Morlaix; mais mon Régiment n’y est plus; il est à quatre lieus d’ici dans une petite ville où personne ne passe, mais si M. Deane veut bien me mander le moment où il viendra ici, je m’y rendrai pour le voir et l’embrasser, as Brother. J’ai vu hier votre Capitaine Jones, et je dois diner après demain avec lui en rade à bord d’une de nos frégates.
Vous m’avez promis de vos nouvelles, et je prens la liberté de vous le rappeller: c’est ici à Brest que je vous prie de me les adresser. On y arme à forces et tous nos Marins sont in good Spirits: adieu, Monsieur: malgré votre nouveau titre, vous permettrez bien que je vous renouvelle sans cérémonie l’hommage sincere de ma joie, de ma veneration et de mon attachement
Le Duc DE LA Rochefoucauld

Addressed: Monsieur / Monsieur franklyn Ministre Plénipotentiaire / des Etats Unis d’Amerique / A Passy
Notation: Duc de la Rochefoucauld


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Arthur Lee, 27 March 1778
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
Challiot March 27th 1778
In consequence of what you mentiond to me relative to the german Courts, I consulted the Spanish Ambassador whether it coud be determind with any degree of certainty, how long it woud be before the business I am pledged for with his Court woud require my attendance. His answer was, that it was altogether uncertain.
In this situation it appeard to me that under my present engagements I coud not venture to so great a distance. My Brother has therefore set out on the original plan, that was settled at Versailles.
Mr. Grand has not yet returnd me the Account compleated. The moment I receive it, I will wait upon you to settle the business of the loan-bills. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Dear Sir Your most Obedient Servant
Arthur Lee

Notation: Ar Lee to B.F. March 27. 1778


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre-Marin Beaugeard, [before 28 March 1778]
From: Beaugeard, Pierre-Marin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[Before March 28, 1778]
M. Beaugeard, Tresorier des Etats de Bretagne, prie Monsieur franklin et Monsieur son petit fils de lui faire l’honneur de venir diner chez lui samedy 28 Mars ainsi qu’ils ont bien voulu le luy promettre.
Reponse s’il vous plait.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin Deputé des / Etats unis de l’Amerique Septentrionalle / maison de M. LeRey de Chaumont / a Passy


Title: John Ross to the American Commissioners, 28 March 1778
From: Ross, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

May it please their Excellencys
Nantes 28th March 1778
Permit me to congratulate your Excellenceys, and the Inhabitants of the United States on the happie late Event, of your Embassie at this Court. I cannot doubt of its giving universal satisfaction in America, and I hope that confidence and Friendship will not only be preserved thereby, but the Objects of Advantages in Commerce mutually cultivated to make it Lasting and Usefull to this Kingdom and the United States of America in general.
I had the honour to address your Excellenceys at three different Times, vizt. 26th. and 28th. Ultimo and my last of 12th Inst: without the pleasure of being favoured with an Answer to either. It has been, and is my wishes, nevertheless to be informed of your intentions in regard to the Papers and Books of Mr. Morris, Mr. Lee haveing informed they have been taken Possession of under your Excellenceys Sanction. I must take the liberty to inform You that a dissolution of the Partnership of Messrs. Willing Morris & Co. makes an immadiate inspection into those Papers for the Setlement of their European concerns absolutely necessary, and that the Interest and Credit of those Gentlemen suffer at this very instant by the Detention of them.
If your Excellenceys shoud think yourselves authorized to deliver the whole or any Part of them to me, under the powers am possessed of, am ready to receive them for the purpose of rendering myself as usefull as possible to W M & Co. If not, I have this far discharged my Duty, nor shall I henceforward trouble your Excellenceys on the Subject, let the consequences turn out as they may.
I had a Letter of 30th Decemr. last from Robert Morris Esqr. member of the Committee of Congress In which are the following Paragraph Vizt. “You tell me You shall soon forward Goods, and Invoyces, compleating all the orders you have received, and that the Amount will exceed either your or my expectations. Now I have all along expected, that you would send the goods to fulfill the first, as soon as you could, that you woud execute the second as fast as you received the remitances for that account particularly, And all those remitances that were for that Purpose, enumerated particularly in my letter of the 9th. July. The other order from the Secrete Committee I never did expect you woud execute, unless the Commercial Agent or Commissioners at Paris supplyed you with funds for that purpose. It is true the Committee directed the Commercial Agent to do it, but the Remitances they have made fell so much short of what they expected at that very time to make, that I long since gave up the Idea of your executing that order, unless the Commissioners shoud agree to Supply you, and this I suppose they will do. Of course you are not to expect further remitances from the Committee.” The foregoing will am hopes explain to you my Situation, and that am now to depend intyrely on your Excellenceys for Assistance to support me in discharging all my Engagements in Europe on Account of the Public. The Committee of Congress haveing concluded to make me no more remitance, trusting to your Excellenceys, those advances which you have been pleased to make me already, must now come to the debit of the Committee with you and to their Credit in Account with me. I owe besides on Account of the purchases of last order of Woolens &ca. for the United States upwards of £350,000, which has been subject to Interest for some months past, and must ultimatly be charged to the States. For sometime I have managed to keep off pressing demands by assistance of particulare Friends expecting remitances from day to day as known in particulare to your Excellenceys but my expectations being now turned towards you to be relieved, I must beg your sentiments in Course. You shall be furnished a regulare state of all my disbursements on public Account either in whole or in part, and I shall be glade if agreeable to make a final Setlement thereof, it being equally agreeable to me to setle here, or with the Committee in America. My Necessitys are realy urgeing, as such if it shoud not prove convenient to make money Advances immadiately, your Liberty to me to draw on Your Banker as [at] such date as may be approved of will enable me to support my Credit with that reputation, which I dare say you wish to preserve, as far as it’s engaged for the public.
The Application of the Property commited to me will do me no discredit, having paid that attention to the Purchases made by me, as if the Property had been my own. I have the honour to be with Particulare Respect Your Excellenceys Most Obedient humble Servant
Jno Ross
Their Excellenceys the Plenipotentiarys of the United States of America

Endorsed: Recd open from Dr. Franklin April 6th. AL


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— d’Abadie, 28 March 1778
From: Abadie, —— d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
De Bordeaux ce 28 mars 1778
Daignés recevoir mes felicitations sinceres sur l’heureux Evenement qui vient de couronner vos vertus patriotiques et remplir les veux de tous les francois.
J’ose suplier votre Excellence de m’accorder une nouvelle Lettre pour les Etats de georgie ou je vais passer avec Mr. Laplaine Capitaine au premier Bataillon. C’est moy que Mr. turgot a eu l’honneur de vous recommender au mois d’octobre et pour qui vous avez eu la Bonté d’ecrire a Mr. Williams a Boston; ma destination etant changée je Reclame la meme Bonté de votre Excellence pour obtenir du Service parmi les libres citoyens de L’amerique. Si j’ay lieu d’attendre cette faveur de votre Excellence veuilles me L’adresser poste Restante a L’isle de Rhê ou je vais m’embarquer avec Mr. de Laplaine. J’ai L’honneur d’etre avec les sentiments les plus Respectueux Monseigneur votre tres humble et obeissant serviteur
D’Abadie

