Title: From Benjamin Franklin to All Captains and Commanders of American Armed Ships, [10 March 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: All Captains and Commanders of American Armed Ships

Franklin issued this passport for Captain James Cook, the famed British explorer, at the suggestion of the duc de Croÿ, who had paid the American minister a visit to discuss the matter on March 1. The pass was distributed to all American vessels in the ports of France and Spain, and Franklin also sent a copy to Holland for publication.
The news that Cook was already dead, murdered by Sandwich Islanders on February 14, 1779, did not reach Europe until January, 1780. At that time the Royal Society decided to issue commemorative medals in gold, silver, and bronze, bearing Cook’s image. In recognition of the humanitarian gesture of this passport Franklin was nominated to receive a gold medal. The gift was a long time in coming, however. Sir Joseph Banks, president of the Royal Society, first insisted on receiving proof that Franklin had indeed issued such a document, and then found reasons for delaying the award until 1784. Four years later, Franklin was called upon to defend his issuing of the passport against false accusations that he had acted contrary to the wishes of Congress.

Gentlemen,
[March 10, 1779]
A Ship having been fitted out from England before the Commencement of this War, to make Discoveries of new Countries, in Unknown Seas, under the Conduct of that most celebrated Navigator and Discoverer Captain Cook; an Undertaking truely laudable in itself, as the Increase of Geographical Knowledge, facilitates the Communication between distant Nations, in the Exchange of useful Products and Manufactures, and the Extension of Arts, whereby the common Enjoyments of human Life are multiplied and augmented, and Science of other kinds encreased to the Benifit of Mankind in general. This is therefore most earnestly to recommend to every one of you; that in case the said Ship which is now expected to be soon in the European Seas on her Return, should happen to fall into your Hands, you would not consider her as an Enemy, nor suffer any Plunder to be made of the Effects contained in her, nor obstruct her immediate Return to England, by detaining her or sending her into any other Part of Europe or to America; but that you would treat the said Captain Cook and his People with all Civility and Kindness, affording them as common Friends to Mankind, all the Assistance in your Power which they may happen to stand in need of. In so doing you will not only gratify the Generosity of your own Dispositions, but there is no doubt of your obtaining the Approbation of the Congress, and your other American Owners.
I have the honour to be Gentlemen, Your most obedient humble Servant

At Passy, near Paris, this 10thDay of March 1779.
}
B FranklinMinister Plenipotentiary from the Congress of the United States at the Court of France

 To all Captains & Commanders of arm’d Ships acting by Commission from the Congress of the United States of America, now in War with Great Britain.

Notation: Dr. Franklins Requisition To The Commanders of Ships in the Service of Congress &c.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 10 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir,
Passy, March 10. 1779.
It is with great Reluctance that I give your Excellency any farther Trouble on the Subject of a Loan of Money: But the Bearer Mr. Grand, who is much better acquainted with the Nature and Manner of such Operations than I am, being of Opinion that the Sum we want might with your Permission & Countenance be procured in France, I beg you would be so good as to hear him upon the Subject, both of the Necessity of obtaining such a Loan and of the Means of accomplishing it.
I have the honor to be with the sincerest Esteem & Respect Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant.
B. Franklin
His Excellency Cte: De Vergennes.

Notations: M. de R. / rep le 13 mars


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis-Adrien Prévost d’Arlincourt, 10 March 1779
From: Arlincourt, Louis-Adrien Prévost d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur.
Paris Ce 10 Mars 1779
J’ay Recu Dernierement une Lettre De change Tirée Par M Schweighausez de Nantes Pour La Somme de 3100 l.t. Paiable sur Messieurs Les Ministres Plenipotentiaires des Etats unis de L’amérique. Ne Croiant pas que je fusse Dans Le Cas De Vous Troubler Pour en requerir Le Paiement L’on m’avoit Dit de m’adresser a M Grand Banquier Rue Montmartre. J’ay Donc eu L’honneur de Lui faire présenter Ce matin La Lettre De change en Le priant de me faire Scavoir Les formalités quil y avoit á remplir a Cet Egard. Il a eu L’honneteté de me marquer quil etoit nécessaire de La faire revetir de Votre Visa. Je Vous Serai Donc obligé, Monsieur, de Vouloir bien me faire Connoitre Le jour et L’heure de Votre Commodité que je Pourrai me présenter chez Vous Pour Satisfaire á Cette obligation, Etant bien aise de Profiter Par moi même de Cette occasion Pour avoir L’honneur De Vous Saluer.
Je Suis avec respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur
Darlincourt FILSfermier Général


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy, [10] March 1779
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce mércredi 11 [i.e. 10] mars [1779] a passy
Aprés avoir passé trois semaines entiéres sans dormir, je crois mon chér papa que je vais dormir trois semaines de suitte; quand on me parle, on m’endort, et je réponds en dormant: hiér au soir je fus tiré de cet état languissant, par le son d’une voiture qui vous annonçoit; le plaisir d’imaginér que j’allois passér une heure avéc vous, me ranima tout a fait; mes yeux s’ouvrirent, je sonnai, je fis faire un grand feu, pour vous réchauffér, je me sentis présque guaye, j’allois au devant de vous, quand cétte voiture repartit et emporta mon éspérance et ma joye: je dis aussitôt; j’ai fait un joli songe mais il a été bien court; ne pourriés vous pas le réallisér mon chér papa en venant prendre le thé aujourd’hui ou demain avéc moi, il y a longtems que je ne vous ai vû; si vous ne pouvés pas venir, je prendrai le parti de dormir toujours, parcequ’au moins je pourrai resvér a vous:

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / [in another hand] A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Landais, 10 March 1779
From: Landais, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excelly.
Brest 10. March 1779
Your Letter of the 2d. Instant, came safe to hand, yesterday, the first article of which, respecting the tryal or dismission of our Sweedish prize, I transmitt to Monsr. Pitot, coms. agent at Morlaix, where she is; leaving it to him & [to] act as his wisdom shall direct, he having all her papers.
Your Exy. desires to hear, how my refitt goes on? I had the honor of addressing your Excellency the 26th. & 28th. February, and 3d. March, in the two former I laid before your Exy. the scituation of this Ship, & pointed out the obstacles to my proceeding to refitt &c this I have also done to Mr. Schweighauser, agent at Nantz; but I have not had the honor of a single word in answer. I beg leave to referr your Excellency to those, espicially that of the 28th. and to inform you that the same hindrances remain, & that nothing is done, or can be done, without your Excellency’s positive orders: when they come, let them be what they will, they shall be strictly complied with, to the extent of my abillities.
When I am nearly ready for Sea, the merchant Ships at Nantz shall be duly notified, the rendezvous appointed &c: but it would be impossible for me in these circumstances, before I receive your Excellency’s orders, to be clear’d of my prisoners, refitted & Man’d, to say when or where.
I shall with the greatest pleasure, do every thing in my power, that will contribute to the convenience of Mr. Adams & his Son, on board, and when I can fix upon a time, that I can think we shall be ready for Sea, acquaint him. I am with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant.
P: Landais
His Exy. Doctor Franklin &c &c &c.

Addressed: To / His Excellency Doctr. Franklin / Minister plinipotentiary &c &c &c / Passy / near Paris
Endorsed: Capt Landais March 10 1779—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 10 March 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir.—
Nantes March 10. 1779
I mentioned in mine per last Post that I had written to Mr Lee, who was then here, & that I declined sending you a Copy of my Letter because I intended to send you a Copy of his answer at the same time; But as he has suddenly taken his Departure without giving me any answer I now inclose my above mentioned Letter, and earnestly request you to record it with the one I wrote to Mr Adams & yourself, in the same File with my Accts, that at any Future Day (in whosever hands they may Fall,) the Wound and the Balm to my Reputation may appear together: What must we say of a man who so deliberately makes such heavy Charges & shrinks from every opportunity of supporting them.— His own Conscience is my advocate.—
I intend to send all these Papers to my good Friend Carmichael to be made use of if occasion requires, and with (your Consent) I will give him leave to publish them, but this I will not do without your Consent, because I think we should be cautious in bringing our Disputes before the World.—
I am sorry to hear that Mr Beaumarchais and the late Commrs could not agree. I hope for the Credit of our Country you will prevent the Extremitys, which were talked of.—
I am ever with the greatest Respect your dutifull and Affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams J

some of your late memorialists who were so lavish of their Honours as to give the Commrs 18 of ’em in one Letter, do not now seem inclined to answer your last Letter to them. If the Zeal of the best of them should succeed, I dare say you will not again be 6ly Honours from the same quarter.
Dr Franklin.—

Notation: Mr. Williams March 10. 79 enclosing Letter to Mr A Lee—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to All Captains and Commanders of Vessels of War, [11 March 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: All Captains and Commanders of Vessels of War

Gentlemen.
[March 11, 1779]
I do hereby certify to you that I have long & intimately known the Bearer Richd. Oliver Esq; Member of Parliament & late Alderman of London & have ever found him a sincere & hearty friend to the Cause of Liberty & of America; of which he has given many substantial Proofs on various Occasions. Therefore, if by the Chance of War he should in his Voyage from England to the West Indies, happen to fall into your Hands; I recommend him warmly, with the friends that may accompany him, to your best Civilities, requesting that you would afford your generous Protection to their Persons, & favour them with their Liberty when a suitable Opportunity shall offer. In this I am sure your Conduct will be approv’d by the Congress & your Employers, and you will much oblige (if that may be any Motive) Gentn. yr. mt. o & mt h. St.
BF
at Passy near Paris this 11 Day of March 1779To all Captains & Commanders of Vessels of War, Privateers and Letters of Marque belonging to the U. S. of America.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Stephen Hills et al., 11 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Hills, Stephen

