Title: Draft Consular Convention between France and the United States, [before 24 December 1783]
From:
To:

          The Franco-American Treaty of Amity and Commerce of 1778 granted each country the right to appoint consuls, vice-consuls,

agents, and commissaries in the ports of the other. Their powers, privileges, and immunities were to be stipulated in a separate agreement. The present document is a draft of the convention that would be signed by Franklin and Vergennes on July 29, 1784, after years of disputes and delays.
          The protracted negotiations began in Philadelphia. In June, 1779, Conrad-Alexandre Gérard, the French minister to the United States, submitted to Congress a plan for regulating the consular service, which Congress referred to committee but never acted on. In September of the following year, Vergennes approached Franklin, hoping he would be authorized to negotiate a consular convention. Franklin had received no such instructions. Because the Americans were unaware of what functions and powers were assigned to consuls in Europe, Franklin suggested that Vergennes send instructions to Gérard’s successor, La Luzerne, and authorize him to negotiate with Congress.
          In July, 1781, La Luzerne submitted to Congress a draft consular convention prepared by Sartine and Vergennes, and requested that

the Americans enter into negotiations “with all possible despatch.” It took a congressional committee five months to review the French draft and arrive at a counterproposal. That document, produced in January, 1782, contained only a few significant changes. The most contentious issue was the jurisdiction of consuls over citizens of their respective nations at sea and on foreign soil, including the power to prevent their emigration. These issues were covered in Articles 12 through 14 of the French proposal. In revising Article 12, Congress limited the consuls’ jurisdiction over their nation’s ships and crews to civil cases, whereas the French draft had given them broad police powers over their nationals. Secretary for Foreign Affairs Robert R. Livingston sent the counterproposal to Franklin on January 26, along with congressional authorization for him to enter into a convention with Louis XVI, unless the king wished for that to take place in the United States. According to Congress’ instructions, Franklin was to “use his discretion as to the words or arrangement of the convention,” while “confining himself to the matter thereof in all respects.” Excepted from this prescription was the Article 6 clause, added by Congress, allowing consuls to maintain chapels in their residences. Livingston made it clear that if Franklin substantively altered the convention, it would have to be returned to Philadelphia for signing.
          Before acting on his instructions, Franklin wanted to consult the American consul Thomas Barclay, who was traveling and would not get back to France until the end of August. In the meantime, Vergennes, who had known about Congress’ instructions since April, was growing impatient. In mid-August he prodded Franklin to begin negotiations on the consular convention. Two weeks later, Barclay returned to Paris.
          Barclay reviewed the counterproposal immediately. His only objection was to Article 3, prohibiting consuls and vice-consuls from trading as merchants. He argued that this provision would exclude the most qualified candidates and force Congress to fund the entire consular service itself. Six weeks later Barclay wrote of his concerns

to Congress, which, upon taking the matter under consideration, was deeply divided over whether to amend or suspend the convention. It ultimately failed to take any action.
          While on the American side the negotiations were hampered by Congress’ irresolution, on the French side they became part of the long-standing rivalry between Vergennes and Castries. It was not obvious who should be in charge. The consular service was part of the naval ministry, but treaty negotiations were handled by the foreign ministry. Accordingly, La Luzerne sent an account of his discussions with Congress to both Vergennes and Castries. Vergennes sharply reminded the minister that he was to report to the foreign ministry only.
          On February 23, 1783, the king promoted Vergennes to chef du conseil royal des finances, effectively making him Castries’ superior. Four days later, Vergennes sent word to Franklin that he was ready to focus on the consular convention. There is no record of when the two men discussed the articles, but on April 15 Franklin reported to Livingston that the convention had “not yet been concluded.” He called Congress’ attention to the importance of Article 3 and urged the delegates to “reconsider” it.
          While Franklin waited for a response from Congress, Castries tried to insert himself into the negotiations. On May 29, 1783, he sent Vergennes his critical analysis of the congressional counterproposal. Probably aware of the ongoing talks between Vergennes and Franklin, Castries emphasized that Franklin’s instructions restricted him to signing the American proposal without substantial changes. He maintained that La Luzerne should conclude the negotiations in Philadelphia, an option that Congress had kept open in its instructions to Franklin. However, Vergennes had long since decided that he and Franklin would sign the convention at Versailles, without any involvement of the ministry of the marine.
          On August 29, just before the United States and France were to sign their definitive peace treaties with England, Vergennes’ premier commis, Gérard de Rayneval, asked William Temple Franklin to

remind his grandfather of the consular convention, which he wished to see completed. With Vergennes determined to sign at Versailles, and Franklin being constrained by Congress not to sign anything with substantive changes, the two were at an impasse. Finally, in mid-December Franklin received Elias Boudinot’s letter of November 1, which, in discussing the economy of employing consuls as diplomatic representatives, tacitly agreed with the position taken by Barclay and Franklin in regard to Article 3. Franklin appears to have taken this comment as an implicit sanction of his position, or at least as an indication that Congress had no objection to revising the convention. Whatever the case, he and Vergennes quickly concluded their negotiations, agreeing on the document published below. On December 24, Vergennes sent a copy of this draft convention to Castries. Although Vergennes asked for the marine minister’s comments, his request was surely a formality. In Franklin’s view the convention was completed. When writing to Thomas Mifflin the following day, Franklin reported that a fair copy was being prepared for signing.
          Castries’ reply to Vergennes of January 31, 1784, did not conceal his resentment at having been excluded from the negotiations. He commented on each article and tried again to persuade Vergennes to have La Luzerne reopen discussions with Congress. Even if La Luzerne should not succeed in obtaining a more favorable agreement, he observed, the only disadvantage would be a short delay. Vergennes responded by sending Castries a point-by-point refutation of his criticisms, challenging him to lay the matter before the king. Castries, though pointing out that his department would be the one most affected by the convention, declined to press the matter further.
          Franklin and Vergennes appear to have agreed on most articles. Twelve of them remained substantially unchanged from the congressional counterproposal. Franklin convinced Vergennes to omit Article 3 altogether, because, as Vergennes later wrote, Congress would depend for financial reasons on local merchants to serve as American consuls while France would retain the right to prohibit its own agents

from trading. As neither side regarded Article 6 on religious toleration as essential, it was deleted as well. The revised Article 11 (Article 13 of the congressional counterproposal) no longer gave consuls any criminal jurisdiction, following the example of Congress’ change to Article 12 of La Luzerne’s original draft.

            [before December 24, 1783]

          Projet de convention entre le Roi T.C. et les Etats Unis de l’Amérique Septentrionale a l’Effet de déterminer et fixer les fonctions et prérogatives des Consuls, Vice Consuls, Agens Commissaires respectifs.
          Le Roi très Chretien et les 13. Etats Unis de l’Amérique Septentrionale s’étant accordés mutüellement par l’arte: XXIX. du traité d’amitié et de commerce conclu entre Eux, la liberté de tenir dans leurs Etats et ports respectifs, des Consuls, Vice Consuls, Agens et commissaires et voulant en conséquence déterminer et fixer d’une maniere réciproque et permanente les Fonctions et prérogatives des dts. [dits] Consuls, Vice Consuls, Agens et Commissaires, il a été convenu ce qui Suit.

            Art: 1er.
            Les Consuls et Vice Consuls nommés par le roi T.C. et les Etats Unis seront tenus de présenter leurs provisions à leur arrivée dans les Etats respectifs Selon la forme qui s’y trouvera établie. On leur délivrera sans aucun frais l’Exequatur nécessaire à l’éxercice de leurs fonctions, et sur l’exhibition qu’ils feront du dt. Exequatur, les Gouverneurs, Commandans, Chefs de justice, les Corps, tribunaux ou autres officiers ayant autorité dans les ports et lieux de leurs consulats les y feront jouir aussi tôt et sans difficulté des preéminences, autorité et privilèges accordés réciproquemt. sans qu’ils puissent exiger des dts. Consuls et vice Consuls aucuns droits sous aucunes prétextes quelconques.

            Arte. 2.
            Les Consuls respectifs auront la faculté d’établir des Vice-Consuls dans les différens ports et lieux de leur département, où le besoin l’éxigera: on leur délivrera egalement l’Exequatur nécessaire à l’exercise de leurs fonctions dans la forme indiquée par l’Arte. précédent, et sur l’Exhibition qu’ils feront du dt. Exequatur, ils seront admis et reconnus dans les termes et selon les pouvoirs, autorité et privilèges stipulés par les Art: 1. 4. et 5. de la présente convention.

            Art: 3.
            Les Consuls respectifs pourront établir des Agens dans les différens ports et lieux de leurs départemts. où le besoin l’éxigera; Ces Agens pourront être choisis parmi les Négocians nationaux ou étrangers, et munis du brevêt de l’un des dits Consuls, ils se renfermeront respectivemt. à rendre aux Commerçans, Navigateurs et batimens respectifs, tous les services possibles, et à informer le Consul ou Vice Consul le plus proche des besoins des dts. Commerçans, Navigateurs et batimens, sans que les dts. Agens puissent autrement participer aux immunités, droits et privilèges attribués aux Consuls et Vice Consuls, et sans pouvoir sous quelque prétexte que ce soit, exiger aucun droit ou émolument quelconque des dts. Commerçans.

            article 4.
            Les Consuls et vice Consuls, les officiers du Consulat et généralement toutes les personnes attachées aux fonctions consulaires dont la liste sera approuvée et visée par le pouvoir éxecutif du lieu de leur résidence, jouiront respectivement d’une pleine et entière immunité pour leur personne, leurs papiers et leurs maisons.
            Ils seront éxemts de toute service personnelle, et offices publics, logemt. de gens de guerre, milice, guet, garde, tutelle, curatelle, ainsi que de tous droits, taxes, impositions, charges quelconques fors les biens fonds dont ils seront proprietaires les quels seront assujettis aux taxes imposées sur les biens de tous autres particuliers.
            Ils placeront sur la porte extérieure de leur maison les armes

de leur souverain, sans cependant que cette marque distinctive puisse donner le droit d’asile à la de. [dite] maison pour aucun malfaiteur ou Criminel, de manière que le cas arrivant, òu aucun malfaiteur ou Criminel s’y réfugie, il sera rendu sur le champ à la 1ere. requisition et sans difficulté.

            article 5.
            Dans tous les cas généralement quelconques intéressant la police ou l’administration de la justice, où il sera nècessaire d’avoir une declaration juridique des dts. Consuls et vice Consuls respectifs, les Gouverneur, commandt., Chefs de la justice, les Corps tribunaux òu autres officiers quelconques de leur résidence respective ÿ ayant autorité, seront tenus de les en prèvenir en leur écrivant ou en leur envoyant un officier militaire ou civil pour leur faire connoitre, soit l’objet que l’on se propose, soit la nécessité dans la quelle on se trouve d’aller chéz eux pour leur demander cette déclaration, et les dts. Consuls et vice Consuls seront tenus, de leur côté, de se prêter loyalement à ce qu’on désirera d’eux dans ces occasions.

            arte. 6.
            Les Consuls et Vice consuls respectifs pourront établir une chancellerie où seront déposés les actes et délibérations consulaires, tous les effets délaissés par deffunts, ou sauvés des naufrages, ainsi que les testamens, obligations, contrats et généralement tous les actes et procédures faits entre leurs nationaux.
            Ils pourront en conséquence, commettre à l’éxercise de la de. Chancellerie des personnes capables, les recevoir, leur faire prêter serment, le donner la garde du Sceau, et le droit de sceller les commissions, jugemens et autres actes du Consulat, ainsi que d’y remplir les fonctions de Notaires et Greffiers.