Notation: Dabadie Bordeaux ce 18 may [sic] 1778


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from de La Plaigne, 28 March 1778
From: La Plaigne, Emmanuel-Pierre de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
De Bordeaux ce 28 mars 1778
Permettez qu’en ce jour j’ai l’honneur de feliciter vôtre Excellence sur sa réception peuplique [publique] en qualité de notre ministre plenipotentiere des états unis et indépendens de L’amérique septentrionalle. Excusez la liberté que je prens de partager avec les français et les ameriquains ici la joÿe que cause à tous une nouvelle si long-tems désirée.
Depuis le sept du courant que je me fis l’honneur de repondre à vôtre excellence, j’ai eu bien de débats et de tracasseries pour l’article des passagers avec les srs. Bayard et Compagnie: je crains bien même de n’en être pas quitte encore vû leur pusillanimité augmantee par le Bruit de Guerre. Je crains même qu’ils ne manquent à leur traité, et dans ce cas Monseigneur je demendrai à vôtre excellence des secours et des moÿens pour pouvoir ÿ parer.
Je compte partir Lundi prochain pour l’îlle de Ré, ou le d’argantrée destiné pour moi est a charger, et je ne quitterai cette îlle qu’une dizaine de jours apres; j’ÿ pourrai récevoir de nouvelles de votre Exellence si elle deignait en Reponse m’ÿ honorer de ses instructions et ordres par la voix de La Rochaile chez Mr. de Lacoste avocat et procureur du Roi à l’election Rue juiverie à La Rochaile. J’ose implorer de nouveau Monseigneur la continuation de vos Bontés pour celui qui ne cessera d’etre avec la plus parfaite Reconnaissance et le Respect le plus profond De votre Excellence Monseigneur Le très humble et très obeisant serviteur
Emmanuel Pierre De La PLAIGNECapt. au 1er de georgie

Notation: De La Pleigne Bordeaux 28 mars 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Ross, 28 March 1778
From: Ross, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please his Excellency
Nantes 28 March 1778
I did myself the honor to address Your Excellencey about two weeks since, without the pleasure of any in return.
The Sole intent of this trouble serves merely to give Mr. Jno. B. Paschen of Hamburgh, a Particulare friend to America, the Opportunity of handing this as a pretence and introduction to pay his respects to You at Paris. He is a good kind of Man very friendly and obliging, Particularly desireous to see Mr. Franklin the first Embassador of the free and independant States of America. To gratifye this Gentleman if it does not interfere with your Excellenceys time when he calls, will lay me under obligation, that he may have it to report (his waiting on You) to his fellow Citizens. Mr. Paschen has been exceedingly attentive and obligeing in Promoting a disposition to recover my Claim against the City of Hamburgh for the damnages sustained by me, in the illegal detention of two Vessels of mine. I have hinted my intention to represent the injury I sustained thereby to Congress. And a few words Properly applyed by you, shoud you enter on the subject with this Gentleman, may have a very good tendency. I have the honour to be with real Respect and regard Your Excellenceys Most obedient Servant
John Ross
His Excellencey B: Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: To / His Excellencey / Benjamin Franklin Esqr / Plenipotentiary of the United / States of America / at Paris / Favour of Mr Paschen
Notation: Jn Ross March 28 78


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ralph Izard, 29 March 1778
From: Izard, Ralph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Paris 29th. March 1778.
I have seen the person you have referred to me, and who is desirous of my recommending him to you for a Passport to go into Italy. He says that he was born in South Carolina; but has been so long out of it, that he neither knows anybody there, nor does anybody know him. He left London, with an intention of going to Italy, and came to Paris to see the world, before he settled with a Merchant to whom he is engaged as a Clerk, at a place he hears is called Livorno. As this account did not appear very satisfactory, I desired him to excuse my troubling you with any recommendations, until he put it in my power to do it with propriety.
You will give me leave to remind you that I had the honour of addressing you on the 30th. of January, in reply to yours of 29th., and requested the favour of you to reconsider the Article in the Treaty then negotiating, respecting the exports of North America, whuch had given me much uneasiness, and in which I think myself greatly interested. From your Letter of 29th., I had reason to hope that in a few days you intended to give me an explanation on certain points wherein I thought myself injured, and to shew me that I was mistaken. In vain have I expected this satisfaction. I am very desirous of receiving it; and when the dates referred to are considered, I hope I shall not be thought too importunate in requesting that it may be soon. At the same time you will be so good as to inform me why no answer has been given to my Letter to you, and the other Commissioners at this Court, of the 5th. of this Month, and whether I am to expect any. I have the honour to be with great respect Sir Your most Obedient humble Servant
Ra. Izard.
The Honble. Benjn. Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [William Pulteney], 29 March 1778
From: Pulteney, William Johnstone
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Pulteney, when he returned from his self-appointed mission to Franklin, found Whitehall more receptive than it had been. The French Ambassador left London on March 19, and war was clearly in the offing; any last-minute chance to avert it seemed worth investigating. The government outlined some proposals as a basis of negotiation, and on the 26th the King reluctantly approved them. On the 29th Pulteney was back in Paris and discussing the proposals with Franklin. The underlying British premise, the Doctor wrote him on the 30th, made any treaty impossible; but the letter was apparently not sent, and the discussions may have gone on. When Deane left for home on the 31st, he carried with him a copy of the terms Pulteney had brought, to show them to Gérard. The decisive interview between Pulteney and Franklin took place in Alexander’s presence, and apparently before Deane’s departure. Although Franklin again pronounced the terms unacceptable, he offered if desired to consult his two colleagues. No point in that, Pulteney replied; “the reasons that weigh with you will also weigh with them.” He asked to bury the whole matter in oblivion, and Franklin agreed. On April 4 Alexander suggested a meeting that day, and sent an enclosure to the Doctor that he asked to have back, uncopied, “in case no business be done”; the banker had, it seems, not yet despaired of success. Franklin had. On the 7th he wrote Deane to burn the copy given him; North’s emissary had gone home, and all record of his mission was to be expunged. Pulteney was less scrupulous: the terms found their way into the hands of his brother, George Johnstone, one of the members of the Carlisle commission. Johnstone had even fewer scruples. Soon after he arrived in America he wrote an acquaintance there that Franklin, on March 29, had examined the terms the commissioners brought and pronounced them “beneficial to North America, and such as she should accept.” This wild distortion was laid before Congress.

