Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 11 August 1778
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Golden Square August 11 1778
I writ to you as long ago as the 14th of last month to tell you that the administration here had given their consent to the exchange of prisoners at Calais and that they would agree to give any ship on your part a free passport from Brest to Calais upon your sending me a similar assurance that any British ship going to Calais for the purpose of the exchange should have free entrance without molestation and free egress with the prisoners in Exchange. I have again received a confirmation of these assurances from our board of Admiralty here and we are now waiting for your answer after the receipt of which the Exchange will be forwarded with all expedition.
We have just received in this Country the report of the answer of the Congress to the Commissioners. After the conversations which I had lately with you upon the Subject it was no surprize to me to find the Answer of the congress such as it has been. You may easily imagine that an explicit acknowledgement of the independence of America must be somewhat grating in this Country and yet this Country is very far from being in a state of exasperation against america. I judge likewise from the answer of the Congress that America is not disinclined to a return of friendly disposition upon safe and honorable terms.
I remember a phrase of yours in a letter some time ago that a little time given for cooling on both sides would have excellent effects. I allways did and still do perfectly agree with this sentiment and If I were to mediate between the two Countries it should be upon a principle conformable to that sentiment. My first proposition should be to withdraw all the fleets and armies.
2dly to proclaim a cessation of hostilities both by sea and land for 5 years.
3dly all prisoners on either side to be immediately discharged.
4thly A free and open trade without any molestation on either side whatsoever.
5thly All mutual intercourse and mutual naturalization to be restored as formerly between G[reat] B[ritain] and N[orth] A[merica].
6thly A Treaty of Peace alliance and Commerce to be negotiated between the two Countries.
I think these terms would give all practical and effectual security to America, and by giving time to cool on both sides might afford a golden bridge to both parties. I know the sincerity of your disposition to restore peace upon equitable and honorable terms. I should heartily rejoice to concur with you in any measures towards that most desireable end. I shall be very glad to hear soon from you. I am &c.
To Dr F Aug 11 1778


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from R. Parsons, 12 August 1778
From: Parsons, R.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Mr: Pernet’s Maitre de Pension, Clotre de Jacobius Rue St: Jaques 12th: August 1778
I hope you will Pardon a liberty which nothing but the deepest distress cou’d induce me to take. I feel the indelicacy of importuning a Perfect stranger to afford that relief, which I have no right to demand, and which goodness of heart alone, can Prompt you to bestow; but indeed, Sir, a Situation such as mine, is an excuse for any impropriety there may be in thus addressing you.
I have not words to express the astonishment and horror I was struck with to day, upon the return of Captain Hickey from delivering my Unhappy Husband’s letter to you. He informed me, that you Sir, had declared you never gave Mr: Parsons the least encouragement to go to America; but, that on the contrary, you had taken pains to disswade him from it, and represented it as very improbable that he shoud be received into the service of the United-States. Mr: Parsons coud have no inducement for coming over here, but the hopes of obtaining your Protection and recommendation to the Congress; and I understood from him, that you had received his offered services, and th’o you cou’d not give him an appointment, you woud recommend him to those who might; and that we were to go from Nantz to America, the first favorable opportunity. This is what I have thought to be the case, ever since I have been in Paris, and Mr: Parsons openly declared here, that he was going to America under your Patronage: but sure he must strangely have deceived himself, and me, to answer no end, if in reality, he has never had any countenance from You. If his first offers were absolutely rejected, Tho’ we were at a great expence in making seperate Journeys to this Kingdom, yet we coud have gone back with credit, and with no farther suffering than that of being disappointed in our hopes. But now, as we are unfortunately and miserably circumstanced, if you Sir do not extricate us, ruin must inevitably Ensue. If Mr: Parsons, as I all along thought, had hopes of putting his American Scheme in execution, I can account for his staying here so much longer than he ought. He was in constant hopes of soon going, he was in expectation of receiving money from England, in which he has been disappointed; he was told that you always gave a certain sum to every one you sent out; and what was still more, the Idea he had formed, from the Character he always heard of Doctor Franklin, in England, (where he is by numbers almost adored as a Deity) might perhaps have flatter’d him, that as he was going to offer his life and services in the American cause, he woud be assisted, if he stood in need of it, by the Principal Supporter of that cause. All these circumstances have combined to plunge me into the Scene of wretchedness to which I am now exposed. I cannot accuse my self of any one extravigance since I have been here, we have both lived quite retired, from a Prudential motive, and the same motive made us chuse A Pension-house, tho we have found it much dearer than it ought to be. When Mr: Parsons found he cou’d not pay what was oweing, he thought the only method to extricate us, was to go to England, and try to get money from his freinds. I advised him to it, as the properest step I coud think of. The People of the house consented upon condition I joined as security; (for it seems a married woman’s security is as good as any other, in this country) I signed the security, and Mr: Parsons set out. He has not been able to get any money; for those who woud assist him at another time, have refused him upon knowing his intention of going abroad. The People here are very Poor, the time is elapsed in which they expected to be paid, they have it in their Power to send me to Prison, and tho’ all they can get by that, will be only hastening me into another world, yet they perhaps think otherwise. In short Sir, you cannot have an Idea of the horrors of my unhappy situation—A stranger in a foreign land, without a freind, without a shilling, even almost without the wretches last resort, hope—Threatned with all the miseries of want, and a jail; Indeed, indeed Sir, the very Idea almost deprives me of reason. I have nothing but my little Wardrobe, which I woud with pleasure dispose of to the last article, and go to England, if it woud answer the Purpose, but tho’ it cost me more than I owe, it woud not fetch the quarter of it, and besides I am such a total stranger here, that I shoud be quite at a loss how to dispose of it. Thus Sir, I have given you a true relation of my dreadful situation, and if you will have the goodness to Assist me you will save an unfortunate fellow-creature from the worst of human miseries, and perhaps a very short time may put it in our power to return with gratitude and thanks, whatever you are pleased to give. At present I can only pray the Almighty to recompence my Benefactor, and if he has an Ennemy, to make him a freind. I have the honor to be Sir Your Most Obedient Humble Servant
R: Parsons

I once more beg leave to apologize for this trouble, and shall hope for your Answer, with a degree of anxiety which none but the unhappy can experience.

Notation: Mrs Parsons


Title: The American Commissioners to Sartine, 13 August 1778: résumé
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

<Passy, August 13, 1778: We are sorry for the delay in answering your letter of July 29. We are of opinion that the regulations are very good but wish to make the following observations. We propose that judges of admiralty in America because of the size of their jurisdictions be permitted to delegate their authority. We also wish permission to store captured merchandise until it can be exported to America so as to avoid paying heavy customs duties. We suggest that the expenses attendant on these regulations and fees be made public. Inconveniencies may possibly arise once the regulations go into effect; we beg leave, in that case, to call them to your attention and to request His Majesty to make necessary alterations.>


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Lee, 13 August 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, William

Sir,
Passy Augt 13. 78
You left a Trunk in my Care seal’d up, and took my Receipt attested by four Witnesses, wherein I promis’d to deliver that Trunk to you or your Order in the same State wherein I receiv’d it. This I am ready to do whenever you please. But I am not willing to have any Concern in the Opening of it, or in examining and Sorting as you desire, the Papers it is said to contain. For this I have my Reasons. And I do not see any Necessity for my being the Person, as here are two other Commissioners, your Brother and Mr. Adams, either or both of whom can do what you desire as well or better than myself. You will be so obliging therefore as to excuse me in this, and command in some other Service Your most obedient and most humble Servant
BF
Honble. Wm Lee Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Peters, 13 August 1778
From: Peters, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Augt. 13th. 1778
Let me beg of you to endeavor at sending the enclosed Letter to my Father if he be still in England. I fear all Letters to him are examined at the Post Offices and therefore presume you can contrive the Matter so as that it shall not pass thro’ them. It contains Information of absolute Necessity to him but perhaps it might be of Disservice to him if publicly known. I know it ought not to be but the British may with Truth (I mean those of them who go to Church) declare that they do and have done the Things they ought not to do and ought not to have done. I repeat my Request to you to supply my Father with some Money thro’ Apprehension that my other Letters may have been prevented from arriving to your Hands.
We expect daily to hear of the Recovery of Rhode Island and of Course of the Capture of the British Troops there. General Clinton with the Main Body is still besieged in New York by General Washington and his Misfortune at Monmouth has taught him not to be adventurous. I wish you every Happiness and am with great Truth and Esteem Your obliged and obedient Servant
Richard Peters.
The Count D’Estaing is at Rhode Island with his Squadron.
Honble. B Franklin Esqr

Addressed: Honble Dr Benjamin Franklin / one of the Commissioners from the United / States of North America / Passi / near / Paris per the Dolphin Capn. Sanfort
Endorsed: Richd Peters
Notations: Richard Peters Philadelphia 13 août 1778 / forwarded By your Honour Most humble and Obedient Servant for Mr. J. Bondfield Jh. Dl. Pauly Bordeaux 6. November 1778


Title: Barbeu-Dubourg to the American Commissioners, 14 August 1778
From: Barbeu-Dubourg, Jacques
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Messieurs,
Paris 14 aout [1778]
Je prens la liberté de vous adresser M. de Vic dont le fils M. de Bois Bertrand etoit passé en Amerique vers le mois de juin ou de juillet 1776 a la recommandation de M. Penet qui lui avoit fait esperer le grade de Lieutenant Colonel ou même de Colonel. Nous avons appris depuis qu’en arrivant au Continent ses services y furent agréés, mais qu’il fut pris quelques jours apres avec M. Le General Lee.
Je vous supplie de vouloir ecouter favorablement M. de Vic qui vous informera de la suite, et qui compte que vous voudrez bien que son fils aine dont il a fait le sacrifice a votre patrie y retourne incessamment, repandre son sang si l’occasion s’en presente pour affermir la liberté de la nation a laquelle il desire de rester a jamais incorporé. J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec un respectueux devouement Messieurs Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Dubourg

Endorsed: Dubourg 14. aout


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Honoré-Sébastien Vial du Clairbois, 14 August 1778
From: Vial du Clairbois, Honoré-Sébastien
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A Brest le 14 aoust 1778
Je vous suplie d’agréer un exemplair de mon livre sur l’architecture navale. C’est un homage que je crois devoir au Philosophe-homme d’état: Et d’ailleurs il est independant de toute raison particuliere. Je suis avec respec Monsieur Votre très humble et très obeissant Serviteur
Vial Du ClairboisIngenieur de la marine au Departement de Brest
M. Franklin à Paris

Endorsed: Vial du Clairbois with a Book on Naval Architecture
Notation: 14 Aout 1778.