            Article 7.
            Les consuls et vice consuls respectifs auront le droit exclusif de recevoir dans leur Chancellerie ou à bord des batimens, les declarations et tous les autres actes que les Capitaines, Patrons, équipages, passager et negoçians de leur nation voudront y passer, même leur testament et autres dispositions de dere. [dernière] volonté; et les expéditions des dts. actes duement légalisés par

les d. consuls ou vice consuls et munis du sceau de leur consulat feront foy en justice dans tous les tribunaux de france et des Etats Unis.
            Ils auront aussi et exclusivement le droit de faire l’inventaire, la liquidation, et de procéder à la vente des effets mobiliers de la succession des Sujets de leur nation qui viendront à mourir dans l’étendüe de leurs consulats, ils y procéderont avec l’assistance de 2. négocians de leur de. nation, à leur choix, et feront déposer, dans leur chancellerie, les effets et papiers des des. Successions, sans qu’aucuns officiers militaires, de justice ou de police du pays puissent les y troubler ou y intervenir de quelque maniere que ce soit, mais les dts. Consuls et vice Consuls ne pourront faire la délivrance des Successions et de leur produit aux heritiers légitimes ou à leurs mandataires, qu’après avoir fait acquitter toutes les dettes que les deffunts auront pû avoir contractées dans le pays par jugement, par actes ou par billets dont l’écriture ou la Signature Seront reconnues et certifiées par deux notables Négocians de la nation des dits deffunts, et dans tous les autres cas le paÿement des dettes ne pourra être ordonné qu’en fournissant par le Créancier, caution suffisante et domiciliée de rendre les sommes induemt. perçües, principal intérets et frais, les quelles cautions cependant demeureront düemt. déchargées après une année en tems de paix et 2. en tems de guerre, si la demande en décharge ne peut être formée avant ces délais contre les héritiers qui se présenteront.

            Article 8.
            Les consuls et vice Consuls respectifs recevront les declarations, Consulats ou autre actes consulaires de tous Capitaines et patrons de leur nation respective pour raison d’avaries essuyées à la mer par des voyes d’eau ou de jets de marchandises; et les Capitaines et Patrons remettront à la Chancelerie des dts. Consuls et vice consuls des consulats et autres actes consulaires qu’ils auront faits dans d’autres ports pour les accidens qui leur seront arrivés pendant leur voyage. Si un Sujet du roi T.C. et un habitant des Etats Unis sont intéressés dans la de. cargaison, l’avarie sera reglée par les Tribunaux du Pays, et non par les Consuls ou Vice Consuls. Mais lors qu’il n’y aura d’intéressés que des Sujets de leur propre nation ou des étrangers, le Consul

ou le Vice Consul nommeront d’office des Experts de leur de. nation pour régler les dommages ou avaries.

            article 9.
            Dans le cas oú par tempête ou autre accident, des Vaisseaux ou batimens françois échoueront sur les cótes des Etats Unis, et des vaisseaux et bâtimens des Etats Unis échoueront sur les cotes de france, le consul ou le vice Consul le plus proche du Lieu du naufrage pourra faire tout ce qu’il jugera convenable, tant pour sauver le d. vaisseaux ou batiment, son chargement et appartenances, que pour le magazinage et la sûreté des effets sauvés et marchandises. Il pourra en faire l’inventaire sans qu’aucuns des Officiers militaires, des Douanes de justice ou de police du Pays puissent s’y immiscer autrement que pour faciliter aux Consuls et Vice Consuls, Capne. et équipage du vaisseau naufragé ou echoué, tous les secours et faveurs qu’ils leur demanderont, soit pour la célérité et sûreté du sauvetage et des effets sauvés, soit pour éviter tous désordres.
            Pour prévenir même toute espèce de conflit et de discussions dans les dts. cas de naufrage, il a été convenu que, lorsqu’il ne se trouvera pas de Consul ou vice Consul pour faire travailler au sauvetage, ou que la résidence du consul ou vice consul ne se trouvera pas sur le lieu du naufrage, sera plus éloignée du dt. lieu que celle du juge territorial competent, ce dernier y fera procéder sur le champ, avec toute la célérité, la sûreté et les précautions prescrites par les loix respectives, sauf au dt. juge territorial à Se retirer, le consul ou vice Consul survenant, et à lui remettre les procédures par lui faites, dont le Consul ou vice Consul lui fera rembourser les frais.
            Les marchandises et effets sauvés devront être déposés à la Douane ou autre lieu de sûreté le plus prochain avec l’inventaire qui en aura été dressé par le consul ou vice consul, ou, en leur absence, par le juge qui en aura connu, pour les dts. effets et marchandises, être ensuite délivrés, après le prélévemt. des frais et sans forme de procès, aux propriétaires qui, munis de la main levée du Consul ou Vice Consul le plus proche, les reclameront par eux mêmes ou par leurs mandataires, soit pour réexporter les marchandises, et dans ce cas, elles ne payeront aucune espèce de droit de sortie, soit pour les vendre dans le pays, si elles n’y

sont pas prohibées, et, dans ce der. cas, les des. marchandises se trouvant avariées, on leur accordera une modération sur les droits d’entrée, proportionnée au dommage souffert, le quel sera constatté par le procès verbal dressé lors du naufrage ou de l’échouement.

            article 10.
            Les Consuls et Vice Consuls auront à bord des Batimens de leur nation respective tout pouvoir et jurisdiction en matiere civile. Ils feront exécuter les loix, ordonnances et reglemens respectifs concernt. la navigation à bord des dts. batimens, et à cet effet ils pourront s’y transporter, sans qu’aucun officier ou autre personnes puissent les en empêcher.
            Ils pourront faire arrêter tous batiment portant pavillon de leur nation respective, le faire séquestrer et même le renvoyer respectivement des Etats Unis en France et de france dans les Etats Unis, et faire arrêter sans difficulté tout capitaine, patron, matelot ou passager de leur de. Nation respective.
            Ils pourront faire arrêter ou détenir dans le pays les matelots ou Deserteurs de leurs nations respectives, ou les renvoyer et faire transporter hors du Pays.
            Ils suffira, pour prouver que les Matelots et déserteurs appartiennent à l’une des nations respectives, que leurs noms soyent inscrits sur les registres du vaisseau, ou porté sur le rôle de l’Equipage.
            L’une ou l’autre de ces preuves étant ainsi administrée concernant les Matelots et Déserteurs, aucuns tribunaux, juges et Officiers quelconques ne pourront en quelque maniere que ce soit, connoitre des plaintes que les matelots et Déserteurs pourroient former. Mais ils seront au contraire délivrés sur un ordre signé

par le Consul ou Vice Consul sans qu’on puisse aucunement les détenir, engager ou soustraire.
            Et pour parvenir à l’entière exécution des dispositions contenues dans cet art. toutes Personnes ayant autorité seront tenues d’assister les dts. Consuls ou Vice Consuls, et sur un simple réquisitoire signé d’Eux, ils feront detenir et garder dans les prisons à la disposition et aux frais des dts. Consuls ou Vice Consuls les dts. matelots et déserteurs jusqu’à ce qu’ils ayent occasion de les faire sortir du Pays.

            Article 11.
            Dans le cas où les sujets respectifs auront commis quelque crime contre aucuns habitans du Pays, ils seront justiciables des juges du Pays.

            article 12.
            Tous les différends et procès entre les sujets du Roi T.C. établis dans les Etats Unis ou entre les Citoyens et sujets des Etats Unis établis en france, et tous les différends et procès concernant le commerce entre les sujets du Roi T.C. et une des parties résidente en france ou ailleurs, et l’autre dans les Etats Unis, ou entre les Citoyens et sujets des Etats Unis, l’une des parties faisant sa résidence dans les Etats Unis ou ailleurs, et l’autre en france, seront terminés par les Consuls respectifs, soit par un renvoy par devant des arbitres, soit par un jugement sommaire et sans frais.
            Aucun officier civil ou militaire ne pourra intervenir ou prendre une part quelconque à l’affaire. Les appels seront portés devant les tribunaux de france ou des Etats unis qui devront en connoitre. Les Consuls ou Vice Consuls ne pourront connoitre des disputes ou différends qui s’eleveront entre un sujet du Roi T.C. et un citoyen des Etats Unis, mais les des. disputes et différends seront portés devant les tribunaux dont le defendeur sera justiciable.

            Article 13.
            L’utilité générale du commerce ayant fait établir en france des tribunaux et des formes particulieres pour accélerer la décision des affres. de commerce, les Négocians des Etats Unis jouiront

du bénéfice de ces établissemens en france, et le Congrèz des Etats unis recommendera aux législatures des différens Etats de procurer des avantages équivalents en faveur des Négocians françois pour la promte expédition et décision des affaires de la même nature.

            article 14.
            Les sujets du Roi T.C. et ceux des Etats Unis qui justifieront être du corps de la nation respective, par le certificât du Consul ou du Vice Consul du district faisant mention de leurs noms, surnoms, et du lieu de leur établissement, comme inscrits dans les régistres du Consulat, ne pourront perdre, pour telle cause que ce soit, dans les domaines et Etats respectifs, la qualité de sujets du pays dont ils sont originaires, conformémt. à l’Art: XI du traité d’amitié et de commerce du 6. fevrier 1778. dont le présent Arte: servira d’interprétation en cas de besoin, et les dts. sujets respectifs jouiront en conséquence de l’exemption de tout service personnel dans le lieu de leur établissement.

            article 15.
            Si quelqu’autre nation acquiert en vertu d’une convention quelconque, soit en france, soit dans les Etats Unis, un traitement plus favorable relativement aux préeminences, pouvoirs, autorité et priviléges consulaires, les Consuls, Vice Consuls et agens du Roi T.C. ou des Etats unis réciproquement y participeront aux termes stipulés par les Art: II. III. et IV. du Traité d’amitié et de commerce conclu entre le Roi T.C. et les Etats Unis.