Sunday Morning, March 29, 1788 [i.e.., 1778]
Mr. Williams returned this morning to Paris, and will be glad to see Dr. Franklin, whenever it is convenient for the Doctor, at the Hotel Frasiliere[?] Rue Tournon. It is near the Hotel where he lodged when the Doctor saw him a fortnight ago. He does not propose to go abroad, and therefore the Doctor will find him at any hour. He understands that Mr. Alexander is not yet returned from Dijon, which he regrets.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Patience Wright, 29 March 1778
From: Wright, Patience
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honoured Sir
Pall-mall waxwork March 29th 177[8]
As mr. Platts historey, his marage to my daughter and their return to america is already been Laid before you for your Councell assistiace &c. The most Sincere gratitue to God for making YOU the garduin Angel of us, who are so far from our native contry, notwithstanding I meet with the greatest politeness and sevility from the people of England yet, the Distress which is already Come and must follow to this once great littel Island give me such pain I Cannot Content my self to Behold any more. I began with the Boston Port Bill and I have travild through all the difirent ways of provdence to Bring about the grand and most Extrordary Revolutions by the most unlikly means, That I now belive that all my romantick Education Joynd with my father old Lovells Courage Can be Serrisable yet farther to Bring on the Glorious Cause of sivil and religious Liberty. 5 years agoe I Drempt a Dream Concerning Doctr. Frankling. I wrote down sd Dream and told number now read to-day that all those wonderful Events woud happen and as only one half is yet Come to Pass I most Solomly believe I shall live to see the other Part Compleated. Your Publick Entry to the Court of France is a prelude to the same honour done you at the Court of London with the addition of being the Glorious Deliver &c. when the good god who governs the world and rules in the heart of princes, he Raises up a Frankling to do his great work and that America should be honourd with her Son Benjiman the youngest of his Father Famaly and the man whom I have been taught to look on with the highest hopes to my Contry. It has made me determind to make you a Visit to take your Bosto [Bust] to send to the Empror of Germany, The Queen France with [?] other such likness as you shall aprove. Words Cannot Express the honour your lettr has done me Wherin you say you love me as well as Ever which is saying Mrs. Wright has the Friendship of the greatest man in this whole World and her study has, and shall be to deserve it by a faithful Eye to His honor, and her Contry by paying due honor to the now great philosophic Doctr. Frankling acknowledgd so by all the Known Chrestian People.

I Intend seting out for France as soon as the Hurly burly begins which must happen by mid sumer.
I shall bring some of my performanc with me and from the same old Patience Wright.
The great love and Confidence I have in you Joynd to my honest Intention to serve my Contry is a sufficient apoligy for this plain old Fashion Lettr from a good woman to the wisest man. My Knowlede of the falce and shameful Use of Polite Corospondance give me the Boldness to [write?] to you from my heart and to tell you I am your Very humble and faithful Servant.
Remember the faithful in times of troubel and the women in all ages have been found Corospondans very Useful. Irland love you.
I have wrote to our old Friends this Day, they are well per Letter from a Admaral.

Addressed: Doctr Frankling
Notation: Mde Wright, London March 29. 1777.


Title: Note on Two Purported Letters from Franklin and Arthur Lee, 29 March–8 April 1778
From:
To:

In the British Library are two ostensible copies, in what appears to be Lee’s hand, of letters from him and Franklin, one of March 29 to Henry Laurens as president of Congress and the other of April 8 to the secret committee. Neither is among the papers of the Continental Congress. The first appears to be an extract of Lee’s letter to Laurens of March 19; it follows the original almost verbatim except for the change from “I” to “we.” The second is more puzzling. It contains extracts of Lee’s letter to the committee for foreign affairs of April 8; liberties taken with the wording do not alter the sense. But the dispatch opens with three one-sentence paragraphs that are not in that letter:
“Having passed the Matter of Supplies from Spain We received Yesterday an Answer that Endeavours would be used to send you Succours thro’ the Havannah.
“The present critical Situation of the Court of Spain renders It averse to being more particular and to receive Applications, but They will not long remain under This Embarrasment.
“We cannot venture to detail to you the Plans of this Court relative to the Conduct of the War in your Quarter, probably You will see the Commencement of them before This reaches you.”
We are convinced that the “copy” dated March 29 is in fact taken from Lee’s letter of ten days before. The “copy” dated April 8 is probably based on Lee’s of the 8th; the large omissions and the addition that we have quoted have no apparent explanation, unless they derived from a draft that Lee discarded. In any case we can find no reason to believe that Franklin had a part in either letter.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ralph Izard, 30 March 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Izard, Ralph

Sir,
Passy, March 30. 1778
From the Account you give me of the Man who pretends to be of Carolina, as well as from my own Observation, of his Behaviour, I entertain no good Opinion of him, and shall not give him the Pass he desires.
Much and very important Business has hitherto prevented my giving you the Satisfaction you desired, but you may depend on my endeavouring to give it you as soon as possible.
An Answer was written to your Letter of the 5th of this Month, and sign’d by us all, which I thought had been sent to you, till Mr. Lee inform’d me that having communicated to you the Contents, you told him it would not be satisfactory, and desir’d it might be reconsider’d; and he had accordingly stopt it for that purpose. We have not since had an Opportunity of reconsidering it. And as the End of it is now answered by the Communication of the Treaties, perhaps it is not necessary.
I condole with you sincerely on the great Loss sustained in Charlestown by the Fire in January last, said to have destroyed 600 Houses, valued with the Goods at a Million Sterling. I have the honour to be, with great Respect, Sir Your most obedient humble Servant
BF


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Pulteney, 30 March 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Pulteney, William Johnstone

Sir
Passy, March 30th: 78.
When I first had the honour of conversing with you on the Subject of Peace, I mentioned it as my Opinion that every Proposition which imply’d our voluntarily agreeing to return to a Dependance on Britain was now become impossible; that a Peace on equal Terms undoubtedly might be made, and that, tho’ we had no particular Powers to treat of Peace with England, we had general Powers to make Treaties of Peace, Amity and Commerce with any State in Europe, by which I thought we might be authoriz’d to treat with Britain; who if sincerely disposed to Peace, might save time and much Bloodshed by treating with us directly. I also gave it as my Opinion, that in the Treaty to be made, Britain should endeavour, by the Fairness and Generosity of the Terms she offer’d to recover the Esteem, Confidence and Affection of America, without which the Peace could not be so beneficial, as it was not likely to be lasting. In this I had the Pleasure to find you of my Opinion.
But I see by the Propositions you have communicated to me, that the Ministers cannot yet divest themselves of the Idea, that the Power of Parliament over us is constitutionally absolute and unlimited; and that the Limitations they may be willing now to put to it by Treaty, are so many Favours or so many Benefits for which we are to make Compensation.
As our Opinions in America are totally different, a Treaty on the Terms proposed appears to me utterly impracticable either here or there. Here we certainly cannot make it, having not the smallest Authority to make even the Declaration specified in the proposed Letter, without which If I understood you right, treating with us cannot be commenc’d. I sincerely wish as much for Peace as you do, and I have enough remaining of Good Will for England to wish it for her Sake, as well as for our own, and for the Sake of Humanity. In the present State of things the proper means of obtaining it, in my Opinion, are, to acknowledge the Independence of the United States, and then enter at once into a Treaty with us, for a Suspension of Arms, with the usual Provisions relating to Distances, and another for establishing Peace, Friendship and Commerce, such as France has made. This might prevent a War between you and that Kingdom, which in the present Circumstances and Temper of the two Nations an Accident may bring on every Day tho’ contrary to the Interest, and without the previous Intention of either. Such a Treaty we might probably now make with the Approbation of our Friends; but if you go to War with them on Account of their Friendship for us, we are bound by Ties, stronger than can be formed by any Treaty, to fight against you with them, as long as the War against them shall continue.
May God at last grant that Wisdom to your national Councils which he seems long to have deny’d them, and which only sincere, just, and humane Intentions can merit or expect. With great personal Esteem I have the Honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant,
BF.
To Mr Pultney


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 30 March 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Honored Sirs
Bordeaux 30 Mar. 1778
By last Post I was honor’d by William Lee Esq. with his Deputation of Commercial Agent for the Secret Committee of Congress at the Ports of Bayonne Bordeaux Rotchfort and La Rotchell. Permit me in that Character to assure you of my steddy adherence to the instructions I have and may receive and to a due observance of any Orders you may please to command, with profound respect I am Your Honors Most Obedient Humble Servant
John BondfieldD.C.A.
Paris The Honble. Benj Franklin Silas Dean & Arthur Lee Esqrs.

