Title: Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais to the American Commissioners, 13 February 1789 [i.e., 1779]
From: Beaumarchais, Pierre-Augustin Caron de
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

Messrs.
Paris ce 13. Fevrier 1789. [i.e., 1779]
M. Peltier duDoyer mon Correspondant de Nantes m’a fait signiffier une assignation à lui donnée en votre nom, aux fins de delivrer à votre Procureur, la foible cargaison de ris et d’indigo venue pour moi de Charlestown, sur le Navire la Thérese que Mr. Peltier a vendue par mon ordre et dont il m’a fait passer les fonds. Surpris de cette attaque, j’ai chargé mon Procureur à Nantes de repondre à l’assignation simplement que c’est à moi, non à M. Peltier du Doyer qu’on doit s’adresser pour avoir Justice de la Cargaison de la Thérese; Parceque c’est de mon ordre exprès et pour remplir mes besoins pressans que cette Cargaison qui m’appartient, a été retenue; que je fais mon affaire personnelle de l’assignation des nobles Députés, qui me regarde seul; de même que j’entends faire raison au Congrès national de l’Amerique d’une aussi foible remise envoyée a compte des Sommes immenses qui me sont dues par la republique; dont j’ai la parole, la promesse et l’écrit, de s’acquitter envers moi par toutes les voyes ouvertes et le plustot possible.
Or comme il faut enfin que cet acquittement se fasse, avec tous les Dedommagemens que son retard entraine, malgré les efforts que des esprits inquiets ont fait constament pour l’éluder, ou l’éloigner; et que je veux éviter, si je puis d’entamer, dans un Tribunal d’Amirauté, à deux cent lieues de Paris une Question qui paroitroit peu decente en Europe, entre les nobles Deputés de l’Amerique, et l’homme reconnu pour le Serviteur le plus zêlé de la Nation qu’ils representent; J’ai l’honneur de vous adresser, Messieurs, le Compte exact de vente de la Cargaison de la Therese; avec ma Reconnoissance au bas, que les fonds m’en ayant été remis, je les porte à compte sur mes fortes créances (sauf mon recours sur l’affreteur pour les frais de Desarmement &c.) ce qui suffit pour la Décharge, tant de M. Pelletier Du doyer, envers vous, que de vous Messieurs, envers vos Commettans. J’ai l’honneur d’y joindre aussi les mêmes renseignemens sur les Cargaisons de Retours de l’Amphitrite et du Mercure; celle de l’Amelie n’étant pas encore vendue, et les autres Vaisseaux n’ayant rien rapporté du Continent: au moyen de quoi vous serez rigoureusement en regle avec le Congrès sur ces objets.

Permettez moi, Messrs, de vous remercier de votre mediation sur les Reglemens de mes Comptes, et dédomagemens; je ne l’accepte point, pour des Raisons que je dirai plus bas. Des Amis zéles, qui stipulent mes intéréts en Amerique se font un Devoir d’y soutenir l’honneur de mon Caractere, de mes Services rendus au Congrès General; et surtout, d’y deffendre mes droits sourdement attaqués par certains Correspondans en Europe.
Que si d’apres ce que j’ai l’honneur de vous écrire et de vous envoyer, Messieurs, vous ne retiriez pas vos ordres donnés à Nantes, de poursuivre mon Correspondant, pour la remise d’une Cargaison qui m’appartient, et que je conviens avoir reçue, J’en conclurai que votre objet est de me contraindre à repousser juridiquement moi même une attaque aussi deplacée. Eh! quel Chagrin ce sera pour un Ami zelé de l’Amerique, si forcé de deffendre mes Droits et de justifier ma Conduitte, qui sera la même en toute occasion, je me vois contraint de mettre au jour dans un tribunal, pour ma defense légitime, les faits suivants si bien connus de vous.
Qu’en 1776. je fus vivement sollicité par Mr. Silas Deane, comme un des plus ardens partisans que les Treize Etats eussent en Europe; que je fus pressé, dis-je, par ce Deputé de la Republique en France, de former une Compagnie qui consentit a faire de grands Envoys D’artillerie, de Marchandises et Munitions de Guerre aux Americains absolument denués d’armes et de Vetemens, et sur la parole d’honneur et la promesse expresse de ce Deputé, que des Navires chargés de Denrées d’Amerique ne cesseraient pas de croiser mes envois; que toujours adressés à moi, ces Retours me mettroient, par une circulation non interrompue, par un acquittement prompt et successif en état de faire de nouvelles avances à l’honorable Congrès, lequel y seroit très sensible.
Je prouverois alors, que sur ces Promesses, et sous la Raison et Signature de Roderigue Hortalez, J’ai formé ma Compagnie et fait des levées considerables en Europe, de Marchandises d’artillerie, D’armes et de Munitions de toute Espéce.
Je prouverois par un Traité bien existant, qu’au moment de faire partir ses envois, le même Mr. Deane embarrassé, m’avoua que personne ne voulait lui fournir de Navires à fret, sans de fortes avances, et sans un cautionnement en France, pour toutes les Sommes qui resteroient en arriere; que désirant suivre le noble et genereux Plan que j’avois intenté, Je fis sur le champ toutes les avances d’argent exigées par l’affreteur; que je me rendis caution envers lui, de tout ce qui resteroit à payer par les Etats Unis de l’Amerique, et que je ne pris aucun repos que tous ces Navires enchainés dans nos ports, par des motifs supérieurs, ne fussent partis pour l’Amérique.
Je prouverois, qu’un autre agent à Londres et ce même M. Silas Deane en France, m’ayant pressé l’un de faire passer des Officiers au Continent; l’autre de prêter l’argent necessaire à leurs Traitemens et passages; sans hesiter J’avançai de mes deniers tous les fonds que cette Operation exigea; que, de cette Epoque mon zéle ne connoissant plus de bornes, pas même celle de mes facultés, J’ai engagé toute ma fortune, celle de mes Amis, mon Credit et le leur, pour servir constament l’amerique, et que beaucoup de Navires richement chargés, en marchandises, artillerie, habillemens, et Munitions de Guerre, ont été par moi seul expediés au Continent avec des peines incroyables, et les plus violens travaux de Corps et d’Esprit, pour applanir, ou vaincre les obstacles perpétuels que la politique Européene opposait à mon activité.
Il n’en coûterait pas même à ma Delicatesse de prouver que j’ai porté plusieurs fois l’attachement jusqu’à fournir à ce même député, M Deane; les fonds necessaires à sa Subsistance et à ses acquittemens; parcequ’il sait bien que je l’honore et l’aime de tout mon Coeur; ni de montrer que traitant enfin tous les Americains comme mes Amis et mes freres, il en est peu que je n’aye obligé de mes deniers, ou à qui je n’aye offert ma bourse et mon Credit.
Mais que bien loin qu’aucun navire americain ait jamais croisé mes envois et m’ait apporté ces Retours convenus et tant de fois promis du Continent; pendant qu’une nouvelle Deputation a constament épuisé, depuis trois ans, toutes les façons d’éluder un Payement sacré; tantôt en alleguant la detresse de l’Etat, tantôt les Difficultés de passer la mer etc. etc. Il n’y a pas un seul des hommes que je venois de servir, d’obliger, ou d’employer (M. M. Deane et Carmichael exceptés) qui ne se soit efforcé de me derober l’honneur de mes travaux en Europe, et qui n’ait tenté de s’approprier, s’il l’eût pû, tous les fruits de mes Envoys en Amerique.
Alors, Messieurs, Le Ressentiment me devenant permis en une injure aussi grave; je montrerais peutêtre que des obscures Speculateurs, dont une affaire aussi difficile était necessairement entourée, se sont reunis pour donner le Change au Congrès Général sur la Nature et les Conditions de mes envois; en me faisant faussement passer à ses yeux pour un dissipateur des fonds publics en France, envers lequel la Republique ne devoit jamais s’acquitter, comme étant chargé par l’Etat de donner aux Americains en pur don, ce que j’avois tant de peine à rassembler et à leur envoyer au titre sacré d’avances, d’échange et de Commerce.
Peutêtre même irois-je plus loin; car ne devant alors aucun menagement à ces Ennemis cachés, je pourrois bien les nommer et prouver qu’ils n’ont cessé par leurs Lettres insidieuses, dont j’ai les extraits, d’empêcher le Congrès des Etats Unis de s’acquitter envers le Serviteur et l’ami genereux qui s’étoit devoué pour leur Pays et qui a manqué dix fois de perir faute de recevoir en retour, de quoi faire face à ses Engagemens.
Et si le Sentiment trop vif de tant d’injustices m’arrachait à la discrétion que je me suis toujours imposée, Je surprendrois bien les honnêtes gens de mon Pays, en ajoutant que les nobles Deputés reconnus de la Republique, (Mr. Deane excepté) entrainés par ces illusions, ont cru pouvoir se dispenser des moindres égards envers moi, jusqu’a ne pas mettre le pied dans ma Maison; jusqu’à ne me faire jamais parvenir aucune reponse du Congrès, à plus de vingt Lettres importantes écrites par moi en Amerique, et passées sur les navires même qui portoient à la Republique des Secours aussi precieux de ma part.
Eh! quel seroit, Messieurs, l’Etonnement de l’Europe entiere, si j’allois jusqu’à divulguer que ces nobles Deputés ont porté l’injustice et l’outrage à mon égard, au point de vouloir retenir et me disputer les plus foibles et tardives Cargaisons, arrivées d’Amerique en retour des miennes, sous ma propre marque et sur ces même navires que j’avois chargés pour eux à mes Depens, dont j’avois pour eux payé plus de onze mille Louis, qui ne me sont pas rentrés pour les deux tiers du Fret convenu; et cautionné les autres Paymens ulterieurs, ainsi que tous les accidens possibles.
Que diroit’on enfin, Messieurs, si j’ajoutois: que sans la Resolution que j’ai prise d’envoyer un agent en Amerique porter mes plaintes ameres au Congrès national; et sans l’arrivée au Continent de cet agent; sans celle de M. M. Deane et Carmichael, de M. Gerard, qui tous ont ouvert les yeux à l’honorable Congrès et m’ont instruit de la Surprise où l’on y étoit, en reconnoissant l’injustice qui m’avoit été faite, sur de faux avis d’Europe et sur d’insidieux rapports et de la Resolution prise a l’instant de reparer cette injure au plustôt. Que diroit’on, Messieurs, quand on sauroit que sans toutes ces Precautions d’un honnête homme outré de Colere, j’ignorois encore quels ennemis du bien public s’y sont fait un jeu de porter l’erreur, le trouble et la ruine sur une affaire devenue aussi funeste pour moi, qu’elle a été utile à la nouvelle Republique?
Telles sont, Messrs, les Justifications que je serois forcé de donner publiquement, si vous persisties dans l’injure que vous me faites, et si vous ne retiries pas la scandaleuse assignation donnée à Mr. Pelletier Du doyer par votre ordre. Alors, distinguant toujours l’honorable Congres qu’on a trompé, de ses representans qui m’outragent; je le dis avec Regret; mais vos procédés m’y contraignent; Je ferois saisir, arrêter dans tous les Ports, chez tous les Banquiers ou Depositaires, les Marchandises et les fonds que vous pourriez avoir en Europe; et c’est à mon tour, devant les tribunaux de mon Pays, que je vous forcerois d’être justes envers moi; puisque tant de devouement pour votre Patrie, n’a pu vous porter à la moindre gratitude.
Et cette Lettre, Messieurs, que votre dur procedé m’arrache, si je l’adresse aux trois Députés collectivement; c’est que je ne puis les diviser dans une affaire commune, et pour un ordre signé de tous trois: car j’atteste icy que mes plaintes et mon Ressentiment personel ne porte que sur M. Arthur Lee, seul auteur des torts qu’on m’a faits, et de tout le mal que j’ai souffert. Je declare aussi qu’autant qu’il dependra de moi je n’aura jamais de Communication avec cet agent ambitieux, qui, pour nuire en Amerique à son collegue M. Deane, y a semé le doute et le Soupçon sur tout ce que cet homme honorable avoit fait en Europe avec moi pour la Republique; et c’est la Raison qui m’oblige de refuser de vous, Messieurs, toute Mediation, tout Reglement de Comptes et d’intérêts dans lesquels ce Sr. Lee pourroit ou devroit entrer. J’ai pris la Liberté de l’écrire expressement au Congrès Général, en lui envoyant le commerce chiffré de Londres entre cet agent et moi. Il prouve evidemment et l’odieux de sa conduite à mon égard et la fausseté de ses insinuations ulterieures sur la Nature et les Conditions de mes envois en Amerique.
Que si le Congrès trompé, seduit, ou porté par des motifs à moi inconnus, croit devoit continuer de confier ses intérêts à ce Politique, je le connois trop bien moi pour consentir jamais, si je puis l’empecher, qu’il soit de quelque chose en mes affaires.