            Article 16.
            Les ratifications de la présente convention seront données en bonne forme et echangées de part et d’autre dans l’espace de six mois ou plus tôt si faire se peut.
            En foy de quoi &ca../.

          Notations: Envoyé copie à Mr. le Mal. de Castries le 24. xbre. 1783./. / Rédigé contradictoiremt. avec Mr. franklin./.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Creuzé, 24 December 1783
From: Creuzé, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur
            Poitiers le 24 xbre 1783.

          Vos Talens consacrés au bonheur de L’humanité, vous attachent a tous les pays. Vous Estes par vos vertus le citoyen du monde Entiér. Me Serait il permis Monsieur de vous considerér un Seul moment Sous cet unique point de vüe? Pourrais je vous adresser quelques reflexïons touchant la machine aerostatique? Ce n’est point une curiosité puerille qu’il S’agit de Satisfaire. Il faut nous Elevér dans des regions que les hommes n’avaint point parcourües jusqu’a nos jours. Les Sciences Et les arts attendent avec impatience les resultats de L’Experience qui doivent Eclairér leurs procedés Et favorisér leurs progrés.
          Nous avons L’art de nous Elevér dans les airs, nous pouvons nous y maintenir dans un certain Equilibre, mais il faudrait un gouvernail aërien pour dirigér la marche Et luy donnér le degré de célérité convenable.
          La forme la plus convenable a la machine Est celle d’un batteau. Dans la partie Superieure nous placerons le ballon pour Elevér la machine Et la faire flottér dans les airs. Mais pour luy imprimér un mouvement horizontal plus ou moins acceleré, il faut avoir un reservoir Sur le derriere du Batteau ou l’on fera Successivement Entrér du gaz par le moyen des Soupapes. Ce gaz ne trouvant pas d’autre issüe Se précipitera avec rapidité dans des tuyaux qui aboutiront a la partie anterieure du batteau ou trouvant une issüe, lair inflammable Se dissipera. Mais comme le reservoir En fournira continuellement, il SEtablira un courant dair, dont la direction imprimera au batteau le mouvement horizontal, Et le portera au point desiré. Les tuyaux qui prolongeront le Batteau doivent Estre plus larges vers le reservoir Et diminüér insensiblement jusqua leur Extremité. C’est

ainsy que le gaz fera un plus grand Effort pour Sortir Et donnera une vitesse accelerée. On doit Sattendre que le gaz du resérvoir Et celuy des tuyaux feront un double Effort. L’un pour prendre une direction verticalle ce qui Soulevera d’autant la machine, Et L’autre pour Sechapper par les tuyaux placés horizontallement. C’est par une juste combinaison que l’on parviendra a dirigér la marche du Balon qui pourra au Besoin decrire la parabole. On Saisit a Paris mieux Qu’ailleurs de pareilles idées, Et on Execute mieux a Paris que dans nos provinces. Si cette Combinaison avait quelque merite permettés moy, Monsieur, de vous L’offrir comme un justé hommage que je rends a vos talens. Mais Si tout cela n’Etait qu’un Songe, je me reveilleray avec Lidée flatteuse d’avoir conversé un moment avec le Socrate Et le platon de nos jours.
          Je Suis avec Respect Monsieur Votre tres humble Et trés obeissant Serviteur

            Creuzétrésoriér de Bauce


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Lee Perkins, 24 December 1783
From: Perkins, William Lee
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir
            Kingston upon Thames Decr. 24th. 1783.

          I have lately received from America a Diploma, constituting my late honoured and dear Father Dr. John Perkins a corresponding member of the Royal Society of Medicine at Paris,

which arrived there after his decease and which was transmitted to me.
          Recalling to mind the favors and civilities You was pleased formerly to honour me with, resting on the friendship formerly subsisting between You and my Father, and above all relying on that benevolence, which makes so essential a part of Your distinguished Character, I have presumed to commit to Your Patronage the inclosed account of the Influenza as I observed it here in England, and to request the favour of your aid of my wishes to lay it before the Royal Society of Medicine at Paris. I have left it unseal’d that it might be subject to Your inspection, previous to its being offered to the Society, in case of Your Approbation.
          In this essay to comply with the intentions of the Society, I feel the highest satisfaction in having performed the part of filial duty, by endeavouring to discharge for a parent a part of those obligations, which had he lived to receive the honor done him by the Society, he would most certainly have held himself bound to fulfill.
          If the Society should so far approve it as to honor it with a place amongst its publications, and think fit to transfer to me the honor intended for my father, I should receive it as an obligation urging me to activity and zeal in future, in my endeavours to contribute to their salutary and benevolent intentions.
          I have only, Sir, to add my most ardent wishes, that to the honors attendant on Your Name throughout the World, there may be continually added all that personal comfort and happiness, which can render life a real blessing.

          I have the Honour to be Sir, with the most respectful Esteem, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most devoted humble Servant

            Wm. Lee Perkins
            His Excellency B. Franklin Esqr.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Mercy-Argenteau, 25 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Mercy-Argenteau, Florimond-Claude-Charles, comte de

            Passy ce 25. Xbre. 1783.

          M. Franklin a reçu les deux Lettres à l’adresse de Mrs. Le Baron de Beelen et le professeur Marter que Monsieur l’Ambassadeur de l’Empereur lui a fait l’honneur de lui adresser pour faire passer en Amerique. C’est un vrai plaisir pour Mr. Franklin de trouver l’occasion de faire quelque chose qui puisse être agréable à Monsieur l’Ambassadeur et il aura grand soin de les faire partir par le paquet-bot qui est actuellement au Havre et qui doit

mettre à la Voile le 29. de ce mois. Il a aussi recours aux Bontés de Monsieur L’Ambassadeur, pour le prier de vouloir bien permettre que le paquet cy joint pour le Dr. Ingenhauss parte par le premier Courier qu’il enverra à Vienne, il en sera infiniment reconnoissant.—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Mifflin, 25 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Mifflin, Thomas

            Sir,
            Passy, Decr. 25th. 1783.

          Not having heard of the Appointment of a new Secretary for foreign Affairs, I take the Liberty of addressing this Dispatch directly to your Excellency.
          I received by Capt. Barney, a Letter from the late President, directed to the Commissioners, dated Novr 1. with a Set of Instructions dated the 29th of October, a Resolution of the same Date respecting Hamburgh, and another of the 1st Novr, relating to Capt. Paul Jones, all which will be duly regarded.

Capt. Jones, in passing thro’ England, communicated these Papers to Mr. Adams, then at London. Mr. Adams disappointed in not finding among them the Commission we had been made to expect, empowering us to make a Treaty of Commerce with England, wrote to me that he imagined it might be contained in a Packet that was directed to me, and requested to be immediately informed, adding that in Case no such Commission was come he should depart directly for Holland; so I suppose He is now there. Mr Lawrens is gone to England with an Intention of embarking soon for America. Mr Jay is at Bath, but expected here daily. The English Ministers (the Duke of Manchester and Mr Hartley) are both at present in Parliament. As soon as either of them return, we shall endeavour to obtain an additional Article to the Treaty explaining that mentioned in the Instructions.
          The Affairs of Ireland are still unsettled. The Parliament and Volunteers are at Variance: the latter are uneasy that in the late Negociations for a Treaty of Commerce between England and America, the British Ministers had made no mention of Ireland, and they seem to desire a separate Treaty of Commerce between America and that Kingdom.
          It was certainly disagreable to the English Ministers that all their Treaties for Peace were carried on under the Eye of the French Court. This began to appear towards the Conclusion, when Mr Hartley refused going to Versailles to sign there with the other Powers our Definitive Treaty, and insisted on its being done at Paris, which we in good Humour complied with, but at an earlier Hour, that we might have time to acquaint le

Comte de Vergennes before he was to sign with the Duke of Manchester. The Dutch Definitive was not then ready, and the British Court now insists on finishing it either at London or the Hague. If therefore the Commission to us, which has been so long delayed is still intended, perhaps it will be well to instruct us to treat either here or at London, as we may find most convenient. The Treaty may be conducted even there in Concert and in the Confidence of Communication with the Ministers of our Friends, whose Advice may be of use to us.
          With respect to the British Court, we should I think be constantly upon our guard, and impress strongly upon our Minds, that tho’ it has made Peace with us, it is not in Truth reconciled either to us or to its Loss of us; but still flatters itself with Hopes that some Change in the Affairs of Europe or some Disunion among ourselves, may afford them an Opportunity of Recovering their Dominion, punishing those who have most offended, and securing our future Dependance. It is easy to see by the general Turn of the Ministerial News-Papers; (light Things indeed as Straws and Feathers, but like them they show which way the Wind blows) and by the malignant Improvement their Ministers make in all the Foreign Courts, of every little Accident or Dissension among us, the Riot of a few Soldiers at Philadelphia, the Resolves of some Town Meetings, the Reluctance to pay Taxes &ca &ca all which are exaggerated to represent our Governments as so many Anarchies, of which the People themselves are weary, the Congress as having lost its Influence being no longer respected: I say it is easy to see from this Conduct that they bear us no Good Will, and that they wish the Reality of what they are pleased to imagine. They have too a numerous Royal Progeny to provide for, some of whom are educated in the Military Line. In these Circumstances we cannot be too careful to preserve the Friendships we have acquired abroad, and the Union we have establish’d at Home, to secure our Credit by a punctual Discharge of our Obligations of every kind, and our Reputation by the Wisdom of our Councils:

Since we know not how soon we may have a fresh Occasion for Friends, for Credit and for Reputation.
          The extravagant Misrepresentations of our Political State, in foreign Countries, made it appear necessary to give them better Information, which I thought could not be more effectually & authentically done than by publishing a Translation into French, now the most general Language in Europe, of the Book of Constitutions which had been printed by Order of Congress. This I accordingly got well done, and presented two Copies handsomely bound to every foreign Minister here, one for himself, the other more elegant for his Sovereign. It has been well taken, and has afforded Matter of Surprize to many, who had conceived mean Ideas of the State of Civilisation in America, and could not have expected so much Political Knowledge & Sagacity had existed in our Wildernesses. And from all Parts I have the Satisfaction to hear that our Constitutions in general are much admired. I am persuaded that this Step will not only tend to promote the Emigration to our Country of substantial People, from all Parts of Europe, by the numerous Copies I shall disperse, but will facilitate our future Treaties with Foreign Courts, who could not before know what kind of Government and People they had to treat with. As in doing this I have endeavour’d to further the apparent Views of Congress in the first Publication, I hope it may be approved, & the Expence allow’d. I send herewith one of the Copies.
          Our Treaties with Denmark & Portugal remain unfinish’d for want of Instructions respecting them from Congress, & a Commission impowering some Minister or Ministers to conclude them.
          The Emperor of Morocco, we understand has express’d a Disposition to make a Treaty of Amity and Commerce with the United States. A Mr Montgomery, who is a Merchant settled

at Alicant, has been it seems rather forward in proposing a Negociation without Authority for so doing, and has embarrass’d us a little, as may be seen by some Letters I enclose. Perhaps it would be well for the Congress to send a Message to that Prince, expressing their Respect and Regard for him, ’till such time as they may judge it convenient to appoint an Ambassador in form, furnish’d with proper presents, to make a Treaty with him.
          The other Barbary States too, seem to require Consideration, if we propose to carry on any Trade in the Mediterranean; but whether the Security of that Trade is of sufficient Importance to be worth purchasing at the Rate of the Tributes usually exacted by those piratical States, is a Matter of doubt, on which I cannot at present form a Judgment.
          I shall immediately proceed, in Pursuance of the First Instruction, to take the proper Steps for acquainting his Imperial Majesty of Germany with the Dispositions of Congress, having some Reason to believe the Overture may be acceptable. His Minister here is of late extreamly civil to me, and we are on very good Terms. I have likewise an intimate Friend at that Court.— With respect to other Powers, it seems best not to make Advances at present, but to meet and encourage them when made, which I shall not fail to do, as I have already done those of Sweden, Denmark & Portugal. Possibly Hamburgh, to whom I have forwarded the Letter of Congress, may send a Minister to America, if they wish for a Treaty, to conclude it there. They have no Minister here.
          I have lately received a Memorial from the Minister of Denmark, respecting a Ship of that Nation the Providentia, taken by one of our Privateers; and carried into Boston. I inclose a

Copy of it, and request to be furnish’d with directions & Informations for the Answer. It may be well to send me a Copy of the Proceedings in the Courts. From a Perusal of the Papers communicated with it, I am satisfied that the Cargo was clearly British Property. We have hitherto enter’d into no Engagements respecting the armed Neutrality, and in Obedience to the fifth Instruction, shall take Care to avoid them hereafter.
          The Treaty between this Court and the United States for regulating the Powers, Privileges, &ca of Consuls, is at length compleated, and is transcribing in order to be signed. I hope to transmit a Copy by the next Packet.
          I have received the Congress Ratifications of the two Money-Treaties, which will be soon exchanged, when I shall send Copies of them, with that of Sweden.
          I have given and shall continue to give Capt. Paul Jones, all the Assistance in my Power, towards recovering the Prize-Money; and I hope it may be soon accomplished. When Mr Jay returns, I shall desire him to make the Enquiry directed in the Fourth Instruction respecting the Expedition under that Commodore, and report thereon to Congress. In the meantime I can answer respecting one of the Questions, that the King paid the whole Expence, and that no Part of it has ever been placed to the Account of Congress. There exists indeed a Demand of one Puchelberg, a Person in the Employ of M. Schweighauser, of about 30,000 Livres, for Provisions and other Things furnish’d to Capt. Landais, after he took the Alliance out of the Hands of Capt. Jones: But as the Ship was at that Time under the Kings Supply, who having borrow’d her for the Expedition when fitted for Sea, & just ready to sail with Mr. Adams, had order’d her to be deliver’d in the same Condition free of all Charges accru’d or accruing by her being in Holland and in L’orient, and as M. Puchelberg had not only no Order from me to furnish

Capt. Landais, but acted contrary to my Orders given to Mr. Schweighauser, and contrary to the Orders of M. Schweighauser himself, I refused to pay his Account, which besides appear’d extravagant, and it has never yet been paid.—
          I shall do my best in executing the third Instruction, respecting our Claim upon Denmark. I have written to London, to obtain if possible in Acct of the Sums insured upon the Ships deliver’d up, as such an Account may be some Guide in the Valuation of the Prizes.
          A Capt. Williams formerly in the British Service, and employed upon the Lakes, has given me a Paper containing Information of the State of the back Country. As those Informations may possibly be of some Use, I send herewith the Paper.

          Mr. Carmichael has sent me the Accounts of the Money Transactions at Madrid. As soon as Mr. Jay returns, they will be examined.—
          Be pleased to present my dutiful Respects to Congress, and assure them of my most faithful Services.
          With great Esteem & Regard, I have the honor to be, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant.—

            B. Franklin
            His Excellency Thomas. Mifflin Esqr. President of Congress.

          Notation: Letter 25. Decr. 1783 Doct Franklin Read 5 March 1784 Referred to Mr Gerry Mr Jefferson Mr Sherman Mr Read Mr Williamson


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Robert Morris, 25 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Morris, Robert

            Sir,
            Passy, Dec. 25. 1783.

          I have received your Favour of the 30th of September, for which I thank you. My Apprehension that the Union between France & our States might be diminished by Accounts from hence, was occasioned by the extravagant and violent Language held here by a Public Person in public Company, which had that

Tendency; and it was natural for me to think his Letters might hold the same Language; in which I was right; for I have since had Letters from Boston informing me of it. Luckily here, and I hope there, it is imputed to the true Cause; a Disorder in the Brain; which tho’ not constant has its Fits too frequent. I will not fill my Letter with an Account of those Discourses; Mr Laurens when you see him, can give it to you; I mean of such as he heard in Company with other Persons; for I would not desire him to relate private Conversations. They distress’d me much at the Time, being then at your earnest Instances soliciting for more Aids of Money, the Success of which Solicitation such ungrateful and provoking Language might I fear’d have had a Tendency to prevent. Enough of this at present.—
          I have been exceedingly hurt & afflicted by the Difficulty some of your late Bills met with in Holland. As soon as I receiv’d the Letter from Messrs Willink & Co which I inclose, I sent for Mr Grand, who brought me a Sketch of his Account with you, by which it appear’d that the Demands upon us, existing & expected, would more than absorb the Funds in his Hands. We could not indulge the smallest Hope of obtaining farther Assistance here, the Public Finances being in a State of Embarrassment, private Persons full of Distrust occasioned by the late Stoppage of Payment at the Caisse d’Escompte, and Money in general extreamly scarce. But he agreed to do what I propos’d, lend his Credit in the Way of Drawing & Redrawing between Holland and Paris, to gain Time till you could furnish Funds to reimburse Messrs Willinck & Co. I believe he made this Proposition to them by the Return of the Express. I know not why it was not accepted. Mr Grand I suppose will himself give you an Account of all the Transaction, and of his Application to Messrs Couteulx, &c. therefore I need not add more upon this disagreable Subject.

          I have found Difficulties in settling the Account of Salaries with the other Ministers, that have made it impracticable for me to do it. I have therefore, after keeping the Bills that were to have been proportioned among us, long in my hands, given them up to Mr Grand, who finding the same Difficulties will I suppose return them to you. None have come to hand for the two or three last Quarters, and we are indebted to his Kindness for advancing us Money, or we must have run in debt for our Subsistance. He risques in doing this, since he has not for it your Orders.—
          There arise frequently contingent Expences for which no Provision has yet been made. In a former Letter to the Secretary for Foreign Affairs I gave a List of them, and desired to know the Pleasure of Congress concerning them. I have only had for Answer, that they were under Consideration, and that he believed House-Rent would not be allowed: but I am still in Uncertainty as to that and the Rest. I wish some Resolutions were taken on this Point of Contingencies, that I may know how to settle my Accounts with Mr Barclay. American Ministers in Europe are too remote from their Constituents, to consult them and take their Orders on every Occasion; as the Ministers here of European Courts can easily do. There seems therefore a Necessity of allowing more to their Discretion, and of giving them a Credit to a certain Amount, on some Banker who may answer their Orders, for which however they should be accountable. I mention this for the sake of other Ministers, (hoping & expecting soon to be discharg’d my self) and also for the Good of the Service.
          The Remissness of our People in Paying Taxes is highly blameable, the Unwillingness to pay them is still more so. I see in some Resolutions of Town-Meetings, a Remonstrance against giving Congress a Power to take as they call it, the People’s Money out of their Pockets tho’ only to pay the Interest and Principal of Debts duly contracted. They seem to mistake the Point. Money justly due from the People is their Creditors’ Money, and no longer the Money of the People, who, if they withold it, should be compell’d to pay by some Law. All

Property indeed, except the Savage’s temporary Cabin, his Bow, his Matchcoat, and other little Acquisitions absolutely necessary for his Subsistence, seems to me to be the Creature of public Convention. Hence the Public has the Right of Regulating Descents & all other Conveyances of Property, and even of limiting the Quantity & the Uses of it. All the Property that is necessary to a Man for the Conservation of the Individual & the Propagation of the Species, is his natural Right which none can justly deprive him of: But all Property superfluous to such purposes is the Property of the Publick, who by their Laws have created it, and who may therefore by other Laws dispose of it, whenever the Welfare of the Publick shall demand such Disposition. He that does not like civil Society on these Terms, let him retire & live among Savages.— He can have no right to the Benefits of Society who will not pay his Club towards the Support of it.
          The Marquis de la F. who loves to be employ’d in our Affairs, and is often very useful, has lately had several Conversations with the Ministers & Persons concern’d in forming new Regulations respecting the Commerce between our two Countries, which are not yet concluded. I therefore thought it well to communicate to him a Copy of your Letter, which contains so many sensible and just Observations on that Subject. He will make a proper Use of them, and perhaps they may have more Weight as appearing to come from a French man, than they would have if it were known that they were the Observations of an American. I perfectly agree with you in all the Sentiments you have express’d on this Occasion.
          You have made no Answer to the Proposition I sent of furnishing Tobacco to the Farmers General. They have since made a Contract with Messrs. Alexander & Williams for the same Purpose; but it is such a One as does not prevent their making another with you, if hereafter it should suit you. I am sorry for the Publick’s sake that you are about to quit your Office, but on

personal Considerations I shall congratulate you. For I cannot conceive of a more happy Man, than he who having been long loaded with public Cares, finds himself reliev’d from them, & enjoying private Repose in the Bosom of his Friends & Family.
          The Government here has set on foot a new Loan of an Hundred Millions. I enclose the Plan. It is thought very advantageous for the Lenders. You may judge by that how much the Money is Wanted, and how seasonable the Peace was for all concerned.—
          If Mr Alexander, who is gone to Virginia, should happen to come to Philadelphia, I beg leave to recommend him to your Civilities, as an old Friend of mine, whom I very much esteem.
          With sincere Regard & Attachment, I am ever, Dear Sir, Your most &c

            Honble Robt Morris Esqe Superintendant des Finances


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 25 December 1783
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            My Dear friend
            Xmas Day 1783 London

          Before you receive this you will have heard of a total change of the British Administration. It is not as yet many hours since this event has taken place. The Cabinet is as follows viz

            Mr Pitt first Lord of the treasury

              Ld Thurlow chancellor
              marquis of Carmarthen
              }
              Secretaries of State

              Ld Gower President of Council
              Lord Sidney

              Ld Howe first Ld of  the Admiralty.