Addressed: The Honble. Benj. Franklin Silas / Dean & Arthur Lee Esqrs / Commissioners from Congress / at / Paris
Endorsed: Bondfield March 30th. 1778 Recd. open from Dr. Franklin April 6th. to answr. AL.


Title: James Moylan to the American Commissioners, 30 March 1778
From: Moylan, James
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Honorable Gentlemen
L’Orient 30th March 1778
I beg leave to refer you to my last of the 23d. instant since which I am without any of your favors.
The Frigate Oiseau brought into this port a privateer Brig of 16 Guns belonging to London which she had taken a few days since at Belle Isle, very fortunate for the Ship Harmony Hall Cap: Alderian loaded with 112 Hhds. Tobacco 100 Barrels of Turpentine 15 casks of Rice and some staves belonging to Newbern in N. Carolina, who arrived here yesterday from thence in 38 days. She is come to my address and brings no other news than the arrival of four french vessels in the port he came from. I have the honor to be with infinite respect Honorabl Gentlemen Your most obedient humble Servant
James Moylan

Addressed: A Messieurs Messieurs Les Ministairs Pleni / potentiairs des Etats Unis de / L’Amerique.
Notations: Jas. Moylan. Mar: 30. 1778 / Moylan March 30th. 1778 Reced. open from Dr. Franklin to answer Apl. 5th. A.L.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jacques Barbeu-Dubourg, 30 March 1778
From: Barbeu-Dubourg, Jacques
To: Franklin, Benjamin

30e mars [1778?]
J’ai l’honneur de souhaiter le bonjour à Monsieur franklin et le prie de permettre que Mr. Gardeur qui a fait les portraits de la famille Royale etc., dans un genre tout nouveau, profite de l’occasion pour faire le sien sans le gener dans la meme seance qu’il a accordée pour ce matin meme a ce que j’ai oui dire a un autre Peintre. J’espere qu’il en resultera un petit buste agreable au public et surtout a son tres humble serviteur
Dubourg

Addressed: A Monsieur Monsieur franklin A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Courtney Melmoth, 30 [March] 1778
From: Melmoth, Courtney
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Paris, hotel d’orleans. [March] 30. 1778
Mr. Dubourg has this Morning again express’d his Inclination and desire to translate the little Pamphlet I sent you last Week. He offers to get it printed at the Royal Press by consent of the Society; but these testimonies of approbation from one Quarter, avail little to the author’s satisfaction, if his Labours do not seem in any degree, or by any Effort, an object to Mr. Dean and Dr. Franklin. However, my wishes will be ever warm, should my Writings be ineffectual. I am always Sir Your most obedient Servant
Courtney Melmoth.

PS. Mrs. Melmoth is ill of a fever or I would pay my Respects personally.
NB I have no second Copy of the Pamphlet or would not trouble you Sir to send the Original. Should it be thought worth a passage to America I would transcribe 2 or 3 Copies myself for that purpose.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / A Passi
Endorsed: Courtney Melmoth / Paris.


Title: The American Commissioners: Memorandum for the Dutch, [before 31 March 1778]
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To:

Memorial to the States of Holland.
[Before March 31, 1778]
When the Ancestors of the present Inhabitants of the United States of America first settled that Country, they did it entirely at their own expence; The public of England never granted one Shilling to aid in their Establishment. Georgia is an exception for which public grants have been made. Had any such grants been ever made they must have been upon record. The States of England therefore cou’d not justly claim the benefit of an acquisition which it never made.
Upon this principle the first settlers conceived they had a right to exchange and sell the produce of their labour to all Nations without controul. This right they actually enjoy’d unquestion’d till the year 1652. Then it was that the English, in violation of every principle of justice usurp’d and establish’d a monopoly of the American commerce, which they maintain’d till the rigour of their domination compel’d the Americans to reclaim their antient, unalienable rights, by declaring themselves free and independant States. In concequence of this all Nations are restored to the participation of that commerce from which the monopolizing spirit of the English had unjustly excluded them.
No Nation is more interested in this event than the Dutch, because it was against them that the Establishment of the monopoly was chiefly intended. The great object of commercial policy with the States of Holland was and is the carrying Trade. In concequence of this, when the Commerce of America was free the number of dutch Vessels in the American ports out numbered those of England. But in the year 1651 a quarrel arising between the states of Holland and the then republic of England, The English jealous of their naval power resolved to distroy that American commerce which contributed so much to its support. To effect this the Council of States projected and pass’d on the 1st: Decr: 1651 the navigation Ordinance, by which the carriage of American produce was prohibited but in English bottoms. The Dutch forsaw the intention and felt the effect of this measure. Their resentment of it added fuel to the war that raged from that time to the year 1654 with so much fury. Their Success however was not sufficient to re-establish what had been thus violently wrested from them. In negotiating the Peace which concluded that war, DeWitt labour’d with his usual abilities to obtain an abolition of the Act. But all his efforts were ineffectual. Cromwell, who was not his inferior in acuteness maintained the usurpation, and under Charles the Second, it received the form and sanction of an Act of Parliament. Thus in despight of all their Efforts, this valuable branch of Commerce was wrested from the Dutch and monopoliz’d by the English.
But what neither the uncommon talents of DeWitt, nor the Struggles of an obstinate and bloody war cou’d effect, the Course of human events has produced. The wealth and power arising from this very monopoly so intoxicated Great Britain as to make her think there were no bounds to the exercise of the controul she had usurped. Not content therefore with thus restraining the Americans for her own emolument, in the mode of acquiring money, she arrogated to herself the right of taking that which was obtained under those restrains. The natural concequence of thus urging her domination and adding a new usurpation to the former was the abolition of the whole. America has in form renounced her connection with Great Britain, and is maintaining her rights by Arms.
The consequence of her success, will be the re-establishment of Commerce upon its antient, free and general footing. All Nations are interested in this success; but none so much as the Dutch. From them therefore America in a most special manner looks for support. Resentment of an Antient injury, the policy of their ancestors and their present interest unite in calling upon them for a spirited avowal and support of the independance of America. They will not forget the insolence and injustice with which Great Britain harrassed their trade during the late war, by means of that very naval strenght, which she derived from this usurped monopoly. They cannot but feel at this moment the insult and indignity from the british Court in presuming to forbid them that free participation of Commerce which America offers.