Gentlemen
Passy, March 11 1779
I received your Letter of the 7th. of february and 2d. of March. The Application to me either for Advance of Cash or Payment of Wages to Officers in the Continental Service is quite irregular; as I am neither furnish’d with Money nor Authority for such Purposes. And I believe it is the Constant Practice with all maritime Powers to pay the Ships in their Service at home on their Return, and not in foreign Countries. I am sensible however of Some Hardship in your present Circumstances relative to the high Prices of Cloathing in America; and as I respect your Zeal for your Country, and Readiness to engage in its Defence, and hope I shall on those Accts. be excus’d in doing it, I have this Day in a Letter to the Agent at Nantes given Leave to advance to each of you and also to the warrant-Officers, a decent Suit of Clothing, suitable to your respective Stations. But I must recommend it to you, and I flatter myself, that you will not take it amiss, to be as frugal as possible for your own Sakes, and not make yourselves expensively fine, from a Notion that it is for the Honor of the States you serve. It seems not necessary that young & poor states, labouring as at Present, under the Distresses of a most burthensome War in Defence of their Liberties, should vie in the Dress of their Officers, with ancient and wealthy kingdoms who are in full Prosperity. The Honor of the States will be better supported, by the prudent Conduct of their Officers, their Harmony with each other, their ready Obedience to the Commands of superior Officers, their reasonable & kind Treatment of Inferiors, and above all their Bravery in fight & Humanity to those they conquer. I am confident that you, Gentlemen, have the same Sentiments. If it should be in my Power to do anything farther for you, before you go, it will give me Pleasure. But expecting daily a great Number of Prisoners in Exchange from England who will be in Want of every thing, and our funds here being low, I doubt it can be but little. The greater Advances made to the Officers of the Boston at Bordeaux by the Agent, which you mention as an Example, were without Orders from the Commissioners here, and were much disapprov’d, when we saw the Accounts. I wish that something handsome may fall into your Hands on your Return and that you may have a happy sight of your Friends & Country. I am, Gentlemen y. m. o. h. S.
BF.
M M. Hills, Parkes, Adams, Degge, Buckley, Elwood & Warren Offic. on Board the Alliance


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Landais, 11 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Landais, Pierre

Sir
Passy. March 11 1779
I received your favour of the 3 inst. The Order of M. de Sartine was sent from Versailles on Monday last for taking your Mutineers off your Hands, so that I hope you are free of them before this Time & employ’d in fitting your Ship for the sea; in which you will make all the Dispatch possible & follow the Directions of the Agent as to the Place of Rendezvous in Order to take under your Convoy our Ships for America. M. Adams is gone down to Nantes to wait there till you are ready to receive him on Board. I have the Honor to be &c
Capt. Landais.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Priestley, 11 March 1779
From: Priestley, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
London 11 March 1779
The bearer of this letter is Mr Hamilton a young gentleman of Ireland, travelling for his improvement. I have had a good deal of his company both in Wiltshire and in London, and think him to be a person who will not disgrace any little countenance that it may be convenient to you to give him. He is a friend of liberty, and a lover of science.
I often wish to have an opportunity of conversing, or even of writing with freedom, on the subject of a scheme you once had in my favour. I was very happy to hear by a common friend, that you were in good health and spirits.
I am just printing off a volume of a new work of Experiments in various branches of Natural Philosophy, which I shall take the first opportunity of conveying to you. I am, with the greatest respect and affection, Dear Sir, Yours most sincerely
J Priestley

Addressed: To / D Franklin
Notations in different hands: Dr Priestley / Priestley 11 march 1779


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ferdinand Grand, 12 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand

Dear Sir
Passy. March 12. 1779
Enclos’d is the propos’d Letter to the House in Holland, which you will send if you approve of it. If I have not exprest rightly the Affair of Interest, please to keep it back, and I will correct it for next Post: what is mention’d of another House relates to the final Offer made me by M. Neufville. I own I have not an Expectation of much farther Assistance from Holland at Present. But when the Offer was reduced so as to come within my Limits, you see I would not refuse it without making myself liable to this Reflection from M de Vergennes, that an Offer of the Sum for which he had engaged to guarantee the Interest, had been made to me, and that I might probably have had the Money, but would not accept of it.
I observe an Error of 3600 florins in the Words of your Receipt upon the Acct. but the figures rectify it.
I am ever, with sincere Esteem &c
Ferd. Grand.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Mante, 12 March 1779
From: Mante, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
12 March 1779.
I hope that you will not think me importunate in soliciting an answer to the letter that I had the honour of writing to you some few days past. Though I would wish to avoid asking of you pecuniary aid yet the distress of my situation orleaps the barrier of delicacy and again compels me to address myself to your humanity. A short time I hope will enable me to return the relief you afford me, and to thank you personally for your goodness.
I have the honour to be Sir, Your most obliged humble servant
Thomas Mante

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre plenipotentiare des Etats / unis de L’Amerique / A Challot.
Notation: Thomas Mante 12 mars 1779.


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

A Vlles le 12 Mars 1779.
J’ai communiqué à M. de Sartine, M. la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de mècrire au sujet de l’affaire du S. MaCniel; vous verrez par la rèponse ci jointe du 2. Mars de ce Ministre qu’il se propose d’en faire incessamment le raport au Conseil royal des finances/.
M franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 13 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Passy, March 13. 1779
I hope you got well to Nantes with your Son. We sent you two Letters by yesterday’s Post, that had been deliver’d here for you since your Departure; the enclos’d came last Night. By Captain Landais’ Letters, I am afraid he will not be ready so soon as we were made to expect.— I have the honour [torn: to] be, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant
B Franklin
Honble Mr Adams


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Gentlemen at Nantes, 13 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gentlemen at Nantes

Gentlemen
Passy. March. 13. 1779.
Great Objections having been made by the Honble. M. A. Lee to the Accts. of M. Jonathan Williams late Agent for the Commrs. at Nantes, which are therefore yet unsettled; and, as not being conversant in mercantile Business, I cannot well judge of them, and therefore, as well as for other Reasons I did not & I cannot undertake to examine them myself, and they may be better examin’d at Nantes where the Business was transacted than either here or in America, I beg the favor of you, Gentlemen, that you would for the Sake of Justice and of the public good, take that Trouble upon you; and make Report to me thereupon; which I do hereby agree shall be conclusive & final (subject only to the Revision of Congress) in Case M. Williams shall previously sign an Engagement to abide thereby; and Hoping you will comply with my Request, I have ordered him to lay his Accts. fully before you; and I have requested the Honble. M. A Lee who makes the Objections to furnish you with the Same; that by having the whole in View, you may be able to form an equitable Judgement. I have the Honor to be with great Respect &c
MMrs. W. Blake, D. Blake, J. Johnson, P. R Fendall, J. Wharton, M. Ridley, J. Ross ——— Lloyd ——— Ogilvie & J. D. Schweighauser. Merchants now at Nantes.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee: Two Letters, 13 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Arthur

I.
Sir
Passy March 13. 1779
A severe Fit of the Gout, with too much Business at the same time necessary to be done, have prevented till now my answering yours of the 21st past.
I did not imagine there would have been any Difference of Sentiment between us concerning the Propriety of returning to me the Papers which you have at various times taken from this House. Where several Persons join’d in the same Commission are to act upon Papers, it seems necessary that they should be lodg’d in one Place where all the Parties may be sure of finding them, & under the Care of one Person who should be accountable for them. And if there were not some particular Reasons to influence another Choice, I should suppose the first Person named in the Commission might with great Proprety take charge of them. I am sure that if you had been that Person I should have made no Objection to it.— Mr Adams having a Room more convenient & more private than mine, and in which he lodg’d, I approv’d of his keeping the Papers: He has voluntarily return’d me all he had, without asking; and I thought Asking was only necessary to obtain the rest from you; for the whole Business which before was transacted by us jointly, being now devolved on me, and as there must be frequent Occasion to look back on Letters receiv’d, Memorials deliver’d, Accounts given in, Contracts made, &c. &c. which if I cannot have the Opportunity of doing, I must be frequently at a Loss in future Transactions, I did not imagine I should have any Difficulty in obtaining them, nor had I the least Idea that my Asking for them would occasion any Dispute.
I suppose that the Papers Mr Deane mentions to have taken and secur’d, were those only that related to his separate commercial Transactions for the Publick before his Appointment with us in the political Commission. If he took away any of the Papers we were jointly concern’d in, I conceive he was wrong in doing so, and that his doing wrong would not justify the rest of us in following his Example. I can have no Desire to deprive you of any Paper that may be of Use to you in answering Mr. Deane’s Accusations, having no Concern in them nor Interest in Supporting them. On the contrary, if any Papers remaining in my hands can be of such Use to you, you are welcome to have authenticated Copies of them, (which shall on request be made out for you), as well as of any others “evidencing our joint Transactions” which you may desire.— On the whole it seems to me that this Matter may be reasonably settled, by your keeping if you please all those Originals of which there are Duplicates at Passy; retaining for a time such of the rest as you desire to copy, which Copies being compar’d by us with the Originals may be authenticated by our joint Signatures; and returning immediately all the others; docketed & catalogu’d as you please, so as that you may know what & where they are, & call for a Copy of any of them you may hereafter have Occasion for, wch shall always be given you.—
If these Propositions are agreed to, the Affair may soon be settled; if not I must wait the Orders of Congress; and in the mean time do as well as I can with their Business, which I think must often suffer by my want of the Knowledge those Papers might occasionally furnish me with. I have the honour to be, with great Respect, &c.—
Hon Ar. Lee Esqr

Notation: A. Lee. March 13. 1779

II.
Sir,
Passy March 13. 1779.
Finding by a Note of yours on the Back of Mr Williams’s Accounts, dated October 6. but which I never saw ’till lately by Accident, expressing that you are “perfectly satisfyed from his own Accounts that Mr. Williams has now, and has long had in his hands upwards of an hundred thousand Livres belonging to the Publick, which have not been employed in the Publick Use. &ca—” I have resolved to have those Accounts carefully examined by impartial Persons skilled in such Business; and if you have any other Objection to them than what appears in your Note, or any other Reasons than what appears upon the Face of his Accounts, for believing such a Sum in Mr Williams’s Hands I beg you will furnish me with them, that I may communicate them to the Examiners. I wish Justice to be done and that you had shewn your Note either to Mr Adams or me when you made it; the Matter would not have been so long neglected. The Money if due ought to be recover’d immediately.

I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
Honble: Ar. Lee Esqr.

P.S. The Persons I have requested to examine the Accounts are the American Merchants now at Nantes, with our Deputed Commercial Agent, Mr. Schweighauser.