Mais ce point de Discorde éloigné, gardons nous, Messrs, de donner aux Anglois le Spectacle et le Plaisir d’une Contestation publique. Il n’est pas bon qu’elle existe entre nous et le Négociant François, qui, le premier, a tant animé, par ses travaux, son Exemple et ses Conseils, les Vaisseaux de nos Ports à oser prendre le Chemin perilleux des votres.
Reflechissez, je vous prie, que l’opinion d’un si mauvais Succès, detourneroit plus nos armateurs, des Speculations D’Amerique que la Politique, et tous les traités du monde ne peuvent les y porter.
Deputés d’une Nation commerçante et nouvelle, écartez de tous les Esprits l’idée d’une pareille injustice. Vous ne feriez croire à personne que celui qui a tant échauffé les Coeurs pour votre Cause, ait le moindre tort avec vous, et le Gouvernement François, témoin continuel et souvent reprimateur, avant le traité, de mes efforts, ne verroit qu’avec Deplaisance, un Procès tendant à relacher une union fondée sur l’Espoir d’un grand Commerce entre les deux peuples. Union cimentée par un traité d’alliance honorable à l’Amerique et genereusement soutenue aujourd’huy, par la plus grande effusion de l’or et du sang des François.
Tels sont, Messrs, les nobles motifs qui m’ont fait souffrir aussi longtems sans me plaindre. Et c’est dans cet Esprit, que, demandant Justice à la Deputation de l’Amerique, sur une assignation imprudemment donnée à mon Correspondant de Nantes; J’ai toujours l’honneur d’être avec attachement et Respect de Monsieur Franklin, et de Monsieur adams; Messieurs, Le tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur.
(signé) Caron DE Beaumarchais connu en amerique sous la signature de  Roderigue Hortalez & Cie.

P.S. Laissant à part, Messieurs, la Justice que j’ai droit d’attendre du Congrès et que j’en espere enfin, surtoût [après?] ce que j’ai envoyé à la Republique; j’ai l’honneur de joindre aux Pieces que je vous addresse le Compte du fret des Premiers Vaisseaux que j’ai expediés pour le continent, dont vous avez le marché signé de Mr. Deane pour le Congrès, de moi comme caution du Congrès. Ce marché a été ga. [torn] arrêté depuis avec l’affreteur à 381,400 l.t. dont j’ai paye en 1776 la Somme de 269,400 l.t. d’avance à cet affreteur, en cautionnant tout le reste. Laquelle Somme de 269,400 l.t. devoit me rentrer au plustôt.
Comme il ne faut, Messieurs, aucun Reglement sur les marchandises envoyées en Amerique, pour acquitter pareille avance, faite en france en écus de France, et fondée [à?] titre paré, Je vous demande aujourd’huy pour la vingtieme fois de me payer les 269400 avec les intérêts, frais &c. qui me sont dus depuis 8bre. 1776 dont j’ai le plus grand besoin; et voila pourquoi j’appellé en vous écrivant, ces Navires affrétés pour un autre, mes propres navires. Ils seront les Navires de qui vous voudrez, Messieurs, quand cette Somme de 269,400 l.t. me sera payée par vous. Depuis près de 3 ans je ne vous ai pas envoye d’Huissier pour vous faire cette Demande; ainsi que beaucoup d’autres. Est ce donc trop exiger, que de vous prier, Messieurs, de faire cesser le Scandale d’une assignation, donnée par vous à mon Correspondant, en reconnoissance de la douceur et de l’honneteté de mes procedés à votre égard? Et de ma longue patience à languir dans l’attente de vos acquittemens?/.
M M. Les Députés des Etats Unis de l’Amerique.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ferdinand Grand: Three Receipts, 13 February 1779
From: Grand, Rodolphe-Ferdinand
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Passy le 13 fev 79
Jay reçu de Monsieur Franklin La valleur de Mille quatrevingt Livres en six Traittes sur les Comissionaires, pour lui en tenir Compte dans son Compte particulier
Grand

Jay de plus reçu pour son compte particulier Deux mille quatre Cent trente Livres en quatre traittes sur les Comissionaires
Grand

Monsieur Franklin ma remis

l.t. 30000 ———
au 30 janvier

  l.t. 20000 ———
fin de fevrier

  l.t. 50000 ———
en Billets de Mr De Chaumont

pour en procurer le payement & en crediter Le Compte du Congrés Passy le 13 fev 79
Grand


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis de Lafayette, [13–14 February 1779]
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
[February 13–14, 1779]
I hope my Letter will Reach your excellency soon enough as to prevent your going to versailles for our propos’d meeting— I will not yet wait on the king and his Majesty’s orders are to stay in paris without seeing a great Number of Acquaintances— I confess I can’t help much approving his wisdom on this Respect that Many people have already propagated thousand absurd discourses about the American Affairs which might hurt the interests of these his Allies as coming from My Mouth— I schall be very happy to Receive yr Excellency at your good friend’s Mde de Lafayette.
With the highest Regard and affection I have the honor to be, Your excellency’s Most obedient humble servant
Lafayette

Addressed: to / his Excellency dr. Franklin’s / esq. at Passy
Endorsed: Marquis de la Fayette
Notation: Lafayette Marquis De.—


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

Sir
Passy, Feb. 14. 1779.
I have the honor to acquaint your Excellency, that I have received from the Congress their Appointment to be their Minister Plenipotentiary at this Court, together with a Letter of Credence, to be presented to his Majesty. I beg thereupon your Excellency’s Advice and Direction.
I have need also of your Counsel, with regard to the Tryal and Punishment of some Conspirators on board our Frigate the Alliance which is just arrived. I would have done myself the honor of waiting on your Excellency to Day, but am not quite well enough to go abroad in such Weather.
I have received a Number of Letters from America all expressing the highest Esteem for the Count D’Estaing and the Marquis de la Fayette. As I think they will give you and M. De Sartine some Pleasure, I send you the Originals, praying only to have them returned. I have the honor to be, with the greatest Respect, Your Excellency’s, most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin
I enclose a Copy of the credential LetterHis Exy. Count De Vergennes

Notation: rep le 17 fer.


Title: Franklin: Passport for a French Vessel, [14 February 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

[February 14, 1779]
To all Captains and Commanders of Vessells of War, belonging to the thirteen united States of America or either of them, and to all Captains and Commanders of Privateers, and Letters of Marque, belonging to any Citizen or Citizen of any of the said States.
It appearing to me by authentic Papers, that his most Christian Majesty has thought fit for Reason’s of State to grant Passeports to Captain  de  Men, of about 15 Tons Burthen to go from Bourdeaux to some Port of Ireland with a Cargo of Marchandises, of which the Export is permitted, and to return from Ireland to Bourdeaux with a Cargo of Marchandises, where the Entry is permitted, or without Cargoes.
And I being requested to do what may be in my Power on the Part of the said States for the Safety of such Vessell and Cargo thus protected by his Majesty, the same being the Property of his Subjects.