The Extraordinary remittances which the People of America have made to the Merchants of Great Britain since the commencement of this dispute is a proof of their honor and good faith; so much more safe, and advantagous it is to trust money with a young industrious, thriving People, than with an old Nation overwhelm’d in debt, abandon’d to extravagance and inmersed in Luxury. By maintaining the Independance of America a new Avenue will be open’d for the employment of money, where landed property, as yet untouch’d by mortgage or other incumbrances will answer for the principal, and the industry of a young and uninvolved People would ensure a regular payment of Interest. The money holder would in that case be delivered from those continual fears and apprehensions which every agitation of the English stocks perpetually excites. He might count his profits without anxiety and plan his money transactions with certainty. These are the substantial objects of advantage which America holds up to the People of Holland; and this is the moment of Embracing them.
  (Sign’d)B. FranklinA. LeePlenipotenthiaries for the 13United States of America

Notations: Memorial presented to the States of Holland / In Mr. T———s Letter of the 1st of April 1778


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Richard and Sarah Bache, 31 March 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bache, Richard,Bache, Sarah Franklin

Dear Son and Daughter
Passy, March 31. 1778
His Excellency, M. Gerard, who does me the Honour to take Charge of this Letter, goes Minister from this Court to the Congress. He is a Friend to your Country and to your Father, which gives him a double Claim to your Civilities, and to every Kindness in your Power to show him. It is so long since I have heard from you, and there have been such Burnings and Devastations made by the Enemy, that I know not whether, even if Philadelphia is recover’d, you have a House left to entertain him in. But I know you will do all the little in your Power to serve and oblige a Person who has and deserves your Father’s highest Esteem and Affection.
Benny continues well, and minds his Learning. Temple presents his Duty. I hope soon to hear from you, and that you and yours are all as well and as hearty as Your affectionate Father
B Franklin
Mr & Mrs Bache


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Henry Laurens: Two Letters, 31 March 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Laurens, Henry

I.
Sir
Passy, near Paris, March 31. 78
My Colleague, Mr. Deane, being recall’d by Congress, and no Reasons given that have yet appear’d here, it is apprehended to be the Effect of some Misrepresentations from an Enemy or two at Paris and at Nantes. I have no doubt that he will be able clearly to justify himself; but having lived intimately with him now fifteen Months, the greatest Part of the Time in the same House, and been a constant Witness of his Public Conduct, I cannot omit giving this Testimony, tho’ unask’d, in his Behalf, that I esteem him a faithful, active and able Minister, who to my Knowlege has done in various ways great and important Services to his Country, whose Interests I wish may always, by every one in her Employ, be as much and as effectually promoted. With my dutiful Respects to the Congress, I have the Honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
Honourable Henry Laurens, Esqr President of the Congress

Notation: B. Franklin the Presidt. of Congress March 31. 1778 by Mr. Sils. Deane

II.
Sir,
Passy, near Paris, March 31. 1778
His Excellency Mons. Gerard, who does me the Honour to be the Bearer of this Letter, is the same Plenipotentiary with whom we compleated the Treaties that have secured to America the Friendship and Support of this powerful Monarchy. In the whole Conduct of that Affair, he manifested a Candor, Uprightness and Equity of Disposition, as well as an Affection for our Cause and Country, that impress’d us with the highest Esteem for him; and I congratulate you on his being Minister from this Court to the Congress, as the King’s Appointment of a Person who is consider’d as our friend, to fill so important a Station, is an additional Mark of his Majesty’s Goodwill to us, and presages, in my Opinion, an Encrease of the good Understanding so happily begun between the two Countries, which no one can be more desirous or more capable of promoting. I beg leave therefore to recommend him warmly, not only to all the Civilities and Respects that are due to his Public Character, but to those tender Regards and affectionate grateful Attentions that Friendship claims, and that are so proper to cultivate and strengthen it. I have the honour to be, with the greatest Respect, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant
B Franklin
Honble H. Laurens, Esqr President of Congress

Notation: Benja Franklin 31st Mar. 1778 Recd. 13 July. recommending Monsr. Gerard


Title: Arthur Lee to Franklin and Silas Deane, 31 March 1778
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas

Gentlemen
Chaillot March 31st: 1778
The report I hear of Mr. Deane’s intending soon to leave Paris, obliges me to repeat the request, I long ago and repeatedly made, That we shou’d settle the public accounts relating to the expenditure of the money entrusted to us, for the public. And this is the more absolutely necessary as what Vouchers there are, to enable the Commissioners to make out this account are in Mr. Deane’s possession; I therefore wish that the earliest day possible may be appointed for the settlement of this Account, which appears to me an indispensible part of our duty to the public and to one another. At the same time I conceive Mr. Deane will think it proper, before his departure, to deliver to the remaining Commissioners all the Papers in his possession, which relate to the business of the Commission. I have the honor to be with great Esteem Gentlemen your most Obedient Servant
Arthur Lee
To The Honble Benjn. Franklin & Silas Deane Esqrs.

Notation: A. Lee to BF. & SD March 31. 1778.


Title: Jonathan Williams, Jr., to the American Commissioners, 31 March 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Nantes March 31. 1778.
The Gabarre which is to carry down the Goods to go on board the Duchesse de Grammont is now loaded and will set off to day unless the weather prevents. I am obliged to take out 92 lbs. of the Salt to make room, yet cannot get all on board. I shall have about 2600 Suits of Cloaths remaining, besides the arms and 55 Cases of Sabres.
I must beg leave to observe to you that the Conditions of Freight expressed in your Letter of the 16. Instant, are widely different from what M. Montieu writes to M. Peltier. You say the Goods are to go at the same Rate of Freight as those already shipped. He says you are to take Ship and all that belongs to her on your own account and Risque. To reconcile this Difference I shall not detain the Ship, which I look upon would be more injurious than the value of the Freight lost; I shall therefore fill up my Bills of Lading without mentioning any Freight. This I trust you will do me the Honour to approve, more especialy as I have only the alternative of doing so or detaining the Ship, which as I before observed would be very expensive, and perhaps, at this critical moment, of still more consequence.
One of the Workmen at the arsenal has desired a Reimbursement of 28 Louis which he was obliged to pay as a Fine at Liege for engaging other Workmen to come hither. He was kept some Time in Prison and came out only on Condition of paying the Fine. The mans plea is thus far good. He was certainly employed for your Service, it was in executing that Service that he was subjected to the Fine and Imprisonment, and by his certificates and Receipt he appears to have paid the money. It appears however odd that he has not made the Complaint before, and his Circumstances do not seem to be affluent enough to have advanced so much money at a Time, and to lay out of it so long. I have promised him to write to you on the Subject, and to communicate your answer. If therefore you will please to give orders I will pay the money after getting all the Proof I can that he has realy paid it, and has not been since reimbursed: My Reason for hesitating in the matter is, that I find a spirit of intrigue and trickery among these people which makes me cautious how I comply with any of their demands. Their Chief M. Mercier has not yet returned, but had the modesty the other day to request I would remit him 10000 Livres on Account. He appears to me to think his Contract a Sine cure which he is to make great profit by and to which I am as much a Slave as if I were his Deputy. It would be well to send me his Contract that the papers of the Magazine may be all together, for I expect we shall have a process with him before we finish. I have the honour to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellencys most obedient and most humble Servant
J Williams J
Their Excellencies The american Ministers

