Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley: Two Letters, 22 April 1779
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
My dear friend
London April 22. 1779.
The bearer of this, & of some other papers (Mr. D  ) is a very sensible & worthy gentleman, with whom I have had the pleasure of contracting an acquaintance, since the commencement of the American troubles, originally upon the business of the American prisoners. It has been a satisfaction to me at all times to have found him a friend to the restoration of Peace between the two countries. It has likewise been an additional satisfaction & confirmation to me in my own thoughts upon that subject, to find that his sentiments, I think upon most, or all of the subjects upon which we have conversed, have coincided with mine. We both seem possessed of the opinion, that some plan of opening a negotiation, upon preliminaries, which each side might find to be a sufficient security to itself, might be practicable: And then, your sentiment, which you gave me in a letter some years ago, might have it’s free scope & effect; viz, A little time given for cooling might have excellent effects.
The sentiments which I have opened to you in my late letters for some months past, & which I have reduced, in an enclosed paper, into a more specific shape, seem to me, upon very repeated reflection, to promise the fairest ground of good expectation. These propositions originate from myself as a mediator; I have communications with both sides, but certainly no authority to make proposals from either; & perhaps neither side, if I were to put the propositions separately to each, (being myself unauthorized,) might give me positive consent. Each side separately might say No from what is called political prudence; & yet, each side might secretly wish that the offer cou’d be made, with Done first from the other party. I think the proposition of a truce for 5 or 7 years, leaving all things in the present dispute in statu quo, must be advantageous to all parties, if it were only in consideration that a general satisfactory peace to all parties may come among the excellent effects of time given for cooling. We can but fight it out at last: War never comes too late: Wisdom may step in between. These matters have stolen upon us, & have arisen to great & formidable consequences, from small & unsuspected beginnings; but henceforward, we shou’d know by experience what to expect. If the rage of war cou’d but be abated, for a sufficient length of time for reason & reflection to operate, I think it wou’d never revive. I cannot pretend to forecast the result of any negotiation, but I think War wou’d not revive; which is all that I want for my argument. Peace is a Bonum in se; Whereas the most favourable events of war are but relatively lesser Evils. Certainly they are Evils: Mala in se; not Bona in se.
I hope that a cessation of hostilities wou’d produce a renewal of reflection: But even to take the argument at the worst advantage, the two parties are at a cooling distance of 3000 miles asunder. If the flames of war cou’d be but once extinguish’d, does not the Atlantick Ocean contain cold water enought to prevent their bursting out again? I am very strongly of opinion that the two nations, of Great Britain & North America, wou’d accord to the proposition of a truce, for cooling. I cannot say whether a British Ministry wou’d accord to it, because they won’t tell me: nor can I say whether an American Plenipotentiary wou’d accord to it, because probably you will not tell me. I put myself into your hands however, when I tell you frankly I am of opinion that both of you wou’d accord to it, if there cou’d be a Done first on either side, to bind the bargain fast. You have the odds of me in this matter, because you know one half of the question; & I cannot give you any proof on the other side, but only my own presumptive judgement upon observation, & upon a course of reasoning in my own thoughts.
—But for France—My judgement wou’d be that if the proposition of the proposed preliminaries, shd. be agreeable to America, France wou’d do very unhandsomely to defeat it by their refusal. I likewise think it the interest of France; because their interest leads them to go to a certain point, & no further. There is a disparity in the operation of the terms of the alliance on the part of France & on the part of America. The more vigorously France interposes, the better for America in proportion to their exertions they create, less or more, a diversion of the British force; This reasoning goes strait forward for America: But it is not so with France. There is a certain point, to France, beyond which their work wou’d fail & recoil upon themselves; If they were to drive the British ministry totally to abandon the American war, it wou’d become totally a french war. The events of a twelvemonth past seem to bear testimony to this course of reasoning. The disadvantage upon the bargain, to America, is, That the efficacy of the French alliance to them, presupposes their continuance in the war. The demur to France, is, That the liberation of their new ally recoils with double weight of the war upon themselves, without any ulterior points of advantage in view, as dependent upon that alliance. I think the interest of all parties coincides with the proposition of Preliminaries. The proposed preliminaries appear to me to be just & equitable to all parties; but the great object with me, is to come to some preliminaries; I cou’d almost add, whatever those preliminaries might be; provided a suspension of arms for an adequate term of years were one. I think it wou’d be ten thousand to one against any future renewal of the war. It is not necessary to enter at large into the reasons which induce me to think, that the British ministry as well as an American Plenipotentiary wou’d consent to the terms of the proposed preliminaries; for indeed I do not know that I am founded in that opinion with respect to either; but still I believe it of both. But what can a private person do in such a case, wishing to be a mediator for peace, having access to both parties, but equally uncertain of the reception of his mediation on either side? I must hesitate to take any public step, as by a proposition in Parliament, or by any other means to drive the parties to an explanation upon any specific proposals; & yet I am very unwilling to let the session pass without some proposition, upon which the parties may meet, if they shou’d be so inclined, as I suspect them to be. I have been endeavouring to feel pulses for some months, but all is dumb shew. I cannot say indeed that I meet with any thing discouraging, to my apprehension either as to the equitableness or practicability of the proposition for preliminaries. If I cou’d but simply receive sufficient encouragement that I shou’d not run any hazard of obstructing any other practical propositions, by obtruding mine, I shou’d be very much satisfied to come forward, in that case, with mine, to furnish a beginning at least which might lead to Peace.
There is nothing that I wish so much as to have an opportunity of seeing & conversing with you, having many things to say to you; but if that cannot yet happen I have only to say, that whatever comunication you may think proper to make to me which may lead to peace, you may be assured that I shall be most strennuous in applying it to that end. In all cases of difficulty in human life there must be confidence somewhere, to enable us to extricate nations from the evils attendant upon national disputes, as they arise out of national passions, interests, jealousies & points of honour. I am not sure whether the extreme caution & diffidence of persons in political life be not the cause, almost as frequently, of the unnecessary protraction of the miseries of war, as of the final production of any superior good to any state. Peace now is better than Peace a twelve-month hence, at least by all the lives that may be lost in the mean while, & by all the accumulated miseries that may intervene by that delay. When I speak of the necessity of confidence, I wou’d not have you to think that I trust to all professions, promiscuously, with confidence: my thoughts are free respecting all parties; & for myself, if I thought it necessary for the end of attaining any additional confidence in your esteem, to enable me to co-operate the more effectually towards the restoration of peace, there is nothing that I wou’d wish you to be assured of but this, That no fallacious offers of insincerity, nor any pretexts for covering secret designs, or for obtaining unfair advantages, shall ever pass thro my hands. Believe me truly to be, not only a lover of my country, but a sincere friend to Peace & to the rights of Mankind; and ever most affectionately yours
D. Hartley

II.
My Dear friend
London April 22 1779
Having heard nothing yet from  I have nothing material to add by this days Mail. I send you for your perusal a Copy of an intended bill by a friend of mine some years ago. You may recollect that I shewed you a written copy of it last year at Passy. Your affate
DH

Addressed: To Dr Franklin
Endorsed: Mr Hartley
Notation: April 22. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chrétien-Guillaume de Lamoignon de Malesherbes, 22 April 1779
From: Malesherbes, Chrétien-Guillaume de Lamoignon de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Paris ce 22 avril 1779.
Oserois-Je vous prier, Monsieur, de me faire l’honneur de venir diner chés moi Mardi prochain ainsi que M. votre petit fils. Le Chevalier de la Luzerne qui comme vous le pensés bien, desire beaucoup de multiplier les occasions de vous voir, s’y trouvera. Le Mardi est ordinairement votre Jour de Versailles, mais vous n’aurés pas cet obstacle Mardi prochain puisqu’on est à Marly: si cependant ce Jour ne vous convenoit pas, Je vous prierois de me mander lequel vous conviendroit le mieux de Mercredi, Jeudi ou autres Jours de la semaine prochaine. Vous connoissés, Monsieur, tout l’attachement avec lequel J’ai l’honneur d’être, Votre trés humble et trés obéissant serviteur./.
Malesherbes
M. francklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 23 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Monsieur
Passi ce 23 avril 1779
Je Recois dans ce moment La Lettre que vostre Excellence m’a fait L’honneur de m’ecrire Le vingt de ce mois, et Je m’empresse a faire tout Cequi peut estre agreable a Sa Majesté; en ecrivant au Capitaine Landais, Commandant La fregatte L’alliance arrivee a Nantes avec quatrevingt treize prisonniers de Se Rendre Le plutost possible a L’orient. Le Dit Cape. trouvera a Nantes quelques Matelots americains echangés, mais pas assez pour estre Bien armé, et Je Suplie vostre Excellence de Donner Ses ordres a L’orient pour quon Luy donne quelques Matelots pour Completer son armement.
Je suis avec Respect Monsieur vostre tres humble et tres obeissant Serv
B Franklin
S. Ex. M. de Sartine Secretaire d’etat et Ministre de la Marine


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gratien, 23 April 1779
From: Gratien, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Morlaix 23 Avril 1779
J’ay Lhonneur De Vous adresser Cy Joint Une Expedition de requete a nous presentée (Concernant le navire suedois la Victoria Detenu En ce port, suivant Detail que Vous avez par Ma Lettre du 19 Mars.). Je Vous prie De prendre Connoissance de L’ordonnance provisoire que J’ay Eté obligé de rendre.
Monsieur De grandbourg secretaire General de La marine recoit ce Jour la même Expedition, Vous pourrez Vous entendre avec luy sur le Tout.
Le consignataire, Du Papillon prise faitte par La marquise De La fayette Corsaire armé a Bordeaux Sous commission et Pavillon Du congrèz, presse pour obtenir Une Decision, Les morues faisant partie Du chargement, Deperissent chaque Jour Et Seront bientôt sans Valeur.
Je Suis avec Respect Monsieur Votre Très humble Et Très obeissant Serviteur
GratienLieut Genl De L’amirauté