Title: John Paul Jones to the American Commissioners, 15 August 1778: résumé
From: Jones, John Paul
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Brest, August 15, 1778: I have been here five days and have neither seen nor heard from Lt. Simpson; but Mr. Hill reports the general rumor that I have been turned out of the service, that Simpson has replaced me with a captain’s commission, and that my letter to you of July 16 was only in obedience to your orders. These are not conjectures but melancholy facts. Since the Boston and Providence are about to arrive, I demand redress by a court martial which can now be summoned with the assistance of Capt. Hinman who has the unquestioned right to succeed me in the Ranger’s command. I have faithfully served the dignified cause of human nature ever since the American banner first waved. I conclude by requesting you to question Edward Meyrs, at the house of the Swedish ambassador, about my conduct at sea.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jane Mecom, 15 August 1778
From: Mecom, Jane
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Brother
Warwick August 15 1778
I wrot you concerning the Enemies being in posesion of Philadelphia. I now congratalate you on there Evacuation of it, and that they have done so Litle Damage to the Real Estates in the City, as I hear from a Transient person for I have had no Leter from your children yet to Inform me of particulars; no doute you have saffered much in movables but Since they have got rid of them I hope never more to Return that will be the Easeier to be borne, what suckses we shall have hear in Expelling them from Rhoad Island is uncertain. They have Fortified themselves Strongly and it is said burnt and sunk all there Shiping since the French Fleet came in which looks as if they Intended to fite as they have no way to Escape. Our Armie is gone on, what number I dont hear, but there is many volinters. My Grand-son and two of His Brothers are of that number, there Brother the General is also there. Mr. Hancock Heads an Independant Company from Boston of which it is said there is not a man among them worth les than ten Thousand pounds Sterling; I hope they will have there desiered suckses for the sake of the whol comunitie and a litle for my own for I have lived in constant Jeperdie since the Spring when my children removed from Coventry to this place where we are much Exposed and have been under constant Aprehensions. I have been Part of the time at the Governers but it was full as bad there for they offered a reward for Takeing him, you will Acknolidg this is Rather wors than being harried about by wons Friends, yet I doubt not but that is Troblesom to you who are so desierous of Retierment, I fear you will never be suffered to Injoy it. I had a hint from Mr. Williams at the time we recved your Leters by Mr. Dean that gave me hopes of your Return but it is all blown over now. I was in hopes of a leter by the other Brother but sopose There was none or Mr. Bache would have sent it Ere now. I do not wonder if you are discuridged from writing to me for I Fear you have never recved any of my leters but the won you mention that was to have gon by my son Collas and I think I have sent seven, I all-ways sen them throw the hands of Mr. Beach, or Mr. Williams, but two of them hapened to go by my son Collas and we sopose he is Taken again. He has had nothing but Misfourtun and the sicknes but it is very disagreable to me to write trobles and Dificulties and I have in other leters Informed you of His being a prisner at New york a long time. Has since been twice taken wonce drove back in port by storm to refit which was the means of his haveing two of my leters to you. I had wrot many things about your children and there children which I knew you would be glad to hear. I cannot now so much as say they are well, I wrot you of our Friend Greenes being Governer, that Ray was at Mr. Moodys scool and comes on bravely with His Larning, that ther Eldest Daughter was married to Major Ward. What I had to write concerning I have Injoyed many blesings my own Perticular Famely has been as was comon to me all my life mostly distressing. Poor Benjamin Strayed a way soon affter the batle at Trenton and has never been heard of since, I can hear nothing of His Famely tho I have wrot several times to Inquier, but what now distreses me much now is that the woman that keeps my son Peter in the Country Demands five Dolars a week for takeing care of him to comence September 1777 or she would send him to boston. I wrot to Mr. Williams to git Him Put in to the Alms house there but he says there is no provision for such persons there. I have sent a second Leter to Urge it but have had no Ansure. I write this with grat Reluctance but as you desiered me to Inform you of my circumstances as well as helth and Situation it will not be confideing in you as Such a Friend as you have allways been to me and prehaps the only disintrested won I have in the world to keep it back. I did some time ago writ you that my Expences from Philadelphia had cost me seventy dolars that the Price of won pare of shoes hear was as much as I could by Seven pair for of the same sort when I was in boston but I then wrot a mistake, for they asked me six dolars for a pair such as I used to bye for half a dolar a pair by the doz in Boston but I bye as litle as posable. I also wrot you that what mony I had a mounting to four hundrid Dolars I had put to Intrest only reserving for nesesary use, that I Live comfortable with my Grandchildren and have my Helth but no Income but what that litle money Produces which however I should do very well with were it not for this dredfull affair of Peter which you see will take the most I have if I am forced to pay it and if Mr. Williams cant git Him in to the Alms House. God only knows what I shall do with him in future. I think you cant disaprove of my Endevouring it. I was in hopes to have bee able to Informed you it was done but haveing opertunity to send this to Mr. Williams by Mr. Hubard I would not Neglect it.
I Intended to have said a grat deal to you about many other things but my spirets feel so deprest and I have such horrid pens and paper I shall only add my love to your grand sons from your affectionat Sister
Jane Mecom

If we have the good fortune to Drive the Enemie from Newport I hope to be Able to be won of your first Informers & write in a nother maner
Prehaps Mr Williams may prevail with the overseers to take in poor Peter paying the Rent of the House you used to alow me which I know you will have no objection to. I had forgot to mention that to Him but shall now
JM

Addressed: Dor Franklin / Paris
Notation: Jane Mecom Warwick 15. aout 1778.


Title: The American Commissioners to Jacques Paulze, 16 August 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Paulze, Jacques

Sir,
Passy, August 16. 1778.
Several Ships have been sent to North America as french Property with Clearances for the French Islands, loaded with Supplies for the United States. Mr. Peltier Du Doyer has accordingly been obliged to make a Submission at the Offices at Nantes to return the acquits à Caution for their Cargoes duely discharged, which was impossible to be done. We therefore beg leave to request of you an Order to your Officers at Nantes to give the said Mr. Peltier a general Discharge from his Submissions for the Cargoes of all the Ships that have been fitted out by him to the United States, under the Appearance of being sent to the French Islands. We have the honour to be, Sir, with great Respect, Your most obedient and most humble Servants.
Mr. Paulze

Notation in Franklin’s hand: Farmer Gener


Title: Sartine to the American Commissioners, 16 August 1778: résumé
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Versailles, August 16, 1778, in French: In answer to your letter of the 13th on the question of prizes and prisoners, I enclose a copy of the regulations with revisions to articles 2 and 14. I will at all times receive with pleasure your representations on any inconveniencies attending the execution of the regulations and you may be assured His Majesty will always be disposed to grant Americans every facility compatible with his financial interests and his subjects’ commerce.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Cochran, 16 August 1778
From: Cochran, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Charles Town So: Carolina Augt: 16: 1778
Having been repeatedly inform’d of the friendship and kindness with which you have favourd my dear little Son, I should accuse myself of ingratitude was I not to acknowledge the satisfaction it gives me, his being so situated as to be noticed by you, and to have your Grandson for an acquaintance: permit me Sir to send you my sincere thanks, and I should be very happy to have an oppertunity to make a more suitable return. I hope his behaviour is such as to merit your approbation. The length of time which elapses without hearing from him, makes me very anxious, if Sir you will extend your goodness so far as to desire him to write when you hear of an oppertunity, it will be conferring on me An additional obligation, as I am inform’d his Tutors have it not in their power to assist him in sending letters.
I think to take a voyage to France in the Winter. In the mean time Most Worthy Sir I am with the Greatest Respect Your Most Obedient Hble Servant
Robt: Cochran
His Excellencey Benjn: Franklin Esqr:

Notation: Robt. Cochran Charlestown 16 aout 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Hutton, 16 August 1778
From: Hutton, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear old Friend
Zeist. Aug. 16. 1778
The mariage of one of the loveliest men in the world to as lovely a Woman, both of whom look upon me as their own and I them as my own, has brought me to Holland. I do not remember whether I ever mentioned to you a friend who in your time was Sub Preceptor to the P. of Wales, a Mr. de Salgas. This is the name of the man and his Lady was widow of a rich Mr. Bicker [and] Daughter of Mr. Boreel formerly Embassadour to us from Holland. These dear people were expected over in England this Summer: they were married last Sunday at Amsterdam, but instead of going to England, they go to Switzerland and Nice on account of the Health of a fine Child of the Lady. I had never seen the Lady, but have had many Letters of friendship from her, and as she can not come to England till next year, I could not wait till then as perhaps I may not be alive to that time. So I arrived here in Holland last Tuesday at 8 in the morning. Shall stay with them till they set out and then return to England: or rather go with them as far as Brussels perhaps, and then go to England from thence. I lay at the Hague at the Sister’s of my Daughters [Daughter’s], for so the new married Lady will be called. From the Hague I came to the new married people at Amsterdam the next day Aug. 12. The 13th. I spent in Amsterdam. The 14th I came to Mr. Boreel’s House the Brother of the Bride, near Zeist, at which place I write this, at 5 in the morning. Shall return by and by to Mr. Boreels and then go with my Son and Daughter. I passd the night at Mr. Boreels and dined there yesterday, spent the afternoon and night here and go by and by to dinner to Mr. Boreels where I hope to find my Son and Daughter. I lodge here at the Revd. Mr. Seyffert’s Minister at Zeist to whom I desired you to send the Passport for our Vessel going to Labradore. By some fatality it never came to hand and our Vessel is gone without that mark of your Love and kindness to me which I make not the least Doubt of. If it should be taken our poor people will perish with hunger very probably and there are 22 of them there whose main and almost whole Dependance is on the food we send them from England, from year to year. I sent you twice the Description of the Vessel. As you know the tender personal friendship and Love I ever had and ever will have for you, I am certain it is owing to any thing else rather than unwillingness to do me a pleasure.
If you recollect there was a French Officer taken with General Lee, who had been imprisoned and illused about whom I spoke to you, whose Father waited on you to try to get him exchanged. With this Gent. I corresponded while in Prison, and tried by Representations repeated and even teazing to our Ministry, that He might be exchanged or at Liberty on Parole not to serve till exchanged, but all without effect. 4. or 5 days before I set out, He wrote me word He had broke Prison, of which I was most glad. He came to me and I hope he is got to France. I should be vex’d if He was retaken. His Intention was to go to Deal to a Smuggler’s and thence run over in the night. I was glad that He was free and that I …
My dearest Friend you and I have pleasures that many do not take, we try to serve mankind, in their Distresses. I always found you such, and honour your heart for it.
I wish to hear whether this Mr. Gaiault de Boisbertrand is got safe over to France. D’Antic is his particular friend and so is Court de Gebelin.
Any Letter to me sent directed thus, chez Madame Fagel neè Boreel a la Haye will find me surely and will not be open’d at our office. The Lady will take care of any such Letter.
We have some of our people going soon to Bethlehem, if they can get thither; I wish I could get your Passport for them. Their Names that I know of are, as already fixed, the Revd. Mr. Reichel and his wife, Mr. de Marshall and his Lady and Daughter and a Miss Watteville, Grand Daughter of Count Zinzendorffe and 3. or 4 single Brethren. Mr. Reichel goes on a Visit, but the rest intend staying there. Mr. de Marshall was chief of our North Carolina settlement and I suppose returns thither. As there is nothing upon Earth that I could do with any kind of Propriety, which I should decline doing [at yo]ur Request, I am persuaded you will not [disapprove?] this Request, if you can grant it with Propriety. Sir John and Dr. Ingershausen were well when I left London, and Dolly too. The same good Girl you ever knew her.
I beg my Compliments to my kind Landlord, Mr. de Chaumont and his Family, and to all my friends near you. I am with great Respect and attachment your most obliged and most affectionate
James Hutton
If you can give me such a Passport I wish you could do it soon and if sent to that Lady at the Hague will come certainly safe. Perhaps at your Request Mr de Sartine would give you also a Similar Pass.

