Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Antoine-Félix Wuybert, Joseph Lunt and Edward MacKellar, 2 October 1778
From: Wuybert, Antoine-Félix,Lunt, Joseph,MacKellar, Edward
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir,
Forton Prison (Gosport) Octor. 2d. 1778.
Having been Buoyed up with the hopes of an Exchange for Six, or seven Months, we began to surmise the Reason why it was so long delayed was owing to a Nonconformity on the part of the British Ministry. Yet they disclaimd the charge; Alledging that they have complyed with every requisite on their part, and that the Completion of it rests wholly with you; yet as we put no great Confidence in them, we wish to hear the truth from yourself, which will give us infinite Satisfaction. The remembrance of our sufferings last Winter not being yet erased from our Minds, raises great Anxieties in us, as the ensuing Winter Approaches. We wish not to be continued another Winter if Terms for our relief can be accomodated. We the Subscribers are therefore Commissioned by the rest of our Brother Prisoners (Officers and Men) in the name and behalf of the whole to address you on this (to us) very Interesting Subject humbly begging a speedy, and official answer, as also your speedy Interposition, if any thing can be done to relieve us from our most disagreable Situation. In the greatest Confidence of your favour we have the Honour to Subscribe our selves your Most Obedient Humble Servants
Lt Col WuibertJoseph LuntEdward MacKellar

Addressed: To The Honble. Benjn. Franklin / Ambassador Plenipotentiary / From the Thirteen United States / of North America, at the / Court of France
Endorsed: Prisoners to be answer’d directly


Title: Thomas Grant and Joses Hill to the American Commissioners, 3 October 1778: résumé
From: Grant, Thomas,Hill, Joses
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Bordeaux, October 3, 1778, with two paragraphs in French: We the first and second mates contracted on May 3 for us and eight other sailors of the snow Nancy, Edenton, North Carolina, James Morrisson master, to sail for Spain or France, load the ship and return to the united provinces. We were advanced a month’s wages in dollars and in July, on arrival in Bordeaux, a second month’s wages in French money. Mr. Delap, the owner’s correspondent, sold the vessel contrary to the agreement and ordered us on shore. Capt. Morrisson left us in the lurch. Mr. Delap would pay us only 300 percent damages and put us on other vessels headed to America. That arrangement we refused. We sought help from an interpreter, the Admiralty Attorney, the Attorney General of the royal Admiralty, and Mr. Bondfield, consul for the Congress. The petition prepared by Mr. Bondfield and presented before the Admiralty Judge argued that we be indemnified in the manner customary for sailors dismissed while in a foreign country, as well as given wages previous to our discharge. The case was decided in our favor, with the precise sums to be determined by an expert. We have been unable to secure an expert acceptable to all parties and consequently appeal to your honors.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from –– Luet de Biscontin, 3 October 1778: résumé
From: Luet de Biscontin, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Venice, October 3, 1778, in French: I wish to apply for the post of American consul in Venice. My knowledge of this Republic’s laws and customs, as well as the many personal connections I have formed over my fifteen years’ residence here, will enable me to defend American interests efficiently. I shall, if needed, provide you with references.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Turgot], 3 October 1778
From: Turgot
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Samedi 3 Octobre [1778].
Madame Helvetius me charge, Monsieur, de vous demander si vous serés libre samedi prochain 10 pour aller chéz Mr. De St Lambert avec elle. Si vous n’étes pas libre, elle vous prie de me mander le premier jour où vous le serés, afin qu’elle propose ce jour la a Mr. De St Lambert. Je me chargerai de lui faire savoir votre reponse. Vous connoissés, Monsieur, tout mon attachement.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats unis / A Passy.


Title: Franklin’s Journal of His Health, 4 October 1778[–16 January 1780]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

Oct. 4. 1778 [–January 16, 1780]
As my Constitution appears to have undergone some considerable Changes within the last 3 or 4 Years, it may be of Use to make some Notes of the Changes past, and to continue them, in order to ascertain what are hurtful or beneficial.
I had enjoy’d continu’d Health for near 20 Years, except once in two or three Years a slight Fit of the Gout, which generally terminated in a Week or ten Days, and once an intermitting Fever got from making Experiments over stagnate Waters.
I was sometimes vex’d with an Itching on the Back, which I observ’d particularly after eating freely of Beef. And sometimes after long Confinement at Writing with little Exercise, I have felt sudden pungent Pains in the Flesh of different Parts of the Body, which I was told were scorbutic. A journey used to free me of them.
In 1773, being in Ireland, I was, after a plentiful Dinner of Fish the first Day of my Arrival, seiz’d with a violent Vomiting and Looseness. The latter continued, tho’ more moderate as long as I staid in that Kingdom, which was 4 or 5 Weeks.
On my Return I first observ’d a kind of Scab or Scurff on my Head, about the Bigness of a Shilling. Finding it did not heal, but rather increas’d I mention’d it to my Friend Sir J.P. who advis’d a mercurial Water to wash it, and some Physic. It slowly left that Place but appear’d in other Parts of my Head. He also advis’d my abstaining from salted Meats and Cheese, which Advice I did not much follow, often forgetting it.
In 1775 I went to America. On the Passage I necessarily ate more Salt Meat than usual with me at London. I immediately enter’d the Congress, where and with the Committee of Safety, I sat great Part of that Year and the next 10 or 12 Hours a day without Excerscise. We lost 3 Members in those Years by Apoplexies, viz. Mr. Randolf, M. Bory, and Mr. Lynch. I had frequent Giddinesses. I went to Canada. On the Passage I suffer’d much from a number of large Boiles. In Canada my Legs swell’d and I apprehended a Dropsy. Boils continu’d and harrass’d me after my Return, but the Swelling of my Legs pass’d off. The Boils however left round them a kind of dry Scab or Scurfiness, which being rubb’d off appear’d in the Form of white Bran. My Giddiness left me.
In my Passage to France Nov. 1776 I lived chiefly on Salt Beef, the Fowls being too hard for my Teeth. But being poorly nourish’d, I was very weak at my Arrival; Boils continu’d to vex me, and the Scurff extending over all the small of my Back, on my Sides, my Legs, and my Arms, besides what continued under my Hair, I apply’d to a Physician, who order’d me Bellosto’s Pills and an Infusion of a Root call’d [blank in MS.] I took the Infusion a while, but it being disagreable, and finding no Effect I omitted it. I continu’d longer to take the Pills; but finding my Teeth loosning and that I had lost 3, I desisted the Use of them. I found that Bathing stop’d the Progress of the Disorder. I therefore took the Hot Bath twice a Week two Hours at a time till this last Summer. It always made me feel comfortable, as I rubb’d off the softned Scurff in the warm Water; and I otherwise enjoy’d exceeding good Health. I stated my case to Dr. Ingenhausz, and desired him to show it to Sir J.P. and obtain his Advice. They sent me from London some Medicines; but Dr. Ingenhausz proposing to come over soon, and the Affair not pressing, I resolved to omit taking the Medicines till his Arrival.
In July the Disorder began to diminish, at first slowly, but afterwards rapidly; and by the Beginning of October, it had quitted entirely my Legs Feet Thighs, and Arms, and my Belly, a very little was left on my Sides, more on the small of my Back, but the whole daily diminishing.
I observ’d that where there was no Redness under the Scurff, if I took it once off it did not return. I had hardly bath’d in those 3 Months. I took no Remedy whatever and I know not what to ascribe the Change to, unless it was the Heat of the Summer, which sometimes made me sweat, particularly when I exercis’d. I had five Boiles just before the Amendment commenc’d, which discharg’d a great deal of Matter. And once my Legs began again to swell. But that went off in a few Days, and I have been otherwise extreamly well and hearty.
The second Instant October I ate a hearty Supper, much Cheese, and drank a good deal of Champagne.
The 3d. I ate no Breakfast, but a hearty Dinner, and at Night found my Back itch extreamly near the Shoulders which continues to day the 4th. I ate some Salted Beef at Dinner yesterday but not much. I wish the Cool Weather may not bring on a return of the Disorder.
Oct. 4. The Itching continues, but somewhat abated.
Oct. 6. Drank but one Glass of Wine to day; the Itching almost gone. I begin to think it will be better for me to abstain from Wine. My Dinner to day was Mutton boil’d and Fowl, with a good deal of Fruit.
Oct. 12. I have lately drank but little Wine. The Itching has not return’d. The Scurff continues to diminish. But yesterday I observ’d my Ancles swell’d. I suppose my having us’d no Exercise lately may be the Cause.
Jan. 14, 1779. The Swelling above mention’d continu’d some few Weeks, being greatest at Night, my Complexion at the same time not fresh; at length the Itching return’d, and a new Set of Eruptions of scurfy Spots appear’d in many Parts of my Body. My Back had never been entirely clear’d and the Scurf began to increase there and extend itself. But it is not yet so bad as it has been, and it seems to spare the Parts that were before affected, except in my Back. The Swelling has left my Legs, which are now as dry and firm as ever, and I feel myself otherwise in perfect health, and have as much Vigour and Activity as can be expected at my Age. So that I begin to be more reconcil’d to this troublesome disorder, as considering it an Effort of Nature to get rid of Peccant Matter, that might if not so discharg’d, break up my Constitution.

Feb. 28. 79. The Disorder on my Skin has continu’d augmenting. On Monday the 15th I din’d and drank rather too freely at M. Darcy’s. Tuesday Morning, I felt a little Pain in my right great Toe. I bath’d that Day in the hot Bath, which I had long omitted. A regular Fit of the Gout came on, which swell’d my foot exceedingly, and I have had little in my left foot. It is now going off and I hope to get abroad in a Day or two. No remarkable Change in other Respects. In this Fit I had very little Appetite, which I do not remember to have been the Case in former Fits.
Jan. 16. 1780. I have enjoy’d good Health ever since the last Date. Towards the End of the Summer most of the Disorder in my Skin disappeared, a little only remaining on my left Arm, a little under each Breast, and some on the small of the Back. I had taken at different times a good deal of Dr. Pringle’s Prescription; but whether that occasion’d the Amendment, or whether it was the Heat of the Summer as I suppos’d in October 1778, I am uncertain. The disorder seems to be now increasing again, and appears upon my hands. I am otherwise well; my Legs sound; To-morrow I enter on my 75th Year.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley: Two Letters, [4 October 1778]
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

I.
My Dear friend
[October 4, 1778]
I thank you for yours of Sept. 3d inclosing those beautiful lines from Dante to the late Mistress of his affections, of which I feel the whole force. In return I send you another most pathetic Sonnet.

  Veteris vestigia flammae.
When the Sheep were in the fould,
And the Ky at hame,
  And all the world
  To rest were gane.
The waes of my heart,
  fell in showrs frae my EE,
  While my Gude man
  lay sound by me.
Young Jamie loved me weel,
  and sought me for his bride,
  but saving one crown,
  He had nothing beside.
To make that crown a pound,
  My Jamie gang’d to sea,
  and the crown and the pound
  were both for me.
He had not been awa’
  a year and a day
  ere my father brake his arm,
  and the Cow was Staln away.
My Mither she fell sick,
  and my Jamie at the sea,
  When auld Robin Gray
  came a courting to me.
My heart it said Nay,
  I wishd for Jamie back,

  But the wind it blew hie,
  and the Ship was a wrack.
The Ship was a wrack,
  why did not Jennie dee,
  o why was I spared
  to cry woe is me.
My father could na work,
  My Mither could na spin,
  I toild day and night,
  But their bread I could na win.
Auld Robin kept them baith,
  and with tears in his ee,
  said Jenny, for their sake,
  Oh would ye marry me.
My father loved me weel,
  My Mither could na’ speek,
  But she look’d in my face,
  Till I thought I my heart would break.
So I gave him my hand,
  tho my heart was at Sea,
  and auld Robin Gray
  Is gude man to me.
I had na been his wife
  of weeks but only four,
  when sitting so mournfully
  out at the door;
I saw my Jamie’s wraithe,
  for I did not think it he,
  till he said, I am come,
  Jenny, to marry thee.
Oh sair did we greet,
  and mickle did we say,
  He took but one kiss,
  and we tore ourselves away.
I wish I were deed,
  tho I am not like to dee,
  Oh why was I spared,
  to cry woe is me.
I gang like a ghost,
  for I canna sit to spin,

  I may not think of Jamie,
  for that would be a sin.
But I must do my best,
  a good wife to be,
  for Auld Robin Gray,
  is very kind to me.

I have told you before that my heart is always set upon peace. In the present circumstances between the two Countries I can only think of one proposition to mediate. You may as easily imagine that the immediate and explicit acknowledgement of Independence, must be grating to this Country, as I can that America will not finally depart from it. The answer of the Congress to the Commissioners seems to imply this. What think you, of Suspending this point for five years, or seven years by a truce; and that nothing in the interim shall impeach their Independence. If such a proposition as this would bring the parties together, I think there would not be wanting a member of Parliament to propose it in the house. When you put pen to paper again, tell me how you like my Dante; and match it if you can; and the sooner the better. Your affectionate
GB

Addressed: To Dr Franklin
Endorsed: Hartley
Notation: Oct 4. 1778

II.
My Dear Friend
October 4 1778
I have received yours of the 14th of Septr. when I have any thing farther to communicate upon that Subject it shall not stop with me.
I take this as my fundamental. The two nations are not exasperated against each other, therefore peace and friendship between them are still practicable. You know my earnest desire for peace as I know yours. You know likewise my Idea for getting over the chief Stumbling block that seems to me to be in our way. You likewise know where I would treat. If any such proposition would do, I would state the Matter thus. Supposing the ministry now sincerely desirous of peace; I think they would readily catch at any plan which might save the national honour. Supposing them not sincere, if any practicable proposition could be thought of, as I have suggested to you, it might be made in parliament. I have a strong opinion of the latent goodwill between the two Countries which makes me very earnest to take every chance for peace. But the Question still remains what is practicable? I know a friend of yours that would see you before the 26th of November, if there were any the least chance of doing good. Is travelling in France as agreeable to an Englishman as it was, or if a friend were to bring an English cheese as a present, could you send any sort of Letter in the nature of a passport of hospitality, for the cheese and the bearer. Yours affectionately
GB


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Sr., 4 October 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan Sr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honored Sir
Boston Octr. 4. 1778
The Bearer Mr. Henry Bromfield a Young Gentleman of this Town gose to France on Business as a Merchant and as he will be a Stranger in Paris your Civilities to him as such Will Much Oblige your Dutifull Nephew
Jona Williams
Doctr. Franklin

Addressed: Doctr Benjamin Franklin / Paris / Per Mr Bromfield
Notation: Williams Jonathan Oct. 4. 1778. Boston


Title: Editorial Note on Franklin’s Purported Address to the Irish People, 4 October 1778
From:
To:

The Hibernian Journal: or, Chronicle of Liberty published in its issue of November 2–4, 1778, an open letter “To the Good People of Ireland,” signed by Franklin and dated Versailles, October 4, 1778. It was a long and uninspired diatribe against British policy, and ended with a promise that all restraints on Irish trade and manufacture would be removed. Publication in Dublin disturbed the Lord Lieutenant, who immediately wrote Whitehall for instructions. The letter was reprinted the next year in Pennsylvania and elsewhere, and in the late nineteenth century appeared in pamphlet form as by Franklin. Franklin, however, said that he was not the author: Jonathan Williams, Jr., when he received the American reprint, asked him whether he was, and he said no.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jan Ingenhousz, 5 October 1778
From: Ingenhousz, Jan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir.
London Octob. 5th 1778
You will be surprised, that I did not keep my word or reather my resolution to come over to Paris. The reason was, that I undertook to finish a work upon the subject of the small pox and inoculation before I quitted this country, in which I was much interrupted by visitors and other avocations, which one can scarce avoid in a city as this, if a man has so many friends and acquaintances as I. I can scarce avoid to pay allmost every day a visit to our common friend, who seems to find a kind of confort in my company, and who I respect too much for to not oblige him in any way in my power. He excited me to make up some papers upon philosophical and medical subjects by form of letters. Having a good stock of such articles, I could do it, if I was left to my self. You know I am fond of this metropolis, as a place, in which I spended so many happy days. The place of my ordinary residence now affording me no confort equal to what I enjoy here, I can not quit this abode but with some reluctance, the more, as I suspect I will be obliged to take a farewell from it for ever. However I have some thaught of spending the next winter at Paris, without being able to tell it positively. In the mean time I hope your helth is very good. Your friend begins to linger some times and seems to be tired of his literary dignity, which he renounces. It is a pity he is not able to bear some vexations inseparable from an exalted situation. Some of his friends adscribe it to a degree of pride which he possesses; for my part I think it reader [rather] to be adscribed to a keen sensibility of temper, which makes him look with an eye of indignation upon those who obstruct him in what he is conscious of being right. I found out a manner of making in an instant as much inflammable air as I please and to shoot a leaden ball with it, which I will show you when I will be in Paris. Abbé Fontana is here and occupyes my former lodgins at Mr. Pitter’s in Northumberland Court Charing Cross.
I hope your family is well, and the business of Mr. Williams goes on prosperously.

Give my best respects to Mr. and Madame de chaumont.
I hear from Fontana the Vienna conjuror Dr. Mesmer is at Paris, that he has been presented to the Royal academy, that he still pretends a magnetical effluvium streams from his finger and enters the body of any person without being obstructed by walls or any other obstacles, and that such stuff, too insipid for to get belief by any old woman, is believed by your friend Mr. Le Roy, who protects him and will recommend him in London, where he has a mind to exercise his magnetical effluvia. I am very respectfully Dear Sir Your obedient humble servant
J. Ingenhousz

Addressed: a Monsieur / Monsieur Francklin / a Passi
Endorsed: Ingenhousz
Notation: sous couvert de Mr Tourton


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-François-Clément Morand, 5 October 1778
From: Morand, Jean-François-Clément
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur et très honnoré Confrere
Paris ce 5. 8br. 1778.
Si le charmant poële de chauffage au charbon de terre, dont Vous avez eu la complaisance de me donner une gravure, etoit publié dans quelqu’un de vos ouvrages, il seroit actuellement a tout le monde, on en fairoit usage, et mention. Ayant envie d’en faire ce dernier usage, c’est adir, d’en parler, a la fin de mon ouvrage, et de le faire graver dans une planche en Supplement, a celle que j’ai deja donné, il ne me conviendroit pas de suivre a cet egard, la moindre de mes ideés, sans votre Consentement. Je vous serai infiniment obligé, de vouloir bien me faire l’amitié, de me marquer sur cela Votre maniere de penser; dans le cas, ou Vous me donneriez la permission que j’ai l’honneur de vous demander, j’espere que Vous voudriez bien avoir une autre complaisance, scavoir de me donner, une notice abregée, explicative de la planche, pour que Votre ouvrage ne soit pas defiguré, devant etre donné, comme Vous appartenant. J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec les sentimens de consideration et de devouement plus distingués, Monsieur et très honnoré Confrere Votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur
Morand Dr.Rue du vieux Colombierfbg St germain
J’aurois besoin de scavoir a quoi m’en tenir dans ce moment.M. franklin

Endorsed: Morand Oct 5. 78 Stove


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles-Hubert Moreau, 5 October 1778
From: Moreau, Charles-Hubert
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A Versailles Ce 5 octobre 1778
J’ai l’honneur de vous adresser deux lettres qui ont été remises par un inconnu au Suisse de M. le Comte de Vergennes. J’ai cru devoir vous les faire passer sans delai sous le Contreseing du Ministre. Je suis avec respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et très obeissant serviteur
MoreauSecretre. de M. le Cte de Vergennes

Endorsed: Moreau Secr. de Cte Vergennes
Notation: Versailles 5. 8bre. 1778.


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 6 October 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Sirs
Bordeaux the 6 8bre 1778
I have only time to advise of the Arrival of a small Cutter from Baltimore which place they left 14 Augt. and the Capes the 23d. No advices when he left the Coast of Comte dEstaings operations. Another Cutter is in the River from the same port there probably may be letters on board. The fierre Rodrigue from Virginia they left within a Days run of Rochefort to which port she was destind being the Vessel fitted by Mons. Beaumarchais & Co. loaden with Tobacco. Many french Vessels are arrivd in Cheasapeak Bay. I have the Honor to be with due respect Sirs Your very humble Servant
John Bondfield
The Honble. The Commissioners

Notation: Bondfield 6. October. 78.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Vicomte Gaspard de Galbert, 6 October 1778
From: Galbert, Gaspard, vicomte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
a brest le 6 8bre 1778.
Un événement qui vient d’arriver a un battiment de bordeaux sur lequel j’avois quelques bariques des sucres provenant de la guadeloupe ou est ma fortune m’engage a vous prier de vouloir bien faire accélérer la décision de cet événement dont vous ettes sans doutte instruit. Le navire l’isabelle de bordeaux venant de la guadeloupe a étté arrétté par un corsaire de grenesey et délivré par une frégatte amériquaine. Le capitaine du navire marchand prétend qu’il n’est pas de bonne prise, j’ignore si ces raisons sont valables. Mais me trouvant dans la circonstance présente avoir grand besoin de ce petit envoy qui est de 8 barriques des sucres, n’ayant aucun espoir d’en avoir d’auttres car il auroit peut ettre le sort d’ettre pris, je prend la libertté de vous prier de vouloir bien faire accélerer cette décision. Je n’ai appris cet évenement qu’a mon arrivée ici avec l’armée ou je suis employé sur le vaisseau le solitaire. Je vous aurai la plus grande obligation de vouloir bien vous en occuper. Je suis avec respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et obeissant serviteur
LE VTE DE GALBERTenseigne des v[aisse]aux du roy

Endorsed: Le Cte de Galbert about 8 Barrels sugar
Notation: Brest 16. 8bre. 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Emery, 7 October 1778
From: Emery, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Bilbao 7th Octobr. 1778
By the Schooner Lively Cap. Dupuy arrivd yesterday at this place from Newbury Port which he left the 27th. August I received the Inclosd Papers from my friend and Partner. I have taken the Liberty to forward them to you with the Postscript of my friends Letter. By one youl find the dispositions made to attack Rhode Island and by the other the Cause of failure should they not Compleat their design. Perhaps Count dEstaing is unjustly Censured; the day Cap. Dupuy left Newbury he Saw the fleet going into Boston. The Counts Ship had lost the head of her foremast and her Missen Mast in the Gale. The rest of the Ships appeard in good order. I have the Honor to be Your Most Obedient Servant
Jno Emery
Honble. Benjamin Franklin Esqr

Notation: Jno. Emmery Bilboa 7. Oct. 78


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Grinnell: Memorandum, [7 October 1778]
From: Grinnell, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[October 7, 1778]
I Richard Grinnell of Newport Rhodeisland do heareby Sertify that on the Twenty third of Sept. 1775 I Sailed from Warren in Rhodeisland in the Ship George Aaron Sheffield master and that we went to the Coast of Braizels and obtained a bout Six hundread Barrells of oil and was bound for holland but was Taken and Carried Into Dover. There ware on the Coast this Preasen year a bout one hundread Sail from Different parts of amaraca and two or three Sail from London all Commanded and maned with amaracans. Except the Cooks Ship keepers and Boys.
Beeing in London and Distetute of money and friends I was obliged to Ship on Board the Brigg Dennis Jonathan Meader master In the Capasety of Second mate harpooner and Surgan and that we Sailed from London on the 20th Sept 1776 went to the Coast of Braizels and obtaind a bout four hundread Barrells oil moostly Sparmycitty. There ware this year a bout twelve Sail from London all Commanded and maned with amaracans who was Protected for that Purpose otherwise the men must have been Impresed Into the Kings Servis.
NB: There was not one Sail on the Coast this year Belonging to amaraca.
On the 2d of June on our Return home to London I was Impresed on board the Belleisle man of war of Seventy four Guns John Brooks Esq Commander Beeing a bout one hundread Leagues from England in the Channell. A few Days after I was Impresed we fell in with a fishing boat Neare I Reland. I Took this opertunity to write to London to Mr. Dennis De Burdt marchant there who a plyed to the Lords of the admaralty and obtaind my Discharge, and I Emeadeately made my Escape from London to Dunkirk and offered my Servis to Mr. Franklen. But after Wateing two months in Dunkirk and Beeing a Gain Distetute of money and not haveing an opertunity to Return to amaraca I was Prevailed upon to take the Charge of a Vessel and after Gitting from London a Number of amaracans Some of which went the Voige with me Namely James Buchanan John Wood Elias Porter and a Bel[Abel] Tren, I Sailed from Dunkirk in the Brigg New Interprise, under my Command on the 5th of November 1777 went to the Coast of Braizels and obtaind five Sparmycitty whals and a Rived in Dunkirk on the 17th June 1778.
This Preasant year was on the Coast of Brazils a bout fourteene Sail from London all Commanded and maned with amaracans. Wee alwasy Cruse of the River Plate In Lattitude 35 Degrees South and Longitude 63 Degrees west from London. Some times wee Go as fare South as forty Degrees South we always Keepe Neare upon Soundings and Sometimes in 60 and 90 fathom Waters. There is also Several Vessels Goes to forklands Island and Loade with Right whale and Sea Lion oil and five or Six Sail to Greeneland and Several Sail Last year and this year Go up the Streights and Loade with Right whale and Sparmycitty oil all Commanded and maned with amaracans. This Whaleing up the Strieghts is Keept a profound Secreet in London which Place I Left the 30th oct. 1778 [i.e. 1777]. There is this Preasent year a bout Seventeene Sail from London Bound to the Coast of Brazels. To the Truth of the a bove I am Ready to Sware to if Called upon Given under my hand in Pasy the 7th of oct. 1778
Richard Grinnell

And whareas Last year I Read in the London Papers the Copy of a Letter from the Lords of the admaralty to Mr. Dennis De Burdt In Coleman Street Informing him that there was a Convoy apointed to Convoy the fleete to the Coast of Braizels. But when I a Rived on the Coast of Braizels from Dunkirk I made Enqurrey and found that there was no Convoy apointed and the Pretend Letter was all a Sham and as I have Read in one of the London Papers In Guernsey the Copy of a Nothers Letters from the Lord, of the admaralty to Mr. Dennis De Burdt Informing him that a Convoy was apointed and Should be Ready (if I mistake not) on the 20th Sept. to Convoy the fleet from London to the Coast of Braizels. But when I was In London I a Gain made Inqurrey and was Informd that there was no Convoy apointed and Several Vessels has already Sailed without Convoy and others Daly Sailing and that these Letters are all a Sham. But Should a Convoy Sail with the fleete it was Never ment that they Should Go any further than the Equater as they Could be of no Sarvis on the Coast Braizels as the Vessels are all Disparced and as Sone as one Gits Loded makes the Best of his way home. Given under my hand In Pasy this 7th oct. 1778
Richd. Grinnell

Notation: Rich. Grinnell


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from –– De Tournelle, 7 October 1778
From: Tournelle, —— de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
La Corogne le 7. 8bre 1778.
J’ai l’honneur de vous remettre ci joint un paquet a Votre adresse que j’ai reçu des Isles Canaries. Le mauvais état de l’enveloppe m’a obligé pour plus de sureté a en mettre une seconde, et vous me pardonnerés d’avoir profité d’une occasion si naturelle de vous offrir et mes services et mon respect. Je suis avec tout celui qui vous est dû a tant de titres Monsieur Votre trés humble et trés obeissant serviteur
De TournelleConsul de france

Endorsed: De Tournelle Consul de France a Corogne 7. 8bre 78


Title: Domenico Caracciolo, Marchese di Villamaina, to the American Commissioners, 8 October 1778
From: Caracciolo, Domenico, Marchese di Villamaina
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Messieurs
Paris ce 8. 8bre. 1778.
Je suis persuadé, qu’il est deja a votre Connoissance, que le Roy des Deux Siciles mon Maitre á ordonné de tenir ouverts les Ports dans tous ses domaines au Pavillion des Etats Unis de L’Amerique au moyen de quoi pour eviter tous espece d’equivoque dans ces tems, que la mer est couverte des armateurs de differente Nations, et aussi des Pirates, je vous prie de me faire savoir les couleurs du Pavillon des états unis de l’amerique et aussi la forme des Expeditions de mer pour mieux connoitre la légalité des Patentes, qu’on á L’usage de presenter dans les Ports pour avoir l’entrée libre. J’ai l’honneur d’Etre avec la plus parfaite consideration Messieurs Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
L’Ambassadeur DE Naples

Notation: Letter from the Neapolitan Ambassador 8: 8bre 1778 an[swere]d 9th


Title: Peter Collas to the American Commissioners, 8 October 1778: résumé
From: Collas, Peter
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Passy, October 8, 1778: Last August 6 I left here for Nantes and sailed on the 29th for Boston on the Dispatch, Corbin Barnes, master. I was captured on September 1, and taken into Guernsey; I made my way from there to England and finally to Calais. My trunk was searched and a number of articles were held on the supposition that they were made in England. These articles are of French manufacture, purchased in Nantes. I need your assistance to recover them.>


Title: John Ross to the American Commissioners, 8 October 1778: résumé
From: Ross, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Nantes, October 8, 1778: I have yours of September 30 indicating that I am to be deprived of the commissioners’ advice beyond that concerning the money extended me. It has been my position all along that I am responsible only to Congress but I fail to see why you have charged me with indecency. Decency was also due to me. No decency was observed in seizing the private property of others. The money extended me by the commissioners has been accounted for in purchases by order of the committee of Congress. It will be replaced as soon as funds reach me. However I need instructions for shipping the remaining property, consisting in blankets, clothing, etc. Consider the ill consequences to the states of further delay. Wages to the officers and crew of La Brune should not be considered advances to me. Mr. Williams knows how the 20,000 livres furnished me by order of Mr. Deane were disbursed. Mr. Hodge’s disposal of the cutter Revenge followed Mr. Deane’s instructions, as Mr. Lee is well aware.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Keating, 8 October 1778
From: Keating, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Worthy Sir
Dennant Castle October 8th 1778
Nothing but your distinguished Character for Remarkable Acts of Benevolence and Charity to the oppressed cou’d urge me to lay the following Sircumstances before you. I am a native of Virginia but Sarved my time in Willing & Morriss’s Imploy out of Philadelphia and Sailed from thence some Years afterwards, During which time I had the pleasure of Hearing your Name often Repated. I returned to Virginia to see my friends, where I Marryed, and Sailed Master of A Packett Between Norfolk and Wmsburgh, wch Some of my Papers and the Certificates (or permits) I have with me will Testefy. In March 1775 I sailed from thence Mate of Captain Murphy, and we were takeing Servants on Board in Dublin, but was oblidged to put them A Shore, and Our Ship was laid up. Ever since I have been Sailing from thence in hopes of Meeting A favourable oppertunity of Returning home, but my Intentions were allways Frustrated it being A place of no great Trade, and the Town of Norfolk getting Disstroyed. I was taken on board the Eliza bound for Jamaica, and I humbly beg you’ll take my Distressed Situation unto your Tender Consideration, and forward me in my Just design of getting to my Family, or on Board some American Vessell, as you are the only Santurary under God I have to Rely upon for my Inlargement, for which as in Duty Bound I will ever Pray Worthy Sir I am with due Respect Your most Obedient and very humble Servant to Command
William Keating

P.S. There is About Seven or Eight Americans here Who wou’d Gladly sarve their Country.

Addressed: Doctr. Franklin American Ambasador / At / Pariss
Endorsed: Wm Keating Prisoner Dennant Castle 8. 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Maréchal de Merlet, 8 October 1778
From: Merlet, ——, Maréchal de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A Paris le 8. 8bre. 1778.
Je viens de Recevoir la lettre dont Copie cÿ Jointe, C’est la plus nouvelle de date qui me soit parvenuë de deux neveux que J’aÿ au service des Etats Unis et dont Le Sort m’inquiette, malgré la position honorable dans laquelle cette Dernierre me les peint.

L’Objet de celle cy est de suplier Votre Excellence, de me faire savoir ce qui peut Vous etre Revenu sur Leur existence et de permettre que l’Incluse Soit mise dans Vos paquêts. Ma Reconnoissance Egalera les Sentiments Respectueux avec lesquels J’aÿ L’honneur d’etre Monsieur, Votre tres humble et tres Obeissant Serviteur
MerletMal. des Camps et Arméesdu Roy de france.Rue Beautreillis
M. Francklin Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats Unis de l’amerique. A Chaillot.

P.S. Noms des Deux Officiers qui font le Sujet de Cette lettre.
M. de la Neuville Chevalier de L’ordre Royal et militaire de St. Louis. Major au service de France.
M. de Noirmont, Capitaine Au Regiment de Royal Comtois Infanterie au Service de France.
Touts les deux passés en Amerique par Congé du Roy pour trois ans.
Le Premier est celuy qui mande avoir eté Nommé Inspecteur de l’armée du General Gates.
Le 2e. est celuy qui etoit aide de Camp du General Conwaÿ et que la Lettre dit devoir l’être aujourd’huy du General Leé.

Endorsed: Merlet Inquiry Paris 8e. 8bre. 1778.


Title: The American Commissioners to [Domenico Caracciolo], 9 October 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Caracciolo, Domenico, Marchese di Villamaina

Sir
Passy Octr 9. 1778
We are this Moment honoured with your Excellencys Letter of the Eighth of this Month, and We thank your Excellency for the Information that his Majesty the King of the two Sicilies, hath ordered the ports of his Dominions to be open to the Flagg of the United States of America. We should be glad to have a Copy of his Majesty’s Edict for that purpose in order to communicate it to the Congress, who we are confident will be much pleas’d with this Mark of his Majesty’s Benevolence. It is with Pleasure on this occasion that We acquaint your Excellency, the Flagg of the United States of America, consists of thirteen Stripes, alternately red, white and blue;—a small Square in the upper angle next the Flag Staff is a blue Field, with thirteen white Stars, denoting a new Constellation.
Some of the States have Vessels of War, distinct from those of the united States. For Example, the Vessels of War of the State of Massachusetts Bay have Sometimes a Pine Tree, and South Carolina a Rattlesnake in the Middle of the thirteen Stripes.
Merchant Ships have often only thirteen Stripes. But the Flagg of the United States ordained by Congress is the thirteen Stripes and thirteen Stars as first described.
The Commissions of Ships of War belonging to the United States, as well as those of Privateers, are all signed by the President of the Congress, and countersigned by the Secretary. Each State may have a different Method of Clearing Merchant Vessells outward bound, and a different Form in the Papers given; We therefore are not able to give your Excellency certain Information respecting all of them. The Massachusetts Bay, has only a Naval Officer in each Port who Subscribes a Register, a Clearance, and a Pass for the Castle in Boston Harbour. We have the Honour to be with the most perfect Respect, your Excellencys most obedient and most humble Servants.
His Excellency the Ambassador of Naples.


Title: The American Commissioners to Necker, 9 October 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Necker, Jacques

Sir
Passi October 9. 1778
Captain Peter Collass of Boston in America, who has had the Misfortune to be thrice taken Prisoner in the Course of this War, by the Enemy, has made a Representation to Us of the Detention of a few Articles of his Property at Calais by the Customs house officers. Articles of the Manufacture of this Kingdom which he purchased at Nantes, in order to carry home to his Family, and which the Guernseyman had the Humanity to forbear to take from him. We inclose his Representation of his Case to you, and have the Honour to request in his Behalf, all that Indulgence, which may with Propriety be granted him. We have the Honour to be, with the most respectful Consideration, your etc.
Mr. Necker


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 9 October 1778
From: Hartley, David
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
October 9 1778
You have a copy of my Letter to the board of Admiralty of the 15th of July last. I writ again upon the same subject on the 27th ultimo, saying that as you had so strongly expressed your desire to me to concur in every measure which might in any degree alleviate the miseries of war, I was in hopes that their Lordships would revise their first answer to mine of the 15th of July, and if possible concur with the proposition theirin contained upon some terms or other. I have recd. the following answer.

Sir
Admiralty office Oct 6 1778
Having laid before my Lds. Commrs. of the Adty. your letters of the 22d and 27th ultimo the former enclosing a french pass port for the Exchange of prisoners, with a copy of Dr. Franklin’s letter to you; the other desiring their Lds. will reconsider the answer which you received to the proposition made in your letter of the 15th of July last, of clearing all the prisons at once of the American prisoners upon the condition of a number equal to the Surplus upon the exchange which is now proposed in a French port being to be delivered to Lord Howe or to his order in America, I am commanded by their L[ordshi]ps to acquaint you that they are of opinion it will be prejudicial to his Majesty’s service to exchange prisoners upon account of Debtor and Creditor. I cannot therefore consent to the exchanging them otherwise than man for man in Europe, and upon that Ground their L[ordshi]ps wish to know as soon as convenient the precise number of prisoners that are now in France ready to be sent to England in Exchange for an equal Number to be sent from hence. Yrs &c.
Ph Stephens
To DH Esq

I wish that we may have now as little delay as possible. I hope one exchange of Letter more will finish the first Exchange of prisoners. I shall hope to hear from you soon. Your affectionate
D Hartley
To Dr Franklin

Endorsed: D. Hartley


Title: Tristram Barnard to the American Commissioners, [after 9 October 1778]: résumé
From: Barnard, Tristram
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<[Paris, after October 9, 1778]: A valuable whaling business has been established by the English since the onset of hostilities with America. If you intend to destroy it I could give you adequate intelligence. I was involved in this business but quit, aware that I was doing wrong. Fifteen whaling ships, manned primarily by Americans who would gladly return home, sail in October, stop in the Cape Verde Islands and cruise between 26 and 38 degrees latitude south and 46 to 62 degrees longitude west. The fishery ends in April. The ships then moor at St. Helena to return home with the East India fleet. They carry no guns. Last season they brought 55 casks of oil worth £70 in England or £100 in America.>


Title: The American Commissioners to Dumas, 10/16 October 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric

Sir,
Passy, Oct. 10/16. 1778
We have received yours of the 2d Instant, with the Declaration sign’d by Mr. Van Berckel, and his explanatory Letter to you, which give us much pleasure, as they show the good Disposition of that respectable Body, the Burgomasters of Amsterdam towards the United States of America, and their Willingness, as far as may depend on them, to promote between the Republick of the United Low Countries in Europe and the said States, “a Treaty of perpetual Amity containing reciprocal Advantages with respect to Commerce between the Subjects of the two Nations.” As that Body must be better acquainted than we with the Methods of doing public Business in their Country, and appear to be of Opinion that some previous Steps can be taken by them which may facilitate and expedite so good a Work, when Circumstances shall permit its coming under the Consideration of their HH.MM. we rely on their Judgement, and hereby request they would take those Steps, as explain’d in M. Van Berckel’s Letter. And they may be assured that such a Treaty will be very agreeable to the United States of America, who have great Esteem and Respect for your Nation; and that nothing will be wanting on our Part to accomplish the End proposed. We would only remark, that the Mentioning it in the Declaration as a Thing necessary to precede the Conclusion of such a Treaty that American Independence should be acknowledged by the English, is not understood by us, who conceive that there is no more Occasion for such an Acknowledgement before a Treaty with Holland, than there was before our Treaty with France. And we apprehend that if that Acknowledgement were really necessary, England would probably endeavor to make an Advantage of it in the future Treaty of Pacification, to obtain for it some Privileges in Commerce, perhaps exclusive of Holland. We wish therefore that Idea to be laid aside, and that no farther Mention may be made to us of England in this Business. We are, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servants.
M. DumasRough to Mr Dumas Treaty

Notation: The Commrs. to M. Dumas Oct. 16th 1778.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Madame Brillon, [10 October? 1778]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt

Samedi [October 10, 1778?] a Passy
Comme il sera necessaire, ma chere Amie, que je pars un jour pour l’Amerique, sans Esperance de vous revoir jamais, j’ai eu la Pensée quelquesfois qu’il sera prudent de me sevrer de vous par degrez, de vous voir premierement qu’une fois par semaine, aprés cela, qu’une fois par deux semaines, une fois par mois, etc. etc. afin de diminuer peu-a-peu le Desir immoderé que je sens toujours de vôtre Societé enchantante, et d’eviter par ce moyen le grand Mal que je dois autrement souffrir à la Separation finale. Mais, en faisant les Experiences en petit, je trouve que l’Absence au lieu de diminuer, augmente ce Desir. Le Mal que je crains est donc sans Remede, et je viendra vous voir ce soir.


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 10 October 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Sirs
Bordeaux 10th. 8bre 1778
I have this day receivd from Mr. Livingston a Letter wherein he requests I would apply for a Letter of Mark for the Ship bought for him. I shall esteem the favor of you to forward one to me by the first Post I expect he will be ready for Sea by the first November.
The Ship is called the Livingston, in Honor of Governor Livingston, the late Mr. P. Livingston, and the branches of that respectable family. The Master, Musco Livingston, is to mount ten Six Pounders, Swivels etc.
I have just receiv’d a Letter from Mr. Louis Lizett late an Inhabitant in Canada. He writes me he has brought over his Family and Funds and proposes to retire and reside in this Kingdom. He was a respectable Cityzen of Quebec a Man of Considerable property. He requests me to become his Security as I apprehend he means to you I know not for what end unless to absolve him from his Oath of Fidelity by becomeing a Subject of France. If any Form of this Nature is requesit from my knowledge of him his Abilities and Probity I shall be ready to serve him with pleasure.
I have Letters from Carolina 14 August containing nothing interesting. I have the Honor to be with due respect Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant
John Bondfield
The Honble. Benj Fraklin Arthur Lee John Adams Esqrs.

Adressed: The Honble Benj / Franklin Arthur / Lee John Adams Esqr. / Commissioners from Congress / Paris
Notation: Bondfield 10. Octr. 78


Title: Ralph Izard to the American Commissioners, 10 October 1778: résumé
From: Izard, Ralph
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Paris, October 10, 1778: Mr. Sartine’s letter to you of the 7th, in which I am referred to the courts to recover my baggage, has just reached me. I disagree, since my claim is founded on an article of the treaty guaranteeing the return of American goods without delay and on demand. I am the more surprised as the minister, well aware that my name was not on the bill of lading, promised a few days ago that my goods would be restored. I don’t know what proofs are necessary; my name appears in many of the books and on a great number of papers. This should be sufficient proof, without the trouble and expense of a lawsuit. If necessary, I can procure the testimony of the merchant who shipped my baggage, the merchant in Leghorn and the abbé Niccoli. I fear the goods will be sold and urge you to speak to the minister about the matter when you go to Versailles tomorrow.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Lesguillon, 10 October 1778
From: Lesguillon, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Ce 10 8bre 1778
J’ay eu l’Honeur d’aller plusieurs fois chez vous Et entrautres le 29 avril dernier muni de deux actes pardevant notaires tels que vous Les aviez demandé pour faire payer un de mes anciens domestiques qui s’étoit attaché en me quittant au capitaine Jameson americain de nation qui ne lui a payé ny gages ny autres conventions. Comme dans letand [le temps] vous me fites l’Honeur de me dire qu’il falloit environ six mois pour avoir reponse cet homme nommé Frederik Foldé me tourmente pour vous demander La reussitte de notre envoye. Differentes affaires m’empechant de sortir pour le moment j’ay l’honeur de vous l’adresser avec cette Lettre esperant que vous voudrez bien lui rendre reponse a sa demande et avoir pitié de lui suivant la reputation que vous avez de secourir les malheureux d’autant quil n’a pas beaucoup de tems a lui etant en service chez un maitre qui demeure a vincennes. Je compte sur vos bontes et suis Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres respectueux serviteur
Lesguillon

Endorsed: Lesguiller about Money due to his servant from Capt. Johnson 10. 8bre. 1778


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 10 October 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and honoured Sir.
Nantes October 10. 1778.
As I understand Mr. Schweighauser has informed the Commissioners of a Dispute that has happened between us relative to the Ship Drake which I have lately bought of him, and as you, being one of the Commissioners will of course hear the Story on his side, which may not be much in my Favour, I hope you will excuse the Trouble I give you by a Relation of the affair.
Capt. McNeill having directed me to sell one of his Prizes at Rochelle, and another being arrived at the same Port, of which he had not advice, I concluded to accept an advantageous offer for both, not doubting of his Confirmation. It turns out that Capt. McNeill wanted this 2d Ship for himself, and had taken measures accordingly. The Sale on every other Account would have pleased him, and my Ignorance of his Intention was the only cause of the misfortune. On his arrival he appeared determined to break my Bargain, which for my Reputations Sake I wished to prevent, it was therefore agreed to purchase the Drake and we sent to Mr. Schweighauser for the Inventory to judge of her value. At the Bottom of the Inventory are written these words “The above Articles are waranted in Quantity but not in quality.” After examining the Inventory we in consequence of it offered twenty seven thousand Livres, Mr. Schweighauser refused this offer and told us that if we would give thirty thousand Livres we should have the Ship, on condition to take upon ourselves the Duties, which would amount to about 5 or six thousand Livres more, he at the same time promising to let the Vessell come under his name (tho’ at Capt. McNiells Risque and Charge) to another Port where this Duty would not be payable, it being confined to Sales in the Port of Brest only. I then offered to Capt. McNiell to lose half of this Duty out of my own Pocket if he would buy the Ship, regarding that a small Sacrifice to the keeping my Word in the Sale I had made at Rochelle. Mr. Schweighauser then wrote an agreement in the following words:
“Je soussigné J Dl Schweighauser recconnois avoir vendu à Monsieur McNeill Le Navire Le Drake actuellement a Brest avec ses agreez et appareaux conformement a l’Inventaire que moi McNeill reconnais avoir vu et accepté, et d’avoir en consequence acheté du dit Sieur Schweighauser Le dit Navire pour la somme de trente mille Livres, payable a nantes en argent comptant aussitot que la Livraison m’en aura été faitte a Brest, moyennant deux pour Cent d’Escompte, et moi McNeill me chargeant de tous les droits qui pourraient etre exigés pour la vente du dit Navire, a Nantes le 7. 8bre. 1778 fait double et de bonne foi.” Signé J. Dl. Schweighauser The Duplicate signed D. McNeill.
On the back of the Inventory Mr. Schweighauser required Capt. McNiell to write as follows. “J’accepte l’Inventaire de l’autre part dont il me sera fourni copie conforme a Nantes le 7. 8bre 1778.” Mr. S then requested to have the Inventory untill the following morning to make the Copy, which was readily consented to: The Bargain being then finished each took the agreement which belonged to him and I came away.
Mr. Dobré, Mr. Schweighausers son in law, came to us the same Evening and told us that an article of the Inventory was sold. I then told him that he had only to replace the value and we would be satisfied, he then said the Article was the Iron ballast which ought not to have been put in the Inventory. We replied that it was the Inventory which induced us to make the purchase, and all the articles of it would be insisted on. The next Day Mr. Schweighauser refused to give either the Inventory or the order for delivering the Ship unless the Iron Ballast (an article as necessary to a Ship of War as her Masts) be left out. I told him as I had on the Evening before told Mr. Dobré that everything in the Inventory belonged to the purchaser and had induced Capt. McNeill to give so large a Price. By this Dispute the Ship will come 5 or 6000 Livres dearer than we expected, as in order to obtain Justice we shall be obliged to declare the Sale at Brest and of course be subject to the Duty, which Mr. Schweighausers verbal Promisse had given us hopes of Saving.
I have offered to leave it to the Merchants of this Change but Mr. S will hear no Reason but his own and I shall be under the disagreeable necessity of forcing him by legal Measures to comply with the Conditions of his own Signature for having Capt. McNiells affairs committed to me I shall be obliged to do my Duty. It appears that the Iron Ballast is not sold as was at first represented. I beg you will prevent any Interference from the Commissioners, unless it be to direct Mr. S to stand by his bargain which among merchants is or at least ought to be sacred, and this it was which determined me tho’ I was not bound by the smallest scrip of Pen to lose 3000 Livres rather than undo my Bargain at Rochelle. I am ever with the greatest Respect Your ever affectionate and dutifull Kinsman
J Williams J

Notation: Jonath Williams Scweighauser Nantes 10. 8bre. 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from de La Plaigne et al., [after 10 October 1778]
From: La Plaigne, Emmanuel-Pierre de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honorables Messieurs
[after October 10, 1778]
Le Capitaine Emanuel pierre de laplaigne au service des Etats unis et Independans de l’amerique dans les troupes continentales au premier regiment de georgie; envoyé en france de la part du dit Etat de georgie, adressé a Son Exçellençe Mgr. franklin, ou a tous autres ambassadeurs ou commissaires des dits Etats chargés de pouvoirs aux fins d’acheter les munitions de guerre, artillerie, habillemens, et equipemens de troupes, marchandises propres pour traiter avec les indiens etc. specifiées dans ses instructions; aussi d’engager deux ou trois ingenieurs et autant d’officiers d’artillerie experimentés, ainsi que des canoniers, matelots, soldats, et des cadets volontaires que le susdit Etat s’engageoit a reçevoir et favoriser des traitemens usités dans l’armée continentale avec pouvoir au dit Capitaine de distribuer trois commissions en blanc dont il etoit porteur aux sujets qu’il auroit crû propres de recruter et fournir des soldats pour le dit service a l’honneur d’exposer a vos honneurs:
  qu’ayant rempli autant qu’il a eté en son pouvoir les intentions de l’honorable congres de Georgie 1° Par son traité du onze deçembre dernier devant Gilbert notaire, par lequel les maisons garçon Bayard et Compagnie se sont obligés entre autres articles a faire porter “a leurs frais, perils et risques” en Georgie les marchandises specifiées par les instructions du dit Capitaine pour y recevoir en denrées du payis le remboursement et qu’en effet en accomplissement du dit traité, la dite Société sous les raisons susdites a fait partir de Bordeaux en avril le navire le d’argentré et en Juillet les quatre navires nommés le adams, le consul de Cadix, le prince Emmanuel, et le vernet.
  2° Par l’embarquement avec lui de deux ingenieurs connûs dix huit cadets volontaires independemment de ceux qu’il avoit embarqué sur la petite adelaide, sur le deain, et cent cinq qu’il n’a pû embarquer faute de vaisseaux en qualité de soldats recrutés par les sieurs la plaigne de verine son frere, Barbeux dubourg de la blanchardiere et de foucherol dit Lamothe dupin, que le dit Capitaine avoit reconnû propres a remplir les trois commissions dont il etoit porteur.
Le sixieme jour du départ du dit Capitaine avec les Ingenieurs, les cadets volontaires et les officiers susnommés c’est a dire le premier may dernier, ayant eté attaqué par le corssaire de gersai le lively, Capitaine John Kyrby, après un combat de deux heures et dix minutes soutenûs par les seuls Passagers destinés pour le service des Etats unis de l’amérique, l’equipage hors le capitaine et son second ayant refusé malgré les coups et les ménaces de se joindre ayant même eteints tous les feux, le capitaine du dit navire le d’argentré auroit eté obligé d’emmener les combattans mis aux fers, traduits a gersai, de là a Plymouth a bord du Bleinheim, ensuite a oakhampton, d’ou enfin le dix octobre les soussignés suppliants ont eû la liberté de se retirer en france, ayant cachés leurs qualités sous le titre de passagers, ou marchands.
Les dits soussignés et suppliants representent humblement a vos honneurs q’outre la perte généralle de leur pacotille, le pillage presque total des effets servants a leurs personnes, la captivité dans les fers ou dans les prisons, qu’ils ont souffert pour la cause de l’amerique, depouillés de tous secours, ils auroient eté obligés d’emprunter en angleterre pour leur passage en france dans la vüe seule de continuer le service qu’ils avoient embrassé service qu’ils suivent depuis l’epoque de leur embarquement; que le capitaine de la plaigne à en outre dix huit mois de ses appointements echus a reclamer, qu’ayant grandement alteré et quelques un même employé presque toute leur fortune, ils se trouvent en cette ville n’ayant de recours que dans les bontés de vos honneurs, et dans l’assistançe que les Etats unis rependent sur ceux qui souffrent pour leur cause, secours dont vous etes les sages distributeurs, honnorables Messieurs, secours auquel les soussignés suppliants ont tant de droits, secours enfin que vos honneurs ne peuvent accorder a personne de plus reconnoissant et qui fassent des veux plus sinceres et plus ardens tant pour la prosperité et gloire des Etats unis et independant, que pour la conservation et santé de vos honneurs, honnorable Messieurs, les tres humbles, tres obeissants et tresrespectueux serviteurs
E.P. De LA PLAIGNE capt au 1er de georgieLa PLAIGNE DE VERINE Lieutenant au dit RegimentRaymond Duval Cadet volontaireLE CHEVALLIER DE ROMANEIX cadet id.Bardonnaud DU BAUX cadet idemCHEVALIER cadet volontaireLeger Benassy soldat

à Son Exçellençe Mgr. franklin et les hbls. commissaires des Etats unis et Independants de L’amérique septentrionale

Endorsed: Memoire from M. DelaPlaine
Notation: Mr delaplen


Title: The American Commissioners to Sartine, 12[–15] October 1778: résumé
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

<Passy, October 12[–15], 1778: We received your letter of the 7th. We believe the article in the commercial treaty applies clearly, strictly and fully to Mr. Izard’s case. The goods were shipped last April, when two months had not elapsed from the declaration of war. Mr. Izard assures us that his name is in many of the books and a great number of papers. He can procure additional testimony that the property is his. We understand that the captors have been granted the whole of it and while we wish them to enjoy the profits of their prizes, they must be aware that these goods belong to a friend and are not the King’s to grant.
We beg leave to raise another subject. There are on board the Fox and Lively a number of American sailors serving against their will. We ask that a list be made of them and that they be delivered to us. We are desirous of attracting back as many American sailors as possible to their country. October 15: Since we wrote the foregoing we have received letters from four American sailors from the Fox, now prisoners in Dinan castle, asking for their release.>


Title: James Lovell to the American Commissioners, 12 October 1778
From: Lovell, James
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Gentlemen
Philada. Octr. 12th. 1778
Congress having foreign Affairs now under Consideration, I shall not write to you on that Subject, more especially as it is quite uncertain how the present Papers will be conveyed to you. Nor shall I pretend to unravel to you the Designs of the Enemy. They are very inscrutable: The Printers know as much as I do about them, therefore I send a few of the last Prints of Dunlap, which with the Boston Papers must decide you in Opinion. Your affectionate Friend and very humble Servant
James Lovell

Addressed: Honorable / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / Arthur Lee Esqr. / John Adams Esqr. / Paris / To be sunk in Case of Danger / from the Enemy.
Notation: James Lovell Philada. Oct. 12th. 78.


Title: Daniel McNeill to the American Commissioners, 12 October 1778: résumé
From: McNeill, Daniel
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Lorient, October 12, 1778: After my arrival I applied to the agent to receive my prisoners; I sent them ashore but the commandant of the port refused them, lacking orders from the ministry. I cannot take them on board unless I send twenty Americans ashore. Since few opportunities for passage exist, this would be a great hardship for men who escaped English prisons and want to get home. Let me know what to do as soon as possible.
How do you think the lawsuit over the Isabelle will go? The former proprietors complicate the case with all kinds of deceptions. Another ship originally belonging to the same owners has arrived in Brest, recaptured by Capt. Pickerin under similar circumstances. Hence it is important to establish a correct precedent.>


Title: James Moylan to the American Commissioners, 12 October 1778
From: Moylan, James
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

Honorable Gentlemen
L’Orient 12th. October 1778
Since the receipt of your favors 22d. and 31st. Augst. nothing occur’d worth troubling you with my letters.
In consequence of your letter of 31st. August I apply’d to the Commissary of this port, to receive Cap. McNeill’s prisoners, but he refused taking charge of them, as he had no kind of orders to that effect from Government. Cap. McNeill since his return from Paris, apply’d in consequence of your directions, to your Ajent here, who likewise refused to receive them, not having your orders for that purpose. Besides the inconvenience of keeping those prisoners on board Cap. McNeill’s ship, the circumstance of their being insecure there, is an object of your consideration, four or five of which, have already made their escape. Cap. McNeill has received a proposal through the Admiralty, from the Original proprietors of the french reprisal to allow him one third thereof for his protection. The danger of establishing a president that in the like future cases may be detrimental, has engaged him to let it go through a regular course of Law. For this end Mr. Le Ray De Chaumont will be furnished with the necessary credentials by the next post.
As I suppose you have been inform’d from Brest of the arrival there of the privateer Hamden of Portsmouth and the news she brings from America, it is needless for me to say any thing further on that head. I remain with respect Honorable Gentlemen Your assur’d humble Servant
James Moylan

Addressed: The Honorable Plenepoten / -tiary Ministers of the / United States of / America / at Passy
Endorsed: Moylan
Notation: Mr Moylan 12 Oct. 78


Title: Sartine to the American Commissioners, 12 October 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

A Marly 12. 8bre. 1778.
Je n’ai point oublié, Messieurs, l’intérêt que vous prenez à M. Jonet [Jones] et la Demande que vous avez faite, de lui accorder un Bâtiment armé qui puisse le transporter à l’Amerique. Le Roi à qui j’en ai rendu compte, est disposé a donner cette facilité à ce Capitaine, mais je desire prealablement de savoir, s’il sera possible de composer de Matelots americains l’équipage du Bâtiment qui seroit fourni à M. Jones, parce que l’article et le nombre des armemens de sa Majesté ne permeteroit pas de lui donner un équipage François. J’attendrai ce que voudrez bien me marquer à ce sujet, pour prendre les derniers ordres de Sa Majesté. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec la plus parfaite consideration, Messieurs, votre très humble et obeissant serviteur
De Sartine.
Messrs. Les Deputes des Etats Unis de l’A.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Pierre-Georges Cabanis], 12 October 1778
From: Cabanis, Pierre-Jean-Georges
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Lundy soir 12 8bre [1778]
Made. helvetius demande de la part de mr. hebert à mr. franklin si le Diné projetté avec mr. le maréchal de Duras peut avoir Lieu samedy prochain ou mercredy de la semaine suivante. Mr. hébert chez qui doit s’exécuter ce diné, préférerait le samedy, mais toutes fois dans le cas où mr. franklin n’aurait aucun engagement pour ce jour là. Mde. helvétius sera de cette partie, et mr. franklin aura la bonté de la prendre en passant, et de lui mander par le porteur le jour qu’il a choisi.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin / A Passi


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Necker, 12 October 1778
From: Necker, Jacques
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Paris le 12. 8bre. 1778.
J’ai reçu, Monsieur, avec la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 19. de ce mois la note des Effets retenus à la Douane de Calais sur le Capitaine Pierre Colas de Boston. Comme aucun des effets n’a conservé la marque de son Origine il n’a pas été possible de les considerer comme ouvrage de France. On n’a pû d’ailleurs en permettre l’entrée parce que [le] Vaisseau qui en étoit chargé, étoit anglois, mais je viens de marquer aux fermiers Generaux de les faire remettre au Capitaine dont il s’agit en payant les Droits sur un pied moderé et je vous prie d’être persuadé que je donnerai toujours la même attention aux objets qui vous interessent. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec un très parfait attachement, Monsieur, votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur.
(Signé) Neker
M. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Henry] Pattulo, 12 October 1778: résumé
From: Pattulo, Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<St. Germain en Laye, October 12, 1778: Your reputation for knowledge, wisdom and virtue has made me long desire to meet you. Accidents prevented my being introduced to you in London seven years ago. I have some proposals to offer, based on a lifelong application to the study of rural and political economy. I am of a Scots family and was engaged “in a too remarkable character” in the unhappy affairs of 1745, after which I sought safety in travel. Since the expiration of the time limit on trials for treason, I have often gone to England and Scotland where I waited on the ministers of the time. I reside mostly in France, however, being used to the climate and attached to the engaging attentions of some of the best.
As it appears the United States will make good its independence, I wish, as a citizen of the world, to contribute to its wellbeing. In that view I enclose a summary of my proposals. I will meet you with pleasure at the time and place of your choice.>


Title: The American Commissioners to Ralph Izard, 13 October 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Izard, Ralph

Sir
Passi Octr. 13. 1778
We have the Honour of enclosing to you a Copy of M. de Sartines Answer to our Application in Support of your Demand of your Baggage taken on Board the Nile. We have agreable to your last Letter written again to Mr. De Sartine requesting him to Stop the Sale of the Things till you can make your Objections to their being lawful Prize.
The Hon. Mr Izard.


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

Passi Octr. [13] 1778
We had the Honour of receiving your Excellencys Letter of the 7 Instant to which We shall take the Liberty of answering fully by another opportunity. As you mention that the Prize was condemned on the 20th Mr. Izard is apprehensive that the goods in Question may be sold, before the ordinary Course of Law can prevent it. He therefore desires Us to request your Excellency to prevent that if possible. And We accordingly beg the Favour of your Excellency to do so. We hope there is no Impropriety in this, and that if there should be, you will impute it to our Want of Information, on the manner of such Proceedings here. We have the Honour to be &c.
M. De Sartine.


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 13 October 1778: résumé
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Bordeaux, October 13, 1778: We learn from an American privateer which arrived at Corunna on September 30 that Admiral Howe tried to relieve Rhode Island. His and d’Estaing’s fleets were severely damaged in a storm; he has returned to New York and d’Estaing regained his post off Newport. The privateer took two packet boats from which he has brought into Corunna four colonels, four majors and eighty other prisoners. A French frigate sent a Lisbon packet worth £80,000 into Vigo. Two Spanish frigates from Ferrol are looking for an English privateer which engaged a Spanish privateer.
Please send me the letter of marque for the Livingston that I requested in my last letter. Mr. Livingston reports her well advanced; she is of 400 tons, will carry 20 guns and will be manned proportionately. The French merchants here are in a critical state because of the lack of convoys for their returning ships; the English have captured more than 50 of them. This would present us an opportunity for our own trade with the West Indies, but there is such a stagnation here that no one has taken advantage of it. Four Virginia pilot boats are loading salt and a trifling amount of haberdashery. If I had your commissions I could immediately send to America 200,000 l.t. of woolen blankets and clothing.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Tristram Barnard: Oath, 13 October 1778: résumé
From: Barnard, Tristram
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Passy, October 13, 1778: I, Tristram Barnard of Nantucket, swear I will proceed to England and, as soon as possible in a vessel of my own loaded with coal, to Spain. From thence, with a cargo of goods, I shall proceed to America to settle for life. I will not use this pass from the commissioners in any way contrary to the interests of America or France.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Ferdinand Grand], [before 14 October 1778]
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

This is the earliest document in a correspondence that stretches over six weeks and gives an example of the way Franklin handled a diplomatic crisis.
Gustavus Conyngham was, once again, at the center of it. On May 31, his cutter, The Revenge, seized the Henrica Sophia, a Swedish ship laden with a Spanish cargo. The Swedish ambassador to Versailles, Count de Creutz, lodged a protest with Vergennes on October 1 but was told that, sorry as he was, there was nothing the King of France could do about the affair.
It was Spain’s turn to protest. Unwilling to communicate directly with a government it did not recognize, Madrid channeled its complaint through Ferdinand Grand. The banker, whose role often went way beyond financial matters, forwarded the message in this undated note written between October 2, when he heard of the Spanish displeasure, and October 14 when Franklin penned the draft of a reply meant to placate the Spanish court (the following document). A fair copy of this reply was made the same day by his grandson Temple and submitted to Grand for comments, which he provided at the bottom of the page. Franklin in turn added some words of his own between Grand’s lines.
Franklin then prepared a new draft, again in the form of a letter to Grand, but in a style more obsequious than his previous one. Grand translated it into French and in a note, undated as usual, urged him to prepare promptly the package going to Spain, the courier being about to leave (APS). Another courier left on November 9 or shortly thereafter, carrying a letter of that date from the Spanish ambassador, Aranda, to his Foreign Minister, Floridablanca, as well as the final French version of Franklin’s letter to Grand, dated Nov. 3 (Archivo General de Simancas).

[before October 14, 1778]
La revanche Cape. Cunigham a pris le 31 may Le Batiment Suedois L’henriete Sophie Cape. P. held allant de Londres à Teneriffe avec Cargaison de Draps et autres Effets pour Le Compte des Negocians des Canaries et Nommement pour celui de La Maison Cologan, Come les Connoissements doivent le constater; ce Vaisseau ou plutot cette prise à Eté envoyée en amerique.
Cet armateur ne respecte rien et se conduit plustot en Pirate qu’en corsaire, il à obligé Le Cour d’Espagne de lui Interdire ses Ports dans lesquels Il s’introduit malgré cella.
Il est à observer d’apres le memoire de Cologan que ce meme Navire suedois avoit été arreté par un autre corsaire americain qui sur le vû de ses papiers l’avoit relaché. Il paroit aussy que cette meme prise a été reprise par les anglais qui l’ont conduit a halifax ou le Batiment a été relaché.