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Kéralio, 23 April 1779
From: Kéralio, Agathon Guynement, chevalier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur.
Le 23e. avril, 1779.
Si j’ai bien entendu, bien compris, vous m’avés fait L’honneur de me prier à déjeuner ou à diner pour après demain Dimanche, mais notre Bonne et Respectable amie doit arriver demain au Soir, ou apres demain matin et dans les Deux suppositions il ne me sera pas possible de La quitter: Si au contraire votre obligeante invitation est pour Une date plus reculée, tout pourra S’arranger et je suis persuadé que notre excellente comtesse sera avec plaisir, de la partie. Veuillés donc me donner vos ordres et recevés mes excuses d’avoir aussi mal retenu ce que Vous m’avés fait L’honneur de me dire. Celui que vous m’avés fait hier m’a un peu tourné la tête et je ne suis pas le seul; vous en jugerés par la Lettre qu’un des jeunes gens qui a diné hier avec vous vient de m’adresser, a Son age on ne connoit pas encore Le poids de La chaine.
Le courier de Bretagne arrivé ce soir ne m’a rien apporté ou presque rien. Vous savés que M. d’orvilliers est à paris: il est parti de Brest Le 16 et sa Venue dans ce pays-ci me paroit Une suite des Dépêches reçues d’Espagne Le 10e., parce que selon moi, c’est d’après ces dépêches que l’on va dresser L’état de guerre (status belli) et Le plan de Campagne. Ou je suis bien trompé, ou L’Espagne a pris une détermination fixe. Toutefois un aussi mince particulier que moi ne peut former que des Conjectures.
Permettés que je Vous renouvelle mes remerciments et les assurances bien sinceres de la Tendre Vénération avec Laquelle je Suis Monsieur Votre très humble et tres obéissant Serviteur
Le CHR. De Keralio

Notation: Keralio 23 Ap. 79.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 24 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Passy, April 24. 1779
By the enclosed Letter from M. De Sartine expressing his Majestys Desire that the Alliance should be retained here a little longer, you will see that I am under a kind of Necessity of disappointing you in your Intentions of making your Passage immediately in that Vessel; which would be more unpleasing to me but for these Considerations, that possibly it may be safer for you to go in a Ship where the Crew not being so mixed can be better depended on, where you will not be incommoded by the Misunderstandings subsisting between the Officers and their Captain, and where you will have the Society of the French Ambassador, M. le Chevalier de la Luzerne, who appears to me a most amiable Man and of very sensible and pleasing Conversation. I hope this will in some Measure compensate for the Inconvenience of shifting your Stores from one Ship to the other. And as I shall order the Alliance to l’Orient where the King’s Frigate is, that carries the Ambassador, the removal of your Things from one Ship to the other will be more easy. You can even go thither in the Alliance if you chuse it.— The Ships in the American Trade which were at Nantes when I offered them the Convoy, of the Alliance, having declined that Offer, and sailed, as I understand, under another & perhaps safer Convoy, makes her immediate Departure for America less necessary; and perhaps she may now make a Cruize in these Seas, for which I understand she will have time; which will be probably more advantageous & therefore more Satisfactory to her People than a direct Return. I hope she may procure us some more Prisoners to exchange the rest of our Countrymen, and at the same time reimburse us the Charges of her Refitting, which you know we stand much in need of.—
M. Dumas writes me from the Hague of the 19th “Je sçais depuis hier, de bonne part que l’Espagne s’est enfin declarée. Cela fera un bon Effet ici, & partout.” I hope his Intelligence is good; but nothing of it has yet transpired here.
Inclosed I send you a Cover which I have just received from Martinique, directed to me but containing only a Letter for you. The Cover being unskilfully sealed, over the Seal of your Letter, was so attached to it that I had like to have broken open the one in opening the other. I send you also another Letter which came from Spain.
I am obliged by your offer of taking Charge of my Dispatches for America. I shall send them down to you by M. De la Luzerne, who is to set off in a few Days.
With great Esteem, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
Honble. John Adams Esqr.

Endorsed: Dr Franklin. Ap. 24. ans. Ap. 29. 1779


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Landais, 24 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Landais, Pierre

Sir,
Passy April 24. 1779.
I received your Favour of the 6th Inst from Brest, and the 19th from Nantes. I am glad to learn that you are safely arrived with the Prisoners. You will receive some of the exchanged Americans whom Mr Schweighauser has engaged for you: and I have applied to the Minister of the Marine for as many good French Seamen as will make up your Complement, which will accordingly be given to you.
I am now to inform you, that the Ships from Nantes which I at first proposed you should take under your Convoy being mostly sailed; and the King having offered Mr Adams a Passage in one of his Ships which carries his Ambassador to America, there does not seem at present a Necessity for your immediate Return and therefore I purpose that the Alliance should make a Cruise before her Departure, which I imagine will be a Satisfaction both to you and your People as it may give to you an Opportunity of acquiring Honour and to them of Profit: I hope too that both you and they will have the Satisfaction of delivering the rest of our Countrymen from their present Confinement in England by taking a Number of Prisoners to exchange for them: In which Case you may as you desire have your whole Crew composed of Americans only; I am sure your Success in this Respect will make you exceedingly welcome to that Country and the Congress on your happy Return.
With these and other Views my Orders now are that you procced first to L’Orient, where you will receive your Complement of Men and such other Things as may be necessary for your Cruize, and where you will meet the farther Orders I am preparing to send you.

As the Man you lost was Rogue enough to desert, I think we are better without him. And as they will give us a Number of good ones instead of him it is hardly worth while to make a Complaint about him at present.
My best Wishes for your Success, Honour and Happiness will constantly attend you, being with much Esteem, Sir, Your most obedt &ca
Honble P. Landais Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 24 April 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 24 April 1779
Since my last of the 17th Ins I am honord by your favor of the 5th. The Contract for Cannon made with Spain being compleated the Caron Company depended on a renewal and the pieces at Ferrol were lodged there in consiquence Spain alterd her Contract and the Cannon remaind on account of the former Contractors.
The Prisoners carried into the ports of Spain taken by American privateers would form a considerable Body could a plan be pursued to get them to France and would soon in the course of Exchange releive all the American prisoners in England, No arrivals from the United States I expect a vessel dayly from Alexandria she was ready for Sea in February the situation of our Trade is very trying. A French Fleet from Martinico was met on this Coast by two English Men of War who it is said attackt the Convoy its apprehended a shocking Account will be receivd. I have the honor to be with due respect Sr. your most obed H Serv
John Bondfield
His Excelly B. Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency B. Franklin / Plenepontenciary. des Etats Unies, / a / Paris
Notation: Bondfield John Bordeaux 24 avril 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from C. L. Brust, 24 April 1779
From: Brust, C. L.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
Bordeaux Le 24 Avril 1779.
Il s’est elevé divers procés entre les assurés et les assureurs des batiments & Cargaisons partis de L’Amerique Septentrionale pour la françe, et pris par les Anglois ou peris, et je Suis du Nombre de ceux qui Sont en Souffrance par le refus des assureurs de payer les pertes.
Un des grands obstacles a faire finir ces discussions est dans L’Incertitude du rapport de L’Argent de LAmerique a Celui de françe et un tarif qui de Yorktown a eté envoyé ici lannée derniere a eté rejetté par les assureurs faute d’etre revetu d’un Certifficat Authentique, Cest pour Cela que j’ose Supplier Votre Excellence de Certiffier veritable la Copie de ce Tarif cy joint Syl est juste, ou dans le Cas Contraire Oserois je esperer que Votre Excellence daignat men faire parvenir un a laide du quel je puisse parvenir a faire determiner les pertes a payer par les assureurs.
Jai l’honneur d’etre avec le plus profond Respect Monseigneur de Votre Excellence Le Trés humble et Trés Obeïssant Serviteur
C. L. Brust

Notation: C. L. Brust Bordeaux 24. Avril 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Peter Hasenclever, 24 April 1779
From: Hasenclever, Peter
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
Berlin the 24th April 1779
In December 1775 I had the Honour to write to you for Philadelphia and to Send you a Letter from Baron Waitz von Essen, who then was Minister of State here, who told me that he had been acquianted with you at Cassel, this Experienced and worthy Gentleman died Since, and I am in doubt if ever my Letter came to your hands.
I take now the Liberty to Send you the inclosed Letters for Messrs Hasenclever, & R. H. Lee at Philadelphia and Mr Ax Gillon from Charlestown whom I judge at present at Paris, which I beg you will get to be forwarded to their Destiny and Excuse my Liberty.
Yesterday I dined with the American Colonel Baron d’Arend at the Minister of Finances His Excellcy Baron de Goerne; the Colonel was Recommanded to me by my Cousin Mr F. G. Hasenclever now Establishd at Philadelphia, who has been for Some time at Breslau and endeavoured to open a branch of Commerce betwixt their Country and America, from which Place he came directed by the Ministre His Excellcy von Hoym, to the Baron de Goerne; after I had Conversed for an Hour with Colonel d Arend, I observed that he was not experienced in Commercial affairs, and that his proposals could no be accepted, as to form a Company by actions, and to Send Some Ships Loaden with Linnens and Woolens to America, by merchants who live in an inward Country, ignorant of Such undertakings and of Sea affairs, and not knowing to whome the goods with security could be Consigned and in what manner if they undertook Such an affaire they Should be paid for besides the Danger of the Sea, and Privateering was Such an objection by the Breslau merchants, that they entierly declined this business.
However I have the Honnour to assure you Sir, that it is neighter for want of means nor Inclination, that as yet no trade has been opened direct betwixt This Country and North America, and His Majesty the King has Recommanded his Subjects to trade Directly to America, as Soon as Circumstances will permit it. I have been Called Severall times for this purpose to this Metropolis, and on which account I am here at present, and have almost formd a Plan with the Minister of Finances, in what manner an mutual advantageous trade might be carried on betwixt this Country and the North American Colonies, and there is no doubt or this bussiness will come to perfection, and be of great Importance, Since this Country is So happily Situated, that it provides all the adjacent provinces, with Rice, Tobacco, Caffe, Sugar, and other American and West India Products.
Three year ago I met here a Maryland Gentleman, and Two years ago, when Mr Alderman Lee and Mr Sayre was here I was Send for, but Mr. Lee was departed before I arrived, and Mr Sayre was not accredited for Public business, These Two Gentlemen as well as Colonel d’Arend, were entierly unacquianted with the Nature of Commercial affairs of this Country, as also with the trade of North America, Mr. Sayre made some proposals but they were of Such a Nature, that they could not be executed and Gentlemen become Suspected when they are ignorant of the affairs which they propose.
At present no affairs can be undertaken from this Country To America on account of the war, and difficulty of the Transport. But as Soon as peace is reestablishd, we Shall do Some great affairs, we have those Sorts of Linnen and woollen goods which are mostly Consumed in America, and at very reasonable prices, that no Nation can provide them Cheaper, and we can take in Return 7/ to 8000 hheads of Tobacco and about 10 to 12000 Barrills of Rice, and much more of each Sort when affairs are once in their Regular Course.
His Excellency Baron de Göerne Ministre privé d’Etat & de Finance de S. M. Le Roy de Prusse, has desired me to present his Respects to you, as he has a particular Esteem for you Sir, & wishes to be personally acquianted with you; if you find me able to be of any Service to you in this Country, please to Command me and your Commands Shall be Exactly Executed, & you will then direct your letter for me to His Excelly Mr Le Baron de Goerne; it is probable that I may pay you this Sommer a Visit at Paris.
I have the Honour to be with great Respect. Sir Your most Obed humble servant
Peter Hasenclever