  To Doctor Franklin

Endorsed: M. Hutton wants Passports Augt. 16. 1778.


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 17 August 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Sirs
Bordeaux 17 Augt. 1778
By Monsieur Le Norman who left this yesterday I had the Honor to advise you of the ill State of Health of Cap. Ayres and of my apprehendtion of his incapacity to proceed. I am more confirmd in my doubts his Physicians assuring me it will be imposible for him to resist the sharpness of the Air and the fatigue of the Passage, and of which he appears himself convinct by his conversation to me last Evening. The Vessel will be off the Waies this evening and by Saturday will have her provissions Water &c. on board ready to proceed. The Captain has on board a few Hogsheads Tobacco and other triffles given him by Genl. Warren and others his Freinds in Boston the proceeds to be laid out in Family Stores for themselves. There is no Goods on Board on Account of the States.
Permit me to refer you to mine of Yesterday with regard to my favorite Plan which I should be happy to find correspond with your Ideas of its Utility. I have the Honor to be with due Respect Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant
John Bondfield
Paris The Honbles the Commissioners

Addressed: The Honble. Benj Franklin / Arthur Lee. John Adams Esq / Commissioners from Congress / at / Paris
Notation: Mr Bondfield Bourdeaux 17 August. 78


Title: James Moylan to the American Commissioners, 17 August 1778: résumé
From: Moylan, James
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Lorient, August 17, 1778: The brig Lady Washington, Captain Rowntree, arrived yesterday from the James River with a cargo of tobacco, having sailed July 8. The captain tells me the two armies were in New Jersey and the British transports still in the Delaware. Washington’s army amounted to 18,000 men, the people were in high spirits and money was appreciating in value. D’Estaing’s fleet is expected daily.>


Title: The American Commissioners to Sartine: Two Letters, 18 August 1778: letter and résumé
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

I.
Sir,
Passy, Aug. 18. 1778
The Administration in England have agreed to an Exchange of Prisoners with us, and propose that it shall be made at Calais. They will accordingly furnish us with a Pasport for a Vessel to bring the Prisoners from Brest to Calais, if we procure a similar one for their Vessel which is to bring the Prisoners from England. As our People may languish in their Confinement, and when recover’d, may be of Use to Capt. Jones, or in some other Enterprise, we wish the Exchange may be made as soon as possible, and therefore request your Excellency would take the Affair into Consideration, and afford us your Advice and Determination upon it. We are, with the greatest Esteem and Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servants
His Excy M. de Sartine

Notation by Arthur Lee: The Minister has already agreed to give a Passport for the english vessel whenever we inform him it is necessary for Brest and therefore I presume he will have no objection to give it for Calais.
Notation by Franklin: Rough To M. Sartine Passport

II.
<Passy, August 18, 1778: In answer to your letter of the 16th we believe the alterations to the projected regulations will remove the difficulties we apprehended. We thank you for your readiness to discuss the matter further should inconveniencies arise in the execution of these regulations, which we hope will not occur.>


Title: Dumas to the American Commissioners, 18 August 1778: résumé
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<The Hague, August 18, 1778, in French: Nothing worthy of writing has occurred since I last wrote. I visit the French ambassador daily and, through him, received the Gazette de Yorktown that Mr. Franklin had entrusted the Chevalier  [Georges Grand] to forward to me. Today’s Gazette de Leide is filled with its contents. I’m enclosing a copy of a letter I sent yesterday to Mr. van Berckel. My friends’ vessel has left.>


Title: John Ross to the American Commissioners, 18 August 1778: résumé
From: Ross, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Nantes, August 18, 1778: I wrote on July 16th and 23rd respecting public business and have received no reply. Mr. Delavile has applied to me once more with bills of Mr. Ceronio on the public account. I need an answer for him. Likewise I require the funds owed Willing, Morris & Co. from the public account to terminate their private accounts. French authorities here have sold Mr. Thomas Morris’ private effects. As representative of Mr. Robert Morris I herewith notify Mr. William Lee, commercial agent, through the commissioners in whose name he claims to exercise his unprecedented and extravagant authority, irrespective of the reputation and credit of Willing, Morris & Co.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Duchesse de Deux-Ponts, 18 August 1778
From: Deux-Ponts, Marianne Camasse, comtesse de Forbach
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Forbach le 18 aoust 1778
Avant toute chose mon cher et respectable amis permettez moi de vous demander de vos nouvelles? J’en recevois indirectement par M. de Keralio mais sa Maladie m’en a privée depuis pres de deux mois. Je ne veut pas que vous m’ecriviez vous meme je scait que vous ete trop occuppés, mais vous avez un petit fils, qui me paroit aussi obligeant qu’aimable, qui peut vous servir de secretaire. Je me recomande a lui, en lui faisant Mille amities pour scavoir coment se porte son respectable grand pere dont la Conservation et le bonheur, M’interesse au dela de toute expression.
Apres Cela Mon cher Monsieur franclin permettes moi de vous demander des Nouvelles de mon jeune neveux M. de fontevieux? Vous aves bien eut la bonte de me faire dire que La Duchesse de grammont etoit heureusement arrivée a boston, mais scavoir si ce pauvre jeune homme n’est pas mort en chemin? Scavoir ce qu’il est devenus depuis son arrivee? Et si Là republique et le général Wassington l’ont admis a L’honneur de Les servir? D’aillieurs je suis inquiette de scavoir coment il subsistera, et je ne scait coment m’i prendre pour lui faire toucher la pension de 1800 l.t. que je lui fait? Je desirerois mon cher Monsieur que vous me procureries quelq’un qui Lui paya Cette pension par cartier, et j’en ferois remettre La totalite a vos banquier a paris, mais en attendant je meur de peur que le pauvre jeune homme ne manque de tout. Je voudrois aussi lui ecrire, mais je ne scais coment Lui fair passér ma Lettre. Je suis desoller de vous importunér Mon cher monsieur franclin par la multitude de mes questions, mais a qui pourois-je avoir recour si ce n’est a vous? Qui d’aillieur etes si bien fait par votre humanite, exelant homme pour inspirér la plus grande confiance; La Mienne en vous est sans borne, Mon respectable amis, parce qu’elle derive de la plus tendre et de la plus juste veneration, dont vous m’avez penetree. Recevez en le fidel homage mon cher monsieur franclin et Souvenez-vous quelques fois, de la personne du Monde qui vous aime Le plus, et qui fait le plus grand cas de votre amitie.
M: DOUAIRIERE DU Duc DE DeuxpontsCTESSE DE FORBACH

Endorsed: Comtesse de Forbach
Notation: 18. Aout 1778


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Antoine Faillieux le Jeune, 18 August 1778: résumé
From: Faillieux, Antoine, le jeune
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Paris, August 18, 1778, in French: I delivered a letter to you from one of your correspondents in Amsterdam and have left my address that the answer may be returned to my care.>


Title: Elisha Hinman to the American Commissioners, 19 August 1778
From: Hinman, Elisha
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Gentlemen,
Brest August 19 1778
I have the pleasure of acquainting you, that I arrived here the 17th and am happy in finding the Providence Frigate Captn. Whipple, ready to part for America I have embarked on board, and flatter myself with a Speedy and safe passage. After Compliments of Respect I have the honour to be Gentlemen Your most Obedient very humble Servant
E. Hinman

Addressed: Honble American Commissrs / Messrs Franklin, Lee & Adams / Paris
Notation: E. Hinman. Aug. 19. 78.


Title: Abraham Whipple to the American Commissioners, 19 August 1778: résumé
From: Whipple, Abraham
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<On board the Providence, Brest, August 19, 1778: I wrote you from Paimboeuf on July 31; since then the Boston joined me and on Aug. 8 we proceeded in company to Brest, delayed by unfavorable winds until the 14th. I found here that Lt. Simpson had obeyed my orders of July 24th in quickly preparing for sea. But I was surprised to find that none of the Ranger’s prizes had yet been sold, nor had the crew received a single sou for all the time they had been in France; I allowed them a day or two to try and settle the matter. This might have been sufficient had not Capt. Jones interfered in an extraordinary manner, blocking the sale and producing obstacles “as frivolous in their natures as hurtful in their effects.” When a man is blinded by self-interest and acts in opposition to the interests of his country, it is my duty to represent his conduct with candor and leave the determination of its pernicious tendency to my superiors.
I enclose a copy of a letter Capt. Jones sent me yesterday, along with my answer. Tomorrow I shall sail, wind and weather permitting, with or without the Ranger, although I shall try to settle her unhappy affairs as best I can.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Benjamin Chew, 19 August 1778
From: Chew, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored Sir
Bourdeaux 19th. August 1778
I hope you will Excuse the liberty I take in Writeing to you in the fameliar Stile I am about Respecting my brother Sufferers in forton Prison who are Really Distresst for the Necessaries of Life Which Could they Get a Small Part of what is due them from the Commissioners would in a Great Measure Relieve them from their Present Distresst Situation If not from bondage, among Whom of them Gentlemen is One Mr. Alexander Dick, who was A Captn. in the 1st. Virginia Redgiment. He is a Gentleman of Considerable fortune in Virginia, not only his Pay Due him Sir but his other Circumstances in America Will Enable him to Repay you any Sum You may Please to Remitt him there, and I believe His noble Disposition will Urge him to Give you a true Sense of his Gratitude for your favours. Your Assistance to him would be Very Condusive to his Health, as he is in a Very bad State of Health and a long imprisonment is Apt to Give Some Uneasiness to the Mind, as also nothing but Boild Beef for a Person is [in] his State of Health, and not a farthing to Purchase the least Nourrishment that would be Suitable for a person in his State. I hope you will Excuse Me the liberty I take in behalf of that Gentleman as I have a true Sinse of his Distress from my being a Prisoner myself in health I Conceived myself Misrable. Wherefore I am Acquainted with the true Colours of his Distress in his Present State of health, your Assistance to him Sir would Induce him and family to be under the Strongest ties of Obligation to you, So you will Please to Excuse Me as an Individual and believe that I am a true Subject to Congress. Honored Sir Your Most Obedient Humble Servant
Benjamin Chew