Endorsed: March 31st. 1778 Recevd. open from Dr. Franklin April 6th to answer AL
Notation: Jon Williams Nantes 31 march 78


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ralph Izard, 31 March 1778
From: Izard, Ralph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Paris 31st. March 1778.
I received yesterday the Treaty of Alliance, and the alterations that have been made in the Treaty of Commerce proposed by Congress, from the hands of your Grandson; and likewise a Letter from you, which informs me that much, and very important business has hitherto prevented your giving me the satisfaction respecting your conduct, which I desired; but that I might depend on your endeavouring to give it me as soon as possible. While you were engaged in settling the Treaty, I avoided giving you any additional trouble; especially as I am persuaded that the satisfactory explanation you have promised, will require no uncommon exertion of your abilities. I conceive that you have acted unjustifiably; you think that I am mistaken, and I shall be heartily rejoiced to find myself so. You will excuse my requesting that the explanation I have desired may be given soon. I have the honour to be with great respect Sir Your most Obedient humble Servant
Ra. Izard.
The Honourable Benjn. Franklin Esqr.


Title: Charles-Julien de Longchamp(s) [de la Blutière ?] to the American Commissioners, [March? 1778]: résumé
From: Longchamps de la Blutière, Charles-Julien de
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<[Versailles, March ?, 1778,] in French: In 1774 I was a second lieutenant in Guadeloupe, with no prospect of quick advancement. An Englishman persuaded me and my family that I should go to America, and provided letters of introduction; I went gladly because I had long wanted to learn English and to advance in my profession. On arrival I was well received by Dr. Warren, stayed with him and his family in Salem and was introduced to Gen. Putnam and Mr. Ward, under whose protection Dr. Warren left me when he moved to the country near Cambridge. Billets were so scarce that churches were being used, and Putnam and I shared a bed. After a few days we moved to Prospect Hill for three months, but dined regularly in Cambridge. The British attacked, and during the engagement I became separated and blundered into their advance guard; I was captured, barbarously treated, and threatened with the noose. Months of imprisonment followed in Boston, until Howe succeeded Gage and sent me to England. There I was discharged, and with the help of the French Ambassador found my way home. The maréchal de Mouchy, Lafayette’s uncle, befriended me and gave me an introduction to the marquis in Philadelphia. In October, 1777, I set out for Bordeaux by way of London, but was captured at sea and imprisoned in England until the following February. I still want to get back to America as soon as possible, and ask the commissioners’ help with the Prince de Montbarey. Franklin endorsed the letter, “Memoire de Monsieur de Longchamp Officier ses Avantures.”>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Philippe Taillet, [late March 1778]
From: Taillet, Philippe
To: Franklin, Benjamin

As the flood of commission-seekers ebbed with the entrance of France into the war, a new flood of applications began. Merchants throughout western Europe were quick to explore what they thought was a new opportunity for business: they were convinced that the United States, once recognized by Versailles as a sovereign power, would need in every major port a consul to oversee its commercial affairs. Letters requesting such an appointment or recommending a candidate began to pour in; most of them were to Franklin, a few to the commission. The number swelled as time passed, and most of the letters apparently went unanswered. The only reply they could have received was no. The authority to appoint rested with Congress, not with the commissioners, and Congress showed no interest whatever in recruiting consuls. None was appointed until 1780, and then he was an American sent to France for the purpose. A system of local consuls was not even begun until after the war.
What we believe was the earliest application was the one below, undated, from a Rouen merchant. It seems to have been written soon after the news of the alliance became public, and we are therefore assigning it to late March. On April 13 Jacques von Döhren writes the commissioners from Hamburg. He offers his services in the city, which is the best entrepot in Germany for American goods and the only one where tobacco is paid for in silver. On the 24th James Harriman, in Florence, expatiates on the commercial importance of Tuscany to the United States, which he would gladly represent in Florence or Leghorn; his brother has been connected with Willing & Morris and other American firms, and he himself is known in Virginia and to M. Necker. On the 25th Christian A. Tilebein, in Barcelona, introduces himself as a partner in March & Tilebein, which had numerous trade connections in America (he lists them, along with his present connections in Amsterdam and Paris). Catalonia needs wheat, and codfish from New England, in return for wines and brandies, oils, and silk and woolen goods; if he were consul, he implies, he could greatly further this trade. On the 27th Joseph Mazurié, from Landerneau in Brittany, announces that he is setting up business in Brest and would be glad to look after American interests there.
On May 2 John Guy Gautier, in Barcelona, explains that he was suckled in infancy in “the History of the Country of My Ancestors, Swisserland,” and is therefore pro-American. Before the interruption of trade his house had long been in touch with merchants in New England, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and the Carolinas, and still has good friends there. He therefore told M. Grand, who will forward this letter, of his ambition to be consul general for Catalonia when the United States signs a treaty with Spain. An American, Grand pointed out, would probably be appointed; but no American would have the knowledge he has of Spanish laws, language, customs, and trade, or speak Dutch, Italian, French, English, and Spanish. On May 4 de Chantereyne, in Cherbourg, explains that he has given a louis to an escaped American prisoner whom his son picked up in the Channel Islands; the receipt is enclosed. If similar prisoners turn up later, he would be glad to be authorized to assist them, along with prizes or privateers. On the 5th Arnold Henry Dohrman writes the commissioners from Lisbon. He had the chance to show his friendship for Americans when a shallop from North Carolina was wrecked on the Portuguese coast and the crew and part of the cargo were saved; he took two of the officers into his home, and had a search made for the missing sailors. He would gladly render greater services if he were responsible for American interests. He writes in French because he understands but cannot write English, and in his dangerous position dares not to have any one write for him. A second letter follows on September 22: he has received what he calls Franklin’s promise to include him among the servants of America, but is still awaiting orders; meanwhile he has succored the crew of an American ship brought as a prize into Lisbon, and will send the men home as soon as possible.