P.S. We Expect His M. the King angainst the 15 May God be thank that Peace and Tranquillity is restablishd I wish it was So with America.
Colonel d’Arend is departed for frankfurt, and has desird me to pay his respects to you.
To Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Notation: Peter Hasendever Berlin 24. avril 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Ross: Extract, 24 April 1779
From: Ross, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris 24th April 1779.
That unless your Excellency affords him speedy relief, agreeable to the express order of that Honble Body (Congress) he must plainly tell your Excellency, that his ruin is immediate and unavoidable, as he has bills running upon him, which he has accepted in perfect confidence and reliance, that the said order of Congress, would be faithfully complied with, and that he should be enabled punctually to discharge them when they become due.
(Signed) J Ross.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Landais, 25 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Landais, Pierre

Sir
Passy April 25. 1779
The Bearer Mr. Hezekiah Ford who has for some time been in the service of the United States, & always a zealous friend to the cause of Liberty, being about to return to America, if you can conveniently receive him in your Ship as a Passenger when you return thither you will oblige Sir Your most Obedient & most Humble Servant
(Signd) B Franklin
To the Honble. P. Landais Esqr.

I Certify that the above Letter is a true copy from the original signed B. Franklin. L’Orient 23d April 1780.
JOSEPH BROWN JUNR of South Carolina

Notations in different hands: April 25. 1779 Doctr Franklin recommends Mr. Hezh. Ford to Capt P Landais for a Passage to America after he had countermanded her going thither / B. Franklin’s Recommends Hezka. Ford to Cap: Lanndois for a passage to America after having countermanded his going thither (25 Apl. 1778.) (1779)


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 25 April 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir.—
Nantes April 25. 1779.—
This will be presented you by Mrs Richards who with her Children, is coming hither to meet & continue with her Husband.— Mr. Richards has been here some time past, & has been employed by Mr Johnson & myself in our ’Counting Houses, as his Intention is to continue in the american Business in this Place, or perhaps to settle with his Family in america, we look upon him as one of us; I therefore request you to consider his Family in the same View, & if any Obstacle should arise on acct of their being English, to facilitate their Departure from Paris so as they may come hither without any Interruption.— Mrs Richards does me the Favour to bring with her my young Friend, who tho’ the Fruit of an improper Connection is as dear to me as the tenderest of Natures Ties can make him, and the best proof I can give of a sincere Repentance I take to be a strict attention to the Dictates of Honour, which I am sure my Heart will never allow me in this Instance to swerve from, even were Duty out of the Question. Should he be a moment in your Presence, & should you condescend to grant him your Blessing it would make me happy.
I write thus freely about my Errors because you have already pardoned them, & because I am sure you believe I will do all in my Power to repair them.
I am ever your dutifull & affectionate kinsman
Jona Williams J

Addressed: a monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats unis / en son Hotel a / Passy prés Paris
Notation: Williams Jona. April 25. 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Bondfield, 26 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bondfield, John

Sir,
Passy April 26. 1779.
I am very sensible of your Merit with the United States and wish it was in my Power to serve you under the Difficulties you represent to me in yours of the 17th. Inst. But I have no Money at Command which is not appropriated to answer Contracts we have made here or Drafts of the Congress daily arriving, and I dare not presume to hazard a Possibility of Disappointment, as considering my Situation the publick Consequences of my being render’d unable to pay those Demands might be fatal to the Credit of the States. I hope therefore that either by the Arrival of your Funds or by some other means, your present straits may be relieved and the Inconveniences you apprehend prevented; being with much Esteem, Sir Your most obedt. &ca—
Mr. Bondfield.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to ——— Deshayes, 27 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Deshayes, ——

Sir,
Passy April 27. 1779.
I understand from his Excellency M. De Sartine that you have taken Care of such poor Americans as arrived at Cherbourg from England, and been at some Expence in relieving them. Please to accept my Thanks, and send me your Account that I may reimburse you. And as you have been so good as to Offer a Continuance of these kind Offices of Humanity I hereby assure you that the same will very much oblige me and that your accounts shall be readily and punctually discharged.
I have the honor to be, Sir, &ca.
M. Deshayes.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sartine, 27 April 1779
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Marly ce 27. Avril 1779.
J’ai reçu, Monsieur, La lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 23. de ce mois.
J’ai rendu Compte à Sa Majesté des ordres que vous avez bien voulu donner au Sr. Landais Capitaine de la Fregatte Americaine l’alliance, de conduire au Port de l’Orient le Batiment qu’il commande. Sa Majesté desire que cette fregatte soit reunie au Vaisseau le Bonhomme Richard et aux autres Batiments qui doivent être employés sous les ordres de M. Jones qui sera le commandant en Chef de cet armement. Sa Majeste desire aussi qu’il puisse être fait usage de ces Batimens pour transporter un detachement de ses troupes destinées pour une Expedition particuliere; et qu’en consequence vous donniez des Ordres à Mr. Jones de recevoir ces troupes a bord de ses Vaisseaux et de les mettre a terre sur les points où l’officier qui en aura le Commandement decidera qu’elles soyent debarquées. Vous voudrez bien alors ordonner pareillement à M. Jones de ne pas perdre les troupes de vue pendant l’Expedition; de proteger leur Operation; d’y concourir en tout ce qui pourra dependre de lui de tenir toujours les Batiments à portée d’assurer la Retraite des troupes, en cas qu’elles fussent repoussées; et à tout evenement de les embarquer sur les Batiments qu’il commande quand l’expedition sera terminée.
Je vous serai très obligé de vouloir bien me faire part des ordres que vous avez donnés pour faciliter un projet dont vous avez connoissance.
J’ai l’honneur d’être avec une très parfaite Consideration, Monsieur, Votre très humble et tres obeissant serviteur
(signé) De Sartine.
Mr. Franklin Minisistre Plenipotentiaire des Etats Unis de l’Amerique Septentrionale.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Paul Jones, 27 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Jones, John Paul

Dear Sir,
Passy April 27. 1779.
I have at the Request of M. De Sartine postponed the Sending the Alliance to America, and have order’d her to proceed immediately from Nantes to L’Orient, where she is to be furnished with her Complement of Men, join your little Squadron and act under your Command.
The Marquis de la Fayette will be with you soon. It has been observ’d that joint Expeditions of Land and Sea Forces often miscarry thro’ Jealousies and Misunderstandings between the Officers of the different Corps. This must happen where there are little Minds actuated more by personal Views of Profit or Honor to themselves, than by the warm and sincere Desire of Good to their Country. Knowing you both as I do, and your just manner of thinking on these Occasions, I am confident nothing of the Kind can happen between you, & that it is unnecessary for me to recommend to either of you that Condescension, mutual Goodwill and Harmony, which contribute so much to Success in such Undertakings. I look upon this Expedition as an Introduction only to greater Trusts and more extensive Commands, and as a kind of Trial of both your Abilities, and of your Fitness in Temper and Disposition for acting in Concert with others. I flatter myself therefore that nothing will happen that may give Impressions to the Disadvantage of either of you, when greater Affairs shall come under Consideration. As this is understood to be an American Expedition, under the Congress Commission & Colours, the Marquis who is a Major General in that Service, has of Course the Step in Point of Rank; and he must have the Command of the Land Forces, which are committed by the King to his Care: But the Command of the Ships will be entirely in you; in which I am persuaded that what ever Authority his Rank might in Strictness give him, he will not have the least desire to interfere with you. There is Honour enough to be got for both of you, if the Expedition is conducted with a prudent Unanimity. The Circumstance is indeed a little Unusual; for there is not only a Junction of Land & Sea Forces, but there is also a Junction of French men & Americans which increases the Difficulty of maintaining a good Understanding; a cool prudent Conduct in the Chiefs is therefore the more necessary, and I trust neither of you will in that Respect be deficient. With my best Wishes for your Success, Health & Honour I remain, dear Sir, Your affectionate Friend and most obedient Servant
B Franklin
Honble: J. P. Jones Esqre.

Endorsed: From Doctr. Franklin inclosing Instructions for a Secret Expedition April 27th. 1779. No. 11.


Title: Franklin’s Instructions to John Paul Jones, [28 April 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[April 28, 1779]
Instructions to the Honble: J. P. Jones Esquire, Commander of the American Squadron in the Service of the United States, now in the Port of L’Orient.
1. His Majesty having been pleased to grant some Troops for a particular Expedition, proposed to annoy our common Enemy, in which the Sea Force under your Command might have an Opportunity of distinguishing itself: You are to receive on board your Ships of War, and the other Vessels destined for that purpose, the Troops that shall present themselves to you, afford them such Accommodation as may be most proper for preserving their Health, and convey them to such Port or Place as their Commander shall desire to land them at.
  2. When the Troops are landed, you are to aid by all means in your Power their Operations, as they will be instructed in like manner to aid and support those you may make with your Ships, that so by this Concurrence and Union of your different Forces all that such a compounded Strength is capable of may be effected.

  3. You are during the Expedition never to depart from the Troops so as not to be able to protect them or to secure their Retreat in Case of a Repulse; and in all Events you are to endeavour their compleat Reimbarkation, on board the Ships and Transports under your Command, when the Expedition shall be ended.
  4. You are to bring to France all the English Seamen you may happen to take Prisoners, in order to compleat the good Work you have already made such Progress in, of delivering by an Exchange the rest of our Countrymen now languishing in the Goals of Great Britain.
  5. As many of your Officers and People have lately escaped from English Prisons either in Europe or America, You are to be particularly attentive to their Conduct towards the Prisoners which the fortune of War may throw into your Hands, lest Resentment of the more than barbarous Usage by the English in many Places towards the Americans should occasion a Retaliation, and an Imitation of what ought rather to be detested and avoided, for the sake of Humanity and for the Honour of our Country.
  6. In the same View altho’ the English have wantonly burnt many defenceless Towns in America, you are not to follow this Example, unless where a Reasonable Ransom is refused, in which Case, your own generous Feelings as well as this Instruction, will induce you to give timely Notice of your Intention that Sick and ancient Persons, Women & Children may be first removed.
  Given at Passy, this 28th Day of April, 1779.
signed B. Franklin.M. P. from the U. S. at the Court of France

Notation: April 28 1779 Instructions to Capt. J P. Jones from Doctr. Franklin inclosed in the Doctor’s Letter of Octr. 17th: 1779


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 28 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir
Passy April 28 1779
Enclosed I send your Excellency a Letter I have just received from Mr. Wm. Bingham, Agent of the Congress at Martinique, complaining of the Proceedings of the Judge of the Admiralty there, relating to an English Privateer brought thither by some American Seamen, who have not only been deprived of their Prize, but are thrown into Prison.
The King of England having given Encouragment to all Seamen in the Service of the United States, or in the Service of their Merchants, to seize the Vessels they were employed in, and bring them to England, promising to divide the Value of such Vessels and Cargoes among the Seamen who should effect such Seizures; which Encouragement produced many mischievous Effects, and occasioned the Loss of many Vessels belonging to the Subjects of the States, and bound for France; the Congress after remonstrating in vain against so irregular a Practice as that of enticing Servants to betray their Trust, found it necessary to make Reprisals in the same Way; and accordingly passed an Act promising the same Rewards to those Seamen who should seize and bring in any English Ship they might be on Board of. This Privateer was taken in Consequence. And as I look upon that Act of Congress to be in the Nature of a general Commisssion, I apprehend that the Capture was duly made, and that the Captors have a just Title to the Prize. I therefore request your Excellency’s Protection in Behalf of those poor American Seamen and that an Order may be sent to discharge them from their Imprisonment, and deliver to them the Value of the Prize in Question.
With great Respect I am your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
His Excy. Ct. de Vergennes

Notation: M de Rayneval


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dominique d’O—— de St. Hubert: Receipt, [28 April 1779]
From: St. Hubert, Dominique d’O—— de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

  [April 28, 1779]
  BILLET DE SOUSCRIPTION.

J’ai reçu de Monsieur frankelin ministre plenipotentiaire des etats unis de l’amerique la somme de 24 lt pour payement de premiere souscription du dictionnaire topographique, historique, &c de la france &c dont ce monsieur recevra les Volumes reliés sans frais.
A tarascon—28—avril 1779.
De st. hubert Avocat, & Membre de plusieurs Académies.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel W. Stockton, 28 April 1779
From: Stockton, Samuel W.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
The Hague April 28th. 1779.
From your kind permission, I have at different times taken the liberty of writing to you.

It begins to be generally beleived here, that if Sp——n has not yet declared herself in favor of Ama., that it will not be long before that happy event will take place— Mr. De Neufville of Amsterdam, whose character & sentiments I understand you are sufficiently acquainted with, writes to me in a letter of the 27th. instant thus “It seems however, there is great likelihood that Spain should have given in a declaration, for a certain House, we learned, have sold £60,000 sterling in the Stocks, and this not being an indifferent one, but in the English sentiments, it was followed to day that they were in genl. 3 or 4 per Ct. cheaper than yesterday”. Upon the probability of some important event for our country happening soon, I wish to lay in a claim to your attention when any dispatches may be thought necessary to be forwarded for Congress, of which I hope soon to be informed: in the mean time, whereever I may be, I shall strive to promote the interest of my country.
An opportunity for St. Eustatia offering, by which Mr. Dumas writes to Congress, I have taken the liberty of mentioning your health and good spirits in a letter to my friend Dr. Witherspoon of N. Jersey.
I have the honor to be with the most perfect respect Sir your obliged & most obedient Servant.
Saml. W. Stockton.
His Excellency B. Franklin Esquire.

Addressed: To / His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esquire / Minister Plenipotenitary at / The Court of Versailles &c &c &c / Passy.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gourlade and Moylan, 29 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gourlade, Jacques-Alexandre,Moylan, James

Gentlemen
Passy April 29 1779
I received the Letter you did me the honor to write me & thank you for the Intelligence it contain’d. There is a Rumour here from England of a Battle in Georgia, in which both Armies are said to have suffered extreamly: but I know not whether it has any Foundation. I hear from Martinique that an English Privateer cruizing in those seas had been surprized by some American Seamen who were on Board & who carried her into that Island. I am with great Esteem &c
Mess. Gourlade et Moylan.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Rozier, 29 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Rozier, abbé François

Sir
Passy April 29 1779
As you do my little Piece on the Aurora Borealis the Honor to suppose it may be agreeable to your philosophical Readers, I have requested M. Le Roi who read it at the Academy & has it in his Hands, to furnish you with a Correct Copy of it, which he has promised to do. With great Esteem I am &c
M. L’Abbé Rozier.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 29 April 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
La Haie 29e. Avril 1779.
Les Etats de la Province d’Hollande sont rassemblés ici depuis ce matin. Mais ce n’est qu’une Assemblée ordinaire; & notre Ami m’a dit plaisamment Nous ne sommes venus que pour la Foire (car dans quelques jours d’ici ce sera foire à Lahaie). Il prévoit aussi, que la Résolution des Etats-Genx. ne sera pas telle qu’elle pût engager la France à revenir de son dernier Edit de Navigation.
Une des premieres Maisons d’Amst——, dont la partialité pour l’Angleterre est connue, vient de vendre pour 60,000 £. St. de fonds Angl. Cela met tout en mouvement à Amst——, fait revivre plus que jamais l’idée d’une Déclaration de l’Espagne, & a fait baisser les fonds Anglois à Amst—— de 3 à 4 per cent. Il court un bruit sourd ici, que Mr. D’Estaing a battu Byron: Un particulier ici offre de parier 100 Ducats que cela est vrai. Il pleut des brochures ici contre le dernier Mémoire de Sir J. Y.
Je suis avec tout le respectueux attachement qui vous est connu, Monsieur, Votre très-humble & très obéissant serviteur
D

On distribue une suite de feuilles sous le manteau, intitulées Lettres Hollandoises; il y en a déjà 5. Cela très violent contre le Stadh——. Elles viennent de Bruxelles. L’auteur travaille un peu trop vite: car il lui échappe parfois des faussetés: n’importe, on se les arrache des mains & n’en a pas qui veut.
Passy à Son Exc. Mr. Franklin

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Ministre Plénipotentiaire / des Et. Unis de l’Amérique / Passy:
Notation: Dumas la haie April 29. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joshua Johnson, 29 April 1779
From: Johnson, Joshua
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honbl. Sir
Nantes 29 April 1779
Inclosed I forward you Som American Papers which I have rec’ed this Day by a Vessell from Virginia, you will be pleased to give Mr. Jennings the perusial of them when you are done with them.
I have the Honour to be Sir. Your most obed. Hble Servt
Joshua Johnson
His Excellency Benjn. Franklin Esqr.

Notation: Joshua Johnson 29 April 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Lovell, 29 April[–17 September 1779]
From: Lovell, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Philada. April 29th.[–September 17] 1779
As the Books & Papers of the Comtee. of foreign affairs remain on the Table of Congress to be used in the public Deliberations which still continue upon a fruitful Subject begun last September you do not at this Time receive any official Letter from that Committee. But I will not omit the good opportunity by Mr. Smith, Son of the Commissioner of the Loan Office here, to assure you individually of my Regards. I hope you have long before now received yr. Credentials as minister Plenipotentiary from the United States. There was a dissagreable Lentor, in the public Proceedings at first, and in the sending forward yr. Testimonials afterwards. From this Source it is, I suppose, that confidential Communications have not been made to you by the french Court, so as to furnish matter for yr. Dispatches to Congress; while such have been made to us in another Channel. Sir, it behoves you much to let yr. Constituents hear often from you, lest it shd. be fully credited among us that there is but one Man in the Universe that can be pleasing to the Court of France as a Minister from hence. The Recall of Mr. Deane has given Birth to very singular Writings and Measures. You have escaped all considerable Injuries, tho you have been comprehended in some Propositions not altogether honorary, as you will shortly see by the Journals which are to be printed weekly. I ought, however, now, to give you the Satisfaction of knowing that the Question about yr. Recall was only a Kind of necessary Consequence flowing from the Adoption of a Fact on which to found a Principle that might destroy the Commissions of Messrs. Lees & Izard particularly Mr. A Lee’s.
In my Opinion the improper triplicate appointment for the Court of France produced, in very natural Consequence, “Suspicions & Animosities.” But these Evils ought not to be made Reasons for depriving the public of the Services of Men whose great Abilities Integrity & Industry may be exerted in distinct Trusts without the like future Inconveniences.
Disappointed Views have generated an Implacability against the falsely supposed Cause of that Dissappointment. Nothing short of the Ruin of the Reputation of Arthur Lee will glut the malice of a party formed against him by that Spirit of assassinating Innuendo which so eminently governs his Arch Enemy.
I expect to be able in a few days to communicate to you the Decission of Congress in Regard to the other Gentlemen, and some particular Instructions for your own Government. I refer you to the Gazettes for a general State of military Proceedings, and to common Fame for the ill Condition of our Currency.
I am Sir Your most humb. Servt.
James Lovell
Honble. Doctr FranklinCopy (private)

P.S. Sepr. 17
I have only this day heard of the Capture of Mr. Smith, and I do not find by my Memoranda that I have sent any Copy of what he carried, which I find to be thus minuted at the time of his sailing. Apr 30th.

4plic: 7
}
Hopkinson

3plic: 8

my own
To J Adams 28th.

To A. Lee 28

To Doctr. Franklin 29

To Jona. Williams 29

Mr. Jays
To Doctr. Franklin

To Marqs Fayette

——
Pamphlets and Gazettes to the Doctor


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 30 April 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Lahaie 30e. Avril 1779
J’eus l’honneur de vous écrire hier par Rotterdam. Je viens de chez notre Ami, à qui j’ai demandé s’il étoit vrai qu’il avoit dit à g—— F——, que la Ville d’Amsterdam desiroit qu’on n’exécutât pas trop à la rigueur le dernier Edit françois de Navigation? Il m’a assuré qu’il ne l’avoit pas dit; qu’au contraire sa ville comptoit sur l’exécution stricte de cet Edit, puisqu’autrement le parti adverse croiroit que le tout n’est pas sérieux, & s’opiniâtreroit plus que jamais.
Il m’a dit aussi, que le Pensionaire de Rotterdam étoit venu le voir, & l’avoit prié à mains jointes, & d’un ton de désespoir, d’interposer ses bons offices & ceux de sa ville auprès de la Cour de France, pour faire lever l’interdit fulminé contre eux; mais qu’il lui avoit répondu ne pouvoir rien là-dedans, ni lui ni sa ville; qu’il falloit s’adresser à celui qui les avoit plantés dans la bourbe, pour les en retirer. Pauvre consolation pour la Magistrature de Rotterdam, qui, d’un côté, craint une émeute (Car il y a beaucoup de fermentation), &, de l’autre, sent fort bien que la France ne leur fera aucune grace pour l’amour d’un Pce [Prince], qui vient de se declarer si hautement contre elle.
Enfin il m’a répété, que non seulement la Magistrature, mais aussi le gros des Négociants, sont très contents du tour qu’ont pris les choses, & très-résolus de tenir fermes. Ainsi, si l’on disoit ou écrivoit le contraire, croyez que c’est des gens dont les uns trompent, & les autres se laissent tromper. Je réponds de la vérité de ce que dessus. Je suis, Monsieur, avec un grand respect, Votre très-humble & très Obéissant serviteur
D

P.S. Notre Ami déplore avec moi, toutes les fois que nous nous voyons, l’extrême disette de nouvelles Américaines authentiques. Depuis longtemps on n’en a d’autre ici que par le canal des ennemis, qui ne cessent de prôner sans contradiction leur succès, & de peindre les Am—— comme un peuple désuni & discordant, dont l’union ne subsistera pas, & qui va rentrer en détail sous leur obéissance. Ces répétitions éternelles, sans faire impression sur nous, nous désolent & fatiguent vis-à-vis des ames foibles, que nous devons continuellement rassurer. Nous sommes come Job au milieu de ses parens inquiets & inquiétants.
Passy à Son Exc. Mr. Franklin.

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Ministre / Plénipotentiaire des Etats-Unis / de l’Amérique / à Passy. /.
Notation: Dumas la haie April 30. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chaumont, [c. April 1779]
From: Chaumont
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[c. April, 1779]
Chaumont a L’honneur de prevenir Monsieur le Docteur franklin que le Courier de Bretagne part aujourdhuy a Deux heures et que si M. franklin a des ordres a faire passer a Nantes a M. Landais Commandant La fregatte L’alliance il est Bien important que sa Lettre soit avant deux heures a la grande poste et quelle y soit postée fidelement.
M. le Chever. de La Luzerne demeure au Marais Rue des Blancs Manteaus.


Title: Memorandum on a Proposed Dutch Loan, [April 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[April, 1779]
M. de Neuville d’amsterdam Continue a Donner de Bonnes Esperances Sur L’emprunt de M. franklin, qu’il n’a fait que pressentir parceque L’emprunt de Langleterre, La prise de Ste. Lucie, Celle de Pondichery et quelque tentatives Reelles ou Supposées de M. Neker pour trouver de L’argeant en hollande, luy ont parus trop importants pour operer en mesme tems pour Compte des americains. Les pertes immenses du Commerce de france ne Laisseroient aucun Espoir de Ressource dans Les Banquiers de Paris, qui gardent tous Leurs moyens pour Secourir et encore très faiblement Les Negotiants des Ports. Les Bezoings de M. franklin ne Sont pas urgents et il faut Esperer que M de Neufville aura procuré des fonds avant que Ceux de M. franklin Soyent epuisés.
avril 1779


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 1 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

De Passy le 1er May 1779
Conformement à la demande de Votre Excellence je vous envoye cy joint les lettres et les instructions que j’ai adressées aux Captn Jones et Landais.
Je suis très respectueusement De Votre Excellence Le très humble et très obeissant Serviteur
B FRANKLIN
Lettre de M. Benjamin franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Paul Jones, 1 May 1779
From: Jones, John Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored and dear Sir.
L’Orient May 1st. 1779.
The letter which I had the honor to receive from your Excellency to day together with your liberal and noble minded instructions would make a Coward brave.— You have called up every sentiment of public virtue in my breast and it shall be my pride and ambition in the strict Pursuit of your instructions to deserve success.
If I have any abilities they shall be exerted to the utmost and I am under no fear of disorders under my command— Since I shall treat persons who behave well and do their Duty with all possible civility—and such as misbeheave, must take the consequence agreeable to the rules and regulations, which Congress have instituted for the government of our Marine.— Between the principals in command since they love and esteem one another no disunion need be apprehended—and each will I am convinced do his utmost to promote a general good understanding.— Be assured that very few prospects could Afford one so true a satisfaction as that of rendering some acceptable service to the common cause and at the same time Releiving from captivity, by furnishing the means of exchange for, our unfortunate fellow subjects who are Prisoners of war in the hands of our Enemies.
It only remains that I Return your Excellency my most hearty and sincere thanks for the many past instances which I have experienced of your delicate friendship, favor and affection Especially in this last instance of your particular confidence.
I am and shall be to the end of my life with the most affectionate esteem and Respect, Honored and dear Sir Your most obliged Friend & Most obedient very humble Servant
Jno P Jones

N.B. I take the liberty to inclose the Memoire of a young gentleman who has waited here a long time of his own accord to Embark with me as I have a Particular regard for his character if you think fit to Send his paper to Court I Should be glad to have him with me— I Can find no person so proper to Disciplin the Voluntier Soldiers that I have inlisted.
His Excellency Doctor Franklin. &c. &c. &c.

Notation: P. Jones L’Orient 1. may 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Landais, 1 May 1779
From: Landais, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Please Your Excellency
Nantes May 1st 1779
I Received Your Favour of the 24 ult. and went directly down the River to the Ship to aquaint the Honnble John Adam with the order you geve me. The wind is So high that no loaded buts can go aboard, I’ll do my utmost to fullfil your order as Soon as possible— I have recruted already fourty three fore mast men among the american Prisonners besides the Captains that are willings to enter as volontiers. I which I Should find your futur orders at my arrival at Port L’Orient, and know wheither I am to have the Ship Careen or to go directly on a Cruse for to loose no time in putting them in execution.
I am with the Greateast Respect Your Excellency Most Obeidient Most humble Servant.
P. Landais
To his Excellency Bn Franklin Minister Plenipotentary of the united States of America

Addressed: To / His Excellency Bn Francklin / Minister Plenipotentary of the united States / Of America at Passy / Paris
Notation: P. Landais. May 1st 79.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georgiana Shipley, 1 May 1779
From: Hare-Naylor, Georgiana Shipley
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Bolton Street May 1st 1779
As another opportunity offers of conveying a letter to my dear Doctor Franklin, I cannot resist the strong inclination I feel of once more writing to you, especially as I flatter myself that you still retain your former friendship & partiality for this family, & consequently that you will be always glad to hear from any part of it.
Since you left England I am grown a very great politician, after this open declaration you will perhaps expect some account of our public affairs, but prudence requires me to be silent on the subject.
I fancy it will not now be long before we visit Twyford, no alterations have been made there since your departure, your Summer-house remains in the same state; I wish there was any probability of your occupying it again, but I dare not allow myself to think that such an happiness is reserved for us.
I know of no late publications worth recommending to you; Johnson’s lives of the English Poets is a new work & admired by those whom, I have heard mention it, although it is in parts tainted with his own odious political principles.
Monsieur de la Bussiere will have the pleasure of delivering this letter into your hands, he came to England strongly recommended to us, & we are much pleased with the little we have seen of him, he appears a modest pretty sort of young Man, & very ambitious of being personally known to you; indeed the terms in which he spoke of you, prejudiced us greatly in his favor.
The American Squirrel is still living, & much caress’d; poor fellow! he is grown quite old & has lost his eye-sight, but nevertheless preserves his spirits & wonted activity. Numberless are the prints & medals we have seen of you, but none that I quite approve, should you have a good picture painted at Paris, a miniature copied from it, would make me the happiest of beings, & next to that, a lock of your own dear grey hair would give me the greatest pleasure; my father has had a wax model taken of him, it is not yet finished, but if it should prove like, I will manage to send you one, in the mean time I enclose a shade, which I think you will be pleased with, he never mentions your name without tenderness & admiration; & often laments, that one part of his share in the public misfortunes is to have lost the enjoyment of the most valuable friendship he ever made. Doctor Priestley & Doctor Price two sincere friends & admirers of yours, dined here yesterday when your health was drank with pleasure by the whole company. Anna Maria is impatient to hear whether you have received a few lines, she sent by Gen. Verdiere.
If I have encroached too much upon your time, pray forgive me; for while I am writing to you the respect & deference due to so great a character is almost lost in the love & affection I feel for an old friend, whose indulgence I have often experienced, & whose esteem it will ever be my pride & happiness to deserve. My Mother & Sisters are well, & unite in good wishes. I am Your gratefull & affecate
Georgiana Shipley
The ode I send is much admired. The subject has animated the Poet.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 1 May 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir
Nantes May 1. 1779.—
In the Newspapers which Mr. Johnson sent you last post you will see an Extract from one of my Letters to Mr Dean in which the word Connection is mentioned and represented as a proof that I had some commercial Concerns with Mr Dean. I send you enclosed a Copy of the whole of the Letter & you will see that the Paragraph has no such relation, & cannot, but by evident malice be so construed.— Mr Dean supposed he had some Enemies here & desired me if I heard anything to his Prejudice to let him know who his Enemies were. I told him naturaly that “my Connection with him being known” People generaly avoided speaking of him before me and so I should have written to any other Friend in a similar occasion. There are some silly People also who dont like you, & these People are ashamed to say anything against you in my Presence, because they know my Connexion with you. Does this imply that you & I are trading on the Public money? The Connexion I had with Mr Dean was the same I had with you & with Mr Lee at that Time, and as to commercial Connexions with Mr Dean, I am happy to be able to lay my hand on my heart & declare upon my Honour, that I have never been, directly or indirectly conserned with him in any trading scheme whatever to the value of a single Livre. As to my desiring an approbation of my Drafts, it was common Sense, for without it, how could I expect any man to buy a Bill of me? And I therefore wrote to the same Purpose to the Commissioners the 14th & 21 of the same month. These very Drafts are accordingly approved by you & Mr Adams.— If I had any private underhand Concerns with Mr Dean, I should have been a Fool as well as a Knave to write the same thing to the Commissioners.— The Part of the Letter which speaks of my Friend C was on acct of the Difference which happened between Mr Carmichael & Mr Dean, and which I tried to accomodate as you will see.—
I am without your answer about Mr Gourlades Demand.— I have written to Mr Cummings & Mr Nesbit requesting them to return to examine my acct free of Expence to them, but am as yet without an answer which surprizes me. I therefore by this Post send them a Copy of my Letter.—
I am ever with the greatest Respect Your dutifull & affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams J
The Hon. Doctor Franklin.

Notation: Jona Williams May 1. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Arthur Lee, 2 May 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir/
Paris May 2d. 1779
By letters this day from Nantes, I am informd that the Alliance Frigate is mann’d, & ready to sail. Adverse winds still detain the American fleet at Brest with its Convoy. As that Convoy is destind for the french Islands it will of course leave those Vessels which are intended for the United States before they reach the Coast. Yet there it is that not only from the Enemy’s Cruisers, but from the multitude of their Privateers lately fitted out, they will run the greatest risque. Not only the public at large is highly interested in the safe arrival of this fleet, but the State of Virginia depends upon it for supplies essentially necessary for her defence & preservation. The difficulty with which these have been obtaind; & the impossibility of replacing them if lost, makes it of the last importance to use every possible means for their protection.

For these reasons I presume to submit to your consideration, whether the Alliance can render a more useful & acceptable service to our Country, than by immediately joining the fleet at Brest, & conveying it quite to our ports.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect Sir Your most Obedt Hble Servt.
Arthur Lee
The Honble. B. Franklin Esqr

Endorsed: Arthur Lee May 2d. 1779;


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Franklin Bache, 3 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bache, Benjamin Franklin

Dear Benny
Passy, May 3. 1779
I received your Letter, and it gave me great Pleasure to hear of your safe Arrival at Geneva, & of your being plac’d in your Pension. You now have a fine Opportunity of learning those things that will be reputable and useful to you when you come to be a Man; and you will make your Father and Mother very happy to hear that you mind your Studies and improve daily, which I hope I shall be able to assure them of.— You ought to be very respectful to Mr Cramer, who was so kind as to take the Trouble & Care of carrying You to Geneva; and as a good Boy I am persuaded you will be very dutiful to M. de Marignac, and attentive to his Instructions.— Your Friends Cochran & Deane dined with us last Sunday & are well. Your Cousin joins his Love with that of
Your AFFECTIONATE Grandfather


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee, 3 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Arthur

Sir
Passy may 3 1779.
I did write to the Gentlemen at Nantes concern’d in fitting out the Vessels for America, offering them the Alliance as a Convoy and order’d her to Nantes accordingly. They did not chuse to accept that offer Knowing, as I Supose, her Weakness, but Sail’d for Brest, to go with the french Convoy without waiting her arrival and would probably have been gone long before she could have been fitted for Sea, if contrary Winds had not prevented. I wish your Information were true, that she is mann’d and fit for such Service. It must be from some Person who is unacquainted with the facts, perhaps Mr. ford. I must suppose the Merchants are Satisfied with the Convoy they have put their ships under, as I do not learn that they, have applied for one more suitable. I would readily have sollicited such an Application if I had understood it to be necessary, being equally desirous with you of their arriving safe, and sensible of the Importance of it. But I have not received a line from any of them to any such purpose; and Capitain Landais has assured me, that my supposition of his having Men sufficient to fight his Ship on occasion in going home tho’ not enough to man Prizes on a Cruize, was a great Mistake in my informer. He then wanted 150 men, & I have not Since heard of his having recruited more than 40 with the exchanged Americans from England. Mr. ford may probably be accommodated in the same frigate that will take Mr. Adams. I have the honour to be with great respect Sir Y. m. o. h. S.

P.S. I am glad to hear from you, that supplies necessary for Virginia are shipt.
Honble. Arthur Lee Esq.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 3 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir
Passy May 3d. 1779:
When I last had the honor of waiting upon your Excellency, I mentioned certain Applications from the States of Virginia and Maryland, for Arms, Ammunition and Clothing, which I am desired by their Agents here to sollicit. I should sooner have presented your Excellency a Note of the Particulars, which I now enclose, but that Treaties have been attempted with private Persons to furnish the Articles wanted. Those Treaties not succeeding, I am obliged at length to request your Excellency would take the Trouble of considering the Application, and favour it, if you shall think it reasonable. The respective States propose and promise to pay for what is supply’d to each of them, as soon as the War is over; But as their Letters are dated near a year since, and possibly a part of their Wants may have been supply’d by the Congress, and as the Agents have desired me to engage for the Payment I should imagine that if his Majesty should think fit to grant such Aids, they would be best granted to the Congress, who will take care to supply particular States, & be accountable for the whole. In which Case it would be well to double the Quantity of Clothing and small Arms, as the Congress have order’d great Quantities, which we are not able to purchase for want of Money. And could any Part of these Supplies be ready to go with the new Minister, I submit it to your Excellency’s Consideration whether it would not be well to put them under his Care; and if all could not be ready, to let him bear the Promise of the rest; as this might be a means of making his Arrival the more welcome; and more generally pleasing, and facilitate his Negociations.
I am with great Respect, Your Excellencys most obedient and most humble Servant.
B Franklin
His Exy. M. Le Comte De Vergennes.

Notations: M de Rayneval / M. francklin / rep le 6 may.
The following Articles are wanted for the State of Maryland. viz.

10,000
Stand of Arms compleat, including Cartridge Boxes, &ca.

  10.
Brass Field Pieces, of 4 & 6 lb Ball with their Carriages and Harness

  8
Howits of 9 Inches

  50.
Pieces of Flannel for Cartridges

  5,000.
Suits of Soldiers Clothes, ready made

  10,000.
Pair of Stockings

  10,000
Hats

  10,000.
Blankets

  1,000
Tents

  20
Tons of Lead

Cloth and Trimmings for the clothing of 350 Officers.

Wanted for the State of Virginia

  16.
Iron Cannon of 36 lb Ball

  20.
Do of . . . 24 lb.

  8
  Brass Do  . . . of 24 lb.

  50.

Rounds of Grape Shot
}
For eachof the Cannon

Ditto of chain & doubled headed Do

50

Carriages Rammers, Ladles, and all the necessary Apparatus for the above Cannon

  6.
Brass Howitzers 5 Inch

  4
Do . . . 5½.

  100.
Shells for each Howitzer, with Fuzees, Match-stuff, Carriages, and every thing compleat

  20,000
Stands of Fusils and Bayonets compleat

  30
Tons of best Cannon Powder

  20
Tons Do for Fusils.

Saddles, Carbines, Boots, spurs, &ca. for 100 Light Horse.

These Things the respective Governments engage to pay for.
B Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Nicholas Davis, 3 May 1779
From: Davis, Nicholas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Amsterdam May 3d 1779
When I had the pleasure of seeing you in Paris Jany. was two years I was in hopes that I was in the high road to preferment and honour: As you have no doubt Sir long before now had the particulars of the Ship La Seins being taken by an Eng. Man of War in a few hours after leaving Martinico I imagine it would be unnecessary my adding any thing on that disagreeable subject— I only would beg leave to observe that I used every endeavour on my part and suffer’d myself to be imprison’d sooner than I would (notwithstanding all the threats of the Atty. Genl. at Dominica) answer to Interrog. nor would I have done it at last if I had not been inform’d that the man whom we took on board at Martinico to Pilot us into Boston suffer’d Mr. Binghams order (to the secret Committe at Boston) for the Pilotage of the Ship to be taken upon him, wch. would have Condemn’d her without any thing else.— I got away from Dominica to Martinio. from whence I went to Phila. abot. 3 mos before the British Army got there and my Affairs were under consideration of Congress just at that time.
Money growing short I was oblig’d to leave Phila. and went to my relation Mr. George Mead (who was then at Kennet Square) in order to get some and upon my return to Phila. the British Army were in possession of it— I was frequently sollicited by the British to accept of a Majority in their newly rais’d levies which I allways spurn’d at— I took the first Opportunity of a Ship for London where I knew I had some friends that would assist me which I stood much in need of— My father Mr. Anthy Davis was a sugar baker and Distiller in Boston which he quitted with his family in 1755 and went to Jama. he afterwards came to Engd. took orders in the Church and return’d to Jamaica where he enjoyd for 10 years an exceeding good living.
Had the La Sein got into Boston I flatter myself I should have shared in the glory and honour which my Countrymen have acquired as well as have avoided many distresses— I should be very glad could I get to France and go out as Capt. of Marines on board some stout Frigate (a Privateer I mean) either french or American by which means if successful I might have it in my power to pay what I am indebted to the Congress which I meant to have paid out of the Proffits arising upon the goods I had on board the La Sein— My present very unhappy and truly distress’d situation will I trust plead my apology for this trespass and flatter myself that I shall find some relief in it’s reception— It would afford me infinite pleasure and satisfaction could I be of any service to my Country and wou’d be happy in persuing any plan for that purpose which you might be pleas’d to adopt— The unavoidable expence which attends my stay here compels me to request you’ll condescend to honour me with a line by return of Post which will greatly contribute to relieve my present anxiety of mind as well as add to the favours I’ve allready reced. at your hands.— I am with due defference and respect.—Sir Your most Devoted and Obedt. hble Servant
Nicholas Davis

Notation: Richard Davis Amstordam 3 May 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 3 May 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
La Haie 3e. May 1779.
Sur les dernieres Requêtes des Marchands de differentes villes Hollandoises, communiquées aux Provinces, les Etats-Genx., ayant résumé l’affaire délibérée, avoient pris Lundi 26 Avril, sans que rien en eût transpiré, la Résolution d’équiper 32 Vx. [Vaisseaux] de guerre & frégattes de toutes grandeurs, montés ensemble de 1200 Canons, & près de 8000 h. d’Equipage, pour cette année 1779, pour servir de protection au Commerce de la Rep. avec la France & l’Angle., de maniere qu’il devra y avoir, au moins, tous les mois un Convoi. Notre Ami lui-même ne savoit rien de cette Résolution, jusqu’à Samedi 1er. May dans la matinée, qu’il en eut copie, de laquelle il eut soin de faire envoyer tout de suite copie au Corps des Marchands d’Amst. par leur Procureur ici, avec avis de s’adresser à l’Amirauté pour la prompte exécution de cette Résolution. Je fus Samedi au soir avec Mr. De Neufville chez ce Procureur, qui nous lut la Résolution, laquelle nous surprit bien agréablement. Je me rendis hier matin chez G—— F——, qui eut de la peine à croire la chose, jusqu’à ce que je l’eusse assuré que notre Ami venoit de me la confirmer, & qu’on m’avoit promis de lui faire avoir une Copie de la Résolution. J’en aurai une aussi, dont je vous promets, Monsieur, un Extrait fidele. J’appelle cela une Résolution escamotée: car le secret avec lequel elle est prise, fait voir qu’on a voulu sauver un éclat; & je pense que, pour cette raison, elle ne sera point communiquée aux Ministres étrangers.
Cette nouvelle est importante. Je vous la communique par voie de Rotterdam, parce que je gagne ainsi un jour au moins. Il ne me reste que l’instant de finir par vous assurer, Monsieur, du constant & respectueux attachement avec lequel je suis, votre très humble & très-obéissant serviteur,
Dumas

Le temps viendra où je pourrai faire bon usage de tout ce qui vient d’arriver pour les futures connexions des 2 rep. Mais il faudra laisser meurir encore le projet, que la Commission de Chargé d’affaires que vous me faites espérer, facilitera beaucoup.
Passy à Son Excellence M. Franklin, Min. Pl. des Etats unis de l’Am.

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Ministre Plenipe. des Etats- / unis de l’Amérique / à Passy./.
Notation: Dumas la haie May. 3. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sartine, 3 May 1779
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Marly le 3 may 1779.
J’ai reçu, Monsieur, la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 19 du mois dernier par la quelle vous me marquez que plusieurs Americains qui, après avoir été pressés en Angleterre, ont été pris sur des Vaisseaux de cette nation et conduits dans les Prisons de France desireroient entrer au Service des Etats unis. J’ai deja accordé au Capitaine John la facilité d’engager plusieurs de ces Prisonniers, et je suis informé qu’il en a été remis une assez grande quantité à sa Disposition. Je dois vous observer, Monsieur, que le Roi en Accordant ainsi la liberté aux Sujets des Etats Unis se prive des moyens de la rendre par une échange à ses propres Sujets. Au reste J’ai donné ordre de m’informer du nombre des Americains qui sont encore detenus en France, et lorsque j’aurai pris les Ordres du Roi sur l’objet de votre demande, J’aurai l’honneur de vous faire connoitre les Intentions de Sa Majesté.
J’ai celui d’être avec la Consideration la plus distinguée, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obeissant Serviteur.
(signé) De Sartine
M. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Dumas, 4 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric

Dear Sir
Passy may 4. 1779.
I take this opportunity by Col. Hope of sending you some Papers, which you may occasionally make use of to Show the upright Conduct of the Congress, in the Affair of Captures &c. if they have not been already—publish’d— I send also a Copy of my general letter relating to Cap. Cook, which you may show to any american Cruiser that may happen to put into any port near you.
Inclos’d is what News we have here.
I have received yours of the 29th. past.
I am, with great Esteem Dear Sir Your most obedient & most humble Ser.
M. Dumas.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ingenhousz, 4[–5] May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Ingenhousz, Jan

Dear Friend,
Passy May 4.[–5] 1779—
I received your kind Letter of last Month, and I forwarded that Part of it, which related to Mr: Williams. Inclosed you have his Answer.
I shall be glad to see those Papers of yours which you tell me will be in the Transactions, or indeed any thing of your Writing. By the way, mentioning the Transactions puts me in mind that I have received none of the Volumes published since my Departure from England in March 1775. I do not suppose that Politicks have so far taken the Lead of Philosophy in the Society as to judge me unworthy of having them, and therefore request you would be so good as to take the Trouble of sending them to me, by the Stage to Dover, directed to the Care of M. Le Veux, Negociant à Calais. I believe the Carriage should be paid to Dover, which you will charge to my Account. That you may see I have not totally neglected Philosophy, though I have little time for it at present, I send you inclosed some of my Thoughts, occasion’d by seeing here one of the late Northern Lights. The Paper translated into French was read in the Academy of Sciences and well received, and perhaps will be printed in their Memoirs; I cannot therefore properly propose your giving it to be read at the Royal Society; but after amusing yourself and your excellent Friend with it, I would wish you to deliver it to Mr. Benjamin Vaughan or to Dr Priestly for him: And if you think such a Thing might not be judged improper under present Circumstances, I may perhaps show the Continuance of my ancient Respect for that Society by offering it soon a Paper on a more useful Subject.
With great and sincere Esteem, I am, my dear Friend, Yours most Affectionately
B Franklin

P.S. May 5. Since writing the above, I have receiv’d yours of the 9th April, which I shall answer in my next.—
Dr: Ingenhause.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Richard Bennett Lloyd, 4 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lloyd, Richard Bennett

Dear Sir
Passy may 4. 1779.
I received the letter you did me the Honour to write me of the 10th. past. As you Seem to have some Reliance on my Advice in the Affair you mention, I ought to give it candidly & Sincerely. And it must therefore be, not to accept of the offer made you. If you carry your family to America, it is, I suppose, with the intention of Spending the Remainder of your Days in your own Country. This cannot be done happily, without maintaining the general Good Opinion of your Country men.
Your Entring by that Door, will unavoidably Subject you to Suspicions: Those Suspicions will occasion Slights; & perhaps some Ill-Treatment, which will render your situation uncomfortable. I think therefore you had better conclude to Stay where you are till a Peace, tho’ under some present Inconveniencies. The Circumstances of such a family will always justify this, wherever you Shall arrive in America. Please to make my affectionate Respects accetable to your amiable Lady; and believe me with Sincere Esteem, Dear Sir Y. m. o. m. h. St.
Mr. Lloyd.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Rudolph Erich Raspe, 4 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Raspe, Rudolph Erich

Sir
Passy May 4. 1779.
I received the letter you did me the honour to write by Messrs. Waitz & d’Eshen. I happen’d not to be at home when they call’d on me; and they were abroad when I went to wait on them in Paris So that I have not yet had the pleasure of Seeing them;—but Shall be glad of an Opportunity of rendring them any Civilities in my Power on your Recommendation.— I repeat my Thanks to you for your Translation of born & Ferber’s tracts, which contain a great deal of observation that may be useful to America.— I hope you are easy & happy in England; being with much Esteem. Sir Your most obedient & most humble servant.
M. Raspe


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Viny, 4 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Viny, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Passy, May 4. 1779—
I received with great Pleasure your kind Letter, as I learnt by it that my hospitable Friend still exists, and that his Friendship for me is not abated.—
We have had a hard Struggle, but the Almighty has favour’d the just Cause, and I join most heartily with you in your Prayers that he may perfect his Work, and establish Freedom in the New World, as an Asylum for those of the Old who deserve it.— I find that many worthy and wealthy Families of this Continent are determined to remove thither and partake of it, as soon as Peace shall make the Passage safer; for which Peace I also join your Prayers most cordially. As I think the War a detestable One: and grieve much at the Mischief & Misery it occasions to many; my only Consolation being that I did all in my Power to prevent it.—
When all the Bustle is over, if my short Remainder of Life will permit my Return thither, what a Pleasure it will be to me, to see my old Friend and his Children settled there. I hope he will find Vines & Fig trees there, for all of them, under which we may sit & converse enjoying Peace & Plenty, a good Government, good Laws & Liberty, without which Men lose half their Value. I am, with much Esteem, my dear Friend Yours most affectionately
BF
Mr Tho’ Viny Tenterden, Kent.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Patience Wright, 4 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Wright, Patience

Dear Madam,
Passy, May 4. 1779
I received your Favour of the 14th of March past, and if you should continue in your Resolution of returning to America thro’ France, I shall certainly render you any of the little Services in my Power: but there are so many Difficulties at present in getting Passages from hence, particularly Safe ones for Women, that methinks I should advise your Stay till more settled Times, & till a more frequent Intercourse is established.—
As to the Exercise of your Art here, I am in doubt whether it would answer your Expectations. Here are two or three who profess it, and make a Show of their Works on the Boulevards; but it is not the Taste for Persons of Fashion to sit to these Artists for their Portraits. And both House-Rent & Living at Paris is very expensive.
I thought that Friendship required I should acquaint you with these Circumstances. After which you will use your Discretion.— I am, Dear Madam, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
BF—

P.S. My Grandson, whom you may remember when a little saucy Boy at School, being my Amanuensis in writing the within Letter, has been diverting me with his Remarks. He conceives that your Figures cannot be pack’d up, without Damage from any thing you could fill the Boxes with to keep them Steady. He supposes therefore that you must put them into Post Chaises two & two which will make a long Train upon the Road & be a very expensive Conveyance; but as they will eat nothing at the Inns, you may the better afford it. When they come to Dover, he is sure they are so like Life & Nature, that the Master of the Pacquet will not receive them on board without Passes, which you will do well therefore to take out from the Secretary’s Office before you leave London, where they will cost you only the modest Price of Two Guineas and Six pence each, which you will pay without Grumbling, because you are sure the Money will never be employ’d against your Country. It will require, he says, five or six of the long-wicker French Stage Coaches to carry them as Passengers from Calais to Paris, and at least two large Ships, with good Accommodations, to convey them to America, where all the World will wonder at your Clemency to Lord N. that having it in your Power to hang or send him to the Lighters, you had generously repriev’d him for Transportation.
Mrs Wright

Notations in Franklin’s hand: Postscript to Mrs Wright / Miscellaneous Papers


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bondfield, 4 May 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bordeaux 4 May 1779
I had the honor to pay my respects to you the 17 & 23 Ulto. I have the pleasure to advise you of the arrival of One of the Ships I expected from Virginia she arrived at Rochforte, the 2d April having had a passage of only Twenty Nine days. The Captain writes me that he shall retain my Letters to deliver them to me himself. I expect the Ship here every Tide we may posibly receive some interesting Inteligence by her on his Passage he met many British Cruizers and had an obstinate contest with a privateer of Sixteen Guns I am happy at this arrival as she releives me from the Anxiety into which my engagements had involved me. Messrs. Andrew & James Caldwell have met with a Loss in a N[torn] Brig coming to my address with 132 hhds Tobacco taken and sent to Liverpool. The Seas are cover’d with British Cruizers we have various reports of the Spanish Armaments by last post we are advised of an embargo haveing taken place in order to enrole all the Seamen to man the ships of War order’d to Sea.

Mr La Mott Piquet by last advises remaind at Brest, Operations dependant on so many Actors meet with great delays. The Buck Skin Captain Johns for Baltimore will sail from hence in 12 or 15 days.
We have advise of a Vessel belonging to Marseilles being arrived at Isl D’Aix from Virginia but no inteligence of what was do in America is yet at hand. I have the Honor to be with due Respect Sir Your most Obedient Humble Servant
John Bondfield
His Excellency Benj Franklin

Addressed: His Excellency / Benj Franklin Esq. / Plenipotentiary from Congress / at / Paris
Notation: John Bondfield. Bordeaux 4e. may 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 4 May 1779
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Hotel de Yorke 4th May/79
I am very sorry to be troublsome to You, but I find great difficulty in procuring my pass, & am not likely to get one without You will indulge me so far as to write a line to the Lieutenant de Police to grant me one. I have taken Dr. Bancrofts advice about it and He advises me to send the inclosd out to You either for alteration or to get a note to the Lieutenant de Police. I am fearful If I do not get it some time in the forenoon tomorrow I shall be prevented setting out in time to meet the next sailing Packet at Calais.
I shall wait on You early in the morning, as You last appointed, provided I receive from You in ansr. to this no intimation that You will not be ready by that time to dispatch me. You know my object, and may assure Yourself I shall have the highest satisfaction in attending patiently to those or any other of Your Commands.
I am with the Highest esteem Your very obligd & Obt. Servt
Tho Digges
The Honbe. Dr. B. Franklin Passy

Notation: May 4 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, [4 or 11 May 1779]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Mardy au soir [May 4 or 11, 1779]
On aime à se parer de votre nom Mon Illustre confrère et on croit qu’il ne peut qu’être accompagné de la fortune et des succes. En conséquence Un Négociant de Dunkerque qui fait construire au Havre une frégate qu’il veut armer en course dèsireroit lui donner votre nom et qu’elle s’appellat Le Franklin. Mais il n’a point voulu la baptiser de votre nom sans savoir si cela vous conviendroit ayez donc la bonté de me mander mon Illustre confrere si vous y consentez afin que je lui fasse part de cette bonne Nouvelle si toutes fois vous ne voyez rien qui s’y oppose. Je puis vous dire d’ailleurs qu’elle sera commandée par un très brave capitaine. Le Negociant en question s’appelle M. Woïstin et c’est un des plus considèrables et des plus riches de ce pays là. La fregatte sera de 24 piéces de canon il y a des siécles que je n’ai eu l’honneur de vous voir mon Illustre Docteur et je m’ennuie si fort qu’un de ces jours vous me verrez arriver pour vous demander du Thé le matin ou le soir. Adieu Mon Illustre Docteur vous savez combien je vous suis passionnement attaché pour la Vie.
Le Roy

P.S. J’ai envoyé votre memoire ou l’extrait, au moins faut il le dire, a l’abbé Rozier il y aura demain huit jours.

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire des / Etats unis de L’Amerique / Septentrionale / à Passy.
Notation: Le Roy.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sartine, 4 May 1779
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

à Marly le 4. May 1779
J’ai reçu, Monsieur, la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de M’écrire le 1er. du mois passé. Je me suis fait rendre un Compte detaillé du projet que M. Gillon m’a communiqué; il en resulte que si le Succès étoit tel qu’il est annoncé, il procureroit éffectivement de grands Avantages; mais pour en tenter l’Execution, il faudroit envoyer sur les lieux au moins trois Vaisseaux de ligne, trois fregates avec deux cutters ou alleges, et cela est d’autant moins practicable, que le Roi a expressement defendu de detacher aucun des Bâtimens qui composent son Armée Navale, Je suis très faché de me trouver par cette raison dans l’impossibilité d’accorder à M. Gillon les demandes qu’il fait et de ne pouvoir lui offrir, que de bons Offices: Je souhaite beaucoup qu’il se presente des Occasions ou ils ne puissent lui être utiles.

J’ai l’honneur d’être avec une parfaite Consideration, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obeissant Serviteur;/.
(signé) De Sartine.
M Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Vaughan, 5 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vaughan, Benjamin

Passy, May 5. 1779
I received my very dear Friend’s Letter of the 9th April, with the Pacquet accompanying it. I leave the whole Management of that Edition in your Hands with great Confidence, as I am sure my Pieces will be improv’d by your Attention to the Matters you mention.— I have sent a little Paper to Dr Ingenhauss, which I have desired him to give to you, or to Dr Priestly for you.
Mr Galloway’s Information about my Papers has not been well founded. My Daughter writes me, that after that Gentleman’s Departure, they were brought back to my House at Philadelphia: that the Chest had been indeed broke open, & some of the Papers from the Top were found scattered about the Floor, but these being gathered up, it was thought that very little had been lost. I shall like however to see the Account he has promis’d you.—
I am glad you have taken up the Consideration of the Vis Inertiae: The whole Doctrine of Motion & Rest & Communication of Motion, will I hope, now be cleared of the Obscurities & Difficulties & Contradictions with which it has long been embarrass’d. I thank you much for the Information your Letter contains. M. Villeboisnet never communicated to me the News you mention. What was that Letter of Gov. Franklin?— I thank you also for the Receipt against the Gout; but as I am not sure that it is not itself really a Remedy instead of being a Disease, I let it take its Course.— Believe me ever, my dear Friend, Yours most affectionately
Mr Benjamin Vaughan, Wanstead near London.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Baudouin, 5 May 1779
From: Baudouin, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Ce 5 may 1779.
Baudouin assure monsieur franklin de toutte sa veneration et de son Respect, il prie s. Excellence de vouloir bien faire donner au porteur un recû de la lettre cy jointe.

Addressed: pour / Monsieur franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Gordon, 5 May 1779
From: Gordon, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Sir
Jamaica Plain May 5. 1779
This may probably convey to you a painful article of intelligence, viz, the death of that great man Dr Winthrop, who expired on the 3d instant, & is to be buried on the saturday. The College, the State & the Public have sustained a great loss in his death; but the Orderings of Heaven are all right; & it is appointed unto man to die, no less than to be born. Do we perform the parts allotted us upon the stage of the world, so as to meet with the approbation of our Creator; it sufficeth. Indeed we all perform so illy at certain times, that we need that his pardon should be extended to us, through the Lord Jesus Christ. No material occurrence besides hath happened within the circle of your acquaintance in this neighbourhood, that I at present recollect. The prints will announce to you the capture of a number of vessels going to Georgia with provisions &c, which have been brought into Boston. What makes the event the more remarkable is, that most or all the troops at Providence & other ports round Rhode Island would have disbanded by the latter end of the week, had it not been for that provision. Flour is excessive scarce. Through neglect somewhere, no sufficient magazine of that kind hath been collected either in this or the neighbouring State: None being to be had, the brigades, having been without several days, mutinied; Genl [Glover] was with difficulty prevented going off last friday morning. Genl Gates now stationed at Providence sent down immediately, & large quantities of flour designed for the British forces at Georgia [were] travelling by, ever since Lords day morning, so that all things are right again. Mr [Deane] has made a mighty bustle since the beginning of Decr; but a letter from Philadelphia says that he is now down & that the Lee’s are more exalted than ever. Your friend Common Sense has detected & exposed him, & I believe he & his party in & out of Congress will be found to be no better patriots than hobley who sold punch in small quantities pro bono publico. I must apply afresh for your assistance in forwarding the enclosed, which if they get safe will be of real advantage to Mr Parker, as there are two bills of exchange for a hundred sterling each payable in London. Duplicates & Triplicates shall send immediately from Boston to Holland.

Have not heard from You or Mr Adams in answer to what I have wrote once & again: but my letters may not have been recd. Pray my regards to Mr Adams. His family is well. Expect to see them on the friday. With much esteem I continue your sincere friend & very humble servant
William Gordon

Addressed: His Excellency Dr Benjamin Franklin / Paris
Notation: Gordon May 79


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

Sir
Paris 6th. May 1779.—
We have been informed that the destination of the Alliance Frigate has been altered, & that she is not to sail immediately for America. We can not help expressing our great uneasiness at this measure, as we are of opinion that there is no service, in which she can be so usefully employed, as that of convoying the Vessels bound thither. Many of our Countrymen have suffered great distress by having been long detained in France. Some of them have experienced the miseries of imprisonment, to which there is the greatest reason to fear they will return, as very few of the Vessels that sail without Convoy escape from falling into the hands of the enemy.
The persons, & property of so many of our Countrymen, the valuable merchandize, and the essential supplies that Fleet carries, both for the United States, & for that of Virginia, are of such infinite consequence to our Country, that we can not help most earnestly wishing them the protection of the Alliance Frigate. M: la Motte Picquet’s Squadron will be a protection to them as long as they can avail themselves of it. But as he is bound to the West Indies, he can be of no service to them on the coast of North America, where there is very great danger, not only from the Ships of War of the enemy, but also from a number of Privateers, fitted out at New York, & Rhode Island. We have another reason for wishing that the Alliance may be ordered immediately to America. Congress have been long without hearing from their Servants in Europe. The Dispatches which we have written to our Constituents, in expectation of their going in safety by the Alliance, and under her Convoy, contain matter of importance for them to be acquainted with, in which their Honour, Interest, & Safety are deeply concerned.
We have the honour to be Sir Your most obedient humble Servants
Ra: Izard.Arthur Lee
Honble B: Franklin Esqr.