Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 5 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Monsieur,
Passy ce 5 Sept. 1779.
J’ay l’honneur d’informer votre Excellence, que le Commodore Jones a prie le vingt du Mois d’Aoust, par les 50 Degrés 20 Minutes Latitude, un Brig Anglois nommé le May Flower, de soixante dix Tonneaux, Chargé de Beuf et de Beurre Salés, de Biere et de quelques Balles de Plumes, destiné pour Londres. Le Capitaine de cette Prise arrivé a L’Orient, a rapporté que le dix neuf du dit Mois le Corsaire le Monsieur qui s’etoit joint au dit Commodore avait fait une Prise chargé de Vin d’Espagne et de Soye d’assez grande Importance pour que le dit Corsaire se separat de l’Escadre pour la conserver.
Je suis avec Respect, Monsieur, Votre très humble très obeissant Serviteur
B Franklin
M. De Sartine, Ministre & sece. D’Etat.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Henderson and John Smith, 5 September 1779
From: Henderson, Robert,Smith, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Revd Sir
Vandome Sepr the 5th 1779
I hope you well excues me for making So Bold as to troubale you with thes feaw lines: in the meantime it is the humbl Petition of a Prisinor of war that is willing to enter in the America Serves as I hear that there is two Cutters fitting out at St Malos and I know how to Manage a Cutter on the Cost of England for I formley Belonged to a Smuggling Cutter of Dover and I am aquanted with all the Banks about the Downs and elswhere: Sir if you Could Per Coure lave for us two to Go whear the Cutters is and a Pas Port to travel to them: Sir I hope your honor will Be So obliging as Send an answer to this and Derect for me at Vandome and in So Dowing you will oblige your most Humble Servants &c
Robert HendersonJohn Smith

Addressed: To / the Reverand Dr / francklin ameriacan / eagent in Paris
Notation: Prisoners Requests Vandoine Sept. 5. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Francis Hopkinson, 5 September 1779
From: Hopkinson, Francis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Friend
Philada. Septr. 5th. 1779—
Your very obliging Favour of the 4th. June came to hand within these few Days. My Friendship & Pride were both highly gratified by this Indulgence. I hope I shall always endeavour to merit your Esteem & the Esteem of all good Men. The Trust you have been pleased to repose in me does me Honour, & I doubt not but you may depend on the Exertion of my best services in every thing that respects you or your Affairs.
I thank you for the little Piece of Oxford Wit— I have just made your Pig squeak in Dunlap’s Packet. Kill pig has brought his Pigs to a fine Market truly—& as ’tis Pity his knife & steel should be unemploy’d; the best he can do is to cut his own Throat.— In Return for your Rocket I send you a few of my political Squibbs. Ammunition of this kind hath been rather scarce with us. Most of our Writers have left the great Field of general politics, wherein they might have been of considerable Service, to skirmish & bush-fight in the Furs and Thickets of Party Dispute—for which I blame them much.—
I am greatly obliged by the Use of your electric apparatus, of which I shall take particular Care. You will perhaps repent of your Kindness when I tell you that I am preparing a long Letter to you on the Subject of Electricity. It would have been forwarded to you before now, but the Summer Season being unfavourable for Electrical Experiments & my Time much engaged in the Duties of my office, I have not been able to compleat my System.— Should you find Time to write to me again, I would just hint that you cannot oblige me more than by communicating any new philosophical Discoveries, or Systems, new Improvements in Mathematical or philosophical Machinery—new Phenomena—new Doctrines Gim-Cracks &ca for all which I have an insatiable Avidity— When I was in London I never ventur’d into Nairne’s or Adams’s Shops, ’till I was just ready to sail for America & had spent all my Money not caring to expose myself to irrisistable Temptation.
I have been honoured with the Post of Judge of the Court of Admiralty for this State & have Reason to believe that I have hitherto given Satisfaction in that Department. As this office does not interfere with my Business as Treasurer of Loans, I retain both & have Occasion to use much Industry and Attention.— Such is the unhappy State of our Currency that I am but just enabled to support my Family with the two offices but my Hope is, in future Prospects.
Monsr. Luzerne not yet arrived in this City but soon expected. I shall think myself honour’d in his Acquaintance. We have been extreamly happy with Mr. Gerard who has made himself beloved by every Body here (except the Tories) & will be universally regretted when he leaves us—by him I send this Letter.
Mrs. Bache tells me you have sent a Bust of yourself by Mr. Luzerne— She has promised to send for me when it is to be unpack’d— I hope she won’t forget her Promise— She has been so good as to give me one of the Profiles in Clay you sent over.
A good Likeness of General Washington goes over with Mr. Gerard— I doubt not but there will soon be capital Engravings done at Paris from this Picture— I shall expect one from some Body or other—some Friend at Paris or Passey will doubtless remember me.—
But I detain too long with Chit Chat from more important Objects;— I will therefore take my leave of you for the present with most hearty Assurances that I am as I ever have been Your sincerely affectionate Friend & humble servt
Fras Hopkinson
P.S. We buried a very worthy Member of Congress yesterday— Mr. W: H— Drayton from So. Carolina—My Mother & Sisters desire to be respectfully remembered to you.—Dr. Franklin

Notation: Fra: Hopkinson Sept 15 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sartine, 5 September 1779
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 5. Sept. 1779.
Je m’occupe, Monsieur, de l’éxecution du projet que j’a eu l’honneur de vous communiquer et qui, S’il a le Succès qu’il y a lieu d’en esperer, fera entrer dans nos ports des Munitions très interessantes, vous avez bien voulu donner ordre à M. Jones de relacher à la fin de sa Croisiere au Texel avec tous les Bâtimens qui composent la Division dont il a le commandement. Le terme de cette croisiere devant expirer dans les derniers jours du mois courant, vous jugerez sans doute a propos d’arranger les choses de maniere que M. Jones trouve, à son arrivée au Texel, des Instructions par les quelles il lui sera prescrit de prendre sous son Escorte les navires Hollandois et autres neutres chargés pour le Compte du Roi et de les conduire dans les ports de leur Destination. Je donne de mon Côté des ordres pour qu’ils soient tenus prêts et je suis persuadé que leur Expedition ne causera pas le moindre retardement. Au surplus je n’ai pas laissé ignorer au Roi, la maniere dont vous vous étes prêté à ce que je vous ai proposé à cet égard; Sa Majesté m’en a paru très satisfaite.
J’ai l’honneur d’être avec une parfaite consideration, Monsieur, votre très humble et très obeissant Serviteur.
(signé) De Sartine
M. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Digges, 6 September 1779
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dr. Sir
Sept. 6. 1779
I ventured to try the fate of two letters to you very lately by common post, cheifly to give information to you & others of a late publick arrest; as also that Mr. Peters’s remittance has been settled to His wish, and that every necessary step has been taken to give Capn. C——n——m information that I was ready to help Him to money or any other necessarys he might want: on accot of his removal from Pendennis to Mill Prison, and from thence (on accot of the late alarm at Plymouth) to an inland Prison of Devonshire, I have not yet been able to get an ansr. to any one of four letters conveyd by different modes to Him, but am in hourly expectation of one. I had taken these steps before yr. letter of the 20th Augt. came to my hands, and by the help of a common friend who forwarded that letter to me. We had obtaind his removal from Pendennis & got him among his friends in Mill Prison, in order to take his rotine of Exche.; and altho there is at present no promising aspect from the Cartel, I am in hopes He will soon get out.
I wrote you on the 4th. by the Chaplain to your Russian Embassy, and put my letter under the usual cover. I could wish You would give me a proper name for the direction of those Letters put under cover to Monr. G. for their may be less risque in so doing. My last was principally to recite the former parts of this letter, and to give further information of Captain Hutchins being apprehended for supposd treasonable correspondence with You and Mr. S. W——n. He has since his commitment undergone three or four close Examinations before Sr. Jno. Feilding, Lord G. G. Mr. DeGrey Mr. Knox; is committd a close prisoner to N Prison Clerkenwell & will likely be tryed for his life at the old Baily in 10 or 12 days. Some say, as an Officer, He will have a Court Martial; but I hope not. Mr. Peisley (who is generally suspected to have turnd informer) has been dischargd on condition of appearing an Evidence agt. him, and Mr. Bundy yet remains a prisoner. As the papers of these three mentiond other names, some other people have been taken up, their papers seizd and examind. &c. Mr. Neaves books & papers have undergone this fate; and it is said a Clerk of his just returnd from France has been apprehended & committed. There was a Miss Stafford also examind and Her papers taken; She was releasd but her papers held. It appears but too clearly that these worthy Examinants are bent upon all the mischief they can towards American People and their abettors, & most likely with an aim to get some publick Execution and raise a clamour against the friends of America, in order to turn the minds & conversation of the populace from the present very gloomy situation of publick affairs. As I obtaind a communication with Capt H and the Lady, I find the principal aim & bent of the Examinants were to pin crimes upon others; and there were particular questions asked about Mr. E——s, Mr. D——s, Mr. E——n and others. Mr. S. W (whom it may be essentially necessary to inform of these particulars in order to prevent his further writing) can inform You who these people are. It is more serious against the former than any of the rest; but if I can judge right, it is not mischeviously so, & the others are not afraid. Poor Capt. H—— disponds exceedingly, says he is a marked victim, is sure no mercy will be shewn him, and hopes his friends will not forsake Him. Every thing will be done for Him that can; and I am strongly of opinion He desponds too much; for I well know His Enemies have been much disapointed that ‘more has not come out.’
The good Mr. Knox has been closer upon Him than any of the rest. He said “You now see Capt H——, by your own confession your life is in our power, but it may be spar’d by your openly delaring every thing & discovering Yr. accomplices and the other secret traitors who are ruining this Country.” I fear very much that Capt. H, being a timid man, has answerd questions put to Him, which He was in no ways obligd to reply to.
I come now to the principal point for which I write You this letter & indeed for which the Bearer purposely takes a trip to Paris: He is a little known to You, but the person who is principally engagd with Him is not. Mr. C——y Sterry is from R Island, & I beg leave to recommend Him to You. The other Gentn (who is ill at present or would also wait on You) is Mr. W Smith of Baltimore Brother to my friend Collo S. Smith who defended mud Fort. These two Gentn have a considerable quantity of Blankets, and Coarse Cloths, and other articles much wanted in a certain Army; and for which Mr. S principally came from Maryland to supply. There is one risque, much lighter than the usual one to Holland St. Eustatia & so on to the Continent; by purchasing a vessel here, getting a crew of their own, & clearing for N Y and taking an oppertunity to slip into the Delaware or some other port. But a cover is wanted to shew that the vessel & Cargoe is orriginally meant for the use of the States, for fear She may be taken & claimd by Amn. Privateers or cruisers going in. As I know the extreem want our people are in for winter Cloathing, and that these two Gentlemen can throw in several thousand pounds worth at a critical season of the year, I have encouragd their trying to get a certificate from You, that the Ship was orriginally meant for some port of the Northern Colonies, & the Cargoe meant to be offerd to the States at the current price. I have no doubt it will be of great public good should they succeed; and as to the propriety of the measure You are the best judge of. I think I can justify my strong recommendation of them & their scheme to You. Mr. Sterry will talk further upon it.
There has been a man here, & who left London abot 8 days ago to return to Paris, that I think worth mentioning to You, tho among the race of Sad Dogs. I suspect as He loung’d pretty much about Almons & tryd to put himself into Company of our friends, & for some other reasons, that He is rather a spy upon Your friends. It is Sr. H. Ecklyn, who has resided many years at Paris, rather a fugitive from this Country. He passd here by the name of Loyd; & when he went away gave out to his intimates He should return from Paris in 10 or 12 days, in order to publish some secrets, relative to underhand offers made to the Court of France by Lord M——s——d and other great men here, if they woud give up America. He is a thin genteel dark man abot 45. There is also another person here from France whom I have reason to believe has been with the Minister. Passes by the name of Monr Belson, is from Britany, lives in a stile, & keeps a Carriage, a genteel dark man, & like most Frenchmen, apt to brag of his importance and being in the secrets of the French ministry.
Poor Raspe has been often with me lately and is much down in the mouth at the treatment He has lately recd from a Russian nobleman by whom He is likely to loose some money. I forwarded a letter from him some weeks ago & by this post send You another.
I shall keep this open until I go into the City to hear the news of this Evening for we are all in such consternation & tremor that every hour may bring some alarming account from Portsmo in which port it is now reported our grand fleet is blockd up by a far superior one of the Enemy. I am with the greatest truth & sincerity Dr. Sir Yr. very obedt. Servant
V.J. Drouillard