I therefore the Minister Plenipotentiary from the said united States at the Court of France, hereby request, you to permit the said Vessell and Cargo to pass and Repass according to her Passport. dated at Versailles the 14th of February 1779 without Molestation or Hindrance. Given under my Hand at Passy near Paris this  Day of  one thousand seven hundred & seventy eight.—

Notation: Pass-Port for a Vessel from London to Blaye


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Duchesse de Deux-Ponts, 14 February 1779
From: Deux-Ponts, Marianne Camasse, comtesse de Forbach
To: Franklin, Benjamin

forbach le 14 fev: 1779
Il faut mon cher Monsieur francklin que vous participiez aux premiers moments de ma resurection pour la consolidér et pour men faire sentir le prix. A quoi bon avoir des Meaux de moins, si ce nest pas pour avoir des plaisir de plus? Et ma vive amitié pour vous exelant homme doit vous repondre que cen est un bien grand pour mon coeur que de moccuppér de vous.
Jai etez malheureuse comme les pierre depuis le moment ous je vous ait perdue de vue, par letat de mon fils ainée, qui a la suite de 9 mois de fievre lante et de fievre quarte, a êtez attaqués dune fievre putride, qui la conduit trois fois aux porte du tombeau, temoin de sa cruelle situation occuppéz jour et nuit a le secourir, le dechirement de mes entraille les angoise de la doulleur de la crainte des allarmes m’ont enfin apres trois mois de resistence conduite moi meme sur le grabat, mon sang decomposés et appauvris, ma occasionnes des accidents tres graves, qui comence a cedér aux remedes mais qui ont rendue ma situation bien penible dautant que je navoit plus de tette, et que je ne pouvoit plus ni lire ni ecrire. Je suis encore singulierement foible, mais mon fils est sauvéz! Cela me repond de mon retablissement, jen serois cependant bien plus sure si jetois a portés de vous respectable home des secours de votre interet et de celui de mes amis en france, mais mon fils nest pas encor en etat daller a paris, et je ne puis le quitter tant quil aura besoin de moi, nous pouvons nous passér de nos enfants quand ils sont heureux, mais jamais quand ils sont a plaindre.
Adieu mon cher monsieur francklin quoi quen dise Mad. helvetius je suis persuadée que les absants non point torts avec vous, et si vous vous souvenés de predilection, de ceux qui vous aime le plus tendement et qui scavent le mieux pour quoi ils vous cherissent et vous reverre, je suis sure de tenir le premier rang dans Votre souvenir, cest une preeminance charmant homme dont vous avéz rendue mon coeur infiniment jaloux
M: Douairiere DU Sme. Duc DE DeuxpontsC tesse de forbach

Mes enfants vous presentes leur homage mille amities je Vous prie a Monsieur Votre fils.
Je nait recue encor aucunnes nouvelle de mon pauvre petit Neveux, son pere men demande a corp et a cris, ditte moi je vous prie tout ce que vous pouvéz en scavoir mon cher monsieur francklin? Je craint quil ne manque de tout en amerique, ce que je craint le plus, cest quil ne soit prisonier des anglois, je ne le plaindres pas sil est mort en combattant pour votre cause ou notre cause.
Jai lus deux petit conte de vous plein de philosophie qui mont fait le plus grand plaisir.

Endorsed: Countess Forbac 14 Feb. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Pierre André Gargaz, 14 February 1779
From: Gargaz, Pierre André
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
A Toulon le 14 fevrier 1779.
Je crois que si les deux Manuscrits, ci très humblement joints, etoient imprimez, ensemble ou separement, et anoncez au Public, il s’en rependroit beaucoup dans plusieurs Païs, par le möien de la vente, et fairoient un trez bon efect pour etablir une Paix perpetuele entre les Etats unis de L’Amerique, les Anglois, et les françois; et meme entre tous les souverains de l’Europe et leurs voisins. Si vous étes de mon avis je vous demande la grace, Monsieur, de les faire imprimer, anoncer et rependre dans le public autant qu’il vous sera possible./.
Pierre André Gargaz.forçat numero 1336.
A Monsieur Monsieur franklin, Envoyé par les Etats unis de l’amerique. a Paris.

Endorsed: Project of Universal Peace by a Galley Slave
Notation: Gargaz 4 Fevr. 1779.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jane Mecom, 14[-27] February 1779
From: Mecom, Jane
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Dear Brother
Warwick feb 14—[-27,] 1779
My Self & children have all ways been a heavey tax upon you, but your grat & uncoman goodnes has carried you chearfully on under it, & we have all along Injoyed many of the comforts of life throw your Bounty we must otherwise have done without, it has pleasd God to diminish us fast & thereby your Expence & care of us you I doubt not Remember you had Ingaged for the soport of poor Benjamin in His deplorable state, He never could be keept in the place you Expected, but was wandering about till the Hessians took posesion of Burlington, when He disapeared & has never been heard of sence, this I informed you of soon after, but yr never mentioning it to me in Ither of the few leters I recved from you, I think it did not Reach you, it has now pleasd. God to take poor Peter & by that has Releved me from grat distress for tho I still Retained for Him the Affection of a Parent, the grat Dificulties of the times, & the Extreem Demands of the woman where he boarded contineualy Incresing, & my Inability to satisfie them, & not being able to procure him any other Place of Residence by any means keept me in Perpetual anxiety, & you know he has been no comfort to any won nor capeble of Injoying any Himself for many years, His mouth was opened Just before His Death to comit himself to the mercy of God & wish a blesing on those about him & sunk in to Eternity without a Groan, Mr Williams has kindly & faithfuly taken the care of Every thing concerning him in my absence I now thank you & him, what could I have done without Ither of you, you have suplied the means, he has taken the care, may God Reward you & make you happy in your own posterity. I wrot you about six weeks ago by a Neibour of Governer Greens Mr Wanton Casey, I hope you will recve some of the many I write & that I shall not all ways be deprived of the pleasure of yours to me which has been so long obstructed, the last I recd was by Mr Simeon Dean. Cousen Jonathan williams was so good as to write me you were well & in good spirits which I had the good fortune to recve tho unfortunate in loosing a present of Tea he had sent me which was much agrevated by my poor Retched son in-law being the barer, who was taken the forth time since the comencement of the War. I fear his poor lonely wife has given her self up to Dispare as she is apt to Sink under troble & I can no otherways acount for her long silence to me she used to write often & I have not had a line from her since the 27th. Septr May God preserve her from the faite of her Brothers. Pardon my writing you these aprehentions. I do not take pleasure in giveing you an uneasey thought but it gives some Releif to unbousom wons self to a dear friend as you have been & are to me, Father, Husband, Brother, & Children— May I not live to be deprived of all in you but you live to see the happiness of yr childrens Children confermed & a hapy peace in America Prays yr affectionate Sister
Jane Mecom

febry 27
Since I wrot the above I have recd a leter from my son Collas from Nants says he has seen you that you are well. I have also recd won from his wife who has been sick but now prety well has recved some things her husband sent her
J M

Addressed: To / His Excellency Benj Franklin Esqr. / Passy / near Paris—


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [Vergennes], [after 14 February 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

[after February 14, 1779]
M. Franklin se trouve dans une Position aussy facheuse que penible, & a la quelle les Circonstançes du Comerçe ajoutent beaucoup; en ce que le peu d’Envoys qui echappent aux Ennemis, ne lui parviennent pas, ou ne lui sont d’aucun Secours: Si ils sont en Tabacs, Les Fermiers Genereaux les reclament avec raison; & si ce sont des ris, ou tout autre Denrée, M. De Beaumarchais s’en empare, a cause des Sommes qu’il pretend lui être duës par le Congrès. Je dis qu’il pretend, parceque M. Franklin n’a ny ordre ni fonds pour le payer, ni même de preuve qui lui soit dut.
Comme il devient de necessité aujourdhui, que les Fonds envoiés par le Congrès passent a leur destination directe, M. Franklin a recours, pour cela, à l’Administration parce qu’outre quelle connoit l’importançe de cette destination, pour pouvoir faire façe a ce que la Politique exige, ainsi que la foy des Engagemens; il la croit a même de pouvoir apporter un remede aussi sur qu’efficace pour ce qui regarde M. de Beaumarchais, en faisant compensation de ce qui peut lui être dû par le Congrès avec ce que le Gouvernement peut devoir au Congrès pour les fraix de sa Flotte a Boston.

M. Franklin espere que sa Demande ne sera pas trouvée indiscrete, vû les circonstançes actuelles, & qu’il n’a dailleurs pas le tems de prendre d’autres Arrangemens; celui cy suplée au deffaut de Moyens du Moment, & satisfait a L’Equité, comme a l’Interret des deux Nations.

    In Franklin’s hand: Ask Mr. Grand for a Copy of the Memoire that was sent.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jno. Badger, 15 February 1779
From: Badger, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Good Sr.
paris 15th. febr. 1779.—
I hop Youl. not taik it a mis my not waiting on yu. pursonally with this my humble Request my afaiers Requiers my departeur for Lyons Emedeaitly Your most obedean & houmble Servant
Jno. Badger

Addressed: Monsieur / Monsieur franckling Envoyés / des Provinces unies de Lamerique / En son hotel a Passy Pres paris / A Passy


Title: George Anderson to the American Commissioners, 16 February 1779
From: Anderson, George
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