Addressed: To / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / Plenipotenciary for the Thirteen / United States of America / at / Paris
Notation: Benjamin Chew Bordeaux 19 Augt. 78


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Philip Hancock, 19 August 1778
From: Hancock, Philip
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Most Honored Sir
Amsterdam Augast 19; 1778
As you have Been so good to Premitt Me to have the Honour to Pay you a Visit, Thought it my Duty to Aquint you that I Set out from hence in Two or Three Days. Would Have Come Amatley [immediately] on Recipt of your Letter To Mr. Le Grand only waits for the Arivell of the Englesh Post By which I Expect to Recive Some Letters. Mr. Le Grands Behavour to Me has not Onley Been that of a Gentleman But a friend. I am with Due Respect your Excenelecy’s Most Obedient Servent
Philip Hancock

Addressed: Honnourable Benjn. Franklin parries
Endorsed: P. Hancock


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Claude-Valentin Millin de la Brosse, 19 August 1778: résumé
From: Millin de La Brosse, Claude-Valentin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Paris, August 19, 1778, in French: As you certainly remember, I tried to join the American forces two years ago under Mr. Deane’s sponsorship. I failed and was subsequently treated by Mr. Deane and yourself with a severity I am now disposed to forget. My wish at present is to cross to America, a country I love, not as an officer but as an eager citizen. I am not a nobody. I might convince Florida and Canada to revolt. I ask you for some land in Pennsylvania or Maryland, the kind of help the British government used to grant colonists, free passage for myself and a servant, and some letters of recommendation. All this is in keeping with the rank of lieutenant-colonel I would have received, had I been able to join your army.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Pierre Bérenger, 20 August 1778
From: Bérenger, Jean-Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Lausanne, ce 20 Aoust 1778
Vous aviez parlé de moi et de mon Histoire de Genève avec bonté; vous offriez de m’aider dans mon projet de faire l’Histoire des 13 Etats-Unis, et je crus devoir vous écrire, vous remercier, vous demander des conseils: j’ai fait tenir ma Lettre à un ami alors à Paris, qui devait vous la porter: vous ne m’avez point repondu et sans doute, ou vous n’avez point reçu ma Lettre, ou vous avez renoncé à m’être de quelques Secours dans l’execution de mon dessein, ou peut-être encore, la multitude des affaires ne vous a point permis de penser à celle qui m’interesse. Nul homme ne craint plus que moi d’être importun, et surtout de l’être pour vous, mais il s’agit d’un trop grand intérêt, d’un projet trop cher à mon coeur, pour ne pas me hazarder à vous distraire un moment. Je vous écris donc, Monsieur, et je vous envoye ma Lettre directement. Daignez me dire, ou me faire dire si vous daignez penser encore à moi, à mon plan, et si vous voulez y cooperer. Voici ce que je puis, ayez la bonté de me dire ce que vous pouvez y ajouter.
J’ai un ami à Londres, homme deja connu par divers ouvrages estimés qui s’occupe à me faire une collection de tous les ouvrages qui ont paru en Angleterre et relatifs à mon plan: je n’en ai excepté que ceux qui sont absolument mauvais. J’en ai un à Goettingue qui me fait une Collection semblable de tous ceux qui ont été publiés en Allemagne: j’aurai tous les Livres français qui ont trait à ce sujet, et deja j’en ai plusieurs. J’ai aussi l’espece de Journal qui a pour titre Affaires de l’Angleterre et de l’Amerique. S’il était quelques Manuscrits qui pussent me servir et que vous pussiez me procurer, c’est en cela que vous pourriez principalement m’obliger. Et lorsque j’aurai assez de materiaux pour commencer, je vous enverrai mes cahiers l’un après l’autre. Vous jugerez de ce qui y manque, et me direz ce que vous en desaprouvez. Voila, Monsieur ce que je desire: votre reponse sera pour moi l’oracle qui doit decider de l’emploi de ma vie. Oui, je la croirai remplie quand mon but le sera dans l’étendue que je lui donne.
J’aurais bien voulu aussi que vous m’eussiez dit si les cartes de l’Amerique qu’on vend à Paris comme étant un relevé des arpenteurs des differentes Provinces, sont bonnes, ou s’il en existe ailleurs de telles. Pour l’Historien qui ne connait pas un Pays par lui même, d’excellentes cartes sont absolument necessaires.
Notre Société vous avait envoyé les Histoires de Genève que vous demandiez: elle les avait adressé à Mr. Bastien Libraire à Paris, et n’en a point eu de reponse. Ne les auriezvous point reçu?
J’y avais joint deux Lettres imprimées dont l’une m’a privé de ma Patrie, et l’autre est la seule justification, la seule vengeance que je me sois permise. J’étais flatté que vous fussiez mon Juge. … Mais bientot tout sera oublié, les Genevois m’ont temoigné souvent leurs regrets, et dans le Code des Loix auquel ils travaillent, celle qui m’éloigna de ma Patrie doit être aneantie.
Pardon, Monsieur, si je vous parle avec plus de liberté que je ne le devrais peut-être. Je sais que j’écris à un homme celèbre et respectable par ses talens et par ses écrits, au Législateur, au Père des Americains, mais j’ai cru que vous parler en homme libre, c’était vous connaître et vous rendre hommage. D’autres peuvent se servir d’expressions plus respectueuses; nul n’aura dans son coeur un respect plus vrai, plus profond que celui avec lequel j’ai l’honneur d’être Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur
Berenger,de la Société Typographiqueet Litteraire de Lausanne
A Mr. Le Docteur FranklinSi vous voullez bien me repondre, vous pouvez le faire en Anglais que je puis lire.

Notation: Berenger Historien 20 Aout 1778


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georges Grand, 20 August 1778
From: Grand, Isaac-Jean-Georges-Jonas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Amsterdam le 20 Aoust 1778
J’ay receu la Lettre que vous m’avés fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 7 de ce mois, et suivant Vos ordres,

j’ay payé à la Veuve Macgrath
  f.76.3

pour la dépense de M. Welsh; suivant le Compte que Je vous ai remis Je luy avais fourni en deux fois 4 Ducats
  21

et J’avais payé a M. Hancock dont Vous avés le Receu
  200

  Cf297.3s.

Pour le Compte de Messieurs Les Commissionnaires du Congrés dont ma maison se rembourse sur eux, chez mon frere, par sa Traitte de £646.17.3 qui au change de 52¾ et 4½ pour cent d’agio ballance cet objet.
J’ay de plus payé à M. Hancock suivant Son Receu, pour Votre compte particulier Cf200 tant pour sa dépense, et habillement que pour son Voyage, dont ma Maison se rembourse de même en £435.7. Aussi sur Vous chez mon frere, auquel Vous voudrés bien donner Vos ordres pour acquiter ces deux Traittes.
Le bon Hancock avait été laissé tout nud par Welsh, à qui il avait donné jusques à sa derniere chemise, Je n’ai Jamais connu un meilleur et plus honnête homme. Je luy ai donné de bonnes recommendations pour Anvers, et Bruxelles, pour l’aider dans sa route, il ne sçait pas un mot de français.
Il n’y à point de difficulté pour acheter icy les 28 canons de 24 lb. et les 28 de 18 lb. dont Vous avés besoin, non plus que pour les expédier pourvu que ce soit par petites parties, que les Vaisseaux prennent à fond de Calle dans leur Lest; on ne demande Jamais de Permission pour ces Sortes d’importations, sur lesquelles l’Etat ferme les yeux en facilitant le Commerce, et il n’est pas besoin de déclarer leur destination reelle, à nos Amirautés, pour obtenir des Passeports; le plus grand risque, est de la part des Anglais, qui sont en Droit de prendre tout ce qui est armes, munitions et articles de contrebande désignés dans le Traitté d’Utrecht.
Il n’en est pas de meme de Toute autre espece de Marchandise que vous pourriés nous demander, et que nous Vous envoyerions librement dans aucun Port de Françe, ou de nos Colonies à portée de l’Amérique. Nous trouverions même à la faire assurer solidement. Si vous prenés la peine de me désigner le genre, et la quantité de ces marchandises, Je vous donnerai Tous les renseignements nécessaires sur leur prix, et les moyens de les expédier; nous chercherons à les acheter avec le Papier, que Vous m’annoncés, au lieu d’argent comptant, et ce serait un moyen de le mêtre en Circulation sur notre Plaçe.
Voicy une Lettre que Votre Amy, le bon Hutton, m’a envoyé hier de Zeist, en me la recommandant beaucoup; cet Ange de Paix n’aura pas reçeu celle que Je luy addressé de Votre part à Londres, d’ou il etait parti pour venir dans ce Paÿs. J’espère que Vous me donnerés enfin des nouvelles de nos Amys et qu’elles seront aussi bonnes que je le souhaite; vous en avés receu de Dumas, qui Vous auront prouvé, que Vous avés aussi des Amys icy, ou je serais bien charmé de vous voir, pour en augmenter le nombre; car en imposant des Loix au Tonnere vous y ajoutés le Talent de subjuguer les coeurs. J’ay l’honneur d’etre avec le plus respectueux attachement Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Grand
Honorable Doctor franklin

Endorsed: Sir Geo Grand
Notation: amsterdam 20 aout 1778


Title: The American Commissioners to Thomas Read or Any Other Captain of Any Vessel Bound to America, 22 August 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Read, Thomas

Sir
Passi August 22. 1778
Mr. Alexander Fowler with his Wife being bound to America, where he has heretofore resided as an officer in the British Army; and it having been represented to Us, that his Friendship to America occasioned his quiting that Service and has occasioned him some hardships, and Inconveniences, We recommend him to you for a Passage to America, he paying your Demands for the same, and that he and his Wife may be treated with Respect. We are your humble Servants.
To Captain Read at Nantes or any other Captain of any Vessell bound to America.


Title: The American Commissioners to Schweighauser, 22 August 1778: résumé
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

<Passy, August 22, 1778: We received yours of the 18th. Tell Mr. Bersolle he must send us his accounts and vouchers before we will pay him; we hope for his sake as well as ours that he will not proceed to the indecent violence you apprehend. Dispose of the saltpetre as speedily and inexpensively as possible. Mr. Hall must also provide a receipt for the beef delivered to the Ranger before he can be paid. As for captains and other Americans not actually in the service of the thirteen states, do not advance them any public money when they are at Nantes, and capable of providing for themselves.>


Title: George Finlay, Thomas Anquetil, Wm. Allan and Brown Bencor to the American Commissioners, 22 August 1778: résumé
From: Finlay, George,Anquetil, Thomas,Allan, William,Bencor, Brown
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Ancenie, August 22, 1778: We are prisoners taken by Capt. Tucker of the Boston. From Nantes we were sent to this town. We beg you to grant us liberty or supplies, since we have done nothing different from other captains who have been freed. Commanders of American vessels have gained their liberty.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Herbaut de Marcenay, 22 August 1778
From: Herbaut de Marcenay, Madame ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Epinay ce 22 aoust [1778]
Je me flatte monsieur, que vous serez persuadé du regret que j’eprouve d’avoir passé tant de tems sans avoir l’honneur de vous voir. Beaucoup de voyages à la campagne sont causes de cette privation. Mais je n’ai point oublié que vous avez eu la bonté de m’engager a vous aller demander à diner à passy, et que vous m’avez chargée de vous mener ma soeur. Cette partie monsieur m’est trop agreable pour n’être pas tres empressée de l’executer. Si donc vous voulez bien de nous, j’aurai l’honneur d’aller diner avec vous dimanche 30. aoust, et je vous menerai mr. et md. de breget mr. de la marre et mr. de carmontelle, à qui nous savons bon gré chaque jour, de nous avoir fait un portrait charmant, que nous regardons sans cesse avec un nouveau plaisir. Si cependant monsieur, le jour que je  vous propose vous etoit importun, je vous prie de me le mander et de m’en indiquer un autre. Malgré le desir que j’ai de passer des momens avec vous, je ne veux pas être indiscrete. Mr. le roy à qui je m’adresse pour vous faire tenir cette lettre, voudra bien se charger de votre reponse. Je l’attendrai avec l’impatience du plaisir que j’aurai toujours à vous renouveller les assurances des sentimens que vous m’avez inspires et avec lesquels j’ai l’honneur d’etre monsieur votre tres humble et tres obeissante servante
Marcenay

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / a passy
Notation: Me Marcenay 22 Augt


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 23 August 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Sirs,
Bordeaux 23 Aug 1778
Since the Letter I had the Honor to write you the 17th Inst. the Liberty Captain Reed arriv’d at this Port from Edenton which place he left the 7 July. He brings no confirmation of the French Fleets arrival such report prevaild but gives it only as french report. As per my last the Cutter General Arnold is all ready and attends the arrival of your instructions. Captain Ayres will not be able to proceed. Captain Hatch by Captain Ayres’s desire has requested me to mention him to you should you be unprovided. Permit me to add that he appears a Seaman and desireous to be employ’d in the American Navy, which he flatters himself should he meet your approbation to the command would be a step at his Arrival on the other Side. I have the Honor to be with due respect Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant
John Bondfield
Paris The Honble. Benj Franklin Arthur Lee John Adams Esqr

Addressed: The Honble Benj Franklin / Arthur Lee John Adams Esqr. / Commissioners from Congress / at / Paris
Notation: Mr Bondfield Bordeaux 23 Augt 1778


Title: Puchelberg & Cie. to the American Commissioners, 24 August 1778: résumé
From: Puchelberg & Cie.
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Lorient, August 24, 1778: We are herewith forwarding a letter given us yesterday by Mr. Lee, living at Schweighauser’s. Please acknowledge its receipt. As associates of Schweighauser in this town, we offer our services and would appreciate your patronage.>


Title: James Smith to the American Commissioners, 24 August 1778: résumé
From: Smith, James
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Paris, August 24, 1778: When I reached Calais on May 4 the customs officers detained part of my luggage, consisting of household linen and plate, as contraband. Soon after arriving in Paris I mentioned the matter to Mr. [Arthur] Lee, who told me that I had no remedy; his brother, though a public minister, had had to pay fifteen guineas. Public officials may have to live in a splendor unsuited to new republics groaning under financial burdens; private individuals fleeing from the tyranny of old governments are in a different position, however.
I spoke to M. Grand, who promised to use his good offices. When I did not hear from him I told Dr. Franklin on July 4. He said he would make the necessary application, but some time later he had forgotten the whole business and asked for a memorandum. Aware that memory fades in the evening of life, I sent the memorandum by young Mr. Franklin so that he might compensate for the imbecility of old age. He answered with expressions unfit for any one who serves constituents.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Berubé de Costentin, 24 August 1778
From: Berubé de Costentin, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
a Brest le 24 aoust 1778
Je me trouve depuis un peu de tems chargé par Mr. J. D. Schweighauser de Nantes de la direction a Brest des Vaisseaux et des Prises appartenant aux Etats unis de L’amerique, et c’est ce qui me procure l’honneur de vous ecrire affin de recevoir vos plus prompts ordres pour me mettre a Lieu de me débarasser s’il vous plait de 140. a 150 prisonniers qui restent en cette rade depuis plusieurs mois a bord de la prise de la fregate le Ranger, nommée La Patience.
Pendant que cette fregate a resté icy, son Equipage prenoit soin de leur faire la chaudiere, de les contenir et netoyer, mais depuis 5 a 6. Jours qu’elle a party en compagnie de La providence et du Boston ces prisonniers abandonnés a Eux mêmes et a une foible garde de soldats qui n’y sont même pas regulierement etablis, ces prisonniers disje se sont revoltes il y a Deux Jours et eussent enlevé un autre Navire moüillé aupres d’eux dans la Rade s’il n’etoit promptement venu du secours d’une fregate du Roy qui se trouva heureusement a proximité. Cela arriva dans la Nuit, et il y a tout a craindre, pour la sureté même des Batiments du Roy et du payis a la Côte que ces gens n’entreprennent des hostilités de moment a autre et n’y reussissent. Depuis environ 15. Jours, Mr. Th. Lee fils et moy nous sommes presentés plusieurs fois a M. Le Commandant et a M. L’Intendant en les suppliant de se charger de ces prisonniers dans les prisons du Roy et que nous en payerions la depense. Ils nous ont toujours repondu qu’absolument ils ne le peuvent faire et j’en ay informé M. Schweighause auprès duquel Mr. Lée vient de se rendre en poste pour hâter de plus en plus un party a prendre sur des dangers aussi inquietants et autant de Consequence.
C’est a cette extremité que j’ay crû ne pouvoir manquer de vous supplier d’apporter le remede que vous Jugerés Bon et promptement s’il vous P. Si les prisons de Brest sont trop Bornées pour n’y pouvoir recevoir les prisonniers des Etats, Le Roy en a de plus Vastes a Dinan. Il y en a aussy a Josselin qui est au centre de la province et peu eloigné du port Loüis. Vos prisonniers coûtent icy plus de 24.s. par Jour châque de depense. C’est un double motif de les retirer, mais la sureté publique surtout l’emporte. Je suis avec Beaucoup de Respect Monsieur Vôtre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Berubé De Costentin

Endorsed: Berubé de Costutier about the Prisoners at Brest to be answered Brest 24 aout 1778


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Channing, 24 August 1778
From: Channing, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honorable Sir
London August. 24. 1778
The Bearer of this is one of our Particular friends, Capt. Tristram Barnard An American, who has distinguishd himself by his Generossity towards the unhappy Prisoners who have fellen this way. I therefore Recomend him as one Worthy your honors Notice. I am with due Respect, Your honors Most humble Servant
John Channing

Addressed: To / The Honbl. Benm. Franklyn Esqr. / Paris / favd. per / Capt. Barnard
Notation: Jno. Channing London. Aug. 24. 78.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Paul Jones, 24 August 1778
From: Jones, John Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored and Dear Sir
Brest August 24th. 1778.
Had I indulged my inclination since my return here I should have already troubled you with sundry letters. I must not however abuse the indulgent liberty which you gave me at parting. And I have therefore been the more troublesome to my good Friend Doctor Bancroft.
I wish not to be thought too impatient, but you know my dear Sir, that this is the nice moment when I ought either to be in search of Marine Knowlidge with Count D’Orvilliers or in search of honor in attempting some private Enterprize. Before I was at liberty to go the good old Count pressed me much to Accompany him. But since Doctor Bancroft has informed me that it would be agreeable to the Minister that I should go I have been precluded from following the Fleet, as the present Commandant has no Orders for that purpose.
Thus circumstanced, without Employment and in appearance cast off, I have written the within letter to the Prince De Nassau, which I leave open for your perusal. Should you find the whole, or any part of it improper I beg of you to withhold it.
After all my disappointments I am yet persuaded that the Court had from the beginning and still have intentions in my favor, since you know the connection is not of my seeking. I am with the highest sense of your Friendship and Goodness Honored and Dear Sir Your truely Obliged very Obedient very humble Servant
Jno P Jones

NB. I have engaged part of the porter and will send some round to Havre de Grace for you & for Mr. Adams.
His Excellency Doctor Franklin

Endorsed: Augt 24 78 de Brest. Capt Jones


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Griffith Williams, 24 August 1778
From: Williams, Griffith
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
London August. 24. 1778.
By favour of Captn. Channing send you few lines Aquainting you that matters in this Country are likely to take a very diffrent turn to What was expected by the favourers of despotism to the West’ard of London.
All men agree (Confesedly) that the Conquest of America is now utterly inpracticable; the most Bloody invoakers of the destruction of that Country are now reduced to wish for peace at any rate, a very diffrent language to their Boasting threats few years ago.
I need not enlarge. Captn. Channing will fully inform you of particulars have the Honour to Remain Yours very Sincerely
G.W.

    Notation: G.W. London Aug 24


Title: Ralph Izard to the American Commissioners, 25 August 1778: résumé
From: Izard, Ralph
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Paris, August 25, 1778: I lately received a letter from Florence recommending we attempt to involve the French court as security in any attempt to procure a loan in Genoa. Should I apply to the count de Vergennes on the subject or do you believe the application should first be made by you?

Captain Woodford who intends to command a vessel from Leghorn fears meeting cruisers from the coast of Africa. By Article 8 of the Treaty of Commerce the King of France engages to use his good offices with the Barbary States to protect our inhabitants, ships and effects from such attacks. Please inform me whether the French court has taken any steps in the matter.>


Title: The American Commissioners to Ralph Izard, 25[–27] August 1778: résumé
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Izard, Ralph

<Passy, August 25[–27], 1778: We will propose tomorrow to the count de Vergennes the subjects of the loan in Genoa and the interposition of His Majesty with the powers of Barbary. P.S.: The count de Vergennes gave us no encouragement in the affair of the loan. The other matter will be the subject of a proposed written memorial.>


Title: Thomas Read to the American Commissioners, 25 August 1778: résumé
From: Read, Thomas
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Nantes, August 25, 1778: I received yours by Capt. Barnes. I am recovering from an illness, and should be ready for sea in a few days. I request leave to sail for three months; I have sufficient provisions for that long, and, having brought thirty-one men, need only two more, for whom I request expenses. The men belonging to my vessel are willing to relinquish their high wages and sail for continental pay. My cruising in the Mediterranean, which I know very well, could more than repay all expenses. It will soon be the season for Newfoundland ships bringing fish to market; we need carry but a small quantity of provisions. I would like an answer as soon as possible.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Peter Collas, 25 August 1778
From: Collas, Peter
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honorable Sir
Nants August 25th 1778
It is with honour, pleasure and Satisfaction I here by Imform you of my going to take my Departure from this place to boston On board of Captn. Barnes where I hope if fortune favour to meet with your worthy Sister and her Amaible Darther; Same time geaving you thanks for the Numberless favours Showed to the familly of whom I have the honor (by Mareage) to be Conected and Perticulerly for the last Showed me at Passy, Same time Endeavor to geave Satisfaction to all my beneefacters, not withstanding my Repeeted mesfortunes. I Remains with due Respects your most Humble and Obedeint Servant
Peter Collas
To the honorable Benjamin Franklin

Addressed: Honorable / Benjaman Franklin / at / Passy
Endorsed: Peter Collas
Notation: 25. August. 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Trottier, 25 August 1778: résumé
From: Trottier, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<From La Breteche, near Tours, August 25, 1778, in French: Rumor has it that some Americans have been so taken with the beauty of Tours and surroundings that they would like to own or rent property near the river. The lovely house I have to offer will soon be connected by a new bridge to the center of town. It was lived in for a year by the Ogilvie family, relatives of the Duke of Richmond. Tours is a commercially very active town, famous for its textiles. I hope to be of service to you.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Valltravers, 25 August 1778
From: Valltravers, Johann Rodolphe
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir!
Rockhall, at Bienne, in Switzerland,Augt. 25th. 1778.
Since no Letter is dispatched from the Post-office at Paris, to any Part of Switzerland, except Genève, which has not been Free’d to the Frontier-Town of Pontarlier; and I may very possibly have forgot, to inform Yr. Eycy. of this Circumstance: I now beginn to attribute my Misfortune in not hearing from You, in Answer to my 3. last Letters, of april 14th. May 17th. and July 26th., not to your silence; but to yr. Letters being detained in the Post-office at Paris, for Want of their being free’d by yr. servant. Yr. Excy., whose Punctuality and Kindness I have So often experienced, will certainly thank me for this Hint, and order the Recovery of what Letters may have been stopt in their Way from Passy to this Place; and which I Much long to receive.
Since my last, I have been sollicited by my old good Neighbour, Baillif de Graffenried, Baron of Worb, a Gentleman of Rank and of Ingenuity, a Lover of planting and gardening and a Grandson of one of the chief settlers of N. America, who has already 4. Children from his Wife, an amiable young Lady, of his own Rank and Name: to obtain some Information, on the few queries, contained in his inclosed Memorial. The first of these Queries may easily be answered by the Deputy of the Province of N. Carolina to the general Congress. As to the second, concerning the Use of all his Grants and Title-Deeds, inherited by his Grandfather, perhaps some satisfactory Answer may be Kindly given him, by Yr. Excy. self? In which Case your Kind opinion shall be esteemed a particular Favor. My own he has already, as far as I could conjecture. Vizt. That the Baron should send his Répresentatif, with full Powers and Instructions, to each of the Provinces, where his Inheritances are situated; with legal Copies of all his Title-Deeds, and Filiation; to claim in his Name all such Lands, as have not been vacated, sold, ceded seized for Debts, or Non-Payment of Taxes, Contributions and to renew the Grants thereof by the present new Legislative Power; To setle, what Parts may turn to best Account, by Emigrants from Europe; and to act in his and his Family’s Behalf, as a Faithfull, active, and intelligent Agent, under adequate support and Encouragement.
With my best Wishes for Yr. Excy’s. Health, and For the Prosperity of our respectable sister-Republicks in N: America, and with due Respects to your Colleagues and Grandson, I beg Leave to remain for ever Sir! Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble servant
Rodh. Valltravers.

Notation: M. Valtravers [illegible] 1778


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, [c. 26 August 1778]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
[c. August 26, 1778]
If you write to this Mr. Barnes, please to acquaint him that the Reason he had no Answer from me to his Letter was because he did not send word where he lodged. I agree to the 5 Guineas.
BF.
To Mr. Adams


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 26 August 1778: résumé
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

  <Bordeaux, August 26, 1778: Last evening arrived one of Captain McNeill’s prizes, the brig Archangel, taken at latitude 72° N. longitude 25° E. while en route from Archangel to London. A boat from Boston belonging to Basmarein & Co. has arrived but brings no news. Captain Ayres continues to decline; I have sent him to the country but the doctor believes he is too far gone. The ship [General Arnold] is ready for sea on short notice.>


Title: James Moylan to the American Commissioners, 26 August 1778: résumé
From: Moylan, James
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<L’Orient, August 26, 1778: Capt. Daniel McNeill arrived here yesterday on the General Mifflin, privateer. He left Portsmouth May 8, cruised the north seas, and captured thirteen prizes there and at the mouth of the Channel. Five he sunk, the rest he sent to America or France; one [the Isabelle] arrived here. He also has some fifty prisoners. Can they be exchanged for Americans imprisoned in England?>


Title: Puchelberg & Cie. to the American Commissioners, 26 August 1778: résumé
From: Puchelberg & Cie.
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<L’Orient, August 26, 1778, in French: We refer to our letter of the 24th and to the arrival of the General Mifflin, Captain Daniel McNeill. McNeill wishes to sell the recaptured French ship [Isabelle]. Since his commission and those of his officers conform to Captain Tucker’s, it may be necessary for him to report his captures to Tucker and divide the proceeds accordingly. We request instructions.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, [26 August? 1778]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

De Paris ce mercredy [August 26?, 1778] au Soir
Je vous tourmente toujours mon Illustre Docteur mais c’est par contrecoup parcequ’on me tourmente aussi. Je vous ai demandé une lettre de recommandation pour un negociant de St. Brieuc M. De La Lande Robinot qui doit envoyer un vaisseau richement chargé en Amérique. Vous m’avez dit qu’il falloit que vous seussiez quelle sorte d’homme etoit ce négociant. Je vous ai donné une lettre que m’a écrit un Maitre des requêtes à son sujet et ce maitre des requetes est un homme de merite et très estimable. Vous avez bien voulu me promettre la lettre et je crains que vous ne m’ayez oublié. Cependant ce vaisseau doit partir sous dix ou douze jours et n’attend véritablement que votre Lettre. Permettez donc que je vous renouvelle la requête que je vous ai presentée à son sujet. Pour vous dédommager de cette importunité, je trahirai un petit secret que l’on m’a confié c’est qu’une belle Dame doit vous aller demander à dîner Dimanche et cette Dame est Mde. De Marcenay. Vous inspirez des passions de tous les côtés. Ne trahissez pas le traître. Mr. De Caraman de qui j’ai recu une lettre ce matin et qui me charge de vous dire mille choses pour lui m’a envoyé un petit papier pour vous faire une demande de la part de M. Le Baron de Wimpfen. Je les joins ici. Recevez Mon Illustre Docteur mille assurrances des sentimens d’attachement que je vous ai voués pour la vie
Le Roy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 26 August 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and honored Sir,
Nantes Augt 26. 1778.
Mr. Porter of Connecticut who was lately at Paris applied to me in distress for Money and said you desired him to do so: I advancd him four Guineas as per the inclosed Receipt relying on his word that you would not object to it.
Mr. Leger Capt. Jno. Nicholsons first Lieutenant is arrived here and has no money, the 10 Guineas he received at Paris being spent in living there and coming hither. He has applied to Mr. Schweighauser who has no orders therefore did not supply him. He requests me to write to you and asks your assistance to enable him to pay for his support here during the Time he is obliged to stay, and to furnish him with some necessarys for his voyage. If you think proper to comply with his request please to limit the Sum. Many other americans are here in similar Situations without prospects of paying their necessary Debts, which daily increase by their Stay.
Please to remember me with Gratitude to all the agreeable Circles at Passy particularly to Madame Brillon and her amiable Family.
My Love to Billy, I thank him for the letter he sent me under a blank Cover.
Capt. Collas goes in a day or two, I write to aunt mecom by him. I am with great Respect Your Dutifull and obliged Kinsman
J Williams J

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiare / des Etats unis / en son Hotel / a Passy / prés Paris
Endorsed: Jonathan Wms. about supplying Money
Notations in different hands: Nantes 26 aout 1778 / referred to the other Commissioners.


Title: The American Commissioners to John Bondfield, 27 August 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Bondfield, John

Sir
Passi August 27 1778.
We have before us yours of the 23d Inst. and are very sorry that Capt. Ayres is so indisposed as to prevent his return to America in the General Arnold. We wholly refer the appointmt. of a Master for this Vessel to you and Capt. Ayres and doubt not you will find a good Seaman and a person in whom you can confide. We are &c.
Mr Bonfield


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georges Grand, 27 August 1778
From: Grand, Isaac-Jean-Georges-Jonas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Amsterdam le 27 Aoust 1778
Depuis la Lettre que J’ay eu l’honneur de vous ecrire le 20 de ce mois M. Hancok à attendu les 3 malles qui sont arrivées d’Angleterre sans avoir receu les nouvelles, et les remises qu’il attendait.
Dans l’idée que les Lettres de son frere sont intercéptées, il s’est décidé à partir ce matin pour se rendre auprés de Vous, ou Je compte qu’il arrivera dans la huitaine.
Je luy ai fourni des recommandations, avec une dirêction pour sa route aprés luy avoir procuré un Passeport, et comme sa dépense à augmenté par son séjour, il à eu besoin d’un suplêment de 10 Ducats, dont voicy son reçeu. Vous voudrés bien les rembourser à mon frere, sur le Mandat de ma Maison de £115.2.9. argent de françe.
Voicy une Lettre qui m’a eté addressée pour vous, par le bon Mr. Hutton, toujours Anglais Pacifique, Votre Amy et le mien, mais encore plus celuy de George III. J’ay l’honneur d’etre avec la plus parfaite Considération Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Grand
Honble. Doctr. Franklin

Addressed: To / The Honble. Doctor Franklin / Paris.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from de Reine, 27 August 1778
From: Reine, —— de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur Le docteur
a versailles le 27 aoust 1778
Hier a l’hotel De joui j’ai eu l’honneur de vous parler d’un topique de plus merveillieux pour la reunion des os pour toute les fractures.
Cette objet est trop interressant pour l’humanité pour être négligé: autant il paroit extraordinaire vérifié par nombre D’Experiance appuyée de certificat les plus autentique. Cependant je vous Supplie, Monsieur le docteur, d’avoir la bonté de vous donner la peine d’Examiner par vous même cette important objet pour reconnoitre la verité!