On May 13 J.C. Hornbostel, in Marseilles, assumes that the United States will now have consuls in the principal seaports as other powers have, and asks for that position in Marseilles. He has been there for twenty-four years, though a native of Hamburg, and has been in trade for thirteen as a partner of Butini, Fölich & Hornbostel. He is familiar with English and writes German, Dutch, and Swedish. (His French, to judge by the letter, is excellent.) Consular affairs are known to him through M. Fölich, his partner and father-in-law, who has been Swedish consul for years. On the 15th Andrew Carmier writes from Calais to say that M. Grand will vouch for his deserving a consulship there. On December 19 he writes again: Grand has told him that Franklin would attend to his request but, having heard nothing, he renews it.
On May 27 Holtzmann writes from Forden in West Prussia, where he is a privy councillor. In 1774 he was appointed Prussian resident in Hanover, where he was known to Prime Minister von Münschhausen, and shortly thereafter was transferred to his present position. He believes that America will gain its independence, and wishes to spend the rest of his life in the service of a country composed in part of his people. The wish is strengthened by the deaths within the month of von Münschhausen and of von Hagen in Berlin. He should be honored to serve under a minister like Franklin, and could be useful as a resident in Berlin, Hamburg, or Danzig. Von Schulenburg in Berlin, along with others, could give information about him.
Franklin had already taken care of the commissioners’ needs in Calais by authorizing Jacques Leveux, another local merchant, to give help to all Americans who needed it. On June 10 the Sieur Pierre Maubaillarcy, naval treasurer at Brest, assumes that a consulship in Calais had been given Leveux, his close relative, and asks to have one himself in order to further American trading interests in his port. He speaks and writes English, and his zeal will develop the familiarity that he has already acquired with commercial affairs.
Four undated applications may well belong to this period. The first, addressed to no one, is from Drouillard, a Dunkirk merchant who is “toujours nommé l’Arbitre des Citoyens.” He would like a consulship for himself or his son; they speak all European languages, have an efficient office, and are esteemed by the local authorities. The second is to the commissioners from Alexandre Dubrocq, a former ship captain in Bayonne who has just gone into business with a local merchant, and who speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Bayonne cannot fail to be a most useful port because of the wine, brandy, and woolen goods that he can furnish. He would like to be consul there and in St.-Jean-de-Luz; his voyages to America have given him many contacts. The third is a joint request to the commissioners from M. Dupont in Calais and M. Le Brun in Dieppe to be consuls in their respective ports; they offer whatever information may be needed to prove their worthiness. The fourth is to Franklin from Tramblay, a merchant in Brest. The commercial ties between France and the United States will presumably make the port popular with American ships, attracted by its facilities and the security from privateers provided by the men-of-war that come and go. He offers himself as commercial agent; his contacts throughout France will enable him to provide whatever the ships need as economically as possible, and he will advance the money as long as he is sure of being reimbursed.

[Late March, 1778]
Le traité d’alliance qui existe entre les états-unis d’Amérique et la france, doit nécessairement ouvrir entre ces deux puissances des relations de commerce qui s’augmenteront et s’étendront de jour en jour. Il est donc naturel de penser qu’a l’exemple des puissances européennes qui commercent avec la france, les états unis d’Amérique se choisiront dans nos différentes places de commerce des consuls chargés de maintenir leur droits et de veiller à leurs intérêts. Si cet arrangement avoit lieu, et que Monsieur franklin se proposât de faire un choix, Philippe Taillet négotiant a Roüen a l’honneur de lui offrir ses services pour cette place. Il seroit flatté d’y avoir le titre de consul des états unis d’Amérique. Philippe Taillet à une maison de commerce dont les opérations sont sages et étendues; et il est personnellement estimé de ses concitoyens, pour son activité, son intelligence et son honnêteté.

[In Kéralio’s hand:] Recommandé par Le chevalier de Keralio
Endorsed: Consul at Rouen recommended by Madame de Forbach and M. Keralio


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gérard, 1 April 1778
From: Gérard, Conrad-Alexandre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Versailles 1 Avril 1778
Les Lettres dont vous avez bien voulu me charger m’ont été remises par M. de Chaumont. Vos bontés pour moi me persuadent que j’ai beaucoup de Remerciemens a vous en faire; je vous en dois aussi pour votre Apostille a la Lettre de Credit de M. de Chaumont. Vous voudrez bien les agreer ici. Si vous aviez encore quelques Lettres a me confier ou a faire passer en Amerique, vous pourriez vous servir de l’occasion du Courier que M. de Sartine depechera dans deux ou trois jours.
J’aurois bien voulu, Monsieur, pouvoir encore vous aller embrasser, et savoir avant mon Depart la suite de l’objet que vous avez bien voulu me confier; mais je pars aujourd’hui à l’entrée de la nuit. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec autant de Consideration que de Respect, Monsieur, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Gerard
M. Gerard to M. B. Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee, 1 April 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Arthur

Sir,
Passy, April 1. 1778
There is a Stile in some of your Letters, I observe it particularly in the last, whereby superior Merit is assumed to yourself in point of Care, and Attention to Business, and Blame on your Colleagues is insinuated without making yourself accountable by a direct Charge, of Negligence or Unfaithfulness, which has the Appearance of being as artful as it is unkind. In the present Case I think the Insinuation groundless. I do not know that either Mr. Deane or myself ever show’d an Unwillingness to settle the Public Accounts. The Banker’s Book always contain’d the whole. You could at any time as easily have obtain’d the Account from thence as either of us. And you had abundantly more Leisure. If on examining it you had wanted Explanation of any Article, you might have call’d for it and had it. You never did either. As soon as I obtain’d the Account, I put it into your Hands, and desired you to look into it; and I have heard no more of it since, ’till now, just as Mr. Deane was on the point of departing. Mr. Deane, however, had left with me, before the Receipt of your Letter, both the Public Papers, and Explications of the several Articles in the Account that came within his Knowledge. With these Materials I suppose we can settle the Account whenever you please. You have only to name the Day and Place and I will attend the Business with you. I have the Honour to be, with great Esteem, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant
B F

Notation: BF. to A Lee Ap. 1. 1778.


Title: Samuel Tucker to the American Commissioners, 1 April 1778
From: Tucker, Samuel
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Gentlemen
Burdeux April 1st. 1778.
These with my due Respects on my Arrival may serve to inform your Honours, that after a very fatigueing Passage of forty two Days I arrived at this port with Joy, having the pleasure of landing the Honble: John Adams Esqr. safe in the City. By Richard Palmes Esqr. the Capt. of Marines under my Command I send you inclosed a Copy of my Instructions and Signals, which Signals may serve to acquaint any other Commander in our Service how to distinguish each other at Sea; if sent while in France by your Honours, these I send being the only Ship that has such Signals, they being just sent to the Honble. Navy Board before my Sailing. On Capt. Palmes Arrival at Paris, I beg your Honours would dispatch him with an Answer respecting my further destination, in the Mean Time I shall take upon me to get the Ship as far in Readiness for the Sea as Possible during the Absence of Capt. Palmes. I should inform your Honours more perticular relative to the Ship if the Honble: Mr. Adams was not going for Paris, who will acquaint you with the situation of the Ship &c. On my Passage out, I took the Ship Marthy from London bound for New York Commanded by Peter McIntosh taken the 10th of March in the Latitude 43.30 No. Longitude 17.40 W. the Ship mounting fourteen Guns, (8 Nine and 6. Six pounders). The Capt. having a Commission, I took upon myself to send Home in her my 3d Lieut. which I hope will be exchussed. Since that I’ve had the Misfortune to loose my 1st Lieut. Wm. Barron by the Busting of a Gun. At present I have but one Lieutenant on Board. If your Honnours Know of any Persons sufficient to Act in their Stations, beg you would Recommend them, or if your Honours think fit to let me Appoint them from the Officers on Board, pray inform me by the Barer. I remain Gentlemen with due Respect Your Obedient Humble Servant
Saml Tucker
To the Honble: American Commissioners at Paris

Addressed: To / The Honble: American Commissioners / att / Paris
Notation by John Adams: Captn. Tuckers Letter to Commissioners. Ap. 1. 78