              D of Rutland Privy Seal

          It is impossible for me to expect as yet any instructions in my department. In the mean time I beg of you to send me the earliest notice whenever the ratification of our definitive treaty of Peace shall arrive from America, that we may loose no time in bringing that blessed event to a complete termination. I am My Dear friend Ever yours most affectely

            D Hartley
            To Dr Franklin &c &c &c—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Samuel Cooper, 26 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Cooper, Samuel

            Dear Sir,
            Passy, Dec. 26. 1783.

          I have received your Favour of the 16th October, and am much oblig’d by the Intelligence it contains.— I am happy to hear that your Government has agreed to furnish Congress with the Means of discharging the National Debt. The Obstruction that Measure met with in some of the States, has had very mischievous Effects on this side the Water; it discourag’d the Loan going on in Holland, and thereby occasion’d a Protest of some of Mr Morris’s Bills. Nothing can recover our Credit in Europe & our Reputation in its Courts, but an immediate Proof of our Honesty & Prudence by a general Provision in all the States for the punctual Payment of the Interest & the final regular Discharge of the Principal. I hope we shall never deserve, nor any longer appear likely to deserve the Reproof given to an Enthusiastical Knave in Pennsylvania, who being call’d upon for an old Debt, said to his Creditor, Thou must have a little more Patience: I am not able yet to pay thee. Give me then your Bond, says the Creditor, & pay me Interest. No, I cannot do that; I cannot in Conscience either receive or pay Interest, it is against my Principle. You have then the Conscience of a Rogue, says the Creditor: you tell me it is against your Principle to pay Interest;

and it being against your Interest to pay the Principal, I perceive you do not intend to pay me either one or t’other—
          My young Friend, your Grandson, must have had a long Passage, since he was not arrived when you wrote; indeed all the Vessels that left Europe for America about the time he did, have had long Passages, which makes me less uneasy on his Account. I hope he is in your Arms long before this time. His Father never made any Provision here for his Return, that I have heard of; and therefore I have drawn on you for the Ballance of the Account, as you directed. I wrote you a too long Letter some time since, respecting Mr A.’s Calumnies, of which perhaps it was not necessary to take so much Notice.
          The Government in England is again disordered. The Lords have rejected the Ministry’s Favourite Bill for demolishing the Power of the India Company: the Commons have resented it by some angry Resolutions. And it is just now reported here that the Ministers are dismiss’d and the Parliament dissolv’d. Of this we have yet no certain Advice, but expect it hourly.—

          There are Hopes that the War against the Turks will blow over; the rather, as all Flames are apt to spread, & the late belligerent Powers have all need of a continu’d Peace: This however is not certain, and it behoves us to preserve with Care our Friends and our Credit abroad, & our Union at home, as we know not how soon we may have occasion for all of them.
          With great and sincere Esteem, I am ever, my dear Friend, Yours most affectionately

            B. Franklin
            Revd Dr Cooper.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ebenezer Hazard, 26 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hazard, Ebenezer

            Sir,
            Passy, Dec. 26. 1783.—

          I am desired by the General Post Office of Great Britain to recommend to your Consideration a Sketch of an Advertisement respecting the Packet Boats, which they think it may be useful to publish. You will do in it what you think proper. Perhaps you have already done what is necessary. As I was formerly long connected with that Office, & have Friends in it, if I can be of use in forwarding any Arrangements you have to propose for

the Benefit of yours, you may command freely Sir, Your most obedient Servant

            B Franklin
            Ebenezer Hazard Esqr Postmaster General

          Addressed: Ebenezer Hazzard Esqr / Post Master General of / the United States / of America.—
          Endorsed: Letter Benja. Franklin Decr. 26th. 1783


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Mifflin: Two Letters, 26 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Mifflin, Thomas

            I.

              Dear Sir,
              Passy, Dec. 26 1783.

            I congratulate you very sincerely on your Appointment to that very honourable Station, the Presidency of Congress: Every Testimony you receive of the public Sense of your Services and Talents, gives me Pleasure.
            I have written to you a long Letter on Business, in my quality of Minister. This is a private Letter, respecting my personal Concerns, which I presume to trouble you with on the Score of our ancient Friendship.
            In a Letter of the 12th of March 1781. I stated my Age and Infirmities to the Congress, and requested they would be pleased to recall me, that I might enjoy the little left me of the Evening of Life in Repose and in the Sweet Society of my Friends and Family. I was answered by the then President, that when Peace should be made, if I persisted in the same Request, it should be granted. I acquiesc’d. The Preliminaries were signed in

November 82, and I then repeated my Petition. A Year is past and I have no Answer. Undoubtedly if the Congress should think my continuing here necessary for the public Service, I ought as a good Citizen to submit to their Judgment and Pleasure; but as they may easily supply my Place to advantage, that cannot be the Case; I suppose therefore that it is merely the multiplicity of more important Affairs that has put my Request out of their Mind: What I would then desire of you is, to put this Matter in Train to be mov’d and answer’d as soon as possible, that I may arrange my Affairs accordingly.
            In the Letter above mention’d, to which I beg leave to refer you, I gave a Character of my Grandson Wm. Temple Franklin, and solicited for him the Favour & Protection of Congress. I have nothing to abate of that Character; on the contrary I think him so much improv’d as to be capable of executing with Credit to himself & Advantage to the Public, any Employment in Europe the Congress may think fit to honour him with. He has been seven Years in the Service, and is much esteem’d by all that know him, particularly by the Minister; who, since my new Disorder, the Stone, makes my going to Versailles inconvenient to me, transacts our Business with him in the most obliging & friendly manner. It is natural for me, who love him, to wish to see him settled before I die, in some Employ that may probably be permanent; and I hope you will be so good to me, as to get that Affair likewise moved and carried thro’ in his Favour. He has I think this additional Merit to plead, that he has serv’d in my Office as Secretary several Years for the small Salary of 300 Louis a Year, while the Congress gave 1000 a Year to the Secretaries of other Ministers, who had not half the Employ for a Secretary that I had. For it was long before a Consul was sent here, and we had all that Business on our hands, with a great deal of Admiralty Business in examining & condemning Captures taken by our Cruisers, & by the French Cruisers under our Commission; besides the constant Attendance in examining & recording the Acceptances of the Congress Bills

of Exchange, which has been from the immense Number very fatiguing; with many other extra Affairs, not usually occurring to other Ministers, such as the Care of the Prisoners in England, & the constant Correspondence relating to them, in all which he serv’d me as Secretary, with the Assistance only of a Clerk at low Wages (60 Louis a Year), so that the Saving has been very considerable to the Publick. And it should not be forgotten that tho his Commission as Secretary to the Plenipotentiaries
            (Private) To His Excelly. Tho. Mifflin Esqr President of Congress

            II.

              Sir,
              Passy, Dec. 26. 1783.—

            If the Congress should think it fit to have a Consul for the United States in London, and do not appoint one of our own Country to that Office, I beg leave to mention the Merits of Mr. William Hodgson, a Merchant of that City, who has always been a zealous Friend of America, was a principal Promoter of the Subscription for the Relief of American Prisoners, and Chairman of the Committee for Dispensing the Money rais’d by that Subscription: He also took the Trouble of applying the Monies I furnished him with, when the Subscription was exhausted; and constantly assisted me in all the Negociations I had with the British Ministers in their Favour, wherein he generally succeeded, being a Man of Weight & Credit, very active, and much esteemed for his Probity & Integrity. These his Services continued steadily during the whole War, seem to entitle him to

the favourable Notice of Congress, when any Occasion offers of doing him Service or Pleasure. With great Respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant

              B Franklin
              His Excelly. Tho. Mifflin Esqr President of Congress.—

          Notation: Letter 26 Decr. 1783 Doctr B. Franklin Read 5 March 1784 Referred to Mr Gerry &c


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Rush, 26 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Rush, Benjamin

            Dear Sir,
            Passy, near Paris, Dec. 26, 1783.

          I do not know who is at present secretary of our philosophical society, and therefore I address to you, who read French, a book lately published here, which gives an account of one of

the most extraordinary discoveries that this age has produced, by which men are enabled to rise in the air, and travel with the wind. Having been an eye witness twice of this amazing experiment, I thought it my duty to communicate to the society as early as possible the best account that has been published of it, which I now beg leave to do through you, who can easily make an extract and translation of the most material parts for the satisfaction of the society. Never surely was a philosophical experiment so magnificently attended as the last, of which I enclose a print that well represents it. All Paris was out to see it, and all the inhabitants of the neighbouring towns, so that there could hardly be less than half a million of spectators. The flight of these two philosophers, messieurs Charles and Robert, was considerably farther than the distance between Dover and Calais.
          I intend the society a considerable and valuable present of books, such as are proper to promote the ends of their institution. The French Encyclopedie, is among them.— Be pleased to assure the society of my respects, and believe me to be, with sincere regard, Dear Sir, Your most obedient, humble servant,

            B. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baron de Breteuil, 26 December 1783
From: Breteuil, Louis-Auguste Le Tonnelier, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Versailles Le 26. Xbre. 1783.

          J’ai reçu, Monsieur, La lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire et par laquelle vous demandez au nom des Parens du Né. [nommé] schaffer détenu dans les Prisons de La

Conciergerie, des Ordres du Roi pour le faire passer aux Isles.—Je vais en Ecrire à M. Lenoir, et je vous prie d’Etre persuadé d’avance que je ferai tout ce que Les Circonstances pouront permettre. Mais je ne dois pas vous Laisser ignorer d’abord qu’on n’envoye plus personne de force aux Isles, et que d’ailleurs quand les tribunaux Ordinaires ont pris Connoissance d’un délit quelconque, l’autorité ne peut plus S’en meler, a moins que Les Juges ne consentent a ne donner aucune suite aux procedures qu’ils ont commencées.
          J’ai l’honneur d’Etre avec un très sincere attachement, Monsieur, votre trés humble et trés obéissant serviteur./.