Pour cette effet Si vous voulez accelerer et profitter du sejour a paris de la personne qui possede cette découverte, vous pouvez Ecrire de ma part directement a Madame la veuve detoujan rue St andré des arts au caffe militaire a paris, et avoir la bonté de donner vos ordres pour le Jour et l’heure que vous serez visible elle se rendra chez vous.
J’auray beaucoup de Satisfaction si ma prévoiance peu devenir utile a votre patrie! Et je seray surpayé d’avance par le plaisir de vous assurer de toute ma vénération avec laquel j’ai l’honneur d’Etre Monsieur Le docteur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
De Reineancien capt. rue Sataury aux 4. bornes.
a M. Le docteur franklin a passy

Endorsed: De Reine


Title: [Ferdinand Grand]: Memorandum for the American Commissioners, [before 28 August? 1778]
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

[before August 28, 1778?]
Le Congrés a authorisé ses Comissionaires a emprunter en Europe 2 millions Stl. soit 46 millions argent de france remboursable dans 10 ans a l’interret de 6 pct. tous fraix faits.
Les Comissionaires ont en consequence commence par faire imprimer pour 4 millions de promesses. Quoyqu’ils n’en ayent pas encorre fait usage ils ont tout lieu d’esperer que la bonne opinion que l’on a generalement et avec fondement de la fidelité et de la solidite de leur Pays, facilitera beaucoup cet emprunt et nuira meme à ceux que L’angleterre sera obligée d’ouvrir dans peu.
La simplicité de cet emprunt ajoute a l’economie de l’interret celle des fraix, et son utilité pour nos manufactures doit non seulement le favoriser mais meme le proteger puisqu’il pourroit etre utille au Gouvernement de s’en charger et de proffiter des moyens qu’il a de faire usage de ces promesses pour les faire gouter du public de sorte que sans paroitre, c’est a dire sans faire usage de son credit, le Gouvernement peut se procurer des ressources utiles par la d’autant que si les arrangements que le Congres a pris ont lieu, il n’aura besoin que de la plus petite partie de cet emprunt, et le surplus seroit une jouissance pour l’administration qui pendant cet Intervalle menageroit ses moyens directs et seroit en effet le moyen le plus heureux et le plus sur de retablir la confiance et de la porter à son plus haut degré que de ne point faire paroitre d’emprunt pendant que les autres puissances font à qui mieux mieux. Il suffiroit pour cella que les Comissionaires ameriquains fussent asseurés de trouver au tresor royal les secours necessaires au fur et mesure de leurs besoins sans etre dispensés de travailler come si de rien n’etoit au debouché de leurs promesses dans l’Etranger surtout et que les fonds qui en proviendroyent fussent versés au tresor Royal.


Title: The American Commissioners to James Smith, 28 August 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Smith, James

Sir,
Passi Aug 28. 1778
We received your Letter dated Paris Hotel de Saxe Aug. 24. and, altho We are altogether of a different opinion from yours respecting your Right of passing with your Effects Americans being intituled by the Treaty, no more than the Subjects of any other state in Europe in Amity with France, to pass with their Effects Duty free; yet having the Honour, on the 26 of seeing the Compte De Vergennes, We mentioned your Case to him and requested of him as a Favour that you might be permitted to pass with your Effects. His Excellency desired us to commit it to writing, which We have done this Day; but We wish you had furnished Us with an Invoice, which We suppose would have rendered the Business less difficult. We have however contented ourselves with the general Description of your goods contained in your Letter. We wish you Safe to America, and are your Countrymen and humble servants.
Dr James Smith Hotel de Saxe. Paris, Rue de Columbie


Title: The American Commissioners to Vergennes, 28 August 1778: résumé
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

<Passy, August 28, 1778: We have several subjects that we must lay before you. One, unfortunately, is money. The nature of the war has necessitated far more emissions of paper currency than would ordinarily have been wise; to limit them Congress has borrowed extensively, with interest to be paid in Europe, great sums of which are now due. The financial assistance so generously furnished us is almost spent, and our expenses here have been so great that our resources are exhausted. We hope that His Majesty’s quarterly payment of 750.000 l.t. may be continued. Congress authorized us to borrow two million sterling, and we request permission to raise such part of it in this kingdom as may be possible. We are willing to limit the interest to that given by His Majesty, to whom most will prefer to lend; but the desire to establish commercial connections may induce some to serve the Americans in this way.

We understand that ships of ours in Italy wishing to return home, and Italian merchants wishing to trade with America, are deterred by the danger from Barbary corsairs. We therefore request assistance through His Majesty’s good offices with the Barbary states, as stipulated in the Treaty of Commerce.
Many Americans in England and on the Continent want to return home but fear difficulties in removing their property. We submit to His Majesty’s wisdom whether some way may be found for them to pass through this kingdom with their personal effects, not for sale, without paying duty. Dr. Smith informs us that part of his baggage, consisting of household linen and plate, is detained in Calais as contraband. We should be grateful if you could secure him permission to take his effects home with him duty free. We also request a passport for the English ship that is to land our prisoners as close to Brest as possible.>


Title: John Paul Jones to the American Commissioners, 28 August 1778: résumé
From: Jones, John Paul
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Brest, August 28, 1778: M. de la Prévalaye, who commands here in the absence of the comte d’Orvilliers, has just told me that he can no longer furnish a guard for the Ranger prisoners detained aboard the Patience. Unable to depend on the Ranger’s officers, I had arranged for a guard with the comte d’Orvilliers; he furnished twelve soldiers with officers, relieved daily and altogether supported at the expense of France. Not a single prisoner has so far escaped. Were d’Orvilliers still here, I am sure he would order the guard continued. I entreat you to apply immediately to the French minister so that a cartel may not be lost.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 28 August 1778
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
La Haie 28e Août 1778.
Les Lettres que j’ai reçues, et les Dépêches que j’ai pu voir depuis quelque temps, ne me disent rien de plus que ce [que] publient en même temps les Gazettes, et surtout celle de Leide, qui est la meilleure, et laquelle je suppose que vous voyez regulierement. J’ai craint, depuis ma derniere du 18, d’abuser du précieux temps de l’honorable Commission en écrivant ce qui ne valoit pas la peine d’être lu. Je vois cependant tous les jours Mr. le g—— F——. Je crois qu’il n’a pas non plus des choses fort importantes et pressantes à apprendre à sa maison. Tout est absent, et voltige dans les champs, comme des papillons, pendant ce bel Eté. Nous faisons pourtant toujours la guerre à l’oeil; et en attendant plus grande partie, nous pelotons toujours quelque petite occurrence, dont le détail, d’ailleurs inutile, ne se fie pas trop au papier. En voici pourtant une qui me fait mettre la main à la plume, parce qu’elle pourra vous intéresser. Mr. Hutton, le Morave, qui, diton, vous a porté des propositions d’accommodement, est ici depuis quelque temps, logé, d’abord chez Mad. Fagel née Boreel, et depuis 15 jours à une campagne près d’ici, chez son ami Mr. de Salgas, qui vient d’épouser Mad. Bicker, née Boreel, et pour les noces duquel il paroît être venu. Cependant, nous n’avons pas laissé de croire à la possibilité de quelque négociation secrete, cachée sous ce voyage; et j’ai profité de l’occasion, toute naturelle, qui se présentoit, d’aller féliciter Salgas. Celui-ci tire une pension de 600 L.St. et porte la clé du R—— G——, pour avoir été précepteur de ses enfans pendant quelques années. Je crois donc qu’il l’aime mieux que nous. Cependant, comme je me suis apperçu que sa prospérité ne lui a pas fait méconnoître ses anciennes connoissances, j’ai continué de l’estimer et de le voir. Nous observons seulement, l’un avec l’autre, une discrétion vraiment Pythagorique sur les affaires du temps. J’y ai vu Mr. Hutton. Il m’a paru un Ange. Je le voudrois seulement d’une autre secte, s’il est si nécessaire que l’homme en ait une: car la sienne est celle de toutes dont les connoisseurs se défient le plus. Leur Communauté parfaite de biens (et peut-être de f—— [femmes]) qui fait que de Hispahan à Zeist, et jusqu’en Amérique et au Groenland, ils ont le compte exact de la recette et dépense commune; leur despotisme absolu sur les esprits, qui prescrit à chaque classe, depuis la plus bête jusqu’à la premiere moins une, ce qu’elle doit savoir sans plus; leur nombre, beaucoup plus grand qu’on ne sait et qu’on ne pense: tout cela la rend plus redoutable encore que celle des Jésuites. Pardonnez-moi la digression, si elle est de trop. Dans la conversation Mr. Hutton me demanda si je connoissois Mr. le Chevalier Grand d’Amsterdam. Je lui dis qu’oui. Il se mit tout de suite à lui écrire une Lettre, qu’il me pria de remettre à la poste en rentrant en ville. Je l’ai fait. Demain, je compte de lui faire une visite de civilité, pour lui offrir mes services de la part de Mr. Grand, de qui je me le suis fait écrire. Si j’observe quelque autre chose d’extraordinaire, je vous en ferai part, Monsieur; sinon je n’en parlerai plus car il doit s’en retourner la semaine qui vient par Bruxelle en Angleterre. Le g—— F—— est instruit de cela, et me fait agir.
Voici quelques dépêches. Conservez, s’il vous plait celle de Paramaribo, pour la retrouver au besoin: car quand le g—— F——, qui vient d’aller pour huit jours à Amsterdam, etc. sera de retour, je le consulterai, si l’on ne pourroit pas saisir cette occasion, pour faire quelque démarche, qui mît cette République dans la nécessité de parler. Je fais bien des voeux pour la conservation de votre santé, et suis avec un très respectueux attachement, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
Dumas
Vous verrez, dans le bout de Gazette ci-joint, le but de Particle marqué X.Paris à S.E.M. le Dr. Franklin Esqr., Min. Pl. des E.U. de l’Am.