Endorsed: Sept. 6
Notation: Digges Sept 7.79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gourlade & Moylan, 6 September 1779
From: Gourlade & Moylan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honord Sir
L’Orient 6th. September 1779
The Schooner Grand Tyger Cap: Blackwell arrived here yesterday from Fredericksbourg in Virginia with a Cargo of Tobacco. She left them Capes the 5th. of last month.
The following few lines is extract of a letter to us from thence, dated 25th. July last and annexed, you will find another extract of a letter to us dated the 20th. of the same month. “We have just now accts. from Charles Town of a Capital Action between our Troops & the Enemy. Our noted General Lincoln, gave them a severe beating, drove them from their entrenchments & took possession of their ground.—Our noble General & Commander in Chief is Idle, Sir Henry Clinton not yet presuming to get out of his Den, tho’ the season is far advanced, I apprehend it must grow warm, but he knows the Country to be still more so, as he woud meet with incessant fire from all quarters.”
The few arrivals from America make us imagine that this intelligence will not be disagreeable to you.— This Vessel we mean to dispatch in fifteen days, she sails remarkably fast for your government.
We have the honor to be respectfully Hond. sir Your most obt. hbl. sts.
Gourlade & Moylan

P.S. Our friend M. Le Ray de Chaumont, no doubt advised you the arrival here of a prize taken by the poor Richard. She arrived too late the last post day for us to have given you advice ther of and to comply with Cap: Jones’s message to us of acquainting yo., he & his fleet were well and that he had not leasure to write you as he was then in pursuit of a cannonade wch. he heard.
G & M

Extract of a Letter from Frederick’sbourg Virginia Dated 20th. of July 1779
We have nothing in the political Line worthy communicating but that some plans have very lately been adopted by some of the states to give some permanency to our Courrency, by reducing the prices of Imported Goods regularly each month, in the same proportion as they have rose. They have also Limitted the prices of the produce of our Country & the Committee of Philadelphia have addressed the Honnble the Congress that they would not emit any more Money for the service of the public but that the people generally should subscribe sums of money, as their Ability wd. admit wch. sums should be Carried to their Cte. in payment of their annuel Taxes; how far these Plans may answer so desirable purpose as the appreciating our Currency time alone must Discover.
Our Latest Accts. from the soward, where the principal scene of Action has been this Campaign, say the ennemy have abandoned the Design of taking Charles-town, nor do they appear very formidable on any part of the Continent, their Want of Reinforcements must soon Compel them to Relinquish every hope of effecting what they have so long aimed at, the subjugating America.

Since writing the foregoing another prize loaded with fish oyl arrived from Cap. Jones’s fleet./.

Notation: Gourlade et Moylan L’Orient 6. 7bre. 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Dumas, 7 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric

Sir,
Passy Sept. 7. 1779
Inclosed is a Letter for Capt. Jones, which you are desired to deliver him yourself as soon as possible, after his Arrival.—It will be well to keep secret that you expect him there.
I hope you had a good Journey home. I am with great Esteem Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
M. Dumas.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Paul Jones, 7 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Jones, John Paul

Sir,
Passy Sept. 7. 1779.
This will be delivered to you by M. Dumas, Agent of the United States of America residing at the Hague, who has Instructions to render you any Services in his Power.
Inclosed I send you a Copy of a Letter I have just received from M. De Sartine. You will do your utmost to render the Service therein mentioned effectual, which will in the present Circumstances be very advantageous to the common Cause, and very acceptable to his Majesty. It will be well to keep your Intention of convoying those Vessels as secret as possible, lest Notice should be sent of it to England, & Ships placed to intercept you.
Your Irish Prize is arrived, that under Convoy of the Monsieur not yet heard of.
I congratulate you on the Taking of Grenada & the Beating of Byron by Count D’Estaing.
I wish you all sorts of Success being ever with great Esteem, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
Commodore Jones.

Endorsed: From Doctr. Franklin of the 7th September inclosg. One from M. de Sartine of Septr: 7th: 1779 No. 12.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Francis Coffyn, 8 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Coffyn, Francis

Sir,
Passy. sept. 8. 1779.
I duly received yours of the 30th. past, which I Should have answered sooner, but that I have been and still am at a Loss what to do as to the Condemnation of the Prizes you mention. In the Commission given to our armed Vessels, they are directed to submit The prizes they may carry into any foreign Port, to the judgment of the Courts of admiralty there establish’d and I expected all along that the admiralty Courts of france would try, and condemn or acquit our Prizes. And I do not yet find that I have any authority to try any Causes of The kind or to pronounce the Condemnation you desire. But I Shall endeavour to inform myself more particularly by consulting Some Lawyers. &c. and will write you the Result. However, to avoid all Such Difficulties for the future, would it not be best for the black Prince, and also the Princess, to take french Commissions? Especially as I have no blank Commission left except one which I would keep, as I may have occasion to produce it to Show what they are. Explain to me, if you please, why those of America are desired— I am glad to hear of The farther Successes of the Black Prince, and have the honour to be, &c
M. Coffyn. Dunkirk.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Samuel Smith, 8 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Smith, Samuel

Sir
Passy, 8 sept. 1779
I received yours of the 2d. Instant, and am very sorry for your Misfortune: the Loan office Bills you destroyed to prevent their falling into the hands of the Enemy, you do not sufficiently describe; it is necessary for me to know before I can find out whether they have not been already presented the following particulars of each Bill, viz Number, Quantity of Dollars, Date, In whose favour drawn, and by whom Countersigned. If they Should be presented hereafter some of these Particulars may enable me to Stop them. As soon as you favour me with this Description I Shall take the earliest Opportunity of complying with your Request. I have the honour to be, Sir &c. &c.
M. Saml. Smith. Nantes.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Torris, 8 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Torris, John

Sir
Passy, Sept. 8. 1779.
I duly received yours of The 9th. past and wrote immediately to England relating to The Prisoners you mention. I do not apprehend there is any more Danger of Their Lives than of any others taken in this War by the English: for if Those Men having formerly been English Subjects is a reason for having [hanging] Them, it is the Same for hanging other American Prisoners, who have all been English Subjects. But on The contrary the Britich Government has agreed to a Cartel for exchanging them. If those Men Should be prosecuted, of which I think there is no Probability, my Correspondent in England will furnish Money for their Defence.— But we have so many American Tories among our Prisoners, both in france & America that the Apprehension of Reprisals, would be Sufficient to prevent the Enemy’s taking So wrong a step. And I am persuaded the 21. Men will be exchanged in ther Turn: those who have been longest in Prison claiming with some Justice to be first discharg’d.— I congratulate you on the Success of your Vessel, & have the honour to be Sir Your m. o. & m. h. S.
BF.
M. Torres Mercht. Dunkirk.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Alexander, 8 September 1779
From: Alexander, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

In the spring of 1779, Franklin had taught Jonathan Williams, Jr., the principles of “moral algebra” to help him resolve one of his most troublesome dilemmas—whether or not to return to America. “By the Way,” Franklin added, “if you do not learn it, I apprehend you will never be married.” Williams protested that where marriage was concerned, his negative column seemed always to outweigh the positive one. Besides, he observed, falling in love was rather like falling into a well, which takes more than algebra to get out of.
The weightiest elements in Williams’ “negative column” seem not to have had to do with the women themselves, but rather with their formidable fathers, and the probabilities of the match increasing his fortunes. He had first met sixteen-year-old Mariamne Alexander while he, at the age of twenty-four, was in England with Franklin in 1774. Smitten, but timid, he periodically consulted with his great-uncle (even after Franklin had returned to Philadelphia) on the course of their affections and the likelihood that her father might be willing to offer a “reasonable assistance.” The Doctor thought she was a “sweet Girl” and encouraged the romance. William Alexander, however, when finally approached by the anxious suitor in 1776, set what seemed to be an insurmountable condition to marriage: that Williams be in possession of two thousand pounds, which Alexander would augment with three thousand more in dowry.
Within a few weeks of arriving at Nantes in January, 1777, Williams gave up hope of marrying Mariamne (citing the hostilities between their countries) and set his sights on a new alliance: he would enter a business partnership with Jean-Daniel Schweighauser and wed his beautiful second daughter. The courtship with Miss Schweighauser (her first name is not known) progressed quickly. By August, Williams, encouraged anew by Franklin, spoke to her father. Once again, the suitor’s “present uncertain situation” led to a chilly reception.
The following spring Williams, abruptly replaced as American agent at Nantes by his would-be father-in-law, found himself enmeshed in the auditing problems occasioned by Arthur Lee’s trumped-up accusations against his business practices. Disheartened, he considered returning to America. Although his relationship with Schweighauser was permanently soured, his romance with the merchant’s daughter survived at least through the end of  April, 1779, a month when he also received a visit from his English-born illegitimate son Josiah.
By late July, when Williams was assured of a favorable judgment in the audit of his accounts, his thoughts returned to Mariamne Alexander. He penned a proposal to her father, to be forwarded by Franklin. In mid-August, he left Nantes and journeyed to the Alexanders’ home in St.-Germain, stopping along the way and writing his parents of his matrimonial intentions. For reasons which remain unclear, William Alexander was now receptive to the proposal. And so—it seems—was his daughter.
The wedding, to which Alexander alludes in his letter below, was held on September 12 in the Protestant chapel in the Hôtel des Ambassadeurs de Hollande, 47 rue Vieille-du-Temple in Paris. The chapel’s records show that one of Franklin’s relatives was married there to a Scottish girl. The family reception seems to have taken place the following day at the Alexanders’ residence at St.-Germain. One of the guests, a visiting American who accompanied Franklin’s carriage, later recalled the journey from Passy. They traversed the Bois de Boulogne, passed by the Château de Madrid and Bagatelle, crossed the Seine via the beautiful stone Pont de Neuilly, rode through the magnificent grounds of Marly, and climbed the steep road to St.-Germain, with its commanding view of the countryside. When they reached the Alexander estate, they dined with a host of “distinguished guests,” including the mayor of Nantes.

All we know about the ceremony itself is what Williams reported to his parents: that Franklin, having given his blessing, acted in the role of surrogate father. As to his bride, Williams admitted that since their first meeting, “Our History … has been on both Sides full of Changes in point of Situation,” but “our Affections have uniformly been the same, and we are now as happy a Couple as exists.” Indeed, he continued,
Were I to describe my Wife to you as appears to me, you would suppose the picture to be drawn by a young Lover. I will therefore only tell you what the World says of her, & in a few Words all who know her at all, know her to be Sensible, accomplished good natured prudent, and, what to me crowns all, the tenderest of Wives,—in short, nobody that ever saw her says anything but her Praises.
As a wedding gift, Franklin obliged the bride by presenting her with a miniature of himself. Painted by an unknown artist after Duplessis, the portrait is opaque water color on ivory. On the back of the miniature was affixed a small oval, in which were placed intertwining locks of the bride and groom’s hair.
The newlyweds remained at St.-Germain until mid-October, but Williams’ honeymoon lasted only a day. On September 13, he was already submitting bills to his great-uncle and conducting business for his father-in-law.

My Dear Sir
St. Germain 8 sept 1779
We have agreed to dine wt you on Sunday after our Ceremony— I think I mentioned to Mr Williams That we woud Expect you here to spend Monday wt us as the distance is great we can mannage quarters for you & your Son that night when you will be at hand to proceed to Versailles Tuesday—but whether this Suits or not we shall Relye on your Company Monday to dinner— That you may see whether our young Couple are as well pleased after as They Seem before They are united— all here join in assuring you of their warmest attachment & I am ever Yours
W Alexander

Addressed: Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Passy
Notation: W. Alexander St. Germain 8. 7bre. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from George Blackwell, 8 September 1779
From: Blackwell, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Hond. sir
L’Orient Septr., 8ht. 1779
The Hurry I was obliged to leave Virginia in preventd my Application to Congress for a letter of Marque for the Schooner Grand Tyger of Virginia which I now Command, my principal Owner Mr. Henry Armistead of Fredericksburg desird I Should apply on my Arrival heare to you for one which I request you will do me the favour to furnish me with as soon as you possibly can if requisite. Messrs. Gorlade & Moylan of this place will be guarantees for the faithfull performance of Any instructions contained therein and they will inform you that my Said Schooner is the built & property of America I Shall Sail in the Course of twelve days if you Should have Any Commands for America I Shall encharge my Self with their with pleasure,
I have the honour to be with Respect Hond. sir Your Most Obt. Humbl. Servt.
Geo. Blackwell
The Honorable Benj: Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Chaumont, [8 September 1779]
From: Chaumont
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[September 8, 1779]
Chaumont aura L’honneur de Mener M. franklin Diner chez Madame helvetius aujourdhuy 8. 7bre. 1779.

Addressed: S. Ex / M. Le Docteur / franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 8 September 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

à Versailles ce 8. 7bre. 1779.
  Le Comte de Vergennes a l’honneur de renouveller à Monsieur Franklin l’assurance de ses sentimens et de lui envoyer des Paquets à son adresse arrivant d’Espagne. Il en est resté un a Madrid que M. Le Cte. de Montmorin croit ne contenir que des Journaux.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Schweighauser, 9 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

Sir
Passy Sept. 9. 1779.
It appearing on the Examination of Mr. Ross’s Accompts, that the Committee are very considerably indebted to him, I conceive you may Safely Settle with him the accts. you have with the Committee agreable to Orders received by him from Robert Morris Esq. I have the honour to be &c.
M. Schweighauser.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Frederick Augustus Hervey, Sir Patrick Bellew, and ——— French, [before 10 September 1779]
From: Hervey, Frederick Augustus,Bellew, Sir Patrick,French, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Franklin did not often grant passports to British citizens, least of all to those who were spying on him. But in this case, the self-appointed spy was so innocuous, and the intelligence he communicated to the British government so patently outrageous, that he was neither suspected by Franklin nor valued as a source by his own government. In short, despite his attempts to create an air of intrigue, no one seems to have taken him very seriously.
The author of this passport request was Frederick Augustus Hervey, fourth Earl of Bristol and Bishop of Derry (1730–1803), the colorful scion of a family famous for eccentricity. He arrived in Paris sometime in late July, 1779, on his way back to England after two years’ residence in Italy, and immediately reported to Lord North on the French plans to invade Ireland. By August 4, when William Temple Franklin had arranged for his lodgings in a house which, according to English rumor, was across from Franklin’s, Hervey was reporting to Lord Germain that he had seen the American ambassador four times. Franklin, he maintained, was “dissatisfied” with Congress and Versailles, and “would gladly contribute to a reunion of the Empire.”
Hervey’s subsequent letters laid claim to his having penetrated Parisian society. Alongside allusions to dinner parties and high-ranking informants—whose names would be revealed in time—he spoke of the French navy’s devastation, of the government’s growing ambivalence towards the American cause, and of Franklin’s plummeting reputation among the French.
Hervey seems to have stayed in the environs of Paris through August. He must have secured his passport sometime before September 10, the day on which he wrote Lord Germain from Ostend. Two days later he was in Dover, and the course of the war remained unaltered.

au Parc Royal a Paris [before September 10, 1779]
The Bishop of Derry Sr. Patrick Bellew & Mr. French beg the favor of Mr. Franklin to allow them a passport to secure their passage from Ostend to Dover.

Notation in William Temple Franklin’s hand: The Bishop of Derry & Mr French Application for a Pass —


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Becker & Saltzmann, 10 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Becker & Saltzmann

Gentlemen,
Passy, Sept. 10. 1779.
Since Mine of the 1st. of last Month, of which the above is a Copy, I have received the honour of yours of The 23d. of July; and The Packages containing the Sample of a Soldiers uniform mention’d in yours of april 20. is also Since come to hand. I cannot at present give any orders for such cloathing but I am of opinion that if you were to send those uniforms to Virginia, Maryland or Carolina They would sell there to great advantage. The other Goods mentioned in your last, would sell well in Pensilvania, and the more Northern States; the Prices appearing reasonable, execpt of the fusils, which Seem Dear; but perhaps, they may be so good as to merit Such Price.— In Order to open your Commerce with America, my advice to you would be to begin by Sending a Small Vessel with an assorted Cargo to Philadelphia, under the Care of a discrete observing Person who being on the Spot would find what kind of Goods were most in demand, what Commodities were best to take in Return, with The Characters of Persons fittest to correspond with for the future. After receiving the Information he could give, you would walk in Day light. And I am persuaded a very great Demand would Soon be found there for your Commodities, & a growing commerce established between the two Countries. Your Vessel might go from Hambourg or Embden under Prussian Colours; and I would furnish your Supercargo with Letters of Recommendation.— That written in your favour by Prince ferdinand has great weight with me, & you may depend on my doing you every Service in my Power. I am, Gentlemen, Y. m. o. b. h. S. &.
Messrs. Becher & Saltzman.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Marie-Elisabeth De Lamoignon, 10 September 1779
From: Lamoignon, Marie-Elisabeth de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

de la visitation rüe st jaques de paris 10 sept 1779
✝
vive jesus
Permette moi monsieur d’avoir l’honneur de madresser directement a vous pour s’avoir s’il est possible des nouvelles de Mr le chevalier Delaluzerne mon neveu a qui je suis tendrement attachée je pense que son arrivée chez vous peut estre süe a present dans ce paiis cy et vous avez surement les nouvelles les plus sures. Je desire encore lui faire parvenir une lettre aurié vous monsieur la complaisance de la faire passer dans vos depeches, je vous en aurez la plus grande obligation j’en dois beaucoup a loccasion qui me procurera de vous assurer combien j’ai l’honneur d’estre monsieur votre tres humble et tres obeissante servante
PE [PRIEURE?] Marie Elisabeth Delamoignon
Dieu soit beni

Notations: Eliz. de la Moignon. 10 Sept. 79 to enquire after the Chevalier Dela Luzerne / Ansd


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 11 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Passy, Sept. 11. 1779—
Mr Franklin presents his Respects to M. le Comte de Vergennes, with Thanks for his kind Care in sending him the Packets that came by the Way of Spain.

Mr Franklin sends herewith some Packets he has just Receiv’d from America in a Vessel arrived at Nantes, a swift Sailer, which is soon to return.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis-Casimir, Baron de Holtzendorff, 11 September 1779
From: Holtzendorff, Louis-Casimir, baron de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

à paris Ruë du faubourg St. Denisle 11e. Septembre 1779./.
Le Baron de Holtzendorff s’etant rendû hier à Passy, pour avoir l’honneur de conférer avec Monsieur Franklin sur un objet important, et n’ayant pas eû celui de trouver ce Ministre, il Le prie, afin de ne pas risquer inutilement un autre voyage, de vouloir bien lui indiquer un jour de la semaine prochaine et l’heure de sa commodité pour être seur de le trouver: le Baron attendra avec une vive impatience la reponse de Monsieur Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee, 12 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Arthur

Passy, Sept. 12. 79
Mr Franklin presents his Compliments to Mr Lee, and sends all the Journals he has; but, as he has not yet had time to read them, he prays Mr Lee to return them when he has perus’d them.—

Addressed: The honble A Lee Esqr / Paris.
Notation: Sepr. 12. 1779


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Schweighauser, 12 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

Sir,
Passy. Sept. 12. 1779.
I yesterday received your favour by Mr. Schorndorff with the Packets for Mr. De Vergennes and myself. I have acquainted the Minister with The Opportunity of writing by the return of the Mercury, and shall not unless he desires it, keep her here Longer than may be necessary on her own Account.
I have a Letter also from The Navy Board of Boston; but as they make no mention to me of the Stores wanted, nor have furnished me with any means of purchasing them, and I am totally unacquainted with such Business, I can give you no directions about them. There is I believe Some Sheet Copper in your hands belonging to the States, and some Anchors which may Serve in Ballasting the Mercury. And If you are disposed to answer any other Part of the order of the Board, by advancing upon their Credit, you can add such articles as you think proper and I doubt not but they will take care to make you due Remittances. Or you can add such Part of The other stores, Arms, &c. from the Magazins as you may judge most useful. The funds in my hands are all appropriated, and I Cannot engage upon new subjects without having where with to pay. Please to present my Compts. to Captain Sampson who I hope is recovered from his indisposition.
I wish to know whether the Cartel is return’d, and with what Number of Prisoners.— You mention your not furnishing the American Prisoners with Money in consequence of an express order from me. I do not remember Such an Order, nor can I find any trace of it. I apprehend there is some Mistake in it, and wish you to examine it, and send me a Copy of the order If such there be. I hope the Salpetre not disposed of, as I believe I shall Send it to America.
I find by your late Letters that you have abated the Commissions on the delivery of one of the Cargoes of tobaco. I suppose you mean to do the same on the other. I have the honour to be with much esteem Sir, Your most obedient and most humble servant
BF.

Dr. franklin not being at home, I send this Letter without being signed by him, but you may depend on its being an exact Copy from his Rough Drafts.
(Signed) W. T. FRANKLIN
M. Schweighauser.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Mademoiselle Juppin, 12 September 1779
From: Juppin, Mademoiselle ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

mon papa
a chaillot ce dimanche matin, 12 septembre [1779]
je suis arrivée hier de la campagne, il y a deux mois que je ne vous ai vue, jai le plus grand désir de vous voir, voulez me donner a dinér aujourdhuy, jyrai savoir par moi meme de vos nouvelles, et vous embrasser de tout mon coeur.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / a passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jane Mecom, 12 September 1779
From: Mecom, Jane
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Brother
Warwick Sept 12—1779
I have now before me yrs of Nov 26 1778 Brought me by my unfortunate son Collas & won of Apr 22 79. The first I ansuered some time ago but as you may not recve it I now Renew my thanks for it & the Benifits there bestowed & confermed in the other, mr Williams writs me He is redy to comply with your Desier, but as mr. Collas does not See any other way to settle on shore it does not Apear to me it will in any measure do to soport a famely, it would be a grat help when we could convinc people they have been decved by a miserable Imitation, & that no won Els can make the trew soap, but that would be a work of time, & there will be no wax to be had till affter Frost comes, I did by laying out Every way procure a small cake & made a litle but not of the very best Posable as you desiered owing to some unavoidable Impedements, but sent it notwithstanding as it will Ansir for your own Use, & Temples, but would wish you not to make any presents of it; as I had not convenancy to make but half the meterals I procured I hope the other will ansure your wish & shall make it & send it by the first opertunity, I desiered Collas to mark it No 1—that you might know which it is if boath come to hand.
Your very affectionat & tender care of me all along in life Exites my warmest gratitude which I cannot Even think on without Tears, what manyfold blessings I injoy beyond many of my worthy Acquantance who have ben driven from there home, Lost there Intrest, & some have the Adion of Lost health, & won the Grevous torment of a Cancer & no kind Brother to soport her while I am kindly treeted by all about me & ample provition made for me when Ever I have ocation.
You could not have recd. Information of the Death of my son peter when you wrot the last I have recd as I had it not my self till 20 days after the date of myne which you then recved, I hope some others I wrot afterwards are come to yr hand, I cannot but take grat pleasure in hearing you Injoy so much Helth & could wish you had no ocation for the Remedy of thos fitts of the Gout you are sometimes Exercised with, I fear you feel Pane anouf when under them to consider it as a disease, or as we some times say wors— The Respect & Friendship of all sensable people where Ever you go I am shure you can not fale of but it is a grat satisfaction to have a number of them so near you that you may take your own time to go to them. I have not the privilige of won Neibour near than two miles but we have many agreable people come to viset us & I am allways contented at home, & pleasd. to go abroad when sent for, otherways I cannot go for our people have no carrage & I hant courage to ride a hors.
You say Temple is still with you & I hope the same Dutyfull & Affectionat child & agreable companyon remember my love to him, but poor Ben how will he soport the Lose of you boath, was he willing to go. I Lately had a Leter from mrs Bache she maks no mention of it but I sopose they will Chearfuly Acquese in what you think for the best. Our friends hear are well & desier to be Dutyfully Remembred to you, I heard the Governers wife say she would write. When shall I have any foundation for the hope that we shall again meet & spend our last Days to gather, America knows yr consequence two well to premit yr Return if thay Can posable prevent it, & yr care for the Publick good will not suffer you to Desert them till Peace is Established, & the Dismal sound of fiveteen year from the comencment of the war Dwells on my mind which I wonce heard you say it might Last, if it does it is not Likely I shall Last that long, but that you may contineu in Health & Usefullnes is the constant Prayer or yr Affectionat sister
Jane Mecom

[torn: I] have no Instruments [torn: to stamp] the soap but hope that will not Depretiate is valeu
Addressed: Dr Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Torris, 12 September 1779
From: Torris, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Dunkerque 12th. Sepr. 1779.
I have Received with all gratitude the Letter your Excellency did me the honnour to write me the 8th. Instant.
The expressions of your Excellency are the expressions of Humanity; they will give all Comfort & quietude to the Prisonners & to the Crew of the Black Prince Privateer; they will encourrage the People already Listed for my New fine Vessell the Black Princess Capt. Edward Macatter of Boston, which will be ready for sea soon & intended to go in Company with the former. Mr. Coffyn the agent here of your Excellency, has Sollicited a Commission for the Brave Macatter, & we all hope your goodness will grant it directley.
The most oblidging Compliment your Excellency is pleased to address me, on the Success of our Black Prince, is a proof of your respectable disposition in favour of the Concerns; But the aim of your Excellency is far yet, as we are rather very great Sufferers, for want of haveing obtained the Righteous Condamnation of the Prises, which we in Vain have Sollicited to this moment, from your Excellency & from M. De Sartine, the Ministers who, we are Told, are appointed for the Condamnation of all the Prises brought in France by the americans. The Cargoes are deperishing & Spoiling, & a great part thereof already Lost. We are forced to advance daily fresh Sums for the use of our Privateer, & all the Concerns are recriminating on me for the armement, Let the appearances be what they will. Justice & Humanity, nay, the honnour & Interest of Both the American & French Government, requiere Immediate satisfaction shou’d be given, according to the Terms expressed in the Commission deliverd by Your Excellency.
I do appeal to your Justice, Sir, & all my hopes & the relief of my havey Misfortunes, are now Intierely Confined in it & in your Humanity.
I have the Honnour to be with great respect Sir your most obedient, Most Humble & oblidged servant
J. Torris

Notation: Mr. Torris Sept 12. 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 12 September 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

12. Sept. 7bre. 1779.
Le Comte de Vergennes fait tous ses remercimens à Monsieur Franklin des paquets qu’il lui a envoyés hier. Ils lui ont apris l’arrivé a Boston de M. Le Chr. de la Luzerne, et des differens Evenemens avantageuses aux Etats unis dont le Cte. de Vergennes desiré que M. Franklin puisse lui donner la Confirmation mardi prochain.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Bartholomew Raredon, 13 September 1779
From: Raredon, Bartholomew
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Fougeres Sept: 13: 1779
May it Please your Excelencys Goodness: Whereas your Petticioner Is a Native american and has Now A Wife and Family in the Province of Pensilvenia in Lancester County, Left I Fear in great distress as By Reason of The War, i Came to Sea in the Swallow Slope Belonging to Rhoad Island Commanded By Capt: Murphy and Was taken And Carried into Portsmouth Where I Rmaind A prisoner 2 Years almost But Have Got Out and in hopes of Escapeing Safe to France to Claim your Protection And Return to my Country in duty I was Retaken and Brought Back to Prison Again and Sent un Board of the Princis Amilia, and When the Carteel arived I was Not Suffrered to Come in my turn With My Shipmates But When the Ardent Which is Now Taken Was Fitted for Sea I was Sent un Board of her against my Will, When i Wrote to Mr: Wren of Portsmouth Who answerd me and Bid me Comfort my Self As Well as i Could that he Would Endeavour To Get me oaf again But the Ship Sailing Before i Could be Releasd: i Came to Sea in her And Was Taken and Brought to this Place at My Arival at Brest i Wrote your goodness A Letter But Not thinking Sircumstances Clarely laid down and Being Sent hither I here Present your Exelency With the Reality of my Cause as i am Ready to Prove upon Oath My Name is Bartholemew, Raredon, and as you are appointed for the Relief of your Distresd Country hope your Godness will endeavour for my Speedy Release I add No more But Rest, Most Excelent Sir, yours in duty To my Country
Bartholemew Raredon

Addressed: To His Excelency / Benjaman Frankland / Esqr: Ambasador for the / States of America / Resident at Paris
Notation: Faredon Bartholomeu 7bre. 13. 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to George Blackwell, 14 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Blackwell, George

Sir
Passy. Sept 14. 1779
I am Sorry I cannot give you the Commission you desire having none Left.— But I see nothing amiss in your taking what you can, and carrying it in tho’ without a Commission for since the Congress, in reprisal, have immitated the Governement of England, and encouraged Sailors employ’d in Ships to Seize and bring them in giving them the whole as a Reward for their breach of Trust, I Should think there is stronger Reason for allowing an honest Man the Prize he has openly taken from the Enemy and that resolution of Congress Seems to me to be of The Nature of a General Commission. However, the taking particular Commissions is certainly the best and most regular and ought not to be dispenc’d with, unless in such Cases as yours, where Circumstances have made it at Present impracticable.
I am, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
BF
Capt George Black well, of the Swoner Grand tyger, L’Orient.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gourlade & Moylan, 14 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gourlade & Moylan

Gentn.
Passy Sept. 14. 1779.
I should with great Pleasure comply with Capt. Blackwell’s Request on your Recommendation if it were in my Power; But I have now no blank Commissions left. I am much obliged by the Intelligence you have so often so kindly Sent me, and am with great Esteem Gent Your m. o. & m. humble Servant.
(signed) BF
Messrs. Gourlade and Moylan.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sarah Bache, 14 September 1779
From: Bache, Sarah Franklin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Honoured Sir
Philadelphia Septr. 14. 1779
Every body seems to be sorry that Mr Gerard is going to leave Philada. but particularly this Family whose esteem he has entirely gain’d, he is kind enough to take charge of a Box of Squirril skins for Temple in which is a parcel of news papers for you, and a peice of homespun Silk which I have long wish’d to send you for the Queen whose character I admire, and spoke to M Gerard last winter about it, but never had an opportunity that I chose to trust it by, I could not presume to ask her acceptance of it from myself, but from you it may be agreable, it will shew what can be sent from America to the Looms of France— We are well satisfied with your sending Benjamin to Geneva knowing well that you would do every thing by him for the best, but I cannot help feeling very sensibly when I consider the distance he is removed from you, I wish with all my heart that his Brother Will was with you, but much more so that you were with us—
I am indeed much obliged to you for your very kind present it never could have come at a more seasonable time, and particularly so as they are all necessary, and the Bills Mr Bache sent to Mr Williams with a list has never been heard of, the Ministers Secretary Cousin Williams writes has taken charge of them from Boston, and he is now expected every hour, but how could my dear Papa give me so severe a reprimand for wishing for a little finery, he would not I am sure if he knew how much I have felt it, last Winter was a Season of Triumph to the Wigs and they spent it gaily, you would not have had me I am sure, stay away from the Ambassadors, or the Generals entertainments, nor when I was invited to Spend the day with General Washington and his Lady, and you would have been the last person I am sure to have wished to see me dress’d with singularity, tho I never loved dress so much as to wish to be particularly fine yet I never will go out when I cannot apear so as to do credit to my Family and Husband, the Assembly we went to as Mr B: was particularly chose to regulate them, the subcribtion was 15 pound, but to a Subcribtion Ball of which there was numbers, we never went to one tho always ask’d, I can asure my dear Papa that industry in this house is by no Means lay’d aside, but as to spinning linnen cannot think of that till I have got that wove which we spun three years ago, Mr Dufeild has bribed a Weaver that lives on his Farm to weave me eighteen yards, by making him three or four shutles for nothing and keeping it a secret from the Country people who will not suffer them to weave for those in town, this is the third weavers it has been at, and many fair promises I have had about it, tis now done and whitening, but forty yards of the best remains at Ledietz yet, that I was to have had home a twelvemonth last month, Mrs Keply who is gone to Lancaster is to try to get it done there for me, but not a thread will they weave but for hard money, my Maid is now spinning Wool for winter stockins for the whole Family, which will be no dificulty in the Manufactering as I knit them myself, I only mention these things that you may see the Ball is not the only reason that the wheel is lay’d aside, I did not mention the Feathers and pins as necessarys of life, as my Papa seems to think, I meant that as common necessarys were so dear, I could not aford to get any thing that was not, and beg’d he would send me a few of the others, nor should I have had such wishes, but being in constant hope that things would soon return to their former channel, I kept up my spirrits and wished to mix with the world, but that hope with me is now intirely over, and this winter aproaches with so many horrors that I shall not want any thing to go abroad in, if I can be comfortable at home, my spirrits which I have kept up during my being drove about from place to place, much better than most peoples I mett with, has been lowered by nothing but the depreciation of the money which has been amaizing lately, so that home will be the place for me this winter, as I cannot get a common winter cloak and hat but just decent under two hundred pounds, as to gauze now its fifty dollars a yard tis beyond my wish and I should think it not only a shame but a sin to buy it, if I had Millions. I should be contented with muslin Caps if I could procure them in the winter, in the Summer I went without, and as to cambrick I have none to make lace of, it is indeed as you say that money is too cheap for there is so many people that are not used to have it, nor know the proper use of it, that get so much that they care not wether they give one dollar or a hundred for any thing they want, but to those whose every dollar is the same as a silver one, which is our case, it is particularly hard, for Mr B: could not bear to do business in the manner it has been done in this place, which has been almost all by Monopolizing and forestalling, however if he gets business from France all may yet be well again— Aunt Mecom was very well lately, I had a letter from her, my little Girl has just return’d from Mr Dufeilds, she has gone through the Summer charmingly and got all her teeth, I think myself very lucky to have had such a Friend, it has been very unhealthy this Summer in town, and the houses for many miles round so much distroy’d that there was no getting a place to take the Children to; all Mr D: family were fond of Betsy and very good to her, she loves them quite as well as she does us, I wish with all my heart you could see her and hear her talk, I think she is the favorite of her Papa, indeed she is one of the best behaved little things I ever saw, and quite as grave as Benjamin—
The first time I see General Washington I shall deliver your message to him, he talk’d to me several times about you last Winter— There has so many people desired me to remember them to you that I know not were to begin, but Mr Dufeild’s Family and the Miss Cliftons I must not forget as they were among those who desir’d to be particularly rememberd to you— I am my dear Papa with the greatest afection your Dutifull Daughter
S Bache

Addressed: Dr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Etienne de Chezaulx, 14 September 1779
From: Chezaulx, Jean-Etienne de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
à Berghen en Norvege le 14. 7bre 1779
J’ai l’honneur de vous remettre ci jointes les lettres de deux officiers de la fregate l’Alliance commandée par le Capne. Landais, qui ont conduit en ce port deux prises considérables faites sur les ennemis par la dite frégate le 29 Aoust & 1er de ce mois. Je ne puis entrer aujourdhui Monsieur dans aucun detail relativement à ces prises. Je me bornerai quant à present à vous faire mon sincére & respectueux compliment sur les bons & heureux succés de cette frégate & à vous remettre ci jointe copie de la lettre que j’ai ecrite à M. Caillard chargé des affaires du Roi à la cour de Danemarck. J’ecris aussi à Mgne. de Sartine Ministre de la marine relativement à cet objét.
Je me propose Monsieur, de vous ecrire plus amplement par le courier prochain & de vous informer de mes demarches auprés des gouverneurs Danois ici, comme aussi de mes opérations ulterieures relativement à vos prises.

J’ai accordé à vos officiers, Monsieur tous les sécours dont ils ont pû avoir besoin, & je vous suplie de vouloir être bien persuadé que j’en agirai de même à l’égard des batiments de votre nation, soit marchand soit armé en course avec leurs captures, qui pourront entrer, aborder ou relâcher dans les ports de mon departement; & je donnerai toute mon attention pour qu’il ne leur soit fait aucune injustice. J’ai l’honneur &c.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 14 September 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
La Haie 14e. 7bre. 1779.
Une course faite à Amsterdam, pour les objets que vous savez, a seule pu m’empêcher de prendre la plume, dès mon arrivée ici, pour vous remercier de toutes les bontés que vous m’avez témoignées. Je n’entreprendrai pas de vous peindre par des paroles la reconnoissance que j’en ressens; je ne ferois qu’affoiblir l’idée d’un sentiment très-vif & profond. Je vous dirai seulement, que dans ma solitude ici j’éprouve que l’on ne se sépare pas de vous impunément, & qu’il faut de la force pour se consoler de ne pas être près de Vous.
L’équipage du Vaisseau de guerre Hollandois au Texel reste toujours soulevé. Ces gens, au nombre de 60 (car ils ne forcent personne de rester), se comportent d’ailleurs avec un calme singulier, font le service, tant pour leur sûreté, que pour celle du Vaisseau & de son contenu, & laissent aborder tous les jours un canot parlementaire. Mais ils sont déterminés à se faire sauter avec le navire, si l’on veut leur faire violence, préférant de périr en braves gens, plutôt que sur l’échafaut. Ils prétendent qu’on veut violer leur capitulation; la voix publique leur donne raison. Il y a Conseil de guerre à ce sujet au Texel.
Les affaires politiques sont toujours ici sur le même pied. Les Convois ne se donnent point, pas même pour les Vaisseaux & cargaisons dont on ne dispute point, parce qu’on ne veut pas que les vaisseaux & chargés de bois profitent de l’occasion, en se joignant aux flottes convoyées. La Ville de Leide a enfin dû accéder au parti d’Amsterdam, qui est actuellement de 8 à 9 villes: autrement tous les trafiquants en Laine, qui font un grand commerce de cet Article, qu’ils envoient entre autres en Flandres, alloient se retirer à Amsterdam.
L’Etat actuel de la question, ou l’objet des délibérations de la province est, si elle prendra ses mesures séparément pour la protection de son commerce. On vous communiquera, Monsieur, d’une autre part, un petit supplément à ces nouvelles politiques, que je n’ai pu mettre ici tout cru, sans exposer mon chiffre avec l’ami à la comparaison qu’en pourroient faire des curieux indiscrets ici ou en chemin, si par hazard on s’avisoit d’ouvrir les Lettres.
Je suppose Mr. votre fils absent. Je fais bien des voeux pour son heureux retour, & pour qu’il vous rapporte une bonne cargaison de Lauriers. En attendant, je prends part à la joie que doivent vous avoir causé les bonnes nouvelles de l’Ouest, & suis avec le respectueux attachement qui vous est voué pour la vie, Monsieur, Votre très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur
Dumas
Paris à Son Exc. M. Franklin M. P. des E. U. d’A.

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Ministre Plenipe. des Etats- / Unis en France / à Passy./.
Notation: Dumas Lahaie 14. 7bre. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas FitzGerald, 14 September 1779
From: FitzGerald, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excellency
Bergen (Norway)Septr 14th 1779
I arrived here yesterday after a passage of fourteen days in the Ship Betsy, John Fisher Commander bound from Liverpool to New York & Jamaica mounting 22 Guns and 84 Men a Letter of Marque captured by the Alliance Peter Landais, Commander. We left L’orient the 15th of August in Company with the Bonne homme Richard, Pallas, Monsieur Grand Ville Vengeance & Cerf, but parted the Monsieur in four days having taken one prize and she choosing to Cruize alone. We stood for Ireland & off Limerick took two Brigs, one from Newfoundland bound to Bristol with Oil, the other from Ireland to London with Provisions which were ordered for France. When on board the Alliance we parted the Fleet of the Skillocks to Westward of Cape Clear, in a heavy gale of wind, the 26th of August but fell in again with the Richard, Pallas & Vengeance off the North of Scotland where we cruized and took another Ship called Union from London bound to Quebec, which has likewise arrived safe in this port according to Orders. I kept Company with the Alliance as long as possible and after parting with her in the best of my way for this place, where we are politely received by the French Consul and Gentlemen belonging to the town. I now wait your Excellency’s advice, and shall execute any orders from you with pleasure I am Sir your most Obedient humble Servant
Thos Fitz-Gerald
His Excellency Benjn. Franklin Esqr Paris

Addressed: His Excellency / Benjamin Franklin Esqr / Minister for the United States / of America / Paris


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Barbeu-Dubourg, 15 September 1779
From: Barbeu-Dubourg, Jacques
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My dear Master
Paris 7ber. 15th. 1779
I am appointed by Mr. Cochin, an old friend of mine, to invït your Excellency at his garden, that is renowned for the most curious and uncommon plants, at Châtillon distant about four miles from that city, to dine with him, the wednesday 22th, or thursday 23th. of this month; or any other same day of the following weeks, at your pleasure. It should be needfull to go very early in morning, not only for visiting the plants at leisure, and walkink around, but also because the house’s master usually dine at twelve aclock, when anothers usually breakfast.
He desire an answer from you, and I one from M. Williams. And am with the softest respect, Dear Sir, Your very obedient, humble servant
Dubourg

Addressed: A / Monsieur franklin / A Passy
Notation: Dubourg. Paris 15. 7bre. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from De Chezaulx, 15 September 1779
From: Chezaulx, Jean-Etienne de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
à Berghen en Norvege ce 15. 7bre. 1779
Ci-dessus et de l’autre part est copie de la lettre que j’ai eu l’honneur de vous ecrire hier par la poste. Je profite aujourdhui de l’occasion d’un batiment qui part pour Amsterdam pour vous remettre, Monsieur, deux autres lettres des officiers commandant les deux prises dont je vous ai annoncé l’arrivée en ce port & qui sont le duplicata de celles que j’ai eu l’honneur de vous remettre hier. Je vous préviens, Monsieur, que j’ai pris des arrangements avec un banquier de cette ville M. Danckert D. Krohn, qui est la maison la plus opulente & la plus solide de toute la Norvege, dans la caisse duquel seront versés les fonds provenants des ventes de vos prises, si Elle est permise, pour que la remise en soit faite promptement. Quoique ce negociant soit d’une probité à toute épreuve & digne de vôtre confiance tout se passera sous mes yeux & mes auspices. Je vous suplie de vous reposer sur mon zéle & mes attentions à cet égard. Vous pouvez lui ecrire & vous informer à Amsterdam, Londres, Hambourg & toute autre grande ville de commerce de la maison de Mr. Danckert D. Krohn à Berghen. C’est le banquier dont je me sers ici pour les affaires de commerce & de change de ma nation. Il est à tous égards recommandable. Je vous rendrai compte, Monsieur, successivement de mes démarches & operations ulterieures relativement à vos prises. Je ne pourrai rien vous marquer d’intéressant qu’après que nous aurons reçu la reponse de Copenhague. J’ai l’honneur d’etre &c.
(signé) De CHEZAULX
(Copy W short secy)


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 15 September 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Versailles le 15. 7bre. 1779.
Je suis informé, Monsieur, que le Lundi 6. du présent mois, un particulier qui a dit se nommer Jean Deguio, Lieutenant au Regiment Anglois du Colonel Jemi d’Invistony, S’est presenté à M. Le Comte de Chabôt, Lieutenant Général des Armées du Roi Commandant le Camp de St. Omer pour obtenir des Secours et se rendre près de vous; Il a declaré être parti de Winchester le 25. Août dernier et être hors d’Etat de marcher a Cause de ses Blessures. Mais L’officier chargé d’examiner cet Etranger a crû appercevoir quelques contradictions dans ses Responses, l’a regardé comme Suspect, et lui a refusé les Secours qu’il sollicitoit. Il a pris place dans le 1er. Carosse public pour se rendre a Paris où il doit être actuellement arrivé. J’ai cru devoir, Monsieur, vous communiquer ces Details en attendant les Eclaircissemens ulterieurs qui pourront m’arriver sur le Compte de ces particuliers et dont je vous ferai part.
J’ai l’honneur d’être très parfaitement, Monsieur, votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
(signé) De Vergennes


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 16 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir
Passy, sept. 16. 1779.
The Person mentioned in your Excellency’s Letter of yesterday, has been with me, and by the Papers he show’d me I was Satisfy’d of his having been a Lieutenant in our Canadian Regiment, commanded by Col. Livingston. I gave him Money, as he had none Left, to bear his Expenses to Nantes, where he hop’d to find a Passage to America. He proposed to set out directly for the place on foot, as he Said he could not bear the Motion of The Common Cariages and I gave him a Pass whether he has really taken that Road, may easily be known by enquiry as he wore a blue Uniforme turn’d up with red, is very meagre, and limps a little in Walking.— I look’d upon him as an honest man, but I may have been impos’d on. I Shall write to morrow to Nantes, to know if he arriv’d there. It was on ——— that he came here, and it was the Day following that he propos’d to proced to Nantes, With The most perfect Respect I am Your Excell’ys Most obedient and most humble servant
M. Le Comte de Vergennes.


Title: French Loan Certificate, [16 September 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[September 16, 1779]
N° 2. Pour 250,000 livres.
Nous Benjamin Franklin Ministre Plenipotentiaire des ETATS-UNIS de l’Amerique Septentrionale, en vertu du pouvoir dont nous sommes revetus par le CONGRES desdits Etats, promettons en son nom et solidairement pour lesdits Treize ETATSUNIS, faire payer & rembourser au Tresor royal de sa Majesté tres chretienne le premier Janvier mil sept cent quatre-vingt huit au domicile de M. Grand, Banquier a Paris, la somme de deux cent cinquante mille livres, argent de France, avec les interets a raison de cinq pour cent, l’an, valeur reçu comptant, a Paris, ce 16 Septembre 1779
B Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Simon-Pierre Fournier le Jeune, 16 September 1779
From: Fournier, Simon-Pierre, le jeune
To: Franklin, Benjamin

This letter is the earliest known reference to the script type that was cut especially for Franklin by the premier typefounder of Paris. It is proof that Franklin and Fournier had designed the type—which was not used at Passy until 1782—far earlier than has been generally suspected.
Simon-Pierre Fournier le jeune, eldest son of the famous Pierre-Simon Fournier le jeune, had inherited his father’s foundry in 1775, at the age of twenty-five. His introduction to Franklin came three years later, when the American ordered a font of type to be shipped to the United States. When the font was delivered and purchased, at the end of February, 1779, the newly appointed Minister Plenipotentiary had printing very much on his mind: he was at that moment negotiating with the man who would soon set up his Passy foundry.
At what point Franklin hit upon the idea to have a unique type cut for his own official use is not clear. The suggestion may have come from Fournier, whose interest in cutting script led him to develop two other script character sets in 1780 and 1781. If Fournier   had already made the preliminary engravings and was beginning to cut punches by September, as he says here, then discussions between the two men must have substantially predated this letter.
Franklin and Fournier continued to confer about the type throughout 1780. Around June of that year, preliminary proofs of “le Franklin” were printed. By early 1781, the font was completed and a full specimen sheet printed. The matrices, along with the type, were delivered to the Passy press, and were eventually inherited by Benny Bache for use in his Philadelphia print shop.

Monsieur!
Paris Le 16 7bre. 1779.
J’ai L’honneur de vous envoyer Lucien Serrurier Pour vous prier de vouloir Bien lui expliquer Les 2. moules qu’il vous faut Pour Le Caractere que Je vous Grave. Je Compte vous faire voir incessament plusieur Poinçon que j’ai Gravé dont vous serai Surement Satisfait. Si Je n’eu point été malade J’aurais eu L’honneur de vous en porter, mais Cela ne tardera Pas. J’y travaille a force, Je tache d’imiter La finesse des traits qui Sont Sur l’epreuve. Je Crains qu’a Limpression cela ne Grossit; J’en approcherai du Plus Pret qu’il me sera Possible. Si vous voulez lui expliquer Vos intentions il les fera supérieurement ayant Beaucoup de talent Pour Cette Partie C’est La son Genre.
J’ay l’honneur d’être très sincerement Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
Fournier LE JEUNE

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur francklin / a Passy
Notation: fournier Le Jeune Paris 16. 7bre. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Lovell, 16 September 1779
From: Lovell, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honble: Sir
Philada. Septr. 16th. 1779
On the 30th. of Augst. I received yr. favr. of June 2d. with the ministerial Paper containing Mauduit’s Speculations and, since that, several Pamplets wch. came under the care of Chevalr. de la Luzerne and, I think, under a Superscription in yr. Grandson’s handwriting, have reached me. I am sure Hartley is stumbling only over a Mistake about the eventual alliance. It is now in Vigor. It is defunct of course upon a Peace, except so far as a Guarantee of the articles of that Peace and there can be no Sincerity in any pacific compact of Britain if she is not willing to have it guaranteed to us. He is more mistaken in his Idea of a distinction being yet in Vigor here, between the Ministry & People of Britain. A short Space of Time will probably produce for his Perusal a solemn Vow & Compact not only of the Delegates in Congress but of the whole Legislatures of the Union, never, never to form even a commercial Treaty with Great Britain. It was indeed once held out here, for political Purposes in the days of our Irresolution, that this was not a popular War in England. But it is not now at all necessary to disguise the Certainty that from the Tyrant George down to the Shoe and Soot Boy there is a proud desire to be yet able to say “our Colonies.”
I have sent you so many Setts of the Journals of this year that I now only convey additional Numbers to compleat those Setts. I send you also 1777. I shall particularly press what you say to me of Pacquet Boats. The Navy Board at Boston write to me in the same manner. I am, Sir, your most humb. Servt.
James Lovell
Honble. Doctr. Franklinprivate