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from G. Vincent fils, 1 April 1778
From: Vincent, G., fils
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
St Malo 1° april 1778.
You have inclosed a letter from one Called John Johnstone who Said to be an American, and now has the misfortune to make party of the Crew of an English Cutter which has been Stopped in this harbour this twelve weeks. If this man is a true Americain like he sais he most not Suffer any detention, So I begg Sir you will be pleased to inform me if you do know him, and to direct the Answer to this inclosed letter to Sir Your most
G. Vincent filsSworn interpreter and brokerof the Admiralty of St. Malo

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / ambassadeur Plenipotentiare des etats / unis de l’Amerique / a chailot / [In another hand:] pres paris / a chailot a terre De M. chaumont
Notation: Vincent fils


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Antoine?] Gautier fils & Rey, 2 April 1778
From: Gautier, Antoine?, fils & Rey
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Au Cap le 2 avril 1778
Nous sommes forcé de vous temoigner le mauvais effet qu’ont produittes dans ce pays les reponses que vous aves faittes a divers négociants au sujet de M. Stephen Ceronio duquel nous avions endossé pour 500 Livres Sterling de Lettres de change et en même tems pretté de fortes sommes pour l’honneur du congrès, parceque ce monsieur etoit reduit a déposer son bilan, ne pouvant faire face aux gros engagements qu’il avoit pris pour porter des secours aux etats.
M. St. Martin negt. a bordeaux Porteur de traittes pour 35 m.L. nous a fait passer copie d’une de vos lettres qui donna une tres mauvaise idée de M. Ceronio, agent du congrè, et ce qui le Porta a tirer sur nous, comme endosseurs, a un change fort onéreux, qu’il nous a fallu rembourser. Cette Lettre fit impression aux créanciers de M. Ceronio parceque le Porteur du Remboursement sur nous en avoit l’originale, ce qui fut connu dans l’instant de tout le Commerce.
Nous nous transportames aussitot au gouvernement pour donner lecture de la lettre de Messieurs les membres du congrè pour Réhabiliter le S. Ceronio dans son credit au soutient du notre. Nous prions M. De Tolozan introducteur des embassadeurs de vous la faire Passer pour que vous en preniez Lecture. Par là vous aurez pleine connoissance que le S. Ceronio est l’agent du congrè; et lorsqu’il en sera question vous nous obligerez de dire ce qu’il en est, parceque la moindre indifference sur le compte de cet agent porte sur notre Credit qui a ete d’un grand secours pour le bien des etats. Ne pouvant mettre sur ce papier ce qu’il en est, nous avons besoin de votre réponse: nous vous prions de nous la faire passer le plustost Possible pour Remettre les choze dans leur premier etat; car le S. Ceronio passe a bordeaux et a nantes pour un avanturier. Nous avons l’honneur d’etre avec Respect, Monsieur, Vos tres humbles et tres obeissants serviteurs
Gautier FILS ET Rey

Endorsed: Answer’d
Notation: Gauthier—2. Avril 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Arthur Lee, 2 April 1778
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Chaillot April 2d: 1778
It was with the utmost surprise, that I learn’d yesterday, that Mr. Girard was to set out in the Evening for America, in a public Character; and that Mr. Deane was to accompany him, without either you or he having condescended to answer my letter of the preceeding day.
That a measure of such moment as Mr. Girard’s mission, shou’d have been taken without any communication with the Commissioners, is hardly credible. That if it was communicated, you shou’d do such violence to the authority that constituted us, together with so great an injury and injustice to me, as to conceal it from me, and act or advise without me, is equally astonishing. If success to the mission, and unanimity on the subject in Congress was your wish, with what propriety cou’d you make it a party business, and not unite all the Commissioners in the advising and approving a measure, in which you desir’d their friends and Constituents might be unanimous?
I do not live ten minutes distance from you. The Communication therefore cou’d not be attended with delay or difficulty. Within these few days, as usual, I have seen you frequently. Particularly on monday, I was with you at your House for some time. I ask’d you about the sailing of the Ships at Nantes expressing my desire to know when we shou’d have an opportunity of writing. You said you did not know when they sail’d. I askd if there were no Letters, none but one from Mr. Dumas having been shewn to me for some time. You answer’d no. I had at a former meeting ask’d you whether it was not proper for us to send an express to give intelligence of such consequential events as our being acknowledg’d here and the Treaty avow’d, you told me it wou’d be sufficient to write by the Ship from Nantes, for it was afterwards you mention there were two, as the news being public wou’d find its way fast enough.
Upon Mr. Amiel, who came from your House to mine, mentioning on tuesday, that Mr. Deane was to go away in a few days; I wrote to you and him to repeat what I have so often requested, That the public accounts might be settled for which Mr. Deane had taken possession of all the Vouchers, and that the Public papers might be delivered to us before his departure. You made no answer. I sent my Secretary again yesterday to desire an Answer. You sent me a verbal one. That you wou’d settle the Accounts with me any day after tomorrow. Your reason for not doing it before was that it was not your business. Now it seem’d your business only and Mr. Deane had no concern with it. The delivery of the Public Papers which are the property of all not of any one of the Commissioners, tho’ you and Mr. Deane have constantly taken them to yourselves, was too immaterial for you to Answer.

During all this time and with these circumstances you have been totally Silent to me about the present opportunity of writing to Congress, about the important public measure in agitation; and about Mr. Deane’s departure. Nay more, what you have said and the manner in which you acted, tended to mislead me from imagining that you knew of any such thing. Had you studied to deceive the most distrusted and dangerous enemy of the Public, you cou’d not have done it more effectually.
I trust Sir, you will think with me that I have a right to know your reasons for treating me thus. If you have anything to accuse me of, avow it; and I will answer you. If you have not, why do you act so inconsistent with your duty to the public, and injurious to me? Is the present state of Europe of so little moment to our Constituents as not to require our joint consideration, and information to them? Is the Character of the Court here, and of the person sent to negotiate with our Constituents of no consequence for them to be appriz’d of? Is this the example you in your superior wisdom think proper to set of order, decorum, confidence, and justice?
I trust too Sir that you will not treat this Letter as you have done many others with the indignity of not answering it. Tho’ I have been silent, I have not felt the less, the many affronts of this kind which you have thought proper to offer me. I have the Honor to be with great respect
Arthur Lee
To The Honble: Benjamin Franklin Esqr:

Notation: A. Lee to BF. Ap. 2d. 1778.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee, 3 April 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Arthur

Sir
Passy, April 3: 1778
It is true I have omitted answering some of your Letters. I do not like to answer angry Letters. I hate Disputes. I am old, cannot have long to live, have much to do and no time for Altercation. If I have often receiv’d and borne your Magisterial Snubbings and Rebukes without Reply, ascribe it to the right Causes, my Concern for the Honour and Success of our Mission, which would be hurt by our Quarrelling, my Love of Peace, my Respect for your good Qualities, and my Pity of your Sick Mind, which is forever Tormenting itself, with its Jealousies, Suspicions and Fancies that others mean you ill, wrong you, or fail in Respect for you. If you do not cure your self of this Temper it will end in Insanity, of which it is the Symptomatick Forerunner, as I have seen in several Instances. God preserve you from so terrible an Evil: and for his sake pray suffer me to live in quiet. I have the honour to be very respectfully, Sir, Your most humble Servant
Hon. A. Lee Esq.

Notation: BF. to Arthur Lee Ap. 3. 1778.