Notation: M. Dumas / 28 Aug. 1778


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 29 August 1778: résumé
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Bordeaux, August 29, 1778: I have received your letter of the 19th commissioning the purchase of 56 pieces of cannon. I suspect it will be November before I can collect them. I presume they are for naval use; let me know where to send them. I am without instructions for the General Arnold; the delays cause very heavy expenses which are charged to me. Another of the General Mifflin’s prizes bound from London to Archangel has arrived at the address of my friend Jean Baptiste Nairac at La Rochelle. The privateer Oliver Cromwell was met north of the Azores. Merchants here are alarmed that the West India ships were abandoned by their convoy escort off Bermuda. Future instructions for the naval captains providing convoy will probably be changed and hopefully our ships will share the protection accorded America-bound French ships.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Hill, 29 August 1778
From: Hill, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Paris Ce 29 Aoust 1778
J’ai recu de Mr. Franklin la somme de Cinq Cent Livres a Compte, de ce qu’il me doit de Memoire que je luy ai donné,
Hill

Notation: Hills Rect for 500 Livs


Title: John Paul Jones to the American Commissioners, 30 August 1778: résumé
From: Jones, John Paul
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Brest, August 30, 1778: My friend M. de la Porte, intendant, has now agreed to furnish a vessel and send the Ranger’s prisoners to England, if you consent. This offer is too generous to refuse.
The guard will be discontinued unless you procure an order from the minister. As for the exchange, perhaps M. de Sartine will agree to the transport of prisoners by water to Calais; transportation by land would be expensive. If a direct exchange can be effected, this will be the way of least risk, trouble, and expense.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from François Teissedre de Fleury, 30 August 1778
From: Fleury, François Teissedre de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
a St. hipolitte ce 30 aoust 1778
Je viens d’etre informé par un de mes amis a qui je m’etais adressé pour qu’il me procurat s’il lui etoit possible des nouvelles de mon fils n’en ejant [ayant] pas eu depuis un fort longtemps, il me mande par le courrier d’aujourdhui qu’il a appris qu’il avoit ete fait prisonnier avec pleusieurs autres officiers francais sur la delavare, et conduits a St. augustin dans la floride. Je m’adresse a vous monsieur dans la confiance ou je suis que vous ne refuseres pas a un pere et a une mere avances dans l’age, et qui n’ont que ce seul enfant pour toute consolation de leur en donner des nouvelles et leur dire si ce qu’on leur a ecrit est bien vray persuadé que nous sommes que vous en etes instruit. Je ne me borneray pas monsieur a vous demander cette seule grace, je vous prieray encore de vouloir bien faire tout ce qui dependra de vous aupres du congré pour qu’il soit echangé et qu’il lui soit fourni tout ce qui peut lui etre necessaire et etre assuré du remboursement des avances qu’on lui aura faites. Je voudrois bien monsieur trouver quelques occasions a vous donner des preuves de ma sensibilite a touts vos biens faits et de l’attachement respectueux avec lequel je suis Monsieur Votres tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
De Fleury

Veuilliés monsieur m’honorer dune reponse pour la tranquilité d’un pere et d’une mere qui sont dans les plus grandes allarmes sur le conte de leur fils et que l’on vous en donne des nouvelles lorsque vous ecrires a l’amerique. Mon adresse est a M. de fleury cosseigneur de la ville de St. hipolitte par montpellier a St. hipolitte en cevennes

Notation: Defleury St. Hippolite 30e mars [sic] 1778.


Title: The American Commissioners to Horneca, Fizeaux & Cie., 31 August 1778: résumé
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Horneca, Fizeaux & Cie.

<Passy, August 31, 1778, in French: We send by Mr. Whitall a book of promissory notes and interest coupons, for 205,000 florins payable on January 1, 1788. You will fill in the blanks in each with the number and date of delivery, likewise the counterfoils, and keep an exact record. Sell the notes only for cash, as soon as possible and with due prudence. We are allowing you one percent to cover expenses. Correspond with us or our successors to arrange the prompt remittance of funds received.>


Title: The American Commissioners to Musco Livingston, 31 August 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Livingston, Musco

Sir
Passi Aug. 31. 1778
We are favoured with yours of the 24, and are not able to give you any certain Directions concerning the Duties upon C. Tucker’s Prizes. We have heretofore taken a great deal of Pains concerning the Subject of Prizes, and the Duties which must be paid upon them. Mr. Schweighauser of Nantes has obtained, as We understand, from M. Necker, a List of the Duties that must be paid, untill a general Regulation can be made. M. De Sartine has for some Time been employd in preparing a system of Regulations, concerning Prises and Prisoners, which We expect every day to see determind by public Authority. We shall write to Mr. Schweighauser on the Subject, and must refer you to him for the present, and are &c.
Mr Livingston at Nantes.


Title: The American Commissioners to James Moylan, 31 August 1778: résumé
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Moylan, James

<Passy, August 31, 1778: We are pleased to hear from you of the good success as well as the adventurous and patriotic spirit of Capt. McNeill. When the prisoner exchange we have been promised is accomplished, his prisoners can be exchanged for a like number of our suffering countrymen. We will inform you when the necessary passports arrive. We expect in a few days new French regulations on prizes and prisoners; orders have already been sent to keep the prisoners in French prisons. Officers’ paroles have been generally taken.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Paul Jones, 31 August 1778
From: Jones, John Paul
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored and dear Sir,
Brest August 31st. 1778.
Since my return here I have written several letters to Doctor Bancroft, to none of which I have yet received any Answer, tho’ the first was dated the 14th. and left Brest by the next mornings Post. This has made me Apprehend that he is absent from Paris as I know he purposed going to Holland upon hearing from Mr. Deane. I am therefore induced to trouble you with the foregoing and inclosed, the Originals of which were made up in one of my letters to Doctor Bancroft. If my letter of the 15th. to the Commissioners has not been presented before this reaches your Hands, I beg you to Suppress it, the Frigates having Sailed the 22d.
It is reported here this morning that the Jamaica Fleet of 70 Sail under Convoy of the Portland and four Frigates passed in sight of the Brest Fleet and got clear, because Comte D’Orvilliers would not break his Line in the Chase. I wish to disbeleive this Account because I had written to him that such a Fleet was expected, And I should be exceedingly sorry to find it true as it would give his Enemies such an Opportunity of talking.
I endeavour to Console myself with the Reflection that my own situation cannot well be altered for the worse: I must Acknowlidge however that I have need of some of your Philosophy, yet ardently wishing for Opportunities to Merit the Continuance of your Friendship and Good Opinion, I am Honored and dear Sir Your very Obliged very Obedient very humble Servant
Jno P Jones
His Excellency Doctor Franklin.

Endorsed: Capt. Jones Brest. Aug. 24. 78


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles-Armand Flöbergue de la Motte de la Rocatelle, [August? 1778]: résumé
From: Flöbergue de la Motte de la Rocatelle, Charles-Armand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Toul, [August?, 1778], in French: On the 28th of last June I addressed a memorandum to Congress and to M. Washington and sent the packet to M. Williams to forward. He did not reply, and I have heard nothing from America; the packet, I fear, was lost. I send you enclosed the same memorandum, in which I propose to head a school to teach young Americans all that is requisite for engineers and artillerymen. I shall need as assistants an expert mathematician and a cartographer-draftsman.
When I saw you in Paris about a year ago I showed you all my papers. I speak German well, having as I told you been in the service of the Emperor Charles VII. I was recalled to the French service in 1745 and was in all the campaigns from 1741 to 1748, and again in 1760. In 1763 I became a chevalier de Saint-Louis at the age of thirty-six, was promoted to major in 1774, and retired in 1777. If fortune had favored me I should have gone to America last winter with the recommendations that you offered me. I still have in me twenty years of useful service, and promise to learn English within a year of emigrating; my family will go with me, a wife, son, and three daughters. M. Duportail is fourteen years my junior, M. de La Radière fifteen, and Messrs. Laumoy and Gouvion nineteen; thus I deserve a higher rank than M. Duportail. They are good officers, but have not experienced war except in their American campaign last year.>


Title: Vergennes and the American Commissioners: An Exchange of Declarations, 1 September 1778
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de,American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To:

On August 3 the commissioners finally received the anticipated permission to delete articles 11 and 12 from the Treaty of Amity and Commerce. Vergennes’ undersecretary drafted both a French and an American declaration to serve the purpose (documents I and II); Franklin then prepared an English translation of the latter (document III). For some reason, however, the formal exchange of declarations did not occur until November.

I.
A Velles [Versailles] le ler jour du mois ler. de 7bre.1778.
Le Congrès-général des Etats unis de L’Amérique septentrionale ayant representé au Roi que l’exécution de l’article 11. du traité d’amitié et de commerce signé le 6 du mois de fevrier dernier pourroit entrainer des inconvénients après soi, et ayant desiré en conséquence que cet article demeurat suprimé, consentant en échange que l’article 12. soit également regardé comme non avenu, S.M. [Sa Majesté] pour donner aux Etatsunis de l’Amérique Septentrionale une nouvelle preuve de son affection ainsi que de son desir de consolider l’union et la bonne correspondance établies entre les deuxs Etats, a bien voulu avoir égard à leurs representations; en conséquence S.M. a déclaré et déclare par les presentes qu’elle consent à la suppression des articles 11. et 12. susmentionés, et que son intention est qu’ils soient regardés comme n’ayant jamais été compris dans le Traité signé le 6 fevr. dernier.

II.
Declaration
[on or after September 1, 1778]
Le Roi Très-chrêtien ayant bien voulu avoir égard aux representations que lui a faites le Congrès-général de l’Amerique Septentrionale relativement à l’article 11. du traité de commerce signé le 6. fev. de la presente année, et S.M. ayant consenti en conséquence que le dit article demeurât supprimé a condition que l’article 12. du même traité fut également regardé comme non-avenu; Le Congrès général a declaré de son coté et declare qu’il consent à la suppression des articles 11. et 12. susmentionnés, et que son intention est qu’ils soient regardés comme n’ayant jamais été compris dans le traité signe le 6 fev. dernier.

III.
Declaration
[after September 1, 1778]
The most Christian King having been pleased to regard the Representation made to him by the general Congress of North America, relating to the 11th Article of the Treaty of Commerce signed the 6th of February in the present Year, and his Majesty having therefore consented that the said Article should be suppress’d, on condition that the 12th Article of the same Treaty be equally regarded as of none Effect. The abovesaid general Congress hath declared on their part, and do declare, that they consent to the Suppression of the Eleventh and Twelfth Articles of the abovementioned Treaty, and that their Intention is that these Articles be regarded as having never been comprised in the Treaty signed the 6th of February. In faith whereof, &c.