Endorsed: Note from the Spanish Ambassador through Mr Grand relating to Capt. Cunningham


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ferdinand Grand, 14 October 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand

Sir,
Passy, Oct. 14. 1778.
I have considered the Note you put into my Hands, containing a Complaint of the Conduct of Capt. Cunningham in the Revenge Privateer. We have no Desire to justify him in any Irregularities he may have committed. On the contrary we are obliged to our Friends who give us Information of the Misconduct of any of our Cruisers, that we may take the Occasion of representing the same to our Government, and recommending more effectual Provision for suppressing, punishing and preventing such Practices in future. By the Papers I have the Honour to send you enclosed, and which I request you would put into the Hands of his Excellency Count d’Aranda, the Care of the Congress to avoid giving Offence to neutral Powers will appear most evident; first in the Commission given to Privateers, wherein it appears that Sureties are taken of their Owners that nothing shall be done by them “inconsistent with the Usage and Customs of Nations,” and those Sureties are obliged to make good all Damages: Courts of Admiralty are regularly established in every one of the United States for judging of such Matters; to which Courts any Person injured may apply and will certainly find Redress. Secondly, in the Proclamation of Congress, whereby strict Orders are given to all Officers of armed Vessels to pay a sacred Regard to the Rights of neutral Powers and the Usage and Customs of civilized Nations, &ca. and a Declaration made, that if they transgress they shall not be allowed to claim the Protection of the States, but shall suffer such Punishment as by the Usage and Custom of Nations may be inflicted on them. Lastly, in the particular Care taken by Congress to secure the Property of some Subjects of Portugal (a Power that has not been very favourable to us) altho’ no Reclamation had been made. All these will shew that the States give no Countenance to Acts of Piracy; and if Captain Cunningham has been guilty of that Crime he will certainly be punished for it when duely prosecuted: For not only a Regard to Justice in general, but a strong Disposition to cultivate the Friendship of Spain, for whose Sovereign they have the greatest Respect, will induce the Congress to pay great Attention to every Complaint that is properly made and authenticated. I have the Honour to be Sir Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B. Franklin
Mr. F. Grand.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Valltravers, 14 October 1778
From: Valltravers, Johann Rodolphe
To: Franklin, Benjamin

  Sir!
  Rockhall, at Bienne, in Switzerland, Octr. 14th.1778.
Apprehensive, by Your Excellency’s Silence to my last Letter, of Augt. 25th., as well as to my three preceding Letters therein mentioned, of their not being as wellcome as heretofore, I shall cease troubling Yr. Excy. with my perhaps impertinent Zeal, For the good Cause which You so gloriously defend; and confine it to my sincere Wishes for its speedy Triumph over its unrelenting Ennemies, with consolidated Liberty, Peace and Prosperity. It is not without Regret, that I percieve my good offices, for bringing on a happy Union of Friendship, between Yr. 13. confederate States, and our 13. Cantons, on those Principles, I had the Honor to lay before Your Excellency in my last, thwarted at Paris by my Ennemies, and by their Malice and Illwill, entirely Frustrated; as I could rationally promise myself a good success, with manÿ mutual advantages.
I am sorry your Troubles are not yet over. New Efforts are preparing against your Independency, by sea and by Land, which, it is to be hoped, will equally prove abortive, and defeated by yr. powerfull allies. That Liberty, Sir, which I have enjoyed this Twelvemonth past, and which I have been so desirous of sacrificing to Your Excellcy’s, and to Your Country’s service, is not likely to continue much longer. Endless Delays, and Difficulties, in calling in my many pecuniary advances, both to the Court I have so liberally served these ten Years past, and to several reputed Friends by their Professions, have rendered my Situation here very uncomfortable; and will oblige me soon to contract new Engagements, if not called forth by my two worthy Friends and Patrons, Your Excellency, and the present President Laurence, to dedicate my Time, and my Labours to the great Cause of the Liberties of Mankind, under Your Commands and Directions.
The inclosed Letter, on the Reception of which the Happiness of a worthy Family depends, craves Yr. Excy.’s Kind Protection. Col. Minning I suppose very well known to Presidt. Laurence, who, I flatter myself, will see it put into the best and safest Channel of Dispatch.
The swiss have newly advanced considerable Summs of Money to the Duke of Deux Ponts, and to the Elector of Saxony in support of their Defence against the Emperor. Why does not the American Congress avail itself, of our good Will towards its noble Struggle for solid Liberty? Yr. Paper-currency, You see, will not suffice, unsupported with cash and Credit! But I forget my incroaching too much upon Yr. Excy’s Time, and adding still more to my former Indiscretions. I therefore conclude with never ceasing Prayers for Yr. Excy’s Preservation, and best Success in yr. arduous Labors! And remain most respectfully Sir! Your Excellency’s Most humbly devoted Servant
Rh. Valltravers.
Dr. F——n.

Notation: Valtravers Rockhall 24. 8bre. 1778.


Title: The American Commissioners to Americans Taken on Board of English Frigates, 15 October 1778
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Americans Taken on Board of English Frigates

Passy Octr. 15. 1778
We have received a Letter from Mr. Robert Harrison of the 7 Octr. and another from John Lemon, Edward Driver and John Nichols, of the 12, all Prisoners in Dinant Castle, all professing to be Americans who have been first compelled into the Service of their Enemies, and then taken Prisoners by the French.
You are not known to Us, but your Account of yourselves, considering the General Conduct of the English of late, is not improbable. We cannot but feel a Concern for all Persons in Such a Situation, of whom to the lasting Dishonour of the British Government and Nation, there are too many, on board almost every Man of War in their Service.
We have written to his Excellency, the Minister of Marine of this Kingdom upon the Subject: and Sincerely hope that Something may be done for your Relief, and that of all other Persons in your Situation.
But great Care must be taken, that neither We, nor more especially the Government of this Kingdom be imposed upon, by attempts to sett at Liberty, English, Irish, Scotch, or other Sailors disaffected to the American Cause or unprincipled in it. We therefore desire you to send Us a List and a Short Account of all the Sailors Prisoners with you, who were born in America, or have been in her Service, and are willing to Subscribe the Declaration and take the oath of Allegiance to the united States of America, and to live and die by her Cause.
Americans taken on Board of English Frigates.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre-Isaac Poissonnier, 15 October 1778
From: Poissonnier, Pierre-Isaac
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Paris Ce 15. 8bre. 1778
La Société Royale de medecine Monsieur, m’a chargé de vous renouveller son invitation a la séance publique qu’Elle doit tenir mardy prochain 20 du présent mois. Je seray fort aise d’avoir a luy apprendre que vous y viendrés surement. Je saisis cette occasion de vous répeter les assurances de la Consideration trés distinguée et de l’attachement inviolable avec lesquels j’ay l’honneur d’Estre Monsieur Votre trés humble et trés obeissant Serviteur
Poissonnier

Endorsed: Poissonnier
Notation: Paris 15. 8bre. 1778.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 15 October 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and honoured Sir
Nantes, Octor 15. 1778
Count Sarsfield having obligingly offered to take Charge of a Packet for you, I embrace the Opportunity to send you ten of your Cards which I found among my Papers.
Capt. Le Maire the officer appointed by the State of Virginia for the Inspection of military Stores, is frequently complaining to me of his hard treatment, and requests me to represent his Situation to you. I have at last told him I would mention him, but I was sure you would not interfere in the matter and I advised him to stick to his Duty, bear all that was said or done to him with Patience, and trust to the Candour and Justice of his Employers, for their Approbation and an adequate Reward.

It is true the poor Fellow has no money to live on, and in addition is treated with such contempt and abuse as for the honour of human nature I hope but few Characters are capable of. I am ever Your dutifull and affectionate Kinsman
J Williams J
D Franklin

Notation: Jona Williams Nantes Oct 15–78


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vicq d’Azyr, [after 15 October 1778]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vicq d’Azyr, Félix

Sir
[after October 15, 1778]
I received the Copies of the Charter, and the Tickets which you so obligingly sent me, in behalf of the Royal Society. I am extreamly sensible of the great Honour they have done me, in placing me at the Head of their foreign Members; and I shall not fail to attend their Meeting of the 20th Instant, which they so kindly invite me to.


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

Versailles 16 8bre 1778
J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer, Messieurs, des Exemplaires du Reglement concernant les Prises que des Corsaires françois conduiront dans les Ports des Etats unis de L’Amerique; et celles que les Corsaires Américains ameneront dans les ports de France. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec une parfaite Consideration, Messieurs, votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
De Sartine.
Messrs. Les Ministres des Etats Unis de L’Amérique


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 16 October 1778
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
Lahaie 16e Oct. 1778.
De retour, et un peu incommodé d’un petit voyage fatiguant pour mes affaires particulieres, il me fut impossible d’écrire l’ordinaire dernier.
Je réponds aujourdhui à la fin de la respectée vôtre du 22e. 7bre. qu’il y [a] certainement des démarches à faire de votre part, Messieurs, de temps en temps, non aupres de LL.hh.pp., mais en répondant à mes Lettres de maniere à former une correspondance indirecte avec la Régence d’Amsterdam, telle que notre Ami la desire, dont je serai le canal de communication, et dont le commencement est indiqué dans mes deux precedentes du 2 et du 6 Octobre. Il ne s’agit présentement que d’approuver, comme une chose que vous verrez avec plaisir, que notre Ami fasse travailler à Amsterdam, par des Marchands experts, à un projet de Traité, dont celui avec la France serve de base. Notre Ami fera usage, dans sa ville, de la Lettre ostensible que vous m’écrirez à ce sujet, et dont je lui donnerai copie, pour engager la ville, d’abord à cette démarche, et puis à d’autres. Vous ne demanderez rien à LL.hh.PP., vous ne serez qu’auxiliaires d’un parti formé contre celui de vos ennemis, sans vous compromettre en rien, ni vous, Messieurs, ni les Etats Unis, puisque le projet ne pourra être réalisé qu’avec l’agrément des Souverains réciproques, quand ils voudront qu’on le leur propose.
L’assemblée des Etats de la Prov. d’Hollande, qui aura lieu mercredi prochain, sera précédée d’une Nouvelle Adresse, qui va être présentée à LL.hh.pp. par les Négociants d’Amst. pour réclamer tous les dommages soufferts à l’occasion des prises faites.
Est-ce bien à coup sûr que je puis me réjouir de la prise de Rhode-Island, et de celle de deux Vaisseaux de Ligne, qui faisoient partie de l’Escadre de Byron?
Permettez que je salue ici bien cordialement Sir G——, et Mr. Gd. son frere.
Mr. W.L. m’a écrit deux Lettres depuis son retour à Francfort sur un bon office que je lui avois demandé précédemment. Elles sont entre les mains du g—— F——, qui me les rendra demain. Je vous en transcrirai alors 4 Lignes, qui sont tout ce qu’il me dit touchant l’affaire passée. Je suis avec respect, et toujours, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
Dumas

P.S. Vous avez grande raison, Monsieur, de ne pas vouloir venir ici sans l’assurance d’être reçu comme Ministre des Etats Unis de l’Amérique. Jusque-là je serai toujours l’un des premiers à le déconseiller. Mais quand j’aurai le bonheur de vous donner cette assurance, à quoi je travaille avec ardeur, soyez sûr que votre Entrée sera l’un des plus beaux [jours] de votre vie. Un peuple de républicains, qu’il faut bien distinguer d’avec la majorité de ceux qui le etc. … vous recevra, vous applaudira comme le vénérable Libérateur de sa patrie, avec empressement; et vous ferez couler des larmes de joie. J’en juge par celles qui m’offusquent en écrivant ceci.
Paris à S.E.M. le D. Franklin Esqr. M.P.D.E.U.