            Le Bon. De Breteüil
            M. franklin, Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de L’amerique..à Passi.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph-Mathias Gérard de Rayneval, 26 December 1783
From: Gérard de Rayneval, Joseph-Mathias
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            A Versailles le 26. Xbre. 1783

          Permettez-vous, Monsieur, que je vous recommande le paquet ci-joint. Je Supose que la fregate le Washington n’est pas encore parti.

          Un de mes amis, Monsieur, desiroit avoir une lettre de recommandation de Votre part pour M. le Dr. Price, et je Serois Sensiblement obligé Si vous vouliez bien me l’accorder. Mon ami S’appelle de Chateaufort; il va passé quelques mois en angleterre pour Satisfaire Sa curiosité.
          J’ai l’honneur dêtre avec un parfait attachement, Monsieur, Votre très humble et tres obeissant serviteur

            de Rayneval


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Jay, 26 December 1783
From: Jay, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Dear Sir
            Bath 26 Decr 1783

          Since we parted I have been so much & so long indisposed as that (except short Letters to Mrs. Jay) I have denied myself the Pleasure of writing to my Friends. The Kindness you have shewn us both, has nevertheless not been forgotten, nor has my Disposition to acknowledge and be influenced by it in the least abated.
          We have lately had a Report here that you was very ill with the Stone, and some have said that you intended to seek Relief from an operation. This Report has alarmed your Friends, and I am anxious to know how far it may be well founded. It would give me sincere Satisfaction to have it contradicted under your own Hand—
          I decline saying any thing about politics, for obvious Reasons—the public Papers afford you the Means of forming a Judgment of them especially as your long Experience & knowledge of this Country enable you to see further than ordinary Observers.
          There are many in this Country who speeke of you with great Respect. The honest Whig Club drink your Health very

affectionately—there are others who like you as little as the Eagle did the Cat, and probably for the same Reasons. When we meet we will talk these Matters over with less Reserve than I can write— Present my affectionate Compliments to your two Grandsons—and believe me to be with great Esteem & Regard Dear Sir Your obliged & obt. Servt

            John Jay

            P.S. As we have yet no news of Mr. Thaxter’s Arrival, would it not be well to send over Copies of the Treaty?—

          His Excellency Doctr. Franklin—
          Addressed: His Excellency / Doctr. Franklin / Minister plenipotentiary from the United States / of America at the Court of France— / Passy
          Notation: John Jay, Bath 26 Decr. 1782.—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Elias Boudinot, 27 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Boudinot, Elias

            Sir,
            Passy, Dec. 27. 1783.—

          Your two Letters to the Commissioners, dated at Princeton the 27th of October & 1st of November, and one to me of the first of November, came duly to Hand; Mr Adams saw the public Letters in England, Capt. Jones having landed with them at Plymouth. We thank you much for the Intelligence they contain. I am now alone here, Mr. Jay being at Bath, with Mr Laurens, and Mr Adams either in England or Holland: But I have written fully to the new President respecting the Instructions, &c. communicated with your Letters. And now, Sir, give me leave to congratulate you on the fortunate Events that have distinguish’d your Presidency, and on your honourable Retreat from it into private Life. The first well-improv’d may make us all happy, and

the last must make you so: for I can hardly conceive a happier Being than the Man, who, having been long laden with public Cares and fatigu’d by every-body’s Business, is allow’d to retire into the Bosom of his Family, and enjoy Otitum cum dignitate.
          With great & sincere Respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant

            B Franklin
            Honble. Elias Boudinot Esqr

          Endorsed: Dr. B. Franklin Decr 24. 1783


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Samuel Vaughan, Jr., 27 December 1783
From: Vaughan, Samuel Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Clausthall in the Hartz, 27 Decr. 1783.
            My Dear & Honoured Sir,

          It has long been my sincerest wish to return you my warmest & best thanks for your kind & affectionate attentions to me when at Paris, but I refrained troubling you with a letter till I could entertain you with something new & worthy your attention. Till the present moment I have unfortunately been only in those spots that you have yourself formerly visited; & if I have happened to have made any new observation, It is in the mineralogical line which cannot so much interest you.
          Another Subject is therefore the occasion of my addressing you at present. It would give me singular satisfaction if you would be so obliging to send me some Account of Mr Charles’s

process to raise his Machine, & the Stuffs of which it was made; as the Gazettes, altho’ filled with accounts of it, are yet imperfect or confused on both these heads: but the articles which I am most interested to be acquainted with, are the results of Mr Lavoisiers memoirs, viz, the cheapest manner to procure Inflammable Air, its cost at Paris, the sort of Inflammable Air he thought best suited the purpose & their relative Weights. I should be far from making the above request Sir, was I not perfectly convinced from the notority of the Subject, that all the above must be in Print, & that you have only to request Mr Darcel your under Secretary to inclose & forward them for me, to the care of Baron Reden, Berghauptman, at Clausthall in the Hartz, by the earliest post he conveniently can.
          I have had under my examination a Mountain which you have Sir formerly visited, but as perhaps you did not examine it with the same views as myself, I shall take the liberty of mentioning some particulars respecting it.
          The Weisner is an Isolated Mountain, as it is the highest in the Country of Hessia, & bears no proportion in this respect to the Hills that are by the side of it. The Entire Top is of Basalt, & under it on every side is found a Coal originating from Wood; & the Roof of this immense Coal Mine is Cristals of Basalt. I do

not doubt Sir Joh: Banks having seen Basalt formed by Lava’s running into the sea; but merely offer it as a doubt, whether Nature has not in this case two methods of producing the same effect: For, according to his Theory, the Top of this Mountain should have been entirely under Water; which excludes the posibility of Wood being under Basalt, as Forest could not grow there, & that flooded Wood would occupy the highest part of the Sea; & consequently, be beyond the sphere of action of solid Basalt. I have some very fine pieces of this Wood, which I procured myself in the Mine, & it is so very perfect, that it bears in the Mine, with the action of Water & Air, the same plants Wood always does when put in a similar situation, & is in the first Stage of Decay. I am a little anxious to know the Species of Wood, which can be determined; & I carry specimens with me in hopes of meeting a Connoisseur of the internal texture of Woods.
          As I write in Haste I cannot enlarge on the above subject, or enter on others: however, I hope shortly Sir, to have the honor again to address you or Mr William Franklin, to whom I beg my most affectionate regards.
          I was very sorry to hear of your being attacked by the Gout; but as you assisted at the Experiments of Messrs Mongolfier & Charles, you must be of course recovered. My prayers will be ever for your health & happiness, being with the greatest respect, My Dear Sir, Your truly affectionate, devoted, & Obliged hble servt.,

            Samuel Vaughan Junr

            PS. The Queries I have taken the liberty to lay down Sir at the beginning of this letter respecting Mr Mongolfiers Machine, are not merely from Curiosity. Plans are yet too young to mention, but if they are completed & attended with Success, the result will be of no small importance. The only demur is the Expense of Air, but I think too much cannot be known beforehand; & therefore I should wish also to add one Query to the preceeding ones: What method Mr Charles used to let out his Inflammable Air when he wished to descend.
            I beg My Congratulations to Mr Charles, & Comps to all American friends, & the good Abbés at Place Vendome.

          Addressed: To / His Excellency Dr Franklin, / Minister Plenipotentiary from the / United States of America, / at Passy, / near Paris. / franc Ffort
          Notation: Vaughan Mr. Samuel 27 Decr. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Charretié, 28 December 1783
From: Charretié, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            28 December 1783

          Mr Charretié presents his best respects to his Excellency Dr Franklin he proposed having the honour of waiting upon him but his business at Versailles having prevented him, from whence he is this moment returned, with an express order from

the Minister to sett out for London on Teusday morning, this renders his going to Passy impossible, he therefore sends the inclosed by a Messenger, and if his Exce has any commands for Mr Sargent or any other person Mr Charretié begs they may be sent by to morrow night to him at Mr Bousie rue du petit Bourbon F. S. G.

          Notation: Charretie 28 Dec. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Société Typographique de Lausanne, 28 December 1783
From: Société Typographique de Lausanne
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur
            Lausanne, le 28e. Xbre 1783.

          Nous avons l’honneur de vous donner avis, d’une entreprise que nous venons de faire, & qui nous a paru jusqu’à présent, aussi désirée qu’utile au Public. C’est de prendre dans la nouvelle Encyclopédie par ordre de matieres, tout ce qui manque à la premiere Encyclopédie par ordre alphabétique, & d’en former un Supplément à l’usage de tous ceux qui sont possesseurs de cette derniere, dans les formats in-folio, in-4°. & in-8°. L’ouvrage est déja commencé, & avancera rapidement, parce que tout est préparé pour agir. Pour connoître mieux les détails & les conditions de l’entreprise, Nous vous envoyons le Prospectus.

          En attendant l’honneur de vos ordres, nous avons celui d’être parfaitement, Monsieur Vos très-humbles & très-obéissants Serviteurs,

            LA Société Typograhhiqueà Lausanne en Suisse.

          Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur le Docteur Francklin / à Paris / par Versoix
          Notation: La Sociéte typographique de Lausanne 28 Dec. 1783


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John and Rosamond Sargent, 29 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: John,Sargent, Rosamond

            Passy, Dec. 29. 1783

          You cannot conceive, my dear Friends, how happy your kind Letters make me. To find that thro’ all the unpleasant Circumstances that so long have separated us, you still retain your ancient Regard for me, gives me a Pleasure inexpressible. A Thousand Thanks for your hearty Invitation to your House. I am sure I can be no where happier, than with a Family I so much love. Whether I can come over in the Spring, is yet uncertain, but it is very certain that I long exceedingly to see & embrace you all; being ever, my dear Friends, Yours most affectionately

            B Franklin
            Mr & Mrs Sargent


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Walter, 29 December 1783
From: Walter, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir.
            London Decr. 29th. 1783.

          As a Gentleman of Science & a Well Wisher to the new erected Empire, I address myself to You on an Improvement, which is now introduc’d into the World, on which a pamphlet is just publish’d, to print with Words entire, instead of single Letters, which will be of the most important Use in the future Conduct of the Press, both for Dispatch, neatness, & Correctness— It is intended to be executed both by an Alphabetical, & numerical Arrangement, which are now inspecting by many Men of Letters, & has had the strong Approbation of Sr. Jos. Banks, the Members of the British Museum &c & has had a very gracious Reception from our Sovereign, to whom it is dedicated by his Permission.—
          As no Doubt this Improvement will be equally acceptable to America, if a liberable Encouragement is given, an exact Copy of the Founts, & the Mode of conducting it shall be sent You, which cannot fail of proving acceptable to a Country, where the Arts will no Doubt flourish in an eminent Degree— The numerical Fount will be particularly useful in the dead Languages, as a numerist only is requir’d to know the Subject, the Compositor having Numbers before him, & therefore may be ignorant of what he composes. If any Correspondent of yours should make Application by your Direction, further Particulars may be known, as no doubt will the Writer of this Letter from Sir Your Most Obedt. Servt.