Endorsed: March 13. 1779
Notation: Dr. Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis-Marie Boyenval and Other Commission Seekers, with Franklin’s Notes for Replies, 13 March 1779
From: Boyenval, Louis-Marie,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

It is doubtful that any of the people who applied to Franklin for commissions in the American army during the spring of 1779 ever crossed the ocean. Franklin was under orders from Congress not to send over any more French officers and France, anyway, was at war. Still, some twelve candidates tried their luck. During the first weeks of his tenure as Minister Plenipotentiary, Franklin jotted down on the applications—ever more succinctly—the negative answers his French secretary was to compose. Eventually, Franklin’s notations cease, either because the applications did not seem to warrant the effort or because the secretary knew what to do. The following résumé of the appeals follows chronological order; unless otherwise noted, they are in French and at the American Philosophical Society.
Writing from Bern on March 20, Samuel Marcel is so upset by his reversals of fortune that he feels justified in seeking death. Let it be death in fighting for a glorious cause. He can serve America in three capacities: in the army, in trade, in agriculture. In the first case, he feels entitled to the rank of officer since, for two years, he administered, in a secretarial capacity, a company in a Swiss regiment serving in Holland; in the second, his lifelong involvement in commerce and the mishaps he has just experienced give him a solid base for the future; as to agriculture, he has run a rather large estate for a few years. Personally, he would prefer the military. Adding that he is known to the banker Grand, he begs Franklin to send his answer to Rougemont & Comp. at Amsterdam where he is prepared to accept a commercial position, should his offer to fight for America be turned down. It was.
Franklin made the following notes on the last page of Marcel’s letter: “That I am oblig’d to the Gentn. for his Good Will to America, & Desire of being serviceable to her. That our Armies are full, &c. That with a Capital he might follow Commerce with Success in America when Peace shall be made, at present it is much interrupted. That with a small Stock he might follow Agriculture there to Advantage, but his Voyage thither must be at his own Expence, and I am not authoris’d to promise any kind of Establishment, Office or Employment to Newcomers. They will find there a good Climate, good Soil, good Laws, good Government, and good People to live with, and Liberty both civil & religious: but we do not entice Strangers to come among us by particular Promises—”
A Burgundian gentleman, formerly captain in the Soissonais regiment, Lanneau de Marcy, writes on March 22 enclosing a memoir in favor of his twenty-four-year-old son who wants desperately to obtain an officer’s post in an infantry regiment fighting in America. The young man has served six years in Flanders with the gendarmes, then had to leave because of his health, but is quite fit at present. He wants to advance his career, which in France is impossible. Franklin jotted down the elements of a reply: “That I am oblig’d to the young Gentleman for his Good Will to America & his Desire of serving it, but cannot give him any Encouragement to go thither in Expectation of Employment, our Armies being full—”
Neÿdecker, a captain in the Royal Deux-Ponts, a German regiment in the service of France, declares on March 28 that he has twenty-eight years of service behind him. He left his post in August, 1777, for family reasons but is now burning to rejoin active duty, provided, of course, he is granted a higher rank in America. He is well known to the maréchal de Broglie, and to the marquis de Castries. He asks Franklin to direct his answer to Mr. de Pachelbel, the French envoy to the duchy of Deux-Ponts. Franklin’s notes for an answer: “Thanks for his Offers of Service &c—Armies full &c—cannot give him any Encouragement.”
An artillery officer named Lavalette says he experienced nothing but opposition from his parents when he talked about fighting in America. Now that they have finally relented, he wastes no time in informing Franklin, on April 17, that he served eight years as lieutenant of artillery in the regiment of Grenoble and wishes for an equivalent position; if encouraged, he will send the relevant certificates. Far from encouraging him, Franklin jotted down in French, with his usual disregard for genders, the beginning of a reply: “Remerciemens Les Armées de l’Amérique sont pleins &ca &ca.”
On April 30, retired Captain Christian von Francken writes in German from Hildesheim to report that after twenty-four years of service to the Electorate of Hanover, he learned that a favorite of the English ministry had been chosen over him for the rank of major. So he quit that service and begs Franklin to grant him a company in the artillery or infantry of North America. If accepted, he could train a number of men in Lower Saxony and bring them along. He encloses five certificates from prominent people.
It is from Wesel, in Prussia, that Baron L. F. van Wynbergen sends his request on May 21. Born in the Netherlands he has, in family tradition, devoted himself to the military and risen to the rank of captain in the Orange Nassau regiment. A year ago, believing that the War of the Bavarian Succession would enhance his fortune, he enrolled under the Prussian flag but at present, with peace about to be concluded, discovers that this was a mistake. His heart, now republican, tells him that he should fight for the liberation of the United States of America. Only Franklin can help him achieve his goal. Please answer soon and he will rush to Paris.
On May 24, the comte de Beaufort announces, from Liège, that he is anxious to lead to America a corps of good Walloon troops, battle-hardened from having served in foreign countries such as France, Holland, Austria, and Spain. He also owns two foundries “à l’angloise” that turn out cannon balls ranging from one to twenty-four pounds. He is under pressure to enter the service of a foreign power but would rather contribute to the cause of liberty. A prompt answer is requested.
Lieutenant-Colonel de Petterelly, writing in German from Bregenz on June 1, pleads the cause of his twenty-four-year-old son who has distinguished himself in the imperial service but now feels “a noble desire to serve the American United States.” The young man’s superiors in the Harrach regiment are well satisfied with his performance.
The following day, a Frenchman sends in his application from Olmütz, in Bohemia. Captain Hyppolite de Verité has been serving the Empress of Hungary, in the capacity of engineer, for twenty-six years. The book that mentions him has certainly reached Franklin’s hands; at any rate M. de la Condamine owns it. He hopes not to be confused with the mass of Austrian officers who have no choice but to go abroad. He, on the contrary, is only following his inclination in this move and plans to bring along his wife and two children as guarantee of his commitment.

Monseigneur,
Montreuil ce 13 mars 1779.
Animé par le Desir le plus Vif De consacrer mes jours au Service Des etats unis, Jay L’honneur De vous presenter le memoire cy joint. Je prie Votre excellence de vouloir bien jetter Les yeux Dessus, et D’accepter mes offres De service.
Daignez agréer le profond respect avec lequel j’ay L’honneur d’etre, Monseigneur, De Votre excellence, Le tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur.
Boyenval.

    A Son excellence Monseigneur Franklin ministre plenipotentiaire Des etats unis de L’amerique près La courDe france.presenté de montreuil sur mer le 13 mars 1779.

Monseigneur,
Louis marie Boyenval agé de vingt ans fils du sieur Boyenval Directeur Des aydes De montreuil sur mer, expose tres humblement a Votre excellence, qu’etant Dans L’age de prendre un parti, et se decidant pour celui Des armes, il Desireroit ardemment passer au service Des etats unis, et S’y attacher comme Sujet pour Le reste de ses jours. Il vous supplie de considerer quil est Determiné dans ce choix par L’honneur de concourir autant quil sera en lui au soutien de la Liberté de L’amerique, et de la justice de sa cause. Si vous daigniez acquiescer a sa Demande, il vous devra tout le bonheur dont il jouira. Une ame comme la votre, Monseigneur, sent combien il est doux de marquer tous les jours de sa vie par des bienfaits. Comme vous pourriez desirer quelques eclaircissemens sur ses moeurs et sa conduitte, il a L’honneur D’envoyer a Votre excellence Des certificats De Mrs. Les commandants Des villes et citadelle de montreuil, de Mr. Le lieutenant, juge De police, et de Mr. Le lieutenant général. Si vous L’honorez D’une commission pour le service des etats unis, il vous offrira l’hommage et le tribut le plus flatteur pour un coeur généreux, c’est la plus vive reconnoissance. Il tachera de prouver par son courage et son zele quil sent tout le prix de ce que vous aurez fait pour lui, et quil veut faire ses efforts pour meriter vos bontés. L’exposant vous supplie tres humblement De Vouloir bien lui faire connoitre vos intentions, et d’etre assuré, Monseigneur, quil ne cessera D’adresser ses voeux au ciel pour la conservation des jours precieux de Votre excellence.
Boyenval

Endorsed: Thank him kindly for the offer of his Services, but cannot accept them, being particularly instructed by Congress not to give the least encouragement to any Persons whatever desirous of serving in America as Officers. The Army there being full. And abundance of Foreigners in the Country who cannot find Employment.—
Notations in different hands: March 13, 1779—Boyenval offering services ansd / Boyenval Montreuil sur Mer. Mar. 13, 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from H. Sykes, 13 March 1779
From: Sykes, H.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Place du Palais Royal le 13 Mars 1779.
As you Seem’d desirous to know the Particulars Relatif to a Small Globe about Which I had the Honour of Writing to you Some time Ago, I now take the Liberty of inclosing a Letter from Mr. Haywood Which will Explain the Whole Matter to you.
I am Sir, with much Esteem Your Most Obedient and Most humble Servant
H Sykes

P.S. I have in my Warehouse, Whatever is most curious in Opticks, and Mathematicks, made By Dollond, and Ramsden, of London—

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin, / Deputé des Etats Unies de / L’Amerique / á Passy
Notation: h Sykes Paris 13 mars 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 13 March 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

A Vlles. le 13. Mars 1779.
J’ai reçu, M, la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire le 10. de ce mois, et qui m’a été remise par M. Grand. Je ne puis combiner la commission dont vous l’avez chargé avec loperation dont s’occupe M. de Chaumont et je vous prie de vouloir bien m’expliquer confidemment cette enigme:
J’avois lieu de croire que ce dernier etoit au moment deffectuer votre emprunt./
M. franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Paul Jones, 14 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Jones, John Paul

Dear Sir
Passy March 14 1779
I yesterday recd. your favor of the 6th inst. I did not understand from M. Alexander that Lord Selkirk had any particular Objection to receiving the Plate from you. It was general, that tho’ he might not refuse it if offer’d him by a public Body, as the Congress, he cou’d not accept it from any private Person whatever. I know nothing of M. Alexander’s having any Enmity to you, nor can I imagine any Reason for it. But on the whole it seems to me not worth your while to give yourself any farther Trouble about Lord Selkirk. You have now the Disposal of what belongs to the Congress; and may give it with your own Share if you think fit, in little Encouragements to your Men on particular Occasions.
I thank you for your kind Congratulations on my particular Appointment. It will give me more Satisfaction if it enables me to be more useful.
We cou’d not obtain a Passport for Dr. Bancroft. We were told it was needless, as the Cartel ship was actually sail’d for Plymouth to take in the first 100 Americans to be brought to Nantes or l’Orient. Inclos’d is a Copy of a Letter from the Board to M. Hartley. I wish they may be arriv’d, and that you may obtain such of them as you think proper. Possibly the Alliance which wants Hands, may endeavour to engage some. M. Adams goes over in her; and I must not interfere, but leave you to scramble for the Men. I think, however that if the Cartel comes to L’Orient you will have the best Chance.
I have look’d over the Copy of my Letter to you of Feby. 24, not being able to imagine what Part of it could give you the Idea that I hinted at an Affair I never knew. Not finding any thing in the Letter, I suppose it must have been the Postscript of which I have no Copy; and which I know now that you could not understand.—tho’ I did not when I wrote it. The Story I alluded to is this: L’Abbé Rochon had just been telling me & Madame Chaumont that the old Gardiner & his Wife had complained to the Curate, of your having attack’d her in the Garden about 7 O’Clock the Evening before your Departure; and attempted to ravish her, relating all the Circumstances, some of which are not fit for me to write. The serious Part of it was that three of her Sons were determin’d to kill you, if you had not gone off; The Rest occasioned some Laughing: for the old Woman being one of the grossest, coarsest, dirtiest & ugliest that one may find in a thousand, Madame Chaumont said it gave a high Idea of the Strength of Appetite & Courage of the Americans.— A Day or two after, I learnt that it was the femme de Chambre of Mademoiselle Chaumont who had disguis’d herself in a Suit I think of your Cloaths, to divert herself under that Masquerade, as is customary the last evening of Carnival: and that meeting the old Woman in the Garden, She took it into her Head to try her Chastity, which it seems was found Proof.
As to the unhappy Affair of which you give me an Acct., There is no Doubt but the Facts being as you state ’em, the Person must have been acquitted if he had been tried, it being merely se defendendo.
I wish you all the imaginable Success in your present Undertaking; being ever with sincere Esteem &c.
Honble Capt. Jones.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Richard Oliver, 14 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Oliver, Richard

Dear Sir
Passy March 14 1779
It will always be a Pleasure to me to do what may be agreeable to you. Inclos’d is the Passport you desire. I wish you & your Friends a prosperous Voyage; being ever with the sincerest Esteem Dear Sir &c
Richd. Oliver Esq;


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 14 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Sir,
Passy, March 14. 1779.
The Gout having again attacked me, and confined me to my Chair, I find I shall not be able to present myself at Versailles on Tuesday. Your Excellency will have the Goodness to excuse me, and believe me ever, with the sincerest Esteem and Respect. Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
His Exy. Count De Vergennes.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Abraham-Hyacinthe Anquetil-Duperron, 14 March 1779
From: Anquetil-Duperron, Abraham-Hyacinthe
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
à Paris Le 14. mars. 1779.
Le Ministre du premier Etat libre de l’Amérique est un phénoméne fait pour paroître chez des françois. L’Ouvrage que j’ai l’honneur de présenter à vôtre Excellence, lui prouvera que nous étions dignes de l’honneur que nous ont fait les Etats Unis de l’Amerique, en s’adressant d’abord à la france. Nous avons des foiblesses; c’est le tribut de l’humanité: Mais la franchise, l’honneur, le courage qui forment notre carattere nationnal, sont des garants sur les quels l’Amerique peut compter. Dans mon particulier, Monsieur, je croirai avoir fait un Ouvrage utile, si le ton de la Législation Orientale, en vous décidant sur mon caractere, confirme dans vôtre esprit l’idée que vous vous êtes formée de celui de la nation. Daignez agréer cette foible marque du respect avec lequel j’ai l’honneur d’etre, Monsieur de vôtre Excellence le très humble et très obeissant Serviteur
Anquetil Duperron

P.S. Comme j’entends assez bien mes interêts, j’ai voulu, Monsieur, que la main qui vous présenteroit mon ouvrage, pût au moins y donner quelque relief. Je suis persuadé que vous m’aurez obligation du choix.

Notation: Anquetil du Perron


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean Dusaulx, [c. 14 March 1779]
From: Dusaulx, Jean-Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[c. March 14, 1779]
Dusaulx est venu pour avoir l’honneur de rendre ses devoirs à Monsieur Franklin, et pour lui présenter de la part de M. Anquetil Duperron son confrère, un Livre intitulé, De La Législation Orientale &c.
M. Anquetil Duperron, de l’Academie des Belles-Lettres, demeure Chausée d’Antin à peu près vis-à-vis l’Hôtel de Madame de Montesson.

Addressed: pour Monsieur / Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Patience Wright, 14 March 1779
From: Wright, Patience
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir/
Lysle Hous no 4 facing LeslefieldMarch 14th 1779
I have moved from Pall mall with the full Purpose of mind to settel my afair and get Ready for my Return to america—
I shall take France in my way and call at Parris where I hope to have the Pleasur of seeing my old american Friend—: and take off some of your cappatall Bustos in Wax— England will very Soon be no longer a pattron for artists—the Ingeneous must flye to the Land of Peace & Liberty—as I Intend to make good Use of my time While I Stay at Parris I shall be hapy to meet with the Same Encouregment as I have meet with in England, (at my first Coming before the unfortunat war).
I shall be glad before I set out to have your opinion I beg the favor of you to Recomend my Perfformens and as you Know my abillites in taking Likeness in Wax Work I am hapy to have the Pleasing Prospect of doing your Recomendation Honour by my Best performance. It is with the Right gratitod to my Friends and Perticurly to yoù I owe the grat Encouregment my Jenei meet in London, and now come to France Improved and in high Spirits with the most faithful and afectanat Servt to Comand I am Honered Sir yor old Friend
P: Wright

“I long to See you and love you more then Ever if I dont write to you it is not for want of good will but for fear of being troubelson”—would to God you would sind for me.— My Servises are worthy of the Planeypotenterey of amerrica
For My Gardien Spirit the great Philosphe and american Agent.

Addressed: For / Benja: Franklin / att Passey / ner Parris
Notation: D. Wrigt Mars 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais, 15 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Beaumarchais, Pierre-Augustin Caron de

Sir
Passy March 15 1779
I know of no new Order being given relating to the Action against M. Peltier. I never heard of any being commenced against you. I am at present confined by the Gout: but should be glad to see you when convenient to you, that I may better understand the Affairs between us. I have the Honor to be with much Esteem &c—
M. Beaumarchais


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from L. Bauchot, 15 March 1779
From: Bauchot, L.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsaigneur
à Nantes ce 15 Mars 1779
L’ors que j’us Le Bonheur de vous presanté Les deux ameriquin que j’avais aidér à déserté de douvre a Calais, dans une petite enbarcation, La bonté avec Lequel vous nous Resute, me prouvat Combien votre, ame, Généreusse: Etai Suseptible de Soulagér Les Malheur. J’avais Subit Le meme Sort que Mr. Marchante que vous envoiate à donquerq pour Commendeé une fregade Et en Reconnoissance des petis Service que je Luy avait Rendûs il mavait promis Le poste de Segond Capitainne avec Luy— je n’est Reçus aucunne nouvelle depüis. Et Comme vous faite Beaucoup darmement à Nantes, pour vos Colonnïes, puije me flatée, Monsaigneur, dune Lêtre de Recommendation pour Mer: peltie dudoyée, ou D’acostas frers: Mes armasteurs j’atant tous de votre bienveillance, trop heureux de trouvér L’occasion De vous Marquér mon Zele:
Et Le profonde Respecte: avec Lequel J’ai L’honneur D’être Monsaigneur Votres humble Et tres obeisant Serviteur
L: Bauchot

Addressed: A Monseigneur / Monseigneur De Franclin / Ministre Plenipotentier Des Colonie / hunie De La Merique / A Paris
Endorsed: Bauchot
Notation: Bauchot 15 Mar 1779


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dumas, 15 March 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
La Haie 15e. Mars 1779
Les Etats d’Hollande se séparerent Samedi, sans avoir rien résolu du tout. Ils se rassembleront demain en huit.

J’ai eu le plaisir de voir arriver successivement Mr. Sturler de l’Altemberg & Mr. De Neufville. L’un & l’autre m’ont appris les arrangemens pris avec ce dernier, tant de votre part, Monsieur, que de la part d’autres personnes respectables. J’ai, de mon côté, pris les miens avec Mr. De Neufville, pour tirer à l’avenir par lui, de 6 en 6 mois, les appointemens que je tirois ci-devant par Mrs. Grand; & dans l’espérance que vous l’approuverez, Monsieur, je tirerai à son ordre, à la fin de ce mois, une Lettre à Usance, de 100 Louis-d’or, pour la premiere moitié de cette année, qui sera échue en Juin prochain.
Mr De Neufville vint ici d’Amst. Samedi matin. Il m’a dit qu’il étoit venu pour voir 3 personnes: Notre Ami, G—— F——, & votre serviteur. Il ne fut qu’un quart-d’heure avec chacun de ces deux, & me pria de lui tenir compagnie tout le reste de la journée. Nous fumes à la Comédie; ce que je n’avois pas fait depuis plusieurs années. Le Prince & la Princesse y étoient, qui nous fixerent beaucoup. Je suis sensible, comme je le dois, à toutes les choses obligeantes que ces deux Messieurs m’ont dites de votre part. J’espere que la goute a cessé. Je ne suis pas trop bien non plus depuis plusieurs semaines: mais je me ménage présentement pour le temps où je desire de pouvoir enfin vous aller rendre mes devoirs en personne. J’ai mis en ordre le projet du futur Traité, que notre Ami m’avoit remis; & je le garde, pour avoir l’honneur de vous le présenter moi-même, quand vous me le permettrez.
Ces deux Messieurs m’ont assuré que j’aurai bientôt de la besogne, dont personnne ne devra avoir connoissance, & que vous me donnerez vos instructions sur la maniere dont je devrai me conduire avec diverses personnes. Tant mieux car je suis souvent très-embarrassé; & les pas glissants, au lieu de diminuer, se multiplient.

Je suis avec un très-grand respect, Monsieur, Votre très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur
Dumas
Passy à Son Exc. Mr. FranklinMa derniere, du 3 au 9 Mars, étoit sous couvert de Mr. Grand.

Addressed: à Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin, Esqr. / Min. Plenip. des Etats-unis / de l’Amerique / à Passy./.
Notation: Dumas la haie, March. 15. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte Sutton de Clonard, 15 March 1779
From: Sutton de Clonard, Jean, comte
To: Franklin, Benjamin

15 March 1779./.
M. de Clonard has the honour of presenting his best Compliments, & prays him to Send him per Bearer the two Passports, he left with him yesterday, & the needfull papers he was so kind as to Say he would add to ’em, & for which he returns his thanks.
He also prays that when a Cartel Ship will come for the Exchange of prisoners, He may think of ordering that Thomas Wilkinson formerly Pilot of the Drake Arm’d Ship, & now prisoner on his parole at St. Pol de Leon in Brittany may be comprehended in the first Exchange—

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsr. Franklin Ministre / Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis / de l’Amerique—/ à Passy./.
Endorsed: M. le Comte de Clonard Thos Wilkinson to be one of the first Prisoners exchang’d—
Notations in different hands: Le Comte de 15. March 1779. / Clonard le Comte de 15. March 1779.


Title: William Lee’s Account of a Conversation with Franklin, 15 March 1779
From: Lee, William,Franklin, Benjamin
To:

Paris 15 March 1779.
Waited this day on the Honble. Doctor Benjamen Franklin Minister Plenipo. from the U. S. of America at the Court of Versailles, congratulated him on his apt.—gave him an account of the Political state of Germany & Hold.— of the danger there was of G. B. geting a considerable number of Troops in Germany as soon as the peace between the Emp. & K. of P. shd. take place, as there wd. be 20,000 disbanded & there were a number of B. Agents now dispers’d over Germany waiting to ingage them. That I wish’d him to aid me in an application to the F. Ministry, to get their influence & assistance, in the most effectual measures for preventing so heavy a blow on us. The Doctor replyed that he knew so little about the situation of affairs in the North, he cou’d not meddle in.
I then told him that I had strong reasons for beleiving as soon as the German peace was settled, the Courts of Vienna & Berlin or at least one of them wou’d acknowlege our independence provided the Court of Versailles wd. assist us in Negotiating this business, which I tho’t it probable the F. Ministry wd. do, if he wd. go with me to Count Vergennes that we might jointly urge this measure. The Doctr. replyed that it was a matter to be consider’d whether it was worth our while to ask any of the Courts of Europe to acknowlege our Independence. This I confess astonish’d me greatly, however I calmly replyed that I tho’t it of infinite importance for many reasons, but particularly it appear’d to me the most probable way to bring G. B. to her senses & to make the K. & his Ministers, enter into a Peace, with us, for my first object & wish always had been & still was, to obtain Peace on honourable & independent terms. The Doctor said that I might apply myself to Count V. abt. it, but he was so ill that he cou’d not go to Versailles. I ask him then, if he wd. write a short letter by me to Count V. excuseing his not going with me in Person on acct. of his health, but that he had confer’d with me on the subject of my visit, which he much wish’d to be adopted. I farther urged that it was in some measure necessary, as it was the form in all the Courts of Europe, for the Public Minister of any Country residing at a foreign Court, to wait on the Ministers of that Court, to introduce any subject of his Nation especially if that Subject was in a public Capacity. That this mode of proceeding seem’d to me more necessary at this particular time as Congress had recommended confidence & harmony to all the representatives to the different Courts & to show the Ministers here, that the public business wd. not be affected by the late extraordinary proceedings of Mr. Deane in America. All that I cou’d urge had no effect, & the Doctor plainly refused either to go with me, or to write by me.
I observ’d to him, that as he had refused to accept or pay the dft I had some time ago drawn on the Comrs. in France for my expences agreeable to the order of Congress, it seem’d neacessary for me to know of him, whether he intended to pursue the same conduct in future, & whether I was to depend on him or not for supplies to support the expences of my Comn., that I might inform Congress accordingly,— he replyed that he had no money & therefore wd. not engage to supply me, for no supplies came from America except Tobacco, which was deliver’d to the Fermers General, under the old Contract made by him & Mr. Deane.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Ferdinand Grand, 16 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand

Sir
Passy March 16 1779
I find in my Bill Book, that I accepted on the 19 of february, the following Congress Bills drawn in favour of Wm. Dennie, Dollars 600, 12, 600, 30, 120, 12, 120. These Bills were probably Part of a Number sent by the said Dennie to Mess. J. Williams & ——— Moylan; and as one of the Vessels he wrote by is known to have been taken, it is suspected they have been presented on Acct. of the Captors who may have counterfeited the Indorsements of Williams or Moylan. I request therefore that you will stop Payment of these Bills till I have had an Opportunity of examining such Indorsements. I have the Honor to be &c
M. Grand.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Schweighauser, 16 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

Sir
Passy March 16 1779
I understand that there is a Case of Goods in your Hands, which belongs to Mr. Simeon Deane, but was delivered to you on a Supposition of its belonging to Congress. Please to redeliver the said Case to M. Jona Williams, taking his Receipt for the same. I have the Honor to be &c—
M. Schweighauser.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Arthur Lee, 16 March 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir/
Paris March 16th. 1779
I had the honor of receiving yours of the 13th. touching my endorsement on your Nephew’s Accounts.
When Mr. Bondfield’s Accounts were sent to the Commissioners I examind them with the Vouchers & endorsd upon them the observations which occurrd to me. I compard M. Schweighauser’s Accounts with the original Vouchers & Receits which lay two months at Passy & were then returnd to him as he desird. In these Accounts I found no Errors. Upon M. Montieu’s giving in his demand, I objectd his not having producd a receit from our Agent to vouch the delivery of the Articles for which he demanded payment. It was agreed that this was proper, & he promisd to produce such a receit. What he some time afterwards sent us as such was dated a year after the alledgd delivery of the Goods, was in the form of a Letter from Mr. Williams & conceivd in such terms as coud neither satisfy us that the things chargd had been recievd nor render your nephew responsible for them to the Public. I gave in my objection to this as unsatisfactory.
Upon examining the first accounts given in by your Nephew, which was six months after the goods had been shipt, I found a darkness & inaccuracy which I had never seen in Accounts before, & that they were not accompanied with either Bills of Loading, or reciets to elucidate & support them. I stated my objections in writing. The Answers neither informd nor satisfyd me. It appears too that you—yourself, Sir, was convinc’d that these Accounts, as they stood coud not be passt, because tho you agreed to pay him the ballance he demanded, you stated in the order, that this payment was not to be considerd as any approbation of his Accounts, nor prevent Mr. Williams from being accountable to Congress, or the Commissioners for the expenditure of the Sums entrusted to him. His Accounts from the first Livre he receivd to the last, which as far as I can trust my memory exceeds a million, & the time is more than two years, remain in the same unsettled State.
When your Nephew sent us his 2d. Account which was in Sepr. or Ocr. last I examind it also, & reported my opinion endorsd on the Account itself, on purpose that you might not examine it without seeing my observations. The Account so endorsd, I returnd immediately to Passy. It is therefore singularly unfortunate that you shoud not have seen this endorsment, in the course of near six months, ’till lately & by accident, as you inform me, & that I shoud have incurrd some degree of your censure as not having— “shewn it to you when made, & there by occasioning the matter to have been so long neglected.”
In all this, Sir, I acted equally to all, from the irresistible motives of duty to the Public as a Commissioner; & have been unhappy enough to have seen it taken up personally, & subject me to the greatest ill-will & abuse. You must there fore excuse me, Sir, now that it is no longer my indispensible duty, from concerning myself with a business which is in much abler hands. If Congress shoud call upon me for farther reasons than those I have already given, it will then be my duty to act & I will obey— But as this has been made a personal matter, I shall expect, as an act of justice, to have a Copy of your Nephew’s Accounts, as settled by the impartial persons, to whom you do me the favor to inform me, you mean to refer them.
The Honble. Dr. B. Franklin M. Plenipote.

Notation: L’orient 15th May 1780 Examined with the Letter book & found to be a true copy
John G FrazerJoseph Brown Jun


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jean-Joseph Carié de Montieu, 16 March 1779
From: Montieu, Jean-Joseph Carié de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur,
a Rochefort 16 Mars 1779.
J’avais bien entendu dire que vous étiez Seul Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Treize Etats unis de l’Amérique, mais je craignais que cette nouvelle n’existât que par le desir de toutes les personnes qui ont l’honneur de vous Connaitre. Elle vient de m’etre confirmée par Mr. Williams, et je vous prie d’agréer a ce Sujet mon bien Sincère compliment.
J’ai L’honneur de vous remettre, Monsieur, Deux Etats visés et certifiés par Mr. Williams de la Maniére La plus Satisfaisante, et pour vous et pour moi. L’un de ces Etats est une Facture de divers objets montant a 69455.2.7. que J’ai payé uniquement par Service d’ami. L’autre est La notte des divers articles de ma fourniture, Sur laquelle vous trouverez quelques petites différences dont le resultat est cependant à mon avantage. Il ne Se trouve que 97100 l.t. cuivre rozette au lieu de 100 Milliers que J’ai passé dans ma facture. Le fait est que J’en ai bien payé Cent Milliers, et je ne comprends pas d’ou provient cette petite différence. D’un autre coté, vous trouverez 25949 l.t. de cuivre en planches et en cloux dont je ne reclamais que 22 Milliers.
A L’egard de L’Etain vous n’en trouverez que 16710 l.t. poids de marc, au lieu de 20 Milliers portés Sur ma Facture, et cette différence N’est opérée que par celle du poids anglais au poids français.
Il en resulte, Monsieur, que vous m’etes toujours debiteur a peu prés de la Somme de 143 M£. que Je reclame depuis Si long tems. Les affaires dont je Suis chargé, exigent toutes mes ressources et j’ai fait Sur vous pour 130 M£ de traittes payables moitié a une usance, et moitié a 2 —que Je vous prie de vouloir bien accepter au Domicile de M. Grand—a qui J’en adresse directement pour 124,500. l.t. en ayant donné une de 5500. l.t. au Sieur chevallié Negociant de cette Ville.
Au Moyen de cet arrangement vous me demeurerez debiteur d’environ 13 M£. que Je Laisse exprés en arriére tant pour payer Ce que Je vous dois pour quelques vieilles armes que M. Williams m’a cédé, que pour les avances qui ont été Faites a charlés Town au Capitaine de mon Navire la Thérèse. Ces deux objets réunis peuvent Se monter a 10 M£ Tournois de maniére que J’aurai encore un Solde a recevoir, que nous réglérons dés mon retour a Paris.

J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec tous les Sentimens de la reconnaissance la plus vive et La plus respectueuse, Monsieur, Votre trés humble et trés obeissant Serviteur
Montieu
M. franklin Ministre Plénipre—des états unis de l’amerique

Notation: Montieu Rochefort 16 may 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Isaac-Jean-Georges-Jonas Grand, 17 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Isaac-Jean-Georges-Jonas

Sir,
Passy March 17. 1779
As Americans, Prisoners in England sometimes escape from thence, and get to Holland; where they are without Money to proceed to a Port whence they might take Passage to America; I hereby request, that if any such should apply to you for Assistance, as they have heretofore done, you would be so good as to furnish them with as much Money as may be necessary to carry them to some French Sea-Port, in the most frugal Way, according to the Circumstances, which shall be thankfully repaid by Sir Your most obedt. humble Servant
B. Franklin
Sir George Grand.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Joseph Gridley, 17 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gridley, Joseph

Sir
Passy March 17 1779
I duely received your Favor of the 25th past. Continued Indisposition with too much Business have occasioned the Delay in answering it, which I hope you will excuse.
I think with you that an American Consul at Nantes might be useful in the Cases you mention. What Inconveniences or Expence might attend it, I am unacquainted with. The Congress have by the Treaty a Right to appoint Consuls in the several Ports: But they have not yet thought fit to do it; nor have they given me any Authority for that Purpose. I suppose We have had not less than 50 Applications of the same kind from the different Ports of France; none of which the Commissioners could comply with, having no Instructions on that Subject from Congress: nor can I venture upon it for the same Reason. I rather think it my Duty to leave the Matter open, that in Case they should determine to make such Appointments, their Choice might not be embarrassed by Appointments already made.
I was much pleas’d with the Report of that able Chemist M. Sage, upon your Ores. He favoured me with a Copy of it.

When you write, please to present my Respects to your good Father. I have the Honor to be &c
M. Gridley.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Joshua Johnson, 17 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Johnson, Joshua

Sir
Passy March 17 1779
I received the Honor of yours of the 6 inst. I took the first Opportunity of speaking to M. D’Arlincourt fils, one of the Farmers general in whose Department you reside, on the subjet of your Furniture, who told me very politely that as it was a Matter in which I interested myself, he would order the Duties, if they had been received to be returned. By our Treaty we are only entitled to such Advantage respecting Duties as is enjoyed by the most favor’d Nations: I have not yet been able to obtain a certain Knowledge of the Duties paid by other Nations in France, and I am told it is not easy to obtain, as they are very different in the Different Provinces, and there is not as in England a printed Book of them. So not being enough informed at Present to claim your Exemption as a Right, I was obliged to accept it as a Favor. But these Sorts of Favours I shall find a Difficulty in asking hereafter; for the States being under great Obligations to the Farmers general who lent us Money in our Distress; and having often Occasion to ask Aids from this Government; one can hardly with any Grace demand at the same Time in Favour of Particulars an Exemption from paying their Share of the Duties whence only the Ability of affording such Aids can arise.
I have ordered the Alliance to be got ready as soon as possible; the Execution depends on M. Schweighauser and the Captain. I thank you for your Information relating to the Bergere. Orders had before been given relating to her Cargo. With great esteem I have the Honor to be Sir y m o a m h S
BF

P.S. If you can by any Means obtain an Acct. of the Duties to be paid by different Nations in yr Port, I shall be obliged to you for it, and will pay any Expence necessary for Copying &c
M. Joshua Johnson


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Landais, 17 March 1779
From: Landais, Pierre
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Brest March 17th. 1779
I received your favours of the 4th. 6th. & 8th. Instants. In answer to the first, Doctr. Windship has made you a plan for acting, out of his own head: telling you that we were enough to fight the Ship. I send you the list inclosed of the Ships company, out of which number, three are missing; by which your Excellency will judge what I can do with so few Seamen.
I blush’d, when I read, that your Excellency is afraid I’ll contrive to make such an Expence &c. But was surprised and humbled by the article which followed. If I had not been present when Mr. Deane read to your Excellency, all the papers he dispatch’d me with, told you my generous confidence in the Congress, what Mr. Monthieu had offer’d me at first, & heard your Excellency give your assent: I would never have offer’d to write about it. And should not now, say a word if my delicacy had not been wounded.
I am sorry after receiving yours of the 6th. to be compelled to trouble your Excellency again, in telling you that having rec’d. yours of the 8th. I went to see Count D’Orvilliers, & Monsieur La Porte, Intendt. about receiving the mutineers; the Last told me he should be ready to receive them in five or six days. He would then let me know of it. Yesterday, hearing nothing from that gentleman, I again waited on him, then he told me, he & Mr. de la Prevalay had wrote on Sunday to the Minister about it, & waited for his answer, so I must wait ‘till then.
I have been to Mr. Costentin, for to have very necessary things for the present, to rigg the Ship with, such as a topmast having but one, & that two feet too short, some blocks, & old Canvas his answer was, that Mr. Schweighauser had wrote to him, not to furnish any thing for the ship, but daily supplies, ‘till he had himself, receiv’d your Excellency’s orders, which he would send to Mr. Costentin. After this, your Excellency will Judge whither I can get ready or not. Mr. William’s is here, and may tell your Excellency all the troubles I undergo in every respect.
I have forty caulkers working on board, have obtain’d also to have the Iron work mended. I wish I could have enough to rigg the Ship once. I should, after the mutineers are ashore, try if the crew be strong enough to get under sail, & proceed where Mr. Schweighauser will write me to go, let the consequence be what it may.
I have also to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 11th. & your order respecting Capt. Cook.

I am with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble Servant
P: Landais
His Excellency Doctor Franklin &c &c

Addressed: To his Excellency / Doctor Benja. Franklin / Minister plenipotentiary to the / United States / Passy / near Paris
Notation: P. Landais. Brest Mars. 17th 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, [17 March? 1779]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

mercredy matin [March 17, 1779?]
Mon Illustre Docteur nous envoyons Mde Le Roy et moi savoir de vos Nouvelles nous esperons que votre nouvel accès de goutte est bien diminué ou appaisé.
J’ai l’honneur de vous prévenir en même temps que sil fait beau demain jeudy le Monsr Inconnu ou anonyme fera des experiences sur le feu principe à Onze heures mais Je crains bien que vous ne puissiez pas être des nôtres recevez mon Illustre Docteur Mille sincères assurrances de mon attachement éternel pour vous. Avez vous recu des Nouvelles de L’Amèrique? L’anonyme ne fait plus ses experiences dans le même endroit. C’est actuellement ruë de Bourgogne faub. St Germain chez M Le Marquis de LAubespine.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin Ministre / Plenipotentiaire des Etats unis de / LAmèrique Septentrionale / a Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Georgiana Shipley, 17 March 1779
From: Hare-Naylor, Georgiana Shipley
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Bolton Street March 17th 1779
It is long very long since I had the happiness of receiving a line from my dear Doctor Franklin; how often have I regreted the necessary interruption of a correspondence, from whence I derived so much pleasure & advantage; an opportunity now offers of conveying a letter to you which I have not prudence sufficient to resist, particularly as I have lately heard of your being confin’d with the gout, I hope, my dear Sir, you take all imaginable care of yourself, indeed you ought, when you reflect, that the happiness of many depends upon the preservation of a life so valuable, nor shall I feel satisfyed till I receive an account of your perfect recovery for even your slightest indisposition must alarm a family by whom you are so sincerely respected & beloved, I believe a day seldom passes without our mentioning our excellent friend, & I may truely say I never am so well pleased as when I am in company with those who know & esteem you as much as we do.
We have left Jermyn Street some time, & my father has bought an house the corner of Bolton Street which belonged to the late Mr Howe, perhaps you may recollect it, if so you will be sensible we have changed much for the best in every respect. This Summer we propose spending at Twyford, never shall I forget the happy days we passed there, in happier times, when you were so good as to visit us: I continue as fond of reading as I was when you knew me first, neither have I neglected my drawing, if I had an opportunity I would send you another, that you might yourself judge of my improvement. As for electricity I fear I have made no great progress now my Instructor has left me, however I have learnt some new experiments, & likewise performed some wonderfull cures. But now I must say something concerning the rest of my family, my father & mother are both remarkably well, & in no respect alterd since you saw them. Amelia continues my only married sister; she has but one child, a sweet tempered lovely little Girl, just three years old, whom all our family adore. My brother has married a Miss Yonge a very amiable pleasing young woman, & heiress to a large fortune. They live entirely in Wales, & also have one child a fine little boy about four months old. I am sure you will be pleased with this account of your friends, indeed it was never more necessary than at this period to look for happiness at home & even there how rarely is it to be met with. Mr Vaughan is so obliging as to undertake to send this letter to you. & I wish you may be able to convey an answer through his hands. I cannot be so unreasonable as to expect you should write to me yourself who must have so much important business to transact. But if you will permit your Grand-son to send a few lines merely to assure us of your recovery, it will give the greatest satisfaction to a family who feel themselves warmly interested in your health & welfare.
Adieu my dear Sir, that every respect & blessing you so justly deserve may constantly attend you, is the sincere wish of yr much obliged & affectionate
Georgiana Shipley

Addressed: A Monsr. / Monsr. F. / a Passy / pres de Paris.
Notation: Georgiana Shipley Bolton 17. mars 1779.


Title: Jean-Jacques Caffiéri to William Temple Franklin, 17 March 1779
From: Caffiéri, Jean-Jacques
To: Franklin, William Temple

Monsieur
Paris ce 17 mars 1779
J’ai fait encaisser Le Buste de M. franklin, vous pouve Monsieur qu’ant il vous plairat faire enlevée cette Caisse dans mon atelier du Louvres, j’ai fait Durcir ce buste avec de La Cire Comme vous Le Désiries, je Compte qu’il arrivera à bon port: Permettes que M. franklin trouve icy Les assurance de mon Respect.

J’ai Lhonneur d’etres tres parfaitement Monsieur Votres trés humble et tres obeïssant Serviteur
Caffieri

Endorsed: M. Caffiery Paris 17. mars 1779.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Bondfield, 18 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bondfield, John

Sir
Passy Mar. 18 1779
I received your favours of the 6 & 9 inst. & thank you for the Intelligence they Contain. I hope generals Clinton & Thomson will give a good Acct. of the Invaders of Georgia. But if they should remain there till the end of the summer, a general fever at least will do a great Deal towards demolishing them. With much Esteem I am &ca
M. Bondfield.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to S. & J.-H. Delap, 18 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Delap, Jean-Hans; Delap, Samuel

Gentlemen
Passy March. 18 1779
I duly received the Letter you did me the Honor of writing to me, the 6 inst. mentioning a Prize “the sale of which was stopt by the Judge of the Admiralty untill she was deemed a legal Prize by me & the Council of Prizes.” and desiring my Decision “without Loss of Time.” I was ill when I received your Letter, and have not yet been able to go out, or attend much to Business, otherwise I would have enquired at Versailles about it; for I never heard before of this Prize, nor have I any Concern in the Council of Prizes, or any Right to give any such Decision, if I was acquainted with the Case which I am not. I hope the Difficulty is removed before this Time; But if upon a fuller Explanation of the Nature of the Case, it should appear that any Interposition from me with the Ministry is necessary & proper, you may rely on my Readiness to do whatever may be useful to your Interests, being with much Esteem &c
Mess. S. & J. H. delap.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Dumas, 18 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric

Dear Sir
Passy, March 18 1779
I received duly yours of the 3 inst. My Indisposition seems to be wearing off; and I hope will permit me to go abroad in a few Days.
Mr. Neufville’s first Propositions were so much out of the Way, that I could not accept them. He required a fifth Part of the Loan to be sent over to him annually during the first 5 years in the Produce of America for Sale, & the Money to remain in his Hands as a Fund for paying off the Debt in the last 5 years. By this Means, he would have had the Use of our Money while we were paying Interest for it. He dropt this Demand on my Objecting to it, and undertook to procure a subscription on reasonable Terms. I wish him success, but as the English give at Present higher Interest than I am permitted to offer, I have little Dependance on that Subscription. Let me know what you hear of it from Time to Time.
M. Adams is gone to Nantes to take his Passage for America in one of our Frigates. Mr. A Lee has retired from Chaillot to Paris; And his Brother is come on a Visit from Francfort. He talks of a Congress to be held in Germany & seems to want me to advise his Attendance there incogn. I know nothing of it, or of any Use he can be of there, & therefore can give no Advice about it. He talks of 20,000 Men at Liberty by the German Peace to be hired by the English against us, and would be employd in preventing it— What do you think or learn of these Circumstances?
The present Situation of Affairs in your Country is interesting. Unacquainted as I am with your Parties & Interests, I find it difficult to conceive how they will terminate. I am, Dear Sir &ca
M. Dumas.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gourlade & Moylan, 18 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gourlade & Moylan

Gentlemen
Passy Mar. 18 1779
I duly received the Letters you did me the Honor to write to me of Febry. 17 & Mar. 5. A continued Indisposition for near five Weeks, occasioned the Delay in answering them, which I hope you will excuse. I am much obliged by your kind Congratulations. Please to accept my thankful Acknowledgements and best Wishes for your Prosperity. I know not how it happened that my Orders for delivering the Tobacco to the farmers general were so long in getting to Hand. I had sent them to M. Schweighauser at Nantes with the Bills of Lading as soon as I had Advice of the Arrival. I thank you for the Notice you so kindly gave me of the Delay. I am exceedingly sensible of the Services you have always so readily afforded us, and shall be glad of every Opportunity of demonstrating the Regard and esteem with which I have the Honor to be &c
Messrs. Gourlade & Moylan.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William MacCreery, 18 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: MacCreery, William

Sir,
Passy Mar. 18. 1779.
I received your Favours of Feb. 27. and March 6. Continued Illness, with want of Information on the Subject, have occasioned the Delay in answering them.
I have endeavour’d to learn what the Duties are that are payable by the most favour’d Nation on the Exportation of Salt from France: I am at length told that the Duties are very low; that they consist chiefly in what is paid for the Forms or Papers necessary in transacting the Business regularly, and that they are equal on all Foreign Nations, and paid equally by all. If so we also must pay them. But you seem to think we have a Right to load Salt at Bordeaux free of Duty: Perhaps you have heard that there is some favour’d Nation which is allow’d that Right. Be so good as to enquire and obtain a Certainty of this, and an Account what the Duties are, and of the different Duties paid by different Nations, if there is any difference. When I am well acquainted with the Facts, I shall know whether I can by any Application to the Ministry be of Service to you, and I shall exert myself with a great deal of Pleasure in ascertaining your Rights: But if our Shipping of Salt free of Duties be not a Right, and must be asked as a Favor for particular Persons, which I apprehend you mean with regard to the Lading of the Buckskin, I find a Difficulty in doing this: For as we are obliged to be frequently requesting Aids of Money from the Government for our Public Uses, one cannot at the same time with any good Grace, desire, for private Persons, an Exemption in the Payment of those general Duties from whence only the Ability of granting such Aids must arise. I thank you for the Offer of conveying Dispatches in that Vessel, which I may possibly make Use of.
I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant.
B Franklin
Mr McCreery Bordeaux.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jean de Neufville, 18 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Neufville, Jean de

Sir
Passy March 18 1779
I hope you got safe home & had a happy meeting with your Family & Friends; and that you will succeed in your Undertaking.
I have considered the Memorial of the Person who calls himself Baron de Mons, & have made some Inquiries. I have since your Departure received a long Letter from Me. La Baronne de Mons. Upon the whole I am of Opinion that their Story is all a Fiction, and that they are Imposters and have no such Estates in America. I give you this Information, that you may be careful in making farther Advances to them. She writes from Altona. I have the Honor to be &c.
M. Neufville


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Antonio Francesco Salucci et fils, 18 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Salucci, Antonio Francesco, & fils

Gentlemen
Passy March 18 1779
I am honor’d with your Letter of the 5th. ult. and am glad to learn that you have ventured on an Expedition of Goods to America. I must heartily wish they may arrive safe and that the Returns may afford you an encouraging Profit. You may rely upon it that your Ship will meet with a most friendly Reception in any one of the U.S.; with all the facilities for your Commerce and all the Protection that well regulated & good Governments afford to Strangers with whom they are in Friendship. I have the honor to be &c
Mess. Ant. Bran. Salucci & freres (Livourne)


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Samuel Stockton, 18 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Stockton, Samuel W.

Sir,
Passy March 18. 1779.
I received yours of the 9th per Mr Lee: I am told there is a Vessel at Rotterdam bound to N. America, but if you do not find a ready Passage from Holland, there are Vessels almost continually going from Nantes and Bordeaux. I do not at present think of any thing worth your while to stay in Europe for: and as Mr. Adams is returning & will go directly to Congress, I purpose to send my present Dispatches by him.
I thank you for your kind Congratulations on my Appointment; Should you pass this Way, you may rely on such friendly Offices as may be in the Power of, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant.
B Franklin
Mr. Stockton.

Addressed: To / Mr Stocton. / at the Hague—
Endorsed: From Dr. Franklin March 18th. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Dorothea Blunt, 18 March 1779
From: Blunt, Dorothea
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Kensington March the 18th. 79
Our friend Saint Hutton offers me a chance for getting a letter to you, which tho I have long’d a long while for, & have not had, or you w’d have stood a chance for one of my superiour epistles which I know you did not dislike because you always answer’d. Why did you come to my native country? Or continue so long time in it, and then so quarrel with some, that you may as well not love others? Now for these, and other reasons, if I had not loved you very much I sh’d now dislike you exceedingly— Even I, who am many years younger than you, find nothing more desirable than peace and the society of those I’ve long known, I wish I c’d believe that the benefits gain’d by our loss of you were either considerable to the Many or likely to be lasting to the few. I find it impossible to write to you, and not in a certain degree to blame you for not doing more than you had in your power rather than leave us—but I have done and will learn to submit to all evils, I thank God, that I firmly believe His kind providence directs every Evil of Life, to some good to Man.
As Mr Hn: is not acquainted with my family I shall myself give you a little account of them. I lost my amiable Sister three years ago, who gave the strongest proof of being so in a patient resignation to a severe and lingering disorder, and to Death, notwithstanding her strong desire for Life. I was with her 7 months—never saw once out of temper, and tho except 600£ —she bequeathd all she had to me, never once told me so, I am by the addition enabled to command a little dwelling of my own and I think it would give you pleasure to see me in it because I am told that I appear as I am very Comfortable. I see but little of Mrs Hewson she finding herself perhaps equally so in a little Cottege or small house at Cheam in surry. My Bror: Cs— has 10 children 8 of them Girls. I can say nothing on this subject as it realy distresses me, my Bror: Harry a Widdower still resides near Bath, has long had bad health has 2 Sons likely to give him comfort. My Bror: Walter plump as a partridge is I hope happy—and has only at present 2 Sons and one daughter. Mrs M: Barwell still a fine woman, and more pleasing because less busy. Henckell with her respectable Parents resides at Hampstead and works in her Garden. D: B: has a little Garden, and tho she does not work in it is mighty fond of it. May God bless you and yours.
D: Blunt

Mrs Hawkesworth the same, and comes to me tomorrow. I see my friends often from my situation which as I live alone I like.

Addressed: Doctor Franklin
Notation: D. Blunt. Kensingten. [torn]00 18. mars 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 18 March 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir.—
Nantes March 18. 1779
I have received your agreeable Favour of the 8th Instant per Mr Adams, who did me the Favour to send for me immediately— I pressed him very much to accept a Bed at my house, which he declined, I however had the pleasure of his Company to dine with me the Day after his arrival with several Gentlemen of this place. We went together on Sunday to Painbeuf, & passed two agreeable Days in seeing all the River and places on the Borders of it could afford us.— Yesterday morning he set out for Brest.
M de Fontevieux went passenger in the Ship Duchesse de Grammont which arrived at Portsmouth in new England last Summer, I have not heard anything of him since, his Friends may however be sure that (unless some personal accident happened to him) he is in america.
When your leisure will permit I shall be glad of a Line relative to the Complexion of affairs, so far only as is discreet in me to ask, & in you to communicate.
Mr de Montieu now wants me to go in the Franklin Frigate of 36 Guns & to take her & one or two others to my address. I don’t know what to determine, all that know me advise my Stay because (as they seem to think) Congress will order a return of my public affairs.— For my own Part, I have no great expectations, but I want to hear once more from america before I decide.
I have already [torn: written] to you about the general Run of my orders.—
I am ever with the greatest Respect Your dutifull & affectionate Kinsman
Jona Williams J

I have shewn my Letter to Mr Lee (while here) to most of the Americans about to depart. I thought this a duty I owed to my Character, for Lee would otherwise have said that I feared an Examination.

Addressed: a monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats Unis—/ en son Hotel a / Passy prés Paris
Notation: Jona Williams Mar. 18. 79—(Prie)


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Stephen Lee, [before 19 March 1779]
From: Lee, Stephen
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honoured Sir
[before March 19, 1779]
The Brave Assistance most Wisely given by you, to Set the Gallant Americans at Liberty, Emboldens me a poor prisoner of War, to beseech your protection, and Aid, in gaining me my freedom; I have many friends in America, Defending their Rights, and Priviledges, and as my Wish and Intention was, the first Conveyance to go to them friends, I now Humbly beg your Honours Assistance in forwarding my Intention, which if I am so happy, as to Obtain I shall behave like a true American—
I am from the Province of Munster in Ireland. Ambition Lead me to Travel, having a beloved Brother who resides in Jamaica, whom I was determin’d to Visit, therefore Traveled to the City of Dublin, and Embarked on board the Eliza Letter of Marque Bound to Jamaica, with a heart Glowing with Expectation, of my soon seeing that dear Brother, (but Alas) the Brest fleet, frustrated all my hopes, for on the 6th. morning of Our Sailing was taken, and Brought into Brest—
Being now in the 21st. year of my Age and having experienced better days, and better fortune, Humbly beseeches your Honour to take Compassion on my Sufferings and release a Guiltless Prisoner and Grant him his request, which shall always with Gratitude be Acknowledged by a Distressed Young Gentleman—
Stephen Lee—

If these Uncouth Lines meet with Success, (which I am in hope they will from the Noble Character your Honour Support) By directing to the Governor of Dinan, and mentioning my Name and the ship I was on Board of It will be duly Attended to, I have Obtain’d Admittance in the Hospital where I am at present not, Confined by Sickness, but waiting for a Letter from my father having lost my Little all whereby I was rendered unable to afford a Parole which Was Offered me—

Addressed: To / John Franklin Esqr.—/ Ambassader from the United / States of America at the Court / of France—/ Paris—
Notation: Stephen Lee


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Nathan Blodget, 19 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Blodget, Nathan

Sir
Passy Mar 19 1779
I lately received yours of the 3d inst. I conceive that it is with the Capt. alone to give his Officers Leave of Absence; and that If I had such a Power it would be very improper for me to exercise it, especially at this Distance, unacquainted as I must be with the Persons & Circumstances. For it might be attended with great Inconveniencies to the Service & would weaken that Subordination which is necessary to good Government in the Ship. I have the Honor to be &c
Nathan. Blodget


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Bernard Pées, 19 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Pées, Bernard

Sir
Passy March 19 1779
I received yours with the Paper Money inclosed, (mostly of Georgia) which you desire me to change for you, abating for the Difference of exchange. As the value of that Money has been very variable, and I am totally ignorant of its present Situation, my appearing to set a certain Value on it here, by exchanging it at a particular Rate, might be attended with great Inconveniencies. I am therefore obliged to return it to you, as I do inclosed. You will easily find at Nantes Some Person going to America who will give you the worth of it. I am, Sir &c
M. Bernard Pees


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 20 March 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Monsieur
A Passy Le 20 Mars 1779
Je prends la Liberté d’introduire aupres de votre Excellence le Commodore Gillon de la Caroline Meridionale. Cet Etat l’envoie en France pour y negocier une Affaire tres Importante. Il desireroit soumettre quelques Propositions aux Lumieres de votre Excellence, & je me flatte qu’elle voudra bien lui accorder une Audience favorable. J’ai L’honneur d’etre avec beaucoup de Respect Monsieur de votre Excellence Le t. h. e. t. o. S.
BF.
His Excy. M. de Sartine


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Madame Brillon, 20 March 1779
From: Brillon de Jouy, Anne-Louise Boivin d’Hardancourt
To: Franklin, Benjamin

ce samedi 20 mars [1779]
J’envoye sçavoir de vos nouvélles mon bon papa, et vous demandér si vous viendrés ce soir prendre le thé je n’appuyerés pas sur le plaisir que vous nous ferés de peur de gesnér votre volonté; mais je vous observerés que vous trouverés un grand fauteuil, un tabourét pour reposér vos piéds; qu’il faudra venir avéc vos souliérs de goutte, que nous n’aurons point d’étrangérs, que vous aurés de la musique, des échécs et de l’amitié tant que vous en voudrés:

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / [in a different hand:] a Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gioanni de Bernardi with Franklin’s Note for a Reply: résumé, 20 March 1779
From: Bernardi, Gioanni de,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Turin, March 20, 1779, in Italian: The reputation acquired throughout Europe by the glorious thirteen American colonies, their success and wise legislation, have aroused in me a desire to see this new republic with my own eyes and offer it my services as a jurist. The best way I can think to accomplish this is to turn to you. I realize that you know nothing about my qualifications, but I trust in your acumen and your kindness. Should you give me some encouragement, I shall send you my credentials. I am a twenty-four-year-old lawyer and citizen of Milan, currently living in Turin.>

Endorsed: Thank the Gentleman for his Good will and Offers of Service to America in qualité of Jurisconsulte but that our Laws and Language being different from those he is acquainted with, I can neither advise nor encourage him to go thither—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Lafayette, [20 March 1779]
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Paris Saturday Evening [March 20, 1779]
I am just Coming from Versailles where I went à hunting with the king, and I Do take this first opportunity of inquiring for the state of your health— I hope you are free by this time from your troublesome Gout— I make no doubt but that you knew last Night of the Senegal being taken by our troops— that Advantage I think is interesting for the Allied powers, and will Most Certainly excite disputes among the good people of Both houses in London— I Remember I heard Complaints among the Southern Gentlemen of America about the Senegal being in the enemy’s hands and preventing the Nigrò trade for that part of the United States—So that I Believe our Conquest will be pleasing to them and I wish to know your opinion Concerning that affair— there is An important one I want to Communicate to Your Excellency and I schall beg the favor of a Meeting at Passy Monday Morning where we Might Speack without disturbance— it is Relating to some ideas of ours we had Agreed upon in our last interview, and I wish it to be the Same with our Ministers.
With the highest Respect and tenderst affection I schall ever be My dear Sir Your excellency’s Most obedient humble Servant
Lafayette

Addressed: To / his Excellency Benjamin Franklin / Esq. plenip. Minister of the Unit. / States of America at the Court / of Versailles / At Passy / the m de lafayette
Notation: Lafayette 79—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Woestyn frères, 20 March 1779
From: Woestyn frères
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Son excéllence,
Dunkerque Le 20 Mars 1779./.
Les vœux que toutte la france forme pour l’heureux accomplissement des soins qui vous occupent et le desir qui nous anime de contribuer en notre particulier et par nos foibles moiens à reduire nos énnemis Communs, nous à determiné de faire construire au havre de grace, une frégatte pour la Course de 24 canons de 8 lb. de balle et de Suplier Son Excéllence de nous accorder la faveur de le baptiser Sous son nom Le franklin. Ce nom cheri & répetté Continuellement dans le cœur des Francois, nous presage d’avance, le plus heureux avenir, et nous assure une double confiance de la part des personnes qui inclineront de sÿ intéresser, Il nous réste le ⅓. à remplir: Notre satisfaction Seroit Complette, si votre Excéllence daigneroit ÿ prendre un interest quel qu’il soit, nous Serons au comble de nos vœux. Nous prénons en Conséquence la confiance de lui adresser inclus une de nos police pour lui faire connoittre la nature de cét armément; nous nous règarderions doublément heureux Si independament du service que nous attendons de son Excéllence pour la grace que nous lui démandons, d’accorder son nom à ce Corsaire, elle voulut bien aussi proposer aux personnes qui ont le bonheur de l’approcher et de meriter sa confiance, d’y prendre quelque intérest, Ce seroit un grand rélief pour notre entréprise et qui accellereroit d’autant plutot son èxpedition.
Nous sommes encore occuppés à une autre éxpedition que nous faisons remplir à Marseille d’un Navire marchand de 180. tonneaux déstiné pour l’amerique Septentrionalle. Nous n’avons pas eté autrement heureux Jusqu’a present dans nos opérations avec le Continent, mais cela ne nous rébutte pas, et nous osons tout attendre de celle dont nous nous occupons aujourdhui, par les précautions redoublés et les moiens que nous nous sommes Procurés pour des expèditions masquées; on n’acquiert des connoissances que par l’experience, nous croions pouvoir nous flatter de conduire Cette entréprise à une heureuse fin. Nous prendrons la confiance de faire part en son tems à son éxcéllence, de son issû.
Dans l’ésperance d’une réponce favorable rélativement à notre Corsaire, Nous sommes avec le plus profond réspéct de son Excéllence Les très humbles et très obeissants Serviteurs
Woestÿn FRERES

Notation: Woestyn frs. 20. Mars 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Gardner and Joseph Bailey, 21 March 1779
From: Gardner, William,Bailey, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Bayone march the 21 1779
Sur I make bold of being an american prisoner I make to present this humble pretition to your honour hopeing that your honour Will Lend a lissening Ear to my Calamity As I am Now In a lonesome prisoner Being Captivated by a french privateere In an English Bottom And to Let you know further my Name Is William Gardner Born upon the Iseland of Nantucket Sailed from there for South Carolina and from there In a briggenteene bound for Bourdox belonging to may & Crips Consind to one mr Rainbo In Bourdox But unhappily falling In With the kings ship the mars Wass taken on the Ninetenth of october 1777 Jest In Sight of Cape finister Carried Into porthmouth and Condemd I was mate of the said vessel and Not haveing arms wass forsd on bord a man of War Where I continued until Last march When one meader An american Liveing In London hove a partision to the Lords of Admiralty for myselfe and six prisoners more for to Goe In the Whale feshery Whitch being Granted we proseaded and fisht In the mouth of the streights of Gebralter and A soone as we ha Got money for our support We mad an atempt to Git Into the Spanish Lines but unfortunately my self and one more Wass taken up and sent back to England In Ions When the above Capt John meader heard of hove In another protion and Could be Got Clear under No other head but to prosead In the fishery again they or to be kept as there own subiects as being once protected by the English flag We Now Came out agien and are taken and Imprisond hear the other man that Is hear In the same Condition With my selfe Is Joseph bailey there Likewise Is one Joseph tailer belongin to philadelphia taken In anther vessel I therefore Desire your honor Will Doe your Indeavour to take us out of prison and Convey us Where we may Git on bord of Some Continental vessel or merchant vessel so as to Goe to our one Country once more Whitch I make no Doupt but your honour Can Doe as Never being In arms against the Country I shall send you a tru Coppy of my Discharge on the tother side the paper So I shall Conclude hopeing that your honour Will Doe me all the service In your power And Deliver me out of this Lonesome prison As soone posible I shall Ever hold my selfe Your humble servant
William GardnerJoseph Bailey

A tru Coppy of my Discharge
These are to sertify the prinsible officers and Commsoners of his maiestyes Navy that William Gard an american prisoner on board of His maiestyes Ship Lenox Was this Day Dischargd and set free Be order of their Lords Commisoners of the Admiralty Given under my hand on bord the Lenox at Spithead 20th January 1779
Thomas Walton Lieute.

Addressed: His Excellency—Franklin / for the United States of / America & / residing at / Paris