Endorsed: Mr. Lovell’s Letters between April 29 & Sept. 6 1779. Recd. June 12. 1780


Title: Sarah Bache to William Temple Franklin, 16 September 1779
From: Bache, Sarah Franklin
To: Franklin, William Temple

Dear Temple
Philadelphia September. 16 1779
There is nothing you could have sent me that would have been half so acceptable as the Bust of my dear Father, I am in hourly expectation of seeing it, and long as anxiously for its coming as if I could converse with it, Mr Hopkinson has made me promise to send for him when it comes, and I promise you every ceremony shall be performed on the opening of the Box that you desire.
I have had two or three letters from your Father this Summer, who is perfectly well, always inquires afectionately about Papa’s health and yours, he sent Betty a present of a Bonnet lately, whenever I hear from you I always write to him, by the great fire in N. York when the Kings stores were burnt, he writes me he lost four thousand pound’s, Thomas is still with him—
Mr Bache writes to you by this opportunity, the Children are quite well Willy often speaks of you and asks when he is to go to Paris to his Grandpapa—
Mr Gerard will take care of a little Box of Squirril Skins for you, which is all I could get at present I think there is eighty four, as soon as I can collect more you may depend on my sending them to you, ever since you have been gone I have been looking out for some and tho I have been most of the time in the country could never procure any tho I have had a thousand promises, I have been lucky enough to find out two little Boys who live near Mr Dufeilds that have traind a house Cat up to hunt ground squirrils and they will let me have all they take—
The house at Bethlehem is at present so unsetled cotton so scarce, and the people so much taken up in Manufacturing for their own Family that there is no such thing as getting any thing done by them, at Ledietz the second Moravian setlement, where there is plenty of their best spinners, and the Lady Abbess an acquaintance of mine (who Papa will know by the name of Polly Pennery she inquired much about him and desired her best respects when I wrote) who promiss’d to use her interest to get me two pound of Cotton spun for Stockings and a piece of Linnen of forty yards wove, I took it some months before I left Manheim myself, and was to have had it home last month was a year, the other day I had a letter telling me that if I would wait with patience another year I might depend on having it, but I have sent for it away, as my patience like my linnen is quite wore out, however you may depend on me that if things on this side the water should be in any degree as they used to be the cotton shall be sent to you or any thing else that its in my power to oblige you in, for their is few people for whom I have more afection, you desire me to name what I want on your side the Water, I shall take the liberty of mentioning a few things which I cannot procure here for money and which I shall be much obliged to you for, a small trunk with writing materials from paper down to sand, this bad as it is we were obliged to a Freind for, a small pocket book a good pen knife and scissors, and some paris needles with some of the darning kind, the last three articles I hear are better made at Paris, than any other part of the world, the thead you ordered me was the best I ever worked with I wish you could procure me some more of the same, and some of different colours, and a small quantity of Muslin, or any other materials for Caps as I now am grown too old to go without, and I cannot give forty pound a yard for Muslin and ten dollars a yard for ribon to fasten it on, the things may be sent in something that will serve me for a work trunk or Basket as all mine have been worn out with traveling about, perhaps you may have it in your power to send them by the return of this ship which would greatly add to the obligation— when my Father is at leasure I wish you would mention to him that our beds are much worn out with moving about and no ticking to be had here the pillows too in the same way, I am obliged to borrow dishes and plates whenever we ask a Friend which is very disagreable tho but seldom, and knifes and forks, I should be glad to have some common hankerchiefs, with coarse check for Bed cases, these things I hope my dear Papa will not think unnessary, and I shall be obliged to your Friendship to take a proper time to mention it to him—
Willy and our little Black ey’d parrot who I am sure you would be fond of if you knew her, (she is just the age Will was when you came from england, and goes down stairs just like him) both join in love to you, she desires you would send her a doll not a fine one, but one that will bear to be pul’d about with a great deal of Nursing, there is no such things to be had here as toys for Children— the plates I mentioned above I do not wish to have of China any thing in the Queens Ware way will do every bit as well, a common sett of what is called breakfast China would be very acceptable, tho Mr B. and I drink milk of a morning yet I want the other when a Friend comes here in the afternoon as I dont like to use my best in common, this will be a troublesome letter but I trust you will excuse it—
The Dufeild Family, and the Miss Cliftons I delivered your compliments too, and they desire to be remembered to you in a particular manner, the latter have just made a Vandue and are going in lodgings almost as far as Pools bridge, Mr & Mrs Peters I have not seen since I receiv’d yours, she now lays in the Country with her second Son, I shall deliver your Compliments as soon as she comes to town— I am with great Sincerity your very Afectionate Aunt
S Bache

Endorsed: Ansd 19 Mar 80— / Mrs Bache Sep. 16. 1779


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Schweighauser, 17 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

Sir
Passy, Sept. 17. 1779
I have now before me your favours of july 31. & Aug. 19. Your testimony with Regard to Mr. Wam. Lee, is fully Sufficient to remove the Suspicion of his Sharing in your Commission. I mention’d it not as a Charge against him, but as an Excuse for you; 5 per Cent being, as I understood more then double of what is usual. I could wish I had nothing to do with mercantile Business, as I am not vers’d in it. I perceive that you have abated the Commission on the Delivery of The Tobacco to one per Cent. but then that is 1 per Ct. paid to your Correspondent, and another 1 Per Ct. for your self. To me it Seems that your Commission should be not on the whole sum, but on what you paid your Correspondent for doing the Business; otherwise we pay twice for The Same service. I must submit however to the Custom of Merchants. It may be against me, and if it is I suppose it is founded in some Reason that at Present I am unacquainted with. But if these Two Commissions are right, the Article for travelling Charges 1024 livres wants Explanation.
Notwistanding what I Said relating to Such of your Drafts as are founded on the part of your Account, I have refused none, but honoured them all.
I am Satisfy’d with your Reason about the Date of your Bills. If I Should at any time be so Straitned for Money when in your Debt, as that a Sudden Demand from you would be inconvenient to me, I will mention it to you, and request your Bills may be drawn at one or two Usances.
The Swedish Ambassador has presented a Memorial to Mr. De Vergennes relating to The Prize and the demanded Damages. He mentioned that the Swedish People were beaten and cruelly treated by ours. This is so contrary to our Custom, that I can hardly believe it. I must answer his memorial, and therefore wish to see again the Papers, that I may examine them. I think I sent them down to you, when I desired you to get some of the Letters Translated. Please to return them to me, and you Shall have them again when wanted for the Trial. If you have received the Opinion of The advocate of The Bureau of Prizes, which you expected, please to Send me a Copy of it.
The two Sick Persons who came over among the Prisoners from England, Should undoubtedly be taken care of till they are able to go home. I wish to know their Names and the Parts of America they come from. I have no Objection to continuing the allowance to Capt. Harris, Supposing that he intends going by the first Opportunity.— Please to present my Compliments to him, and request him to inform me about a Trunk belonging to Mr. Louis Dupré, which was intrusted to his Care, and which is enquired after.
I thought to have had the Dispatches ready to send by Capt. Samson this Day; but there are some Points on which I must wait an answer from the Court, in order to send that answer in my Letters; This may yet require some days: but I think it will not exceed another Week.
I approve of your assisting the American Prisoners that are arrived from Lisbon, in the manner that Mr. Adams ordered for those come from England. They were I believe generally pretty well cloathed by Charities collected there if any of These should be apparently in great want of cloathing it will be well to assist them with what may be absolutely necessary in that Article.
I should think it would be right to discharge M. Hill the Surgeon. I am Sorry he has been kept so long. In my Opinion Surgeons Should never be detain’d as Prisoners, as it is their Duty and their Practice to help the Sick and wounded of either side when they happen to have an Opportunity— They Should therefore be considered not as Parties in any War, but as friends to Humanity.
I request you to make enquiry by your Correspondents in the Different Ports of Spain, what English Prisoners brought in by the Americans, were confined There. When you receive Answers, please to communicate them to me.
I inclose you a Copy of what I write to Mr. Williams relating to my Orders about the Prisoners. We must not regard Reports.
I have the honour to be with great Esteem. Sir &c
I will transmit to Congress the memoire relating to The Barron d’Autroche.
M. Schweighauser.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Edward Bridgen, 17 September 1779
From: Bridgen, Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Sepr 17 1779
I have sent to the care of our good Monsieur Genet 2 Samples of Metal intended for the Current Coin, where they are doubtless much wanted and yield an immense profit to the Govermt.
I hereby engage to deliver at the port of London as fine in quality and of the Same Size and weight as those samples any quantity at 14 d Sterling per pound weight—Package, Cartage and other Incidental expences to be paid by the purchaser. Peices of half the weight or double the weight may be had on the same Terms and all of the best Copper. These peices are ⅓ of an Ounce and may well pass for the Same value as half pence do in England. I beg to know your sentiments as soon as possible otherways the proprietor must make his offer to another quarter here.
If a Die is wanting that may also be procured here with the necessary implements for working the Same. In that case proper drawings must be furnished but I think it would not be so prudent to have the execution here.
As it will be a ready Money Article upon the delivery of the Metal the Cash or good Bills at 2 Usa should be provided and if the proposal be accepted I wish to know your opinion how much may be wanted.
May your most valuable life be preserv’d to Nestorian age or as long as you can be happy in yourself and can contribute to the felicity of Mankind is the sincere wish of my Dr Sir Yr: faithful & affect.
Edwd: Bridgen

Notation: Edw Bridgen 17 7bre 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Girardot, Haller & Cie., 17 September 1779
From: Girardot, Haller & Cie.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris 7bre 17. 1779
Messieurs Girardot, Haller & Co. most respectful Compliments to the Honourable Doctr. Franklin And send him the inClos’d letter, should it require An Answer, please to send it to us, and they will take care to forward it, to its addres.
To The Honble Doctr. FrankLin at Passy

Notation: Girardot haller Paris 17. 7bre. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marine Committee, 17 September 1779
From: Marine Committee
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Gentlemen
September 17th 1779
We have received the honor of yours of the 3d. June last to which we shall now reply. We are sorry for the trouble which you have had with the Conspirators belonging to the Alliance, and at this time can think of no better method of disposing of them than Sending them out to this Continent by different Vessels proportioning the number to each Vessel, so as not to render it dangerous or inconvenient; and upon their Arrival if Sufficient evidence can be had it is our intention to bring them to trial by Court Martial. We are perfectly satisfied with the manner in which you have disposed of the Alliance, and have strong expectations that the little Squadron under Captain Jones will by their Success furnish Ample funds to repay All the Disbursments that have been made for that ship.
Although we are fully sensible of the perplexity which you have already had in transacting our Maritime business & of the impropriety of taking up your time from affairs of more general importance, when Consuls should be appointed at the several seaports & provided with funds for that purpose, yet the necessity we are now under of furnishing the sr Gerard with a suitable ship to carry himself & family to France obliges us once more to trouble you by committing the direction of that ship to your care having at present no alternative—assuring you that we shall use our endeavours to make it the last of the kind. This Ship is called the Confederacy mounts 36 Guns, commanded by Seth Harding Esqr who we have Ordered, on his arrival, to transmit you a state of his Ship, and to be governed in all things by your orders as you will perceive by the enclosure. We have in view that this Ship on her return should bring back as much Military Stores for the use of our Army as can be provided in time so as not to detain her or incommode her as a Ship of war which we request you will order Accordingly and dispatch her as soon as possible. As it is probable that the Captain, Officers and Crew will stand in need of some Supplies of Cloathing (and as they have wages due to them) a little money, we request that you will Order them advances to be made but with a sparing hand. We have the honor to be Your Excellencys very Hble servants

P.S. We have the pleasure to inform you that our frigates have lately had very great Success, having among many other Captures, taken ten homeward bound Jamaica Men fully ladened and two packets One Outward and the Other homeward bound— For particulars beg leave to refer you to the Papers.—
His Excellency Dr. Benjamin Franklin Minister Esqr Plenipotentiary at the Court of Versailles


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 18 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Sir
Passy, Sept. 18. 1779.
I have examined the Papers which your Excellency did me the honour to Send me the 11th. of last Month relative to the Prizes and Ransoms taken by the american Privateer the Black Prince, and am of Opinion that the Same are good being taken from the Enemies of the United States. I therefore pray your Excellency to give such Directions relating thereto, to the admiralty of Morlaix, as may be necessary for the advantage of the Owners of that Privateer. With the greatest Respect, I am, Your Excellency’s most obedient.
M. De Sartine.


Title: Certificate Condemning a Prize, 18 September 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

By the time Franklin received Francis Coffyn’s letter of September 18, below, enclosing a copy of the French government’s regulations concerning American prizes, he had already seen those regulations and had finally understood that he bore responsibility for judging the prizes’ legality. On September 18 he issued his first two certificates of condemnation. The one immediately below, printed at Passy in Fournier’s gros romain, is a form designed for the case of a single prize ship and was obviously composed with the help of a French hand. The document that follows, handwritten and in English, is a certificate judging the legality of multiple captures, including ships ransomed rather than being brought into port. It would serve as a model for all subsequent certificates covering multiple prizes or ransoms, which Franklin would continue to draft on an individual basis in English.
Four days after sending this printed form to the Admiralty of Vannes, Franklin submitted to them an identical certificate made out for another of Jones’s prizes, the Fortune. He filled out both forms himself, and in his perennial battle with French genders, wrote “Bonne” in the feminine even though it preceded “homme.” He also corrected by hand a number of typographical errors, adding the final “e” to “Capitaine” and drawing in cedillas, where needed, on the letter “c.” At some point thereafter he corrected the type, this time using the character “ç” and also deleting the “e” in the word “reçeu.” Only five examples of the second printing are known; one is dated December 21, 1779, and four are blank.

MESSIEURS,
Passy, ce 18. septembre 1779
J’ai reçeu les Procés verbaux, & les autres Papiers, que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’addresser, en conformité de l’Article onze du Reglement du 27 Septembre 1778. Ces Pieces concernent la Prise du Navire nommé le Fleur de May dont étoit Captaine le Sieur Thomas Molony, parti du Port de Limerick en Ireland, & qui étoit destiné pour le Port de Londres, & arrivée dans le Port françois de l’Orient aprés avoir été pris le 21 du mois de Août, par le Capitaine John Paul Jones commandant le Navire Americain le Bonne homme Richard, & muni d’une Commission du Congrés des Etats-Unis de l’Amerique. Par l’examen, Messieurs, que j’ai fait du susdittes pieces, il me parait que le dit Navire le Fleur de May est de bonne Prise, étant fait sur les ennemis des Etats-Unis; Et je vous prie, lorsque vous en serez requis par le Capitaine on Armateur du dit Navire le Bonne homme Richard ou par leur Representant, de proceder à la vente de la susditte Prise, en conformité du Reglement du 27 Septembre 1778.
J’ai l’honneur d’étre, MESSIEURS, Vôtre trés humble, & trés obeissant Serviteur,
B Franklin

A Messieurs les Juges de l’Amirauté de Vannes—
Notation: Engregistré au greffe de lamirauté a vannes le 22 8bre 1779. Lemarec


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 18 September 1779
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & Hond: sir
Philadelphia Sepr. 18, 1779.
I have yours of 2d. June via Boston— I have also since received a few Lines from you of 10th. Jany., covering Letters for some French Gentlemen in our Army, which I have forwarded to them— I am glad to find you got mine of the 22d. October last, as I am now certain you have received the loan Office bills for Interest of your Money— You do not mention the receipt of them, but I suppose it was thro’ the multiplicity of your business that you forgot it.
I now send you first Bills of four sets for another years Interest, amounting to 486 Dollars, which I wish safe to your hands; these Bills now sell here Sixteen for one. I have sold some that I received for Interest of my Brother’s Money, at that rate, which in nominal value is almost equal to the original sum deposited in the Loan Office—
I find I was not so particular in my Letter of 22 Octr. last respecting the Types sold to the State of Virginia as I had been in some of my preceding Letters, but I now beg leave to mention to you, as I still find myself at a loss how to make out the account, that the state of Virginia took all the Types, except the Six cases of Types which the Congress have, all the Letters, flowers, cases, Iron chasis &c. &c.— The Mahogany Presses, they did not take, they fell into worse hands; for one Robinson a Printer, when the Enemy were here and who now lives in Newyork, got some intelligence of them, & procured an order from one of the General Officers to take them, & convert them to his own use— When the Types were delivered to the State of Virginia, I concluded you had an account of their weight & cost, I therefore did not weigh them, nor did I know the different sorts they consisted of; and as they were sold & delivered but a short time before the Enemy came here, I was glad to get them off my hands, without being so particular in the delivery, as otherwise I should have been, seeing that it was impossible for me to have them sent out of Town to a place of Safety— Being totally ignorant of the weight it is impossible for me to make out the account as you direct— I could wish therefore, that you would put down what you think is the Stirling cost of the whole or as near it as you can come; I see no other way now of setling it, and the State of Virginia have left it to yourself to fix the price— The weight of the Six Cases taken by Congress I cannot now come at, as undoubtedly many are lost and broken, you will therefore be pleased to mention what you think the value of them may be.
I am obliged to you for your recommendation to the Merchants of France as a Correspondent; my last Letters will inform you, that I have formed a Connection with Mr. Shee, & established a house for the purpose of doing Commission business— I now send you a number of our circular Letters, with a request that you will disperse them, & return me a list of the Merchants you send them to— Our exports for Flour & other Staples will, I believe, soon take place, and as Congress have come to a Resolution, to emit no more than a certain sum & pledged their Faith to the United States that it shall be so, I trust our Money will appreciate by just degrees— As the prices of imported Articles bear a proportion with the Exports, & leave a considerable profit, I can’t see that the Adventurer can be affected by the depreciation, and tho’ he may not understand the depreciation, if he finds a profit accrue from the Voyage, equivalent to the risque, his purpose is answered— If from the experiments the Merchants of France have made, they have had reason to judge unfavorably of their American connections, and some of them have been induced to think they have been cheated, I am sorry for it—We wish for an opportunity of evincing to them, that such connections may be formed with this Country in the trading line, as will well answer the Adventurer’s purpose, and reflect honor on the Trade & Connection—
You make me happy by telling me that you have had a great deal of pleasure in Ben, as well as by the character you give me of him— I am confident you sending him to Geneva is meant for his benefit, therefore I feel perfectly satisfied with the measure, tho’ he is removed at such a distance from under your immediate Eye— His Mama & I have wrote to him by this opportunity— We shall be glad to see the Letters he writes you, as his correspondence with you will be more frequent probably than with us— We wish you may have leisure to go and see him, the Journey may conduce to your health, & prolong a Life that we affectionately respect & love—
Among the many Memoirs you have sent me, I find there is an Inquiry after Colonel Fleury you may acquaint his Friends that he is in good health & that he has gained immortal honor this summer, at the attack on Stoney point up the North River; being acquainted with him, I will endeavour to prevail on him to write to his friends, but he possesses so much military Genius, that he cannot pay attention to any thing but the Art of War— We are sensibly affected at the speedy departure of Mr. Gerard; he has gained the affections of the people in this place most exceedingly— He has been remarkably civil to your Daughter Sally and myself, and we are both much attached to him— We have often wished to have had it in our power, to make suitable returns, not only from pride, but from the real affection we bear him, & the pleasure it would have given us to have paid every attention to his merit; but as circumstances would not admit of it, he must take the will for the deed— He is kind enough to take charge of our packets— In the box which contains the Squirrel Skins, you will find the late Philadelphia papers, those that have come in since the Box was packt up, I send herewith; also a few more Skins which Mrs. Duffield & Miss Sally brought to Town this day— They beg to be remembered to you affectionately.
Not knowing what port Mr. Gerard may put into, I send to your care a Letter for Jonathan Williams, which I beg of you to forward to him— Sally and the Children join me in Love & Duty— I am ever Dear Sir Your affectionate Son
Rich. Bache
Dr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Bett, 18 September 1779
From: Bett, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excellency
Brest Sept. 18th 1779
We hope you will not be offended at the liberty taken by Three Distress’d young Men Natives of America who are at preasent on board the Gentile Frigate hear and are Very disireous of getting home as the have very responcible Freinds in America. Therefore most Earnestly Requests youll Demand us that we may return home as we Are sure our assistance is wanted on Board some of Our Vessels. If your Excellency is kind Enough to Favour us with An Answer Please to Dirict to Sir your most Obedt. Humb Servt.
Wm. Bett

Addressed: His Excellency / John Franklin Esqr. / Paris
Notations: W. Bett. Brest 18. 7bre. 1779. / paye a nantes