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur le Dr. Franklin, Esqr. / Ministre Plenip. des E.U. de l’Am. / à Passy..
Notation: Dumas Oct. 16. 1778


Title: Vergennes to the American Commissioners, 17 October 1778
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

A Versailles le 17. 8bre 1778.
Par la Lettre Messieurs que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire le 28 aoust dernier, vous avez demandé la main levée de la saisie faite à Calais d’une partie des bagages du Sr. Smith. J’ai pris à cet egard les informations les plus exactes et il en resulte qu’il ne s’est trouvé absolument aucune trace à Calais de l’affaire dont il s’agit. Il faut donc, Messieurs qu’on se soit trompé dans l’indication qui vous a êté donnée sur le nom de la ville, où la saisie contre laquelle vous reclamez, a eu lieu. Je ne puis qu’attendre les eclaircissemens ulterieurs que vous voudrez bien me donner, et aussitôt qu’ils me seront parvenus, vous pouvez compter sur mon exactitude à faire ce qui dependra de moi pour procurer au Sr. Smith la justice qui pourra lui etre due.
Les Deputés americains M. francklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Robert Harrison and John Lemon, 18 October 1778
From: Harrison, Robert,Lemon, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honorable Sir,
Denan Prison the 18 of October 1778
This Comes With My kind adress to your Honnor hoping you will take it in Consideration to wards us Boath. I John Lemon belong to the Washington Privetere out of Plymouth in New England in Ameraca was taking By the foy [Fowey] frigate and was Brought into Portehmouth in England and from that sent on Bord the fox frigate that was going out to sea against my will But I Could not help my self for I Was forse to go and Was taking By a french frigate and Brought into Brest Which I thought I Could get home one again Which I Regoice Very much at Honnor Sir I be Long to Jenerall Washington Rieffall men for month and than Enterd on Bord the Washington Priveter along with Captain martingaill By so Doing you Will oblidge your humble Sarvant
John Lemon

Honorable Sir
This Comes with my kind a Dress to your honor hoping you Will not for get us Boath here Prisinors as yet hoping your Honnor Will set us at Liberty as it Lies in your Pour for I have ofen hard of your goodness Before this time Which I hope Will not feal to wards us for wee are Willing to sarve our Contry if Wee Could get home.
I Robert Harrison was bound from Newbery to nance With Captain foster and Was taking by the Wasp slope of Ware and Cared into Corke in Ireland. I Ran a Way from Corke to Dublin and ship my self on Bord a Letter of marque Bound to Jemaca and was taking by a fench frigate and Cared into Brest. Was send to Dinan Prison where wee Remain but hoping your goodness Will think of us if a Cartell should come here Wee must go to England Wee Would be sent on Bord a man of Ware and maid fight against our Country which Would grive us Very much. By so Doing you will oblidge your humble sarvant
Robert Harrison

I Robert Harrison was Borne Newbery in New England north ameraca and sarved my time to Jordge swanton shipright.
I John Lemon Was Borne in Lankertser Pencevane and sarved my time to gorge Croush house Carpinter.
Sir if your Honnour Would think fit to send an answer to us or order few Liens to the Commisaries in Dinan Wee should for Ever be your most humble Sarvants Both together for Ever.
Hoping you not foget us.

Addressed in another hand: To / Mr Franklin Agent for the / United States of America / Paris
Notation by John Adams: Prisoners in Dinant 18 Octr. 1778


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Mané, [18] October 1778
From: Mané, ——
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
à Paris ce [18] 8bre. 1778
J’ai eu l’honneur de présenter à l’Académie Royale des Sçiences plusieurs Médallions éxécutés au Tour, elle en a paru satisfaite. C’est, sans doute, ce qui l’a déterminée à me demander celui d’un des plus grands Hommes de ce siécle. Par le choix du sujet, Cette célebre compagnie, qui s’honore de vous avoir pour Membre, semble avoir prévenu mes desirs; J’ai tâché de répondre aux siens; Vous jugerez mieux que personne si j’ai réüssi: Je l’ai tourné d’après un modéle en Porcelaine de la Manufacture Royale. Je prends la liberté de vous offrir, Monsieur, le pareil Médaillon que j’ai remis à l’Académie.
J’aurois pu en faire hommage à un des plus grands Philosophes de nos jours, à un de nos premiers Physiçiens, au plus profond des Politiques; J’aurois pu oser le présenter au généreux Libérateur, au sage Législateur, à l’heureux et habile Négoçiateur d’une République puissante dès son berceau: Mais j’ai cru devoir la préférence à un juste apréçiateur des Talens, à un amateur éclairé des Arts. Le Protecteur que je choisis réünit tous ces tîtres; vous ne pouriez pas en étre jaloux: ils se trouvent tous énoncés par la seule expression dont le sujet du Médaillon m’a été designé. Si la modestie vous empêche de reconnoître la ressemblance, Je me flatte que personne ne pourra méconnoître le Génie Tutelaire du Nouveau Monde. Je suis avec le plus profond respect, Monsieur, Vôtre trés humble, trés-respectueux et trés-obéissant serviteur
Mané

Endorsed: M. Mané with an Ivory Medaillon Paris ce 18. 8bre. 1778.


Title: Sartine to the American Commissioners, 19 October 1778: résume
From: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

<Marly, October 19, 1778, in French: I have received your letters about Mr. Izard’s complaints. The ship with its cargo has been declared a valid prize; for the government to meddle with the law would create a dangerous precedent. If Mr. Izard’s request is in conformity with the treaties his claim will be favorably received and the cost of addressing a petition is not great. Had his ownership been proven earlier, it would have only been a question of verifying it. I am sorry to say, however, he will be unable to avoid the indispensable formalities His Majesty has established for allies as well as subjects.>


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 19 October 1778
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Versailles 19. 8bre. 1778.
Le Cte. de Vergennes fait ses Complimens à Mr. Franklin et le remercie des nouvelles de l’Amerique qu’il a bien voulu lui communiquer, elles ne sont pas a beaucoup près satisfaisantes, les accidens semblent venir au secours des Anglois. Si M. Le Comte d’Estaing a du quitter Rodhes Island pour se rendre à Boston, ce ne sera sûrement pas sans pouvoir justifier evidemment la Necessité du Parti qu’il aura pris. Son zele pour la Cause qu’il est chargé de deffendre et son ardeur pour la gloire ne peuvent pas être soupçonnés.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to David Hartley, 20 October 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hartley, David

Dear Sir
Passy, Oct. 20. 1778.
I received your Favour of the 9th. Instant, with a Copy of the Letter from the Admiralty Office relative to the proposed Exchange of Prisoners, in which the precise Number of those we have here is desired. I cannot at present give it you, they being dispers’d in different Ports; and indeed it will always be difficult to be precise in it, the Number continually changing by new Prisoners brought in, and some escaping. I think the List I formerly sent you was near 200*, since which Sixty-odd have been brought into France from the North Seas by Capt. McNeil, and some by others of our Cruisers; and I just now hear that we have near an hundred more in Spain taken by one of our Privateers in two New-York Packets, one going thither, the other returning, 88 of which are Officers of your Army. I wish their Lordships could have seen it well to exchange upon Account; but tho’ they may not think it safe trusting to us, we shall make no Difficulty in trusting to them. And to expedite the Exchange, and save the Time that obtaining a correct List would require, we make this Proposition, that if their Lordships will send us over 250 of our People, we will deliver all we have in France. If the Number we have falls short of the 250, the Cartel Ship may take back as many of those she brings as the Deficiency amounts to, delivering no more than she receives. If our Number exceeds the 250, we will deliver them all nevertheless, their Lordships promising to send us immediately a Number equal to the Surplus. We would thus wish to commence, by this first Advance, that mutual Confidence, which it would be for the Good of Mankind that Nations should maintain honourably with each other, tho’ engag’d in War. I hope this will remove all Obstructions to a speedy Completion of the Business, as the Winter approaches, and the poor Prisoners on both Sides may suffer in it extremely. I am, with great Esteem, Dear Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant
B Franklin
David Hartley Esquire

Endorsed: D Fr Oct 20 1778


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 20 October 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

M. le Comte,
A Passy, ce 20. Octre 1778
Mes Colleagues croyent qu’il seroit necessaire que je fusse en Hollande, et que ma Presence pourroit y accelerer les Choses. Ils me pressent en consequence. Je crains que ce seroit plutôt les reculer que les avancer, et que ce ne soit pas le moment de s’y presenter. Personne ne sçait mieux que votre Excellence ce que nous convient de faire à cet egard, et je ne puis avoir de Conseil meilleur et plus agreable que le vôtre. Si vous voulez bien me l’accorder, je m’y conformera avec la Confiance. J’ai l’honneur d’être, avec Respect M. le Comte, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
B Franklin

Notation: M. franklin / Etats unis / rep.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Wuybert, Lunt and MacKellar, Officers and the Other Prisoners at Forton, 20 October 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Wuybert, Antoine-Félix,Lunt, Joseph,MacKellar, Edward

Gentlemen
Passy 20th. Octor. 1778
   I have just received yours of the 2d. Instant. I beg that you will be assured that your long Detention, is not owing to any Neglect of you by the Commissioners. Our first Applications for exchanging you, were haughtily rejected. You were at that time consider’d as Rebels, committed for High Treason, who could only be delivered by course of Law. We then did every thing in our Power to make your situation as comfortable as possible. When Time and Circumstances produced a Disposition to consider you in a more favourable light, we proposed that on your being all discharg’d, we would give up all we had here, and an Order to receive the Ballance of the number in America; this was refused, but good Mr. Hartley has finally by long solicitation obtain’d an Agreement of the Lords of the Admiralty to an exchange of Man for Man, and the Pass required for a Cartel Ship to bring over as many of you as we have here to give in Return, was sent to England in September. The Execution has been delay’d ’till a precise List could be sent of our Number. Of this we have only been a few days informed. By this Post I have written a Letter to Mr. Hartley, which I hope will remove that difficulty, and that those who have been longest in confinement to the number of 250. at least from the two Prisons of Forton and Plymouth will now soon be at liberty. Nothing in the Power of the Commissioners will be wanting to liberate the rest as soon as possible, for the Sufferings of so many of our brave Countrymen, affect us very sensibly. I have the honour to be Gentlemen Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B. Franklin
To Messrs. Wuibert, Lunt & MacKellar, Officers and the other Prisoners at Forton

Notation: Passy 20th. Octor. 1778. Copy of a Letter from Dr. Franklin to the American Prisoners at Forton. Recd. 2d. Novem. 1778.