            John Walter

            PS. My Address is Queens Square Bloomsbury.

          Dr. Benja. Franklin.

          Addressed: Doctor Benja. Franklin. / at / Paris
          Notation: John Walter Decr. 29 1784—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Sr., 29 December 1783
From: Williams, Jonathan Sr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Hond sr—
            Boston Decer 29th. 1783—

          I Wrote you a few days ago adviceing that Doctr. Coopers being Sick provented my presenting your Bill, he is now dead, he die’d this Day about 12 oClock, I shall endever to git your Bill answerd, I think the famley will pay it as the Doctr. has left a good Estate for one of the Cloth we think the death of this Ameable man is not only a Loss to his famley & Church but to the public in general—
          I have Cleard your huse agreeable to your Sisters desire, I expect Aunt with her Children to town Next week to take Possession & Live there Which I Conclude will be agreeable to you—
          I Entertaind Some flatering expectations of your Coming to Boston this fall, now we hope you will Come in the Spring, at our house we Shall be happy to Se you & your G Son—
          My Wife Joines in duty to you & Love to Billey Belive me ever Your Dutefull Nephew & most Hble Servant—

            Jona. Williams

          Addressed: His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr / at / Passy / in France


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chevalier Du Ponceau, 30 December 1783
From: Du Ponceau, Jean-Michel, chevalier
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Sir
            Island of Ré the 30th. Xber. [1783]

          I am in the last uneasiness Concerning my Brother’s Fate. There is one year Since I receiv’d letters from him. I am afraid he Could be Sick; for I am at a loss how interpret Such a Silence. If by your assistance I could have knowledge of What it is become of him Nothing Could equal my obligations. He Was in the beginning under Secretary in the department of foreign affairs at Philadelphia but Mr. de Livingston having resigned, it is probable that he is now in an other Employement.
          I Inclose a Letter for him, under his ancient direction; you’ll do me a great favour in Conveying it to him. I assure you that I’ll never forget Such a Kindness.
          Excuse me Sir, for the Liberty I take in troubling you but my unquietness is Without bound.
          I have the honor to be Sir Your most humble & obedient Servant

            Le Chr. Du Ponceauofficier in the regiment of saintonge


Title: Franklin: Certificate for Cripps & May, 31 December 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

            Passy Trente un Xbre. 1783.

          J’ai eu Connoissance de la Lettre de Mrs. Cripps et May dont il Est fait mention, négocians de Charlestown. Je Crois qu’elle Contient Vérité, et Je ne puis qu’espérer que Le placet du Capitaine Conte, Sera favorablement accüeilli.

            signe B Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Breteuil, 31 December 1783
From: Breteuil, Louis-Auguste Le Tonnelier, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Vlles. 31. Xbre 1783.

          Depuis la lettre, Monsieur, que j’ai eu l’honneur de vous ecrire le Vingt Six de ce mois au Sujet du Nommé Schaffer, j’ai eté informé que ce particulier a eté arreté au mois de juillet dernier Comme prevenu d’Escroqueries; que Son procès ayant eté instruit, il a eté Condamné au Carcan et au bannissement, et que Sur L’appel de ce Jugement il a eté transféré dans les prisons de la Conciergerie. L’affaire etant dans cet etat, il Serait Contre toutes les Regles que l’autorité S’en Mêlat. Mais vous pouvez vous adresser à M. le garde des Sceaux pour obtenir des lettres de Remission ou de Commutation de peines. Je Suis bien faché que les Circonstances ne me permettent pas de faire ce que vous auriez desiré.
          J’ai l’honneur d’être avec un trés Sincere attachement, Monsieur, votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur.

            Le Bon. De Breteüil

          M. francklin ministre plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de L’amerique à Passy.
          Notation: Le Bn. De Breteuil


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Caffiéri, 31 December 1783
From: Caffiéri, Jean-Jacques
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur
            De Paris ce 31 Dx 1783

          Si je netois pas indisposé, j’aurois l’honneur D’aller vous Souhaiter au renouvellement de cette année tout ce qui peut arriver de plus heureux à un homme de votre merite; privé de ce bonheur permettes moi de vous faire parvenir Les assurances de mon respect.
          J’apprens par Les papiers publics que malgré une guerre dispendieuse Les Etats Americains, pour rendre L’autorite Civile Et Le Commerce de plus En plus florissante, Se proposent de faire batir une ville Et un palais pour Le Congrés. Jose Esperer de vos bontés que Si mes foibles Talens peuvent être employés, vous voudres bien vous ressouvenir de moi, et croire que mon empressement et mon zele me rendront peut-être digne de votre chois. Soyez persuadé que je regarderai Comme un des momens les plus Gloirieux de ma vie, ce lui où je Serai asses heureux pour Servir a Eterniser en quel que chose L’Epoque La plus brillante du dix huitieme Siecle.
          Je Suis avec Respect Monsieur Votre tres humble Et tres obeïssant Serviteur

            Caffiéri

          Notation: Caffiery 31 Dec. 1783.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chevalier Dubuysson, 31 December 1783
From: Dubuysson, Charles-François, chevalier
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monsieur
            moulins En Bourbonnois le 31. Xre. 1783.

          M Le marquis de lafayette me fait demander Les papiers que J’ai eu L’honneur de vous faire passer. Je ne scais si c’est pour vous Les Communiquer ou pour vérifier Lui même. Si je Suis susceptible de Lordre des Cincinati en [ce] cas Je vous prie Monsieur, de vouloir bien Les Lui faire passer sur Le champ j’ôse en même tems vous suplier Monsieur, de m’être favorable dans La circonstance présente:
          Jai L’honneur d’être avec un profond Respect Monsieur Votre très humble Et très obéissant Serviteur

            Le Chevr. DubuyssonCoel. des Coies. françoises


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Holker, 31 December 1783
From: Holker, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Most Worthe friend
            Rouen 31 of Decbr 1783

          I have not words to express, the Pleaseur I had in Receving your very kind leter, which you was so good as to send me by

Mr. Lamot, for allthoug I have not seen you for this lage(?) Past, my heart warms when ever I here your Naime mensiend, as does my wife, for She Loves you sincearly. Could wee but have the Pleaseur to Injoy you here, was it but for a few days, it woud make us very happey, you know you promisd us this favor before you quit the Country, & wee air in hopes youl keep your word.
          I see somtime past a Relation of David Hartleys, & I praid him to tell him, that youd give him the meeting here in the Spring; If he excepts of the offer I hope youl not faile him, and wee shall strive to make you bouth satisfied with your visit. You have now accomplished all you wanted, & wished for; which does you an Eternel honour, & Really it is heigh time you Injoy your Self, could the wishes of my Wife & me Contribut to your future happeness no one should be more so, which is the Sentements of your Sincear friend My Dr. Sir your Most Obedt & affectionet humble sert

            J Holker

            PS Our best Complements attend your Son from my wife & Dougter Inlaw, who where very Sencible as well as my Self for his Kind Rememberance, I found the wheels you Mension on Board of an English Vessel, and Claimed by Mr. Garvey your Consil here, who will forward them by the fert occasion by water, but I am affread youl think it long as the Rever wont be Navegable so soon

          Notation: Holker Rouen 31. Decr. 1783—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Madame Brillon, [December 1783?]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt

            [December, 1783?]

          Je vous envoye incluses, les petites Pieces que vous, ma très chere Amie, m’a fait l’honneur de me demander. Celle sur le Jeu des Echecs, doit etre dedieé à vous, la plus belle conseil qu’elle contient, etant copié de votre maniere genereuse & magnanime de jouer, que j’ai si souvent experiencé.
          Mon petit Fils a été voir votre Maison. Je suis bien sensible de votre bonté en m’offrant la Preference, mais il le trouve trop magnifique pour nous.—
          Avec infiniment d’Estime & d’Affection, je suis, toujours a vous.

            B F.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Abbé de La Roche, [December 1783?]
From: La Roche, Martin Lefebvre, abbé de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            [December, 1783?]

          Bonjour, cher Papa, je suis toujours estropié, et dans l’impossibilité d’aller vous voir, d’aprendre par moi même des nouvelles de vôtre Santé. Nôtre Dame n’ose point sortir au milieu de cette neige. Elle vous envoye la petite graine de l’Altamaha que lui a demandée Mons. vôtre fils. Auriez vous 3 ou 4 bouteilles de Madère sec ou de Xeres à m’envoyer, vous me feriez grand plaisir. Les habitans d’Auteuil vous embrassent, et vous aiment

            L. de la Roche

          Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / A Passy
          Notation: De La Roche


Title: Morellet’s Translation of “Reflections upon the Life and Death of Edward Drinker”: Résumé, [1783]
From: Rush, Benjamin
To:

          In May, 1783, an essay about an uncommonly healthy and long-lived Philadelphian appeared in the Gentleman’s Magazine under the title “Reflections upon the Life and Death of Edward Drinker, of the City of Philadelphia, who died on the 17th of November, 1782, in the 103d Year of his Age. Written by an ingenious literary Gentleman of that City, for the Amusement of a Lady.” During the summer and fall it was reprinted in several newspapers in England and America and summarized in at least one French publication. The author, as would be revealed years later, was Benjamin Rush. It is not known how and when Franklin obtained the piece, whether he knew its author to be Rush, and why he wanted a French version. We surmise that sometime in 1783 the abbé Morellet prepared this translation and Franklin’s secretary Jean L’Air de Lamotte copied it. The disposition of that fair copy is not known, but Franklin retained a press copy of it along with Morellet’s draft.
          The piece would have had particular resonance for the American minister. It is likely that he knew Drinker; he certainly knew his great-nephew Henry, a Quaker merchant. Drinker had lived according to the principles of moderation and generosity that Franklin espoused, which may have contributed (as the author suggested) to a life largely free from illness. Finally, from his small plot of land this

centenarian had witnessed the transformation of America. Franklin may have hoped to see this article published in its entirety in the French press. If it did appear, we have not located it.