Lisbon Feby 16th, 1779
I had the honour of addressing You the 20th October last, the purport of which was to inform You of my situation at that time, and the treatment of a Certain Gentleman, to the Americans that are brought here—
At present I beg leave to give You an exact relation of what has transpired in this place, respecting the said Gentleman, since the above mentioned time— A Number of American Seamen and Masters of Vessels have been set at liberty by different men of War and other English Armed Ships in this harbour, in a most distressing Condition, and in that situation they made application to the French Counsel for Assistance, but I dont find that any one of them has ever Received the smallest supplys from him, and the Gentleman (for whose name I refer You to my letter of the 20th October) has Constantly supplied them with Cloathing and every other necessary they stood in Need of, with out the smallest expectation of ever being Reimburs’d—
Above Thirty of those unfortunate people having been living at his Expence in this place for these four months, Waiting for an Opportunity to France, or some part of the West Indias, but no Opportunity offering, and being desirous to render the United States every service in his power, He determined to send a Vessel, Man’d With those Americans, directly to the Continent, for which purpose he fitted Out a Snow, with Sixteen Six and four pounders, loaded her With a Very Valuable Cargo of Wine, Cloathing &ce, and Give the Command to Captain Joseph Shute (an american who was Castaway on the Coast of Portugal in an American Armed Sloop) and had Confidence enough in me, though an utter stranger to him, to give me the Consignment, and I embarked the 19th January (at St. Ubes which is distant from hence seven leagues) but before she could be dispatched, the English Counsel by Some Means or Other got information that she was destined for America, upon which They immediately Urged the Court to stop her, Untill they could be Convinced to the Contrary— The Gentleman being advised that such an order was to be issued, directed the Vessel to drop below the Fort, where we were obliged to lay Twenty four hours before she could possibly put to Sea—in this time. They (the English Counsel) sent a Twenty Six Gun ship from Lisbon to wait off the harbour for Our coming Out— We set Sail at 11. oCl. Wednesday Night the 20th January, and was unlucky enough to have lightwinds all Night, early Thursday Morning, we discovered the Ship, in Chase, which she continued from that time till Fryday Morning, when She come up With us, and after a Contention of three Broadsides we were Obliged to strike, with the loss of Only One American Killed, And an Other his Arm shot of. The Snow came Out the harbour under French Colours, but she was defended, (at least an attempt) under them of Our Country, That blessed Land of Freedom— She Gave us a full Broadside after the Colours were struck— This Ship is Commanded by a Captain Patrick Fairwether, Mounts Twenty Six, Nine and Six pounders, and Man’d with One hundred and Seventy Two Men, belongs to Liverpool, Called the Bellona—She brought us in here the 25th January when the English Counsel Represented the aforementioned Gentlemen, to the Court, in the blackest light they possibly could, informed them that he had fitted Out an American privateer and loaded her in this harbour, with Arms, Amunition, and Other Warlike stores— The Courts answer was, that if it had been done, twas without their knowledge, and that they Would make a strict examination and punish the Owner in the severest manner, provided he was found Guilty of their accusation, but on the Contrary they should look upon themselves injured in the Grosest manner— During this time we were all Confined on Board the Bellona, and the Chief Justice sent on Board to examine us— The Captain (Shute) deposed that the Vessel was fitted out in France and from thence sent to St. Ubes, where she took in her Cargo, and was bound to St. Eustatia, to this sense was the depositions of the whole Crew (which were Fifty Three in Number) except the 1st. lieutenant, whose deposition I was not admitted to hear— After this the prize was diligently searched for the arm Chest &ce that the English Counsel had assured the Court were on Board and finding no such Articles, and in short every assertion of the Counsel to be false, They returned and made a Representation of the same to the Court, when They immediately sent a Message to the Captain of the Bellona, that they had nothing to do with the prisoners, but what answer was given the English Counsel I Can not at present advise—Though its Evident they must appear Ridiculous in the eyes of the Court— The Noise and disturbance this affair has made here to the prejudice of that Worthy Gentleman . . . . is inexpressible, indeed if the people at the helm had not been his Real friends, I believe the English Would have prevailed on them to have taken his life—
After our Enemy’s (which includes every English Merchant in this place) found that the Court would not interfere in this matter (further than is already described) they then set their heads together, and endeavoured all that in them lay to sink his Credit, by propigating that the prize was worth Ten times as much as she is, and that they would not accept any of his Bills for the Smallest Sum—which so far prevailed with the Portuguez, as to occasion such of them that had accounts against him, to present them, as did every English Merchant that he happened to be indebted to—however the Expiration of these few days has reinstated him to the same Credit as before: Which is not inferior to any Person in Lisbon and his Connections are the first in this Kingdom, without exception—
The Snow and Cargo stood him in upwards of four Thousand pounds Sterling and he says he would expend ten times as much provided it would be of any service to the United States— The Prisoners were set at liberty the 6th Instant, being first strip & almost naked, and the Americans are all now on the same persons expence As before, and are to Continue untill he Can procure e’m a passage to France or Ellse where— Their Number and Names now at his House You have inclosed— During my residence in this place, have endeavoured to acquaint my self with the sentiments of the Portuguez, Respecting their opening their ports to the Americans, And from the best information, I conclude they wou’d Very Readily do it, provided proper steps Were taken, which I will not presume to advise Your Excellencys in—
I Could freely Wish Your Excellency’s would cause If a few French Frigates were to Cruise off this harbour they Might pick up a Number of the London Traders who are perpetually Turning backwards and forwards to this place, Unmolested, besides it would lower the presumptive pride of the few pitiful English that are settled here— Only One Man of War, or Indeed Two well Man’d Frigates would be full Sufficient to clear the Coast, as there is but two English Frigates on this Station (and they are above half their time in harbour) one of which is Called the Pellican, mounts Twenty four, Six And Nine pounders, Very badly Man’d and still a Worse Sailing Vessel Commanded by Captain Henry Loyd, The other Mounts about the same Number of Guns, is well man’d & a fast Sailer, Commanded by a Captain Saller—
It is a shamed, that the French Should Suffer such numbers of the English Merchant Ships to Run to this place as they do, With out the least interruption, when it’s so Convenient for them to put an entire stop to it— I therefore hope Your Excellencys will take the same into Consideration and Cause something decesive to be done— The Gentleman above mentioned is ready and Willing to lend every Aid in his power, and it is hoped that such a Valuable Person [torn: would?] not be neglected or forgot—
I Can not Conclude my letter, in Justice to Your Excellency’s and to my Country; with out informing You, that a Certain John Bulkeley of this place, who it is well known made his whole Estate by the Americans, is part Owner of this Bellona Privateer, and I know, that he owns part of one that is Commanded by a Captain McKinsey, I can’t prove the former but from every Circumstance I am Convinced of the truth of it— This much I am Certain of, that she was sent from Liverpool to him and that Fairwether (the Captain) was to follow his directions—
I have The Honour to be Gentlemen Your Mo. Ob ser
Geo. Anderson
Their Excellency’s Benjamin Franklin Arthur Lee & John Adams Esquires—

Addressed: Their Excellency’s Benjamin Franklin, / Arthur Lee, & John Adams Esquere’s, / Ambassadors / at / Paris—
Endorsed by Franklin: Geo. Anderson look for his Letter of the 20th October 78 / Lisbon
Notation: Anderson Geo: Feby. 16. 1779.—


Title: Dumas to the American Commissioners, 16 February 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

Messieurs
La haie 16 fevr. 1779
Ma derniere étoit du 27 au 29 Janvr. Le Jeudi d’après, 4e fevrier, l’Assemblée d’Hollde. résolut à la pluralité la réponse à donner à la France, mise sur le tapis le jour auparavant, contre laquelle Amsterdam renouvella formellement sa protestation du 19 xbr. Après quoi l’Assemblée se sépara. Elle reprendra ses séances ici le 25 de ce mois.
Les Etats-Généraux n’ont pas encore fait de réponse à Mr. l’Ambr.; les Députés des provinces ayant déclaré n’avoir pas reçu les pouvoirs de leurs Commettants.
Je reviens d’Amsterdam, où j’ai été voir si les quatre nouveaux Bourguemaîtres regnants sont dans les mêmes dispositions que ceux de l’anné passée; et j’ai trouvé que tout va bien: comme aussi, si les Commerçants se proposent de profiter incessamment des privileges qui leur sont accordés. Une Lettre ne souffre pas les détails, que j’ai communiqués à G—— F——.
L’Imprimé ci-joint vous remettra sous les yeux ce qui s’est jusqu’ici passé d’interessant.
Notre Ami m’a remis les matériaux d’un Plan de Traité. Je m’en occupe. Le long silence que l’Amérique garde, & les bruits semés & non contredits, d’une réconciliation avec l’Angleterre, me font appercevoir & éprouver plus de retenue & de timidité, de la part même de ceux d’Amsterdam, que l’année passée. J’ai grand besoin de bonnes nouvelles pour dissiper cette humeur froide. Je prie Dieu de garder l’Amérique contre les traîtres autant que contre les ennemis manifestes.
Mr. Stockton m’écrit de Francfort, qu’il passera incessamment ici pour aller à Paris. Je suis avec un grand respect, Messieurs Votre très humble & très-obéissant serviteur
Dumas
Passy à LL.EE.M. les Plénipres. des Et. Un. de l’Am.

Addressed: A Leurs Excellences / Messieurs les Plenipotentiaires / des Etats-Unis de l’Amérique / à Passy./.
Notation: Feb: 6. 79


Title: Vergennes to the American Commissioners, 16 February 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

a Versailles le 16. fev. 1779
J’ai reçu, Mrs., la lettre que vous m’avez [fait] l’honneur de m’écrire en faveur du S. Mc neil; je l’ai fait passer à M. de Sartine au département de qui l’affaire dont il est question ressortit, et je ne doute pas que ce Ministre ne donne une attention particuliere à vos representations.
M. Franklin, Lee et Adams.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 16 February 1779
From: Bache, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Philadelphia February 16, 1779
I wrote you a few Lines this day by Major West a particular Friend of mine— Count Mumford does me the honor to take charge of this— I beg leave to introduce him to your acquaintance & civilities— I have formed a commercial connection with Mr. John Shee of this place, under the firm of Bache & Shee, I shall esteem it as a particular favor, your recommending us to some good houses in France in the Commercial line;— by some safe conveyance I purpose troubling you with our circular Letter. The Family is well— Sally joins me in love to you & Ben— I am Dear sir Your affectionate son
Rich: Bache
Dr. Franklin

Addressed: His Excelly. / Dr. Benjamin Franklin / Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court of / Versailles
Notation: Philada & Boston


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Walsh et al., 16 February 1779
From: Walsh, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

february the 16th. 1779. Brest Road patience Brig
To His Excellency the Honorable Bengimin Franklin Ambassador to the united States of america at Paris
The Memorial of the prisoners on board the patience brig. who were taken by the american Ship of War Ranger commanded by John Paul Jones Esqr. and Brought in to Brest the 7th day of May last Sheweth that your Excellency’s Memoriallists. whilst they were under the care and Inspection of the officers of said Ship Ranger Experienced almost every attention and Kindness which people Such as us, in a State of captivity Could expect, Butt Since the care of furnishing us with provisions &c. Devolved to Mr. Riou of Brest your Excellencys Memoriallists have Been Extramely unhappy the greatest part of us, often have been without anything to Eat or Drink for the Space of Twenty four hours and upwards, we have not omitted to represent our Grivances to Said Mr. Riou, who did not spare his assurances of Redressing us, at the Same time Intimating that Should he hear of our making any further complaints that he would make our Situation worse, we have from time to time hoped as well from what capn. Jones had told us, as from the vague promisses of Mr. Riou, that our Usage would Be made more Tolerable, which with the Desire we always had of being of as little trouble as possible prevented until now, We are Drove by the over Ruling power of Indigent Necessity to take the Liberty of applying to your Excellency’s unbounded and (in General to all the British Empire) well known Humanity, from which we have reason to hope for every thing that is boath reasonable and Good, These last two days we Should have wanted every Article of Subsistance were it not for the Seasonable Reliefs of the commanding officer of a Ship now Lying Convaynient to us, called the Hampdon of Portsmouth in Hampshire North America. Before we conclude the present we can not help pouring forth our most harty and Fervent, wishes that the unhappy Contest so long Subsisting Between Great Briton and America, which has too long continued to be the object of Exultation to the Enemies of Boath may have the Speediest and Happyest conclution, with the greatest Respect we Subscribe ourselves Yr. Excillency Memoriallists & very humble Servts. for the prisoners on board the Brig Patience
John Walsh late Master of his Britanick MajestiesCharles Arter Acting Gunner Do James Hay Master at arms D.