         ⟨[1783, in French]: Edward Drinker was born on December 24, 1680, in a small cabin near what is now the corner of Walnut and Second streets in Philadelphia. The area was inhabited by Indians and a few emigrants. His parents came from Beverly, Massachusetts. He went to Boston at the age of 12 and was apprenticed to a cabinetmaker. In 1745 he returned to Philadelphia and remained there for the rest of his life. He was married four times and had 18 children with his first wife. A principled and cheerful man, Drinker enjoyed uncommonly good health, though he lost his eyesight and his teeth decades before his death. His hearing remained sharp, and he maintained his mental acuity until his final year. His habits were wise and temperate and his religious principles were steady. He ate heartily, avoided excessive drinking, and always slept soundly. Drinker witnessed the transformation of a wilderness into an urban civilization and of a colony into a republic. He saw the beginning and the end of the British Empire in Pennsylvania. The subject of seven successive kings, he lived to celebrate American independence.⟩


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Baronne de Bourdic: Three Letters, [1783]
From: Bourdic, Marie-Anne-Henriette Payan de l’Estaing, baronne de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            I.
            a paris le 23 hotel de modene rue jacob f S germain [1783] Monsieur franklin aime a faire le bien: Cest Connû de tout le monde, Cest dapres Cella que Mde La Baronne de Bourdic ose

lui demander une lettre de recommandation pour un de Ses Compatriotes du languedoc pour lequel elle noseroit reclamer Ses bontes Si Son honnetete ne lui etoit pas Connue; elle le Suplie donc de vouloir bien Se preter au desir quelle a de lobliger, elle lassure davance de toute Sa reconnaissance elle ira la lui temoigner et prendre Congè de lui avant de quitter Paris

            II.

              Sir
              paris thé fïfteen [1783]

            The first wish I formed upon mŷ arrival at paris was to Sée a man who maŷ verŷ justlŷ bé Considered as the first character of the present age, when once I became acquainted with him, I endeavour’d to See him frequentlŷ even at the risk of becoming troublesome mŷ desire has been accomplished, but Still there remains an unsatisfied wish, and at the verŷ moment, I am about to quitt the citÿ he inhabits, and am perhaps upon the point of abandoning the hopes of ever Seeing him again, I would most willinglŷ Carrŷ awaŷ with me a part of himself, and join the reading of his works, to the grateful remembrance, I Shall ever retain of his obliging Behavior to me, he will therefore greatlŷ add to the obligations I alreadŷ owe him; if he will be so good as to let me know where I Can get them, and if theŷ are not to be had at paris; I flatter mŷself he will furnisch me with them, this is a favour he cannot refuse me in Consideration of the high idea I entertain of him and of the verŷ respectful Sentiments where-with I have the honor to be his most obedient and most humble Servant

              La Baronne de Bourdic

            Addressed: A Son excellence / Monseigner Le docteur / Franklin ministre plenipotentiare / des etats unis / A passÿ

            III.

              [1783]

            Mde La Baronne de Bourdic ira demain a passi pour prendre Congè de Monsieur Franklin et le remercier de Ses honetetes elle lui demande la permission de lui presenter des dames qui ont le plus grand desir de faire Connaissance avec lui; dans le Cas qu’il ne fut pas a passi demain Samedi Mde de Bourdic desireroit le Savoir le matin.

            Addressed: A Son excellence / Monsieur Le docteur / Franklin ministre / plenipotentiaire / A passi


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Alexander Gross, [c. 1783]
From: Gross, Alexander
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            [c. 1783]

          To his Excelency Dr. Franklin plenepotentary &c &c &c &c
          The humb: pettition Of Alexander Gross Native Of Cape Codd in America Most humbly Sheweth that your Excelency’s pettitioner is Now A hostage in Dunkerque prison—is A Native Of Cape Codd in America his parents Now Live there, is Abt. Twenty Six Years Of Age, Entered A Volentiere About 8 Years Ago in the Americian Servise On the proclamation Of his Excelincy General Washington And Served One Year, the time then Spacefied to Serve in his Excelency’s proclamation That at The Expiration Of the Said Year the Enemy Appeared in the Jarsey Islands, your Excelency’s pettitioner Stayed Six weeks Longer At the Request Of Genl. Sulivan Then his

Commander, After Was Granted his Discharge. Soon After he went On board Of A Merchant Vessel from Cohasset to the Ise A Cape, On his Return With the Sd. Vessel Which Was Loaded With Rum Coffee & Cotton, was taken by A Letter of Marque Of Liverpool, Brought there Ane Imprisoned. Soon After Was Sent A prisoner to plymouth And sent On board the Duke Man Of War, was Often tempted to Enter And Take bounty, Never Did Either, in Consequence Of Which he was kept Close Confined for the Space of Three years And—Nine Months— At Last Found Means to Effect his Escape, And Went to Southamton, there Shiped himself On board of A Sloop bound to Cork in Ireland This in hopes to be taken, And Carried A prisoner to America, Or Some Other place from Whence he May Effect his Escape to America. When Out in Said Sloop Four Days, Was taken by A private Ship Of Warr, the property Of One Missil Merchant Of Dunkerque. The Commander Of Sd. Sloop Insisted On My Going As Hostage for her for the Sum of 200 Guineas. Intirely Against My Inclination, On My Arival At Dunkerque I was Shut Up in Close prison Where I am Now One Year And Four Months Existing On One Scanty Meal pr. Day, And At present with Less hopes Of Redemption than Ever, Finding the Owner Of Sd. Sloop (I having No Tie On him) Means to Leave Me for Ever, Unredeemed, Therefore, Most humbly Crave Your Excelency’s kind Interposition in My behalf—As the Father—protecter—And Source Of Redress Of All My Just Acting Countrymen in this part Of the world— And Your Excelency’s Distressed pettitioner in Duty bound Will Ever PRAY—

          Addressed: A Son Exclcy Monsieur Monsr. / Franklin plenepotentery a Lês Estàte / Unie D.’Amerk. / A / Paris
          Notation: Gross Mr. Alexander—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jacques-Louis Joannis, [c. 1783]
From: Joannis, Jacques-Louis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Monseigneur
            [c. 1783]

          Il y a environ 3 ans que j’ai eu l’honneur de vous vendre une fonte de gros texte. Je vous témoignai alors le desir de passer en Amérique, Sous vos auspices, pour m’y établir fondeur en Caractere, vous me repondites que les circonstances de la guerre ne vous permettoient pas d’acquiescer à ma demande, mais que Si elles venoient a changer de face vous me faciliteriez volontiers les moyens d’y passer.
          Aujourd’hui que la paix vient d’exaucer les voeux de toutes les nations et de rétablir la tranquilité parmi elles, je desirerois que vous me fissiez la grace de me choisir pour diriger en Amerique la fonderie que vous êtes dans l’intention d’y établir. Mon intention est de me fixer dans vos états persuadé que vôtre protection ne manquera pas d’y faire mon bonheur. Je ferai tous mes efforts pour la mériter par mon Zele, mon activité et mon intelligence. J’ai moi-même beaucoup de caractere dont je vous accommoderai avec bien du plaisir s’ils vous plaisent assez pour les reunir à votre fonderie.

            Joannisfondeur en Caractere, rue des sept voyes st.hilaire maison de Mr. Claris

          A Monseigneur le Docteur Franklin, ministre Plénipotentiaire des Etats unis de L’Amérique
          Endorsed: Joannis Fondeur des Caracteres d’Imprimerie


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Le Roy: Four Letters, [1783?]
From: Le Roy, Adrien-Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            I.

              ce Dimanche matin [1783?]

            Mon Illustre Docteur j’ai été hier au soir chez vous pour avoir lhonneur de vous voir et malheureusement je n’ai pas eu celui de vous trouver. Je voulois vous demander si vous pouvez nous faire l’honneur de venir mardy avec Monsieur Votre petit Fils prendre du Thé l’après midy et voir partir un ballon. M. Le Prince de Bariatinskoÿ s’y trouvera et vous savez combien il aime à vous voir. J’espere Mon Illustre Docteur que vous m’accorderez ma requête. Vous savez combien je vous suis passionnément attaché pour la vie

              Le Roy

            Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin

            II.

              mardy matin [1783?]

            J’ai été désolé hier Mon Illustre Docteur de n’avoir pas pu aller passer la soirée avec vous comme je vous l’avois promis. Mais il falloit voir si mes ballons étoient en bon état et combien ils prenoient de tems à remplir et tout cela m’a mené beaucoup plus tard que je ne croyois et tellement que bien malgré moi je n’ai pu avoir l’honneur de vous voir. Et pour comble de malheur il fait si mauvais tems aujourdhui. Le Baromètre est si bas que j’ai contremandé les Personnes que j’avois engagée. J’ai l’honneur de vous proposer deux choses en conséquence pour me dédommager de ce que j’ai perdu hier. L’une de nous faire l’honneur de venir prendre du Thé avec nous ou de nous en donner. Un petit mot de reponse s’il vous plait et ayez la bonte mon Illustre Docteur de faire mille remercimens de nos parts a Monsieur Votre petit fils de ses offres obligeantes pour notre The que nous le prions de nous confirmer pour les premiers jours où le tems sera remis où je compte bien que vous nous conserverez la même bonne volonté de venir voir partir des ballons.

            Recevez Mon Illustre Docteur les sinceres assurrances des sentimens d’attachement que je vous ai voués pour la vie

              Le Roy

            Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin
            Endorsed: Le Roi

            III.

              ce Jeudy matin [1783?]

            J’envoye vous demander Mon Illustre Docteur si vous pourrez nous faire lhonneur de venir prendre du Thé samedy et voir partir un Ballon ou des ballons. Des Dames que Mde. Le Roy a engagé à s’y trouver l’ayant prié de remettre à samedy ce petit Passetems Physique j’ai lhonneur de vous souhaiter bien le bonjour.

              P.S. Je ne sais Mon Illustre Docteur si ce n’est pas le Jour que vous donnez à Mde. Brion mais vous pourriez y aller après. Un petit mot de reponse s’il vous plait car je remettrois, la Fête ne vaudroit rien sans vous.

            IV.

              ce Jeudy matin [1783?]

            Le Prince Bariatinskoÿ Mon Illustre Docteur m’a mandé que vous diniez chez lui aujourdhui et m’a engagé à y dîner avec vous. J’envoye vous demander si vous pouvez me faire l’amitié de me mener et en cas que vous m’accordiez ma demande à quelle heure vous comptez partir. J’ai l’honneur de vous souhaiter bien le bon Jour. Jespere que votre goutte va de mieux en mieux ou plutot s’en va de plus en plus.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte de Mailly, [1783]
From: Mailly, Augustin-Joseph, marquis d’Haucourt, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            [1783]

          M. Le Maréchal de Mailly, ayant sçû que, Monsieur francklin, désireroit connoître Le plan et la Situation du Port-Vendre.

          Il a crû pouvoir lui en Envoyer quelques Exemplaires, et Il désire qu’ils puisse Lui plaire Et luy paraître de quelque utilité Respective./.

          Notation: Le Mal. de Mailly—