the people who charge themselves with bringing our Letters on shore so often Disappoint us and tear our letters, that we find it Necessery to send this coppy which Should have been wrote on Better paper to your Excellency—we have the Strongest reason to Believe that your Excellency allowed us what is very Sufficient, but that we have been wronged of it by Mr. Riou or his Substitute. we have taken an acct. of what provissions we have got from Sd. Mr. Riou and will at any time it may be required transmitt an account upon oath of what we have receiv’d, we are now no more in Numbr. Including Merchantmen. 117 men, in all its to be hoped that an Exchange of prisoners here may soon take place—

Addressed: To / The Honorable Bengimin franklin / Ambassador to the united / States of America / A Paris
Endorsed: Prisoners at Brest Feb. 16 1779. answerd.— Mar. 2d


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Pierre Landais, 16 February 1779 [i.e., 17]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Landais, Pierre

Sir
Passy febry. 16 [i.e., 17] 1779
I duly receiv’d your favor of the 7th inst. I made an immediate Application to the Ministry here for Advice relative to the Conspirators, and I postpon’d writing to you till I should receive it. I suppose the Newness of the Case has occasion’d some Delay; But I will not any longer omit answering your Letter as far as I can. I am told it is a standing Rule that no foreign Ships are admitted into the Harbour of Brest, But if you can refit your Ship in the Road, it will be allowed. The Agent has already wrote to me that you have applied to him & that he has order’d for you such Supplies as you may immediately want, but waits my Order for any considerable Repairs. As your Ship is new, I imagine She cannot want much; but I wish you had sent me an estimate of the Expence; the Demands for Money being very numerous here & the supplies very scanty. The Navy Board have not mention’d a Syllable to me of any Promise they had made of Advances here to your Officers or Seamen. I hope your Prizes will afford something for such Purposes. I shall by this Post, direct the Agent to furnish you with what is absolutely necessary for your Outfit; But I must desire you to be very moderate in your Demands. If you cannot otherwise be furnish’d with Men, I will endeavour to obtain the Number you may want from the Minister of the Marine, I purpose going to Versailles to morrow, & I hope I shall afterwards be able to answer you fully with Respect to the tryal of your Conspirators.
I have the Honour to be &c

P.S. Please to present my Compliments to your Officers & acquaint them that I will consider the Application they make and do what I can for them.
  Honble. Capt. Landais
  (NB. dated by error the 16 sent 17)


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to David Sears, 16 February 1779 [i.e., 17]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sears, David

Sir
Passy feby 16. [i.e., 17] 79
There is no Article in the Treaty between France & the U. S. which entitles us to the Payment of such Duties only as the Subjects of France are liable to. The Stipulation is, that We shall not be obliged to pay greater Duties than are paid by the most favor’d foreign Nations. Your Correspondent at Rochelle by informing himself what those Duties are respecting furs, will know what he is to pay. I send you the Treaty itself for your better Information.
My Respects to M. Choever. I have the Honor to be &c.
M. David Sears Amsterdam(NB. dated by error the 16. wrote & sent the 17)


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes, 16 February 1779 [i.e., 17]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

Passy 16. [i.e., 17] Feb. 1779.
Dr. Franklin presents his respectful Compliments to his Excellency Count De Vergennes, and sends him enclosed the Extract he desired. Dr. Franklin purposed doing himself the honor of waiting upon his Excellency this Morning, but an Access of the Gout prevents him.

Endorsed: M. de Reyneval


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Calliez(?), 17 February 1779
From: Calliez, —(?)
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Dunkerque le 17 fev. 1779
J’apprens par M Le Ray de Chaumont, que vous etes nommé pour resider seul et en qualité de ministre plenipotentiaire a notre cour; cette nouvelle me fait un trop sensible plaisir pour differer d’un instant a vous le temoigner, Daignez donc Monsieur, agreer mon compliment a cet egard et etre persuadé de toute sa sincerité. Le Congres ne pouvoit assurement faire un choix plus digne de luy et plus agreable a la france qui ne scauroit voir sans une vraye satisfaction un Evenement qui conserve chez elle, une personne qui merite et pour qui elle a autant de veneration. Je partage n’en doutez pas Monsieur, ce sentiment avec toute ma nation; aussy ne cesserons nous tous de faire les voeux les plus ardents pour que votre ouvrage, (notre union avec l’amerique), ait une durée aussy constante qu’il y a lieu de l’esperer d’apres les avantages reciproques qui doivent necessairement en resulter pour les deux peuples.
Je termineray s’il vous plait, cette lettre par les assurances du plus parfait devouement a vos ordres, si donc Monsieur, Je pouvois vous etre de quelu’utilité dans ces Cantons, veuillez Je vous prie ne point m’epargner et etre convaincû de tout mon zele a vous servir & vos amis.
Je suis avec respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Calliez

Notation: Cainciz Dunkerque 17. fr. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chevalier du Plessis, 17 February 1779
From: du Plessis, Thomas-Antoine Mauduit, chevalier
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
le 17 fevrier 1779
Les Traductions que vous avez entre les mains, étant de L’interprete du Congrès, D’un homme qui possede L’esprit des deux Langues, j’ai Lieu de presumer qu’elles sont bien faites, je prends Donc la liberté de vous en envoyer Dexactment semblables aux premieres, et vous supplie de vouloir bien aussi les attester conformes aux originaux, ces papiers ne peuvent avoir de force que revetus de vôtre signature.
Mr Le Marquis de Gribeauval Directeur General de L’Artillerie m’a promis de me présenter vendredy ou samedy au ministre, et de tâcher de faire valoir auprès de lui pour mon avancement Les évenements qui me sont arrivés dans la deffense des droits de vôtre patrie, il croit quil seroit avantageux que vous me donniez une attestation ainsi que vous me L’avez promis, comme quoy j’ai servi avec Zèle, et meme avec succès dans votre patrie; il me sera possible de tirer un Grand Avantage de mes services, si cette attestation est circonstanciée, et conçue en termes favorables, et je crois que vous le pouvez d’après Les pieces originales que vous avez entre Les mains sans sortir des bornes exactes de la verité.
J’ose esperer, Monsieur, que vous ne refuserez pas ce service a un homme qui a souvent exposé avec joie sa vie pour Deffendre la liberté Americaine, Mr le Docteur DuBourg a qui j’ai remis une lettre du docteur Ruth peut vous rendre compte Des Details qu’on lui envoie à mon sujet. J’ai tant eprouvé La bonté Du coeur des Americains, que j’espere que vous me pardonnerez le trouble que je vous donne.
Je suis avec beaucoup de respect de votre Excellence le tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
LE Chv DE Mauduit Duplessis

P.S. Si vous pouvez sans vous troubler m’envoyer par le porteur les traductions, attestèes. Je vous serois obligé je loge a l’hôtel Saint Thomas rüe Saint Thomas du louvre.

Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsieur Franklin ministre / plenipotentiaire des ètats-unis de / L’Amerique A La cour de Versailles / A Passy


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Gourlade and Moylan, 17 February 1779
From: Gourlade, Jacques-Alexandre,Moylan, James
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honord Sir
L’Orient 17th. Feby. 1779
By a letter we this day received from our mutual good friend Mr. Le Ray De Chaumont, we learn with pleasure of your independent appointmt. to the great affairs of America at this Court; with pleasure we say, because we are persuaded the important charge will do as much honor to the great empire you represent, as it will to yourself in the execution of it.
We have invariably endeavour’d to render our services usefull, and we can say, that when America was in question, no interested motive ever govern’d our inclination. We desire with all our hearts to have it in our power to prove the sincerity of our attachment to that Country and on any occasion that you think we can do it, she as well as yourself will ever find us Hond. Dear sir Your most hle & obt
GourladeJames Moylan
The Honorable B. Franklin Esqr.

Notation: Gourlade L’Orient 17e. fr. 1779.


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

Excellency
Brest feby 17th 1779.
I have the honour to acquaint you that I recieved a letter from John Lotcher Mr of the Victoria one of the two Swedish Ships that I Sent to france to be Examined; he write me he arrived at Bas Island, nigh Morlaix, the 15th, that he had lost Sight of the Snow Anna louisa the other Ship, the night of the 6th in a fogg, and never Saw her Since.

I am waiting for your orders which I expect every moment by the return of Mr Winchship, whom I Sent you as an Express with the Paquets that I had to deliver you.
I am Your Excellency Most Obeidient humble Servant
P: Landais
His Excellency Benjamin Franklin

Endorsed: Capt. Landais Feb. 17. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Vergennes, 17 February 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

à Vlles le 17 Fer 1779
J’ai reçu, M. avec la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 14. de ce mois la copie des Lettres par lesquelles le Congrès vous accredite aupres du Roi en qualité de ministre plenipo des Etats-unis; je les ai trouvées en regle et je vous previens que Sa Majesté les recevra mardy prochain. Je partage bien sincerement la marque de Confiance que les Etats vous donnent en vous constituant leur Representant, et il ne dépendra pas de moi que je ne vous donne des preuves certaines de la mienne, et que votre mission ne soit aussi agréable que vous pouvez le désirer.
Comme je serois fort aise, M., de discuter verbalement avec vous la demande que vous faites concernant les prisonniers anglois qui avoient formé le complot de s’assurer de la frégate Américaine l’alliance, je vous prie de vouloir bien vous rendre à cet Effet à Versailles dans le courant de cette semaine.

P.S. Cette lettre etoit ecrite, M., lorsque j’ai reçu le billet par lequel vous me prevenez que vous êtes retenu chez vous par un accès de goutte, J’espere autant que je desire que vous serez bientôt quitte de cette incommodité et que je ne tarderai pas a avoir la Satisfaction de vous voir.
M. Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee: Two Notes, 18 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Lee, Arthur

I.
Sir,
Passy, Feb. 18. 1779.
I have the honor to communicate to you herewith Copies of Resolutions of Congress, of Sept. 11. Sept. 14. & Oct. 22. I shall endeavour strictly to comply on my Part with the Commands of Congress contained in the latter; which are at the same time perfectly agreable to my Inclinations.
I have the honor to be with great Respect Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant.
B Franklin
Honble. A. Lee Esqr. Chaillot.

II.
Sir,
Passy, Feb. 18. 1779.
I beg you will be pleased to send me by the Bearer, all the public Papers in your hands, belonging to this Department.
I have the honor to be with great Respect Sir Your most obedient humble Servant.
B Franklin
Honble. A. Lee Esqr Chaillot.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Arthur Lee, 18 February 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir.
Chaillot Feb. 18th. 1779
I this moment had the honor of receiving yours of this days date; containing Copies of the Resolutions of Congress of Septr. 11th. & 14th. and October 22d. I shall do myself the honor of paying my Compliments to you on your appointment tomorrow about 12’O’Clock.
Nothing can be more agreeable to me than your intention of cultivating the harmony recommended in the last resolution; because I always lamented the interruption of it as detrimental to the public, & dishonorable to ourselves.
As Mr. Deane has usd your name in his letter to the people in order to support his accusations & invectives against me; and has done the same in a piece given in by him to Congress, and by their order sent to me, to authorize the most outrageous abuse of me that can be imagind; it was my intention to have written to you, to know whether this was done by your authority. But I shall not carry that intention into execution, without an assurance from you that it will not prevent the promisd harmony & confidence, which from my heart I believe to be essential to the honor and interest of the United States. Rather therefore than hazard these by any act of mine; I will combat Mr. Deane’s Calumnies without endeavoring to take from him the appearance of your concurrence, under which he shields himself.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect and Esteem, Sir Your Most obedient Servt.
Arthur Lee
The Hon. Dr. B. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from C.-J. Le Roux, 18 February 1779
From: Le Roux, C.-J.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
à Paris 18. fev. 1779.
Je vous prie de vouloir bien dire à Mr. Marin inspecteur des Etudes de la Pension de Mr. Le coeur, quel jour et à quel moment je pourai avoir l’honneur de vous faire la Lecture d’un nouvel Etablissement patriotique et désinteressé. Occupé, comme vous l’êtes, Monsieur, du bonheur public, vous verrez avec plaisir Le plan du plus utile et du plus universel des Etablissemens qui puissent concourir à la gloire et au bonheur d’une Nation quelconque.
J’ai l’honneur d’être avec admiration et respect Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur
Le Rouxauteur du Journal d’Educationet Me. de Pension au College Royal de Boncourtprès de ste. Genevieve.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / à Passi
Notation: Le Roux, Paris 18. fr. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, 18 February 1779
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

aux Galeries du louvre ce 18 Fevrier 1779
Permettez vous mon Illustre confrère que je vous recommande le Sieur Panier qui aura l’honneur de vous remettre cette lettre. C’est un très habile tourneur et il est d’ailleurs très étendu dans tous les arts qui peuvent tenir à celui du Tour. C’est le plus habile faiseur de presses pour les Imprimeries que nous ayons il a entendu dire que vous en aviez besoin en Amérique et sur cela il a formé le projet d’y passer. Comme Personne n’est plus instruit que vous de ce qui se passe dans cette partie du monde j’ai pensé que vous me pardonneriez, au milieu de vos grandes Occupations, de vous l’envoyer afin que vous le détourniez de son dessein si ce qu’il a entendu dire est faux ou que vous le favorisiez de vos recommandations pour ce pays là si vous croyez qu’il y seroit un artiste utile et qu’il put y être employé avantageusement. Comme je ne m’en rapport[e pas?] uniquement à mes connoissances en cette partie je joins ici un certificat de mon voisin M. Cochin célèbre graveur et que vous connoissez surement de réputation.
M. De Blancherie mon Illustre Docteur a changé le jour de ses assemblées et les a remis au Jeudy. Ainsi il y en aura une aujourdhui vous lui feriez un grand plaisir si dînant à Paris vous vouliez y venir cette après midy. Je m’y trouverois pour avoir le plaisir de vous y rencontrer et même je vous entretiendrois de quelque chose que je ne puis mettre ici. J’attends vos ordres pour que nous vous nommions une députation pour vous faire compliment sur votre nomination en qualité de Ministre Plenipotentiaire des Etats Unis de L’Amérique. Adieu Mon Illustre Docteur vous savez combien je vous suis passionnément attaché pour la vie
Le Roy

Endorsed: M. Le Roy. 18 Feb. 1779
Notation: paynier Maitre menusier en presse rue du mont St hilaire proche Ste. genevieve.—


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roy, [after 18 February 1779?]
From: Le Roy, Jean-Baptiste
To: Franklin, Benjamin

[after February 18, 1779?]
Mon Illustre Docteur J’espere que votre goutte est dissipée je le souhaite beaucoup au moins et que nous ayons le plaisir de vous voir demain un mot seulement pour que je puisse compter sur le plaisir de vous avoir ainsi que Monsieur votre petit fils adieu Mon Illustre Docteur on ne peut vous etre plus passionnément attaché que je vous le suis pour la vie
Le Roy

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotiaire des / Etats unis de LAmérique / a Passy


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Dumas, 19 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric

Dear Sir
Passy febry. 19. 1779
Since mine of the 11th inst. I have receiv’d an Appointment from Congress to be their sole Minister Plenipotentiary at this Court, my former Colleagues having or being likely to have other Destinations.
I have had frequent conversations with your friend concerning a Loan in Holland. A fit of the Gout has interrupted them these two Days, but his Demands appearing to be beyond my Powers, I have not agreed to them; and I question whether we can agree. I fancy he has had some Information of the Purport of some imprudent Letter you know of, & that he thinks our Necessities greater than they are. I begin to think it best to be oblig’d to one generous friend, and to take the little Aids we want from France only.

The Marquis de la Fayette is arriv’d, cover’d with Laurels. He and his suite speak very handsomely of the Americans & of the present Condition of our Affairs. All our Letters from different Persons in different Bodies, the Congress, the Army, the Government of Separate States are full of his Praises. By his Bravery & good Conduct he appears to have gain’d the esteem & the Affection of that whole Continent.
I am with sincere Regard &c
M. Dumas


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Horneca, Fizeaux & Cie., 19 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Horneca, Fizeaux & Cie.

Gentlemen
Passy, febry. 19 1779
The Commission to three Persons here being dissolv’d by a Vote of Congress who have done me the Honor of appointing me alone their Minister here, I suppose the Loan in Holland, if it could be carried further, must no longer be in the three Names it began with. From the trial made, you can best judge whether it is worthwhile to print new Books with my Name only. I begin to suspect that no advantageous Loan can at present be made for us in that Country. What you have receiv’d from our few friends there, you will please to remit me as soon as convenient & send back what remains of the Book by some safe Hand. I have the Honor to be &c.
Mess. Horneca, fizeaux & Co.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [Robert Morris], [c. 19 February 1779]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Morris, Robert

[c. February 19, 1779]
of mine, M. de la Freté has some Business of Importance to be transacted for him in America. I have taken the Liberty of naming You to him as a Person in whose Abilities & Integrity he may confide for the transacting of it & I recommend it warmly to your best Attention. M. Gerard will communicate to you the Particulars. I am ever, with the sincerest Esteem & Respect &c

P.S. I receiv’d a few Days since a Duplicate of your Packet dated in December 1777. It came by the Way of the West Indies. As perhaps mine in Answer may have miscarried, I just mention here that the Contents were, as they ought to be, very satisfactory to me and confirm’d the Opinion I ever had of your Justice & Honor.
N.B. this was sent inclosd. in another Letter to M. d. la


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Félix Vicq d’Azyr, 19 February 1779
From: Vicq d’Azyr, Félix
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris ce 19 fevr. 1779
J’ai L’honneur de vous envoier plusieurs billets dont vous pourrez disposer pour la séance publique de la Societé Roiale de medecine. Elle aura lieu mardi prochain a quatre heures et demie, non pas au College Roial, comme il y en a eu déjà, mais au Louvre Pavillon du jardin de l’infante place du Louvre. La compagnie sera infiniment flattée si elle a l’honneur de Vous recevoir à cette assemblée: nous esperons que vous nous accorderez cette faveur comme vous avez déjà bien voulu le faire precédemment.
J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec respect Monsieur Votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur
Vicq D’AZYR Secrétaire perpétuel
M Le Docteur franklin

Notation: Vicq Dazir Paris 19 fr. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Antoine Bret, 19 February 1779
From: Bret, Antoine
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
a Paris ce 19. fever. 1779
Ayant appris que vous etiés chargé par le congrès de faire faire une Epée d’or pour Monsieur Le marquis de la fayette, et sachant q’un de mes amis en possedoit une de la façon du fameux Germain dont il cherchoit à se défaire, j’ai cru pouvoir Lui donner cette Lettre à votre adresse afin quil pût vous faire présenter L’arme superbe dont il sagit et qui avoit ete faite pour le feu roi de Portugal. J’ai trouve dans le petit service que je rends a mon ami un Grand plaisir a pouvoir assurer Votre Excellence des sentimens de Respect avec lesquels je suis Monsieur, De Votre Excellence Le tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
BretDirecteur de la Gazette de france

Notation: Bret Paris ce 19. fr. 1779.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bennett Lloyd, 19 February 1779
From: Lloyd, Richard Bennett
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
London Feby. 19th.—79.
I intended to have done myself the pleasure of writing to you much sooner but I have waited in daily expectation for Mr. Hartley’s coming to Town as I might acquaint you of his having received yr. letter— but contrary to the expectation of his Brother Mr. Winchcombe Hartley he still remains in the Country and I have not sent the letter by the Post as Mr. W: Hartley informs me that few letters but what are now opened at the Post Office English or Foreign— Mr. H: has wrote to him & has informed him that there is a letter in Town from you to him and as soon as We get his answer I will write again to you— Mrs. Lloyd unites with me in best wishes for your health &c: &c: &c: and I am, Dear Sir, with very great respect yr. obt. humble Servant
Richard Bt. Lloyd

Mr. W: Hartley desires me to present his best respects to you—

Addressed: To The Honourable Benjamin Franklin / &c: &c: &c: / at Passy
Notation: Richard B Lloyd. 19. fr. 1779. De London.


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 20 February 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

Sirs
Bordeaux 20th feb 1779
Having collected Thirty Six American Seamen for our Ship the Mary Fearon Cap John Fulford and a prospect of engaging more we have resolved to equip her in a Warlike manner with eighteen four pounders swivels & small Arms proportiond. In consiquence I request the favor you will please to Grant us a Letter of Marque for the said Ship now at Penbeuf. Permit me also to request of you to forward it to Mr Haywood at Mr Schweighausers in Nantes that it may get to hand without delay and in the Obligations required as given for the Governor Livingston I shall duely conform.
I have received a Letter from the president of the Navy Board at Boston as it refers to the deligent dispatch of the Frigate Alliance and the embarking of sundry Articles Wanted in the Naval department to be shipt should the Vessel appear at Bordeaux the ship arriving at Brest of course the Instructions to me are Nul.
I have the Honor to be with due respect Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant
John Bondfield

Addressed: The Honble. Benj Franklin / Arthur Lee John Adams Esqrs. / Commissioners from Congress / at / Paris
Endorsed: Mr Bondfield Feb. 20. 1779. Commission for Ship Mary fearon


Title: Joseph-Nicolas Saint-Pierre Dutailli (Dutaillis) to the American Commissioners, 20 February 1779
From: Saint-Pierre Dutailli, Joseph-Nicolas
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

Messieurs,
le 20 fevrier 1779.
Ayant lhonneur dêtre attaché au service des Amériquains & plus encore par la conformité de mes sentimens avec vos Généraux du Department du Sud, je me hâte de vos [vous] faire part d’un désastre bien douloureux. La copie de la Lettre ce jointe & du Memoire que jai l’honneur decrire & d’adresser au Ministre, ayant le Département de la Marine, par le même courier, vont vous instruire de tout le fond de ma terrible affaire. Jai a esperer de votre sensibilité une défense a ajouter aux sentimens d’Estime & de respect que votre Patrie m’inspire.
Pardonnez moi, Messieurs, si ma copie se trouve incorecte. Le peu de tems que jai eu a disposer par l’envoi de plusieurs Memoires, ma forcé de recourir a faire copier par des mains un peu novices. Jespere qu’aupres de vous, ce ne sera pas un obstacle a meriter de plaider ma cause, surtout ne reclamant que l’Equité, & la justice.

Je suis avec respect, Messieurs, Votre tres humble & tres obeïssant serviteur
DE Saint Pierre Dutailli Capne. ingenieur des Etats unis de lamerique
Prisonnier dEtat sur la fregate la Concorde


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Lafayette, [21 February 1779]
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sunday Morning [February 21, 1779]
I had promis’d myself, my good friend, that I would have the pleasure of embracing You this Morning—but they Write me from Versailles that I must be at the King’s Levee Before seeing any Body of the Royal family, and that Levee I understand to be at 11: Clock—in our kingly Countries we have a foolish law Call’d Etiquette that any one tho a Sensible man, must absolutely follow—I will see the Minister, and to morrow morning I’ll have the pleasure to tell you what is the Matter at Versailles. Adieu

Notation: LaFayette


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Landais, 22 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Landais, Pierre

Sir
Passy. feby. 22. 1779
Since my last of the 16th I have been continually harass’d with the Gout, unable to go to Versailles. But I hear of so many Difficulties and Matters to be regulated in Order to the trial of your Conspirators in this Country, that I think you had better exchange as many of them as do not quite deserve Death, and carry three or four of the wickedest home in Irons to be tried there. As you are not likely to be mann’d here to your Mind, so as to fit you for a Cruise; & there being 15 Sail of our Vessels at Nantz bound to N. America (laden with very necessary Articles for Congress) who cannot obtain a French Convoy for the whole Voyage, it seems to me one of the best Services you can at present perform with your Ship will be to go directly back with her, taking those Vessels under your Care. You may possibly also have M. Adams a Passenger who is a Member of Congress. You will therefore fit your Ship with all Expedition for this Service, and acquaint the Merchants at Nantz when & where they are to join you.
If you have any Letters from the Navy Board or printed Papers promising Money to your Officers or Men to be advanc’d them here and which may justify my doing it, please to Send them to me.
I have the Honor to be, Sir &c
Honble. Capt. Landais


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Gentlemen at Nantes, 22 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Gentlemen at Nantes

Gentlemen
Passy. Febry. 22. 1779
I have order’d Capt. Landais Commander of the Alliance of 36 Guns now at Brest, to get ready with all possible dispatch to return to America; taking under his Protection all Vessels that may be bound thither. He will be ready, I understand in about 15 Days & has Orders to inform you of the Rendezvous. I have the Honor to be &c.
Mrs. Lloyd, Blake, Wharton, Ross, Thompson, Gilbank, Ogilvie, Robison, Mease, Joyner, Johnson, Brooke & other Gn. at Nantes.


Title: John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 22 February 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

Sirs
Bordeaux 22. feb 1779
By Letters this instant from La Rochelle I am advised of a Vessel with Six hundred Hhds Tobacco on board supposed a State Vessel is arrived in the Road of that Port none of the Ships Company being landed at the departure of the Post they could not give me any particulars.
I am respectfully Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant
John Bondfield
The Honble The Commissioners

Addressed: The Honble Benj Franklin / Arthur Lee John Adams Esq / Commissioners from Congress / Paris
Notation: J. Bondfield Feb. 22. 1779 ansd—


Title: ——— Taverne Demont Dhiver to the American Commissioners, 22 February 1779
From: Taverne Demont Dhiver, ——
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

Messeigneurs
Dunkerque le 22. fevrier 1779
J’ay l’honneur de me rappeller a votre souvenir n’ayant jamais perdu de vuë celui d’être utiles à vos concitoyens, et favorisés de la recommandation que vous avez donnée aux capitaines Marchent et arould, tous deux de Boston, addressés à M. M. Poreau, Mackenzie et Compe. je me prette à les employer dans mon armement actuel, qui sera d’un Brigantin de 14 canons de 4 lb. sous le nom du comte de Maurepas pret a partir dans peu, comme j’ai à coeur, Messeigneurs, de protéger ces Sujets, vous étant attachés, je vous prie de leur addresser, sous mon enveloppe deux Commissions, tant pour cette armement que pour un second, ces Personnes desirant avoir des commissions nationalles et venant du Congrés. Comme je ferai la soumission, que vous éxigerez pour ce, ainsi que je ferai pour une française, je crois ne devoir point leurs refuser cette demande, persuadé que vous n’y recontrerez aucun obstacle.
Je suis avec le plus profond Respect, Messeigneurs Votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
Taverne Demont Dhiverbourgmaitre De Dunkerque
Docteur francklin, adam et Lee. Ministres plenipotentiaires

Notations in different hands: Taverne Demont Dyvet Feb. 22. 79 / ansd. in the negative


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Mante, 22 February 1779
From: Mante, Thomas
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Fort L’Eveque 22 Feby. 1779.
When I asked for, and received your bounty, I at that time hoped and believed, that a change in my then situation would have precluded the necessity of again having recourse to your humanity: the obduracy of my antagonist, which all the efforts of M. Turgot cannot soften, still exposes me to the wretchedness of the most unjust imprisonment; because that I have not the means of addressing myself to the parliament to obtain justice. I am naturalized, but for want of between 3 and 400 l.t. to enregister my letters of naturalization, they are of no effect, and the law still considers me as a stranger, refusing me the privileges which in fact I have a right to enjoy, and which would procure me my liberty.
To M. Turgot I owe every obligation that is due from one man to another, for aleviation of unmeritted misery; from his humanity I have received frequent relief, ortherways I must have perished. In Paris I am almost an entire stranger but amongst those whom I know, I have not found that generosity was their virtue. From England I can have no aid, on account of my attachment to France, and all my resources in that country are stopped; so that in short I am like a single unconnected man in this busy world. Suffering from the most cruel disorder of the stone, perishing as it were from meere want. In this situation Sir, I once more dare to address myself to your compassion; at the same time confessing that my sole claim to your generosity is founded on the nobleness of your own disposition, which I revered long, very long before that I was reduced to the necessity of putting it to a tryal, the result of which perfectly corresponded with the ideas that I had formed of the liberator of America.
Whilst I am soliciting from you, Sir, relief to my most urgent wants, the note which I have the honour to enclose to you, has emboldened me to request of you a favour of another nature. You have seen, you have approved, the table of the principles of political ceconomy of M. Dupont; I have translated it into English, may I be permitted to dedicate it to you, if you grant me this permission, Sir, I shall not in the dedication wound your delicacy by fullsome compliments: it will consist in an endeavour to shew the happiness that America has acquired; an exhortation to its inhabitants to persevere in courting liberty, to fix her residence amongst them; to shew the present relation between the Governors and the governed of this growing Empire; and the pursuits which ought to occupy both, to secure in future an uninterruptd happiness; of which when my affairs in this country are settled I shall endeavour to become a partaker, and to render myself a useful member of a society of men whom I ever honoured, whom I left with regret, having projected to pass the remainder of my life amongst them— But Sir, as Shakespear says, “There is a divinity that shapes our actions rough hew them as we will.”
I have the honour to be with the most unfeigned respect, Sir, Your obliged obedt humble Servt.
Thomas Mante
I beg the favour of you to return M. Turgots letter.

Notation: Thomas Mante Fort L’Eveque 22. Feb. 79


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Georges Grand, 23 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Grand, Isaac-Jean-Georges-Jonas

Dear Sir
Passy february 23 1779
I understand you did me the Honor of calling here yesterday. I was lying down, having had little or no sleep the preceding Night; but if I had known of your being in the House, I should have desired your Company at my Bedside. Being of opinion in which M. Adams agrees with me that a Continuance of the Loan in our three Names is now become improper, I wrote the Letter of which I send you a Copy: and knowing that Money will be wanted here at your Brother’s to pay the Congress’s Drafts, I desir’d him to consult with you about the best Way of transmitting what has been receiv’d. I shall be glad to converse with you concerning the farther Prosecution of the Affair in Holland, but am not yet able to go abroad. With the greatest Respect & Esteem I have the Honor to be &c.
Sir George Grand

N.B. In this Letter was inclos’d a Copy of BF’s Letter to Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. February 19. 1779.


Title: Dumas to the American Commissioners, 23 February 1779
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin

Messieurs
La Haie 23e. fevr. 1779
Ma derniere étoit du 16e Jeudi, 18e l’Agent de L. h. p. porta à Mr. l’Ambassadeur de France une réponse, qui lui fut rendue tout de suite, comme non satisfaisante. Le lendemain Mr. l’Ambassadr. remit au Président de semaine une note sur ce sujet.

Il y a une Lettre d’un grand personnage aux Etats de la province de Frise, qui pourra avoir des suites sérieuses, parce qu’on la trouve fort partiale pour la Gr—— Br. & contre la France. J’eus le bonheur, vendredi, d’en pouvoir procurer une Copie authentique à G—— F——. J’appris le même jour, que cette piece venoit d’être imprimée à Amsterdam. Elle se vend & se répand rapidement, & fait beaucoup de bruit.
Les Etats d’Hollde. se rassembleront le 26.
Le bruit s’est répandu dans ce pays, que Mr. Silas Deane est de retour en Europe. Voudriez-vous avoir la bonté, si cette agréable nouvelle est vraie, de me la confirmer.
Je m’occupe à mettre au net le Plan du Traité. Je suis avec un très-grand respect, Messieurs, Votre très-humble & trèsobéissant serviteur
D
Passy à L. E. Mrs. les Plénipotentiaires des Etats Unis de l’Am.

Notation: Dumas 23 Feb 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 23 February 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear & hond Sir
Nantes Feb. 23. 1779.
I have recved your Favour of the 10th Inst. & set down to answer your Questions about M Mercier in the order you have written them.—

No. 1.

There is realy a Bala due to him on the accot he gave in to me which I should have paid him if he had returned to his Duty. The Law may perhaps intitle him to it now but I don’t think he deserves it— £316.

No. 2
}
All these Expences that ought to have been paid have been long since settled. If M Mercier has paid them again it is own Fault.—

3

  4

  5

  6

  7

I don’t understand this, having had nothing to [do?] in sending one of these men to Boston as I can remember.—

As to my Letters of 5 Feb & Augt 27. I don’t think them any honorable Testimonies for Mercier & wonder he should produce them— I am in haste most respectfully Hond Sir Your dutifull & affec Kinsman
Jona Williams J
The Hon. Dr. Franklin.

Notation: Jona Williams Nantes 23 fr. 1779.


Title: Richard Bennett Lloyd to William Temple Franklin, 23 February 1779
From: Lloyd, Richard Bennett
To: Franklin, William Temple

Dear Sir,
London 23d. Feby. 1779—
Your agreeable favour of the 17th came by the yesterday’s mail it gives me much pleasure to find that our affairs are going on so well, and I have very little doubt but in a short time we shall be in a situation we wish for— Be pleased to present my best respects to yr. Grandfather and let him know Mr. David Hartley comes to Town this day and I am desired to say that the Cartel for the American Prisoners is not only in forwardness but actually under orders—. I wrote a very hurried scrawl the other night to inform The Doctor I kept His letter to Mr. Hartley until his arrival in Town—this I am advised to do, as all letters are supposed to be opened whether English or foreign—.
We have just got accounts that Grant has taken Sainte Lucie and that soon afterwards D’Estainge made his appearance, who likewise landed a body of men which were repulsed and driven to their Ships, but that he had blockaded up the port—. Another Ministerial account says that D’Estaigne lost sixteen hundred men was driven to his Ships and that the day after the battle he sailed for Martinico— I propose writing to Doctor Franklin as soon as I have seen Mr. Hartley and I beleive I shall have a conveyance in a few days to send your books & those of Mr. Adam’s—.
Mrs. Lloyd unites with me in best complts. to The Doctor, Mr. Adams and Yourself, and I am, Dear Sir, very sincerely your obt. humble Servant
Richard Btt. Lloyd
Direct for me in Great George Street Hanover Square London—

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Le jeune / à Passy
Notation: Lloyd 23. of Feb. 1779 London.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to John Bondfield, 25 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Bondfield, John

Sir
Passy feb. 25 1779
I have before me yours of the 19th & 20th inst. I receiv’d also yours of the 16th per M. Bory to whom I shall on your Recommendation shew every Civility in my Power.
I return accepted your two Drafts of 12000 Livres each as also the Congress Draft for 300£.
I think our People mad to give such a Price for Madeira. I hope the Bordeaux you send will be so good as to alter their Taste.
The three Bills of 20 Pounds each drawn by the Officers of the Hornet & Alfred are also return’d enclos’d.

According to your Desire, I send to M. Haywood at M. Schweighauser’s the Commission for the Mary Fearon, Capt. John Fulford, with the blank obligations to be sign’d there. I wish her Success and am Sir &c.
M. John Bondfield


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Sartine, 25 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Sartine, Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de

Sir
Passy Feby. 25. 1779
I thank your Excellency for the Appointment of a frigate to escort the Ships from Nantes to the Isle of Aix, and the Assurances of Protection to our Vessels who may join the Convoy there.
Our Frigate the Alliance, is order’d to prepare for returning immediately to America. If your Excy. should think fit to send some Dispatches by her, they may probably go safe, as she is a remarkably swift sailer.
I thank your Excy. also for your favorable Dispositions towards the Chevr. de Marigni, express’d in the Letter you honor’d me with of the 13 inst.
I have been ever since severely handled by the Gout & unable to write or think of Business. But I now hope I shall soon be able to pay my Respects to your Excy. in Person at Versailles and to congratulate you on better News from the West Indies.
I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect &c.
To his Excy. M. de Sartine


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Schweighauser, 25 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, Jean-Daniel

Passy february 25. 1779
I duely receiv’d yours of the 18, with Advice of your Drawing for 58407 l.t. 14 s. 0 d. as the Ballance of your Acct with the Commrs. I shall accept your Bills when they appear. In settling M. Williams’s Accounts, M. Lee insisted on having all the Vouchers in support of each Article produced here. How far this is agreeable to the Customs of Merchants I know not, but none are come to hand with yours, except those relating to Money furnish’d some Prisoners. I should be glad however, as soon as may be convenient to you, to see the Accounts of the Ship Providence as the Disbursements for her amount to so great a Sum as 60354 l.t. 19. 0. and I took this Occasion to repeat my Desire that you would furnish the Alliance with a sparing Hand, as I see some of these Captains have no Moderation in their Demands, and Money to answer them is provided with Difficulty.
By your Acct. the Ballance is stated at 58307.14.0.
You ask for Directions respecting the Patience. Please to explain that Affair to me, as I know nothing of it.
Capt. Jones or Capt. Landais will, either of them be glad to take all the American Sailors you can possibly furnish them with.
Inclos’d I send you the Invoice and Bill of lading of the 300 Hogsheads of Tobacco arriv’d in the Bergere. You will see that one half is agreed to be for the Freight of the other, so that only 150 Hogsheads will be receiv’d for Acct. of the Congress. I suppose care will be taken that if any Part is damag’d, the Loss should be equally divided. Our Part must be deliver’d to the Agents of the Farmers general, as the former.
With great esteem I have the Honor to be &c.
M. Schweighauser


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Vergennes: Two Letters, 25 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, comte de

The first of these letters represents one of Franklin’s few imprudent acts as a diplomat. His congressional instructions had ordered him to seek French help in attacking Quebec and Halifax, but here he goes beyond those instructions by asking France’s assistance in capturing Rhode Island. Although unaware that Washington’s suspicions of a French army in North America had led Congress to countermand the planned attack on Canada, he should have realized the political dangers as well as the diplomatic impropriety of requesting more than he had been authorized to ask. He must have come to realize his imprudence, however, for when he reported to Congress he avoided mentioning his request about Rhode Island. What could have led the normally cautious Franklin to exceed his instructions by inviting French forces into the United States?
As we have already suggested, we believe the impetus came from Lafayette. On February 20 the marquis met with Adams and convinced him that a French attack on New York, Rhode Island, or Halifax “infallibly” would succeed. Franklin, too, had been in touch with the young man, and we suspect was swept away, as Adams had been, by his enthusiasm.

I.
Sir
Passy, Feb. 25. 1779
As the Enemy seem determined upon another Campaign, I beg leave to communicate and submit to your Excellencys Consideration some Sentiments of Congress on certain Operations in North America, which they conceive to be practicable, and highly advantageous to the Interests both of France and the United States.
While the English continue to possess the Ports of Halifax, Rhodeisland and New York, they can
1. Refit the Ships of War they employ in those Seas.
2. Defend more easily their Fishery, a great Nursery of Seamen & Source of Wealth.
3. Interrupt more effectually by their Cruisers the Commerce between France and America, which would otherwise be so advantageous to both; and also the Supplies of Provisions of various kinds which the French Islands might draw from the Continent.
Without a Naval Force; and in the present Situation of their Finances, the Reduction of some of those Posts must be extremely difficult if not impossible.
If Troops should be intended for the Defence of your sugar Islands, and the Reduction of those of the Enemy in the ensuing Winter it is supposed that a Part of them, 4 or 5000, convoy’d by four Ships of the Line and a few Frigates, might be advantageously employed this Summer; first by reducing (in conjunction with the Troops of the Northern States) Rhodeisland; this it is conceived will require no long time; and being done, those States, eased by that means, will find themselves at Liberty to afford some Aid of Men, Transports, Provisions &c. in reducing Halifax; and there is no Reason to doubt their hearty good Will to concur in such an Enterprize, the Success of which would free their Coasts from the greivous Restraints under which both their Commerce and their Fisheries at present labour. The Inhabitants of Nova Scotia, too, except those in the Town of Halifax, are known to be generally well affected to the American Cause, being mostly Settlers who formerly emigrated from New England.
Halifax being reduced, the small Forts on Newfoundland would easily follow, and by this means the Enemy’s Fishery, not only for this Year would be broken up, but render’d so precarious from the Interruptions by our armed Vessels, or so Expensive by the Force necessary to defend the Fishermen, that it must soon be discouraged, diminish’d and at length abandoned; their naval Strength of course much lessened and that of France in proportion augmented.
It is supposed that the Troops being after these Northern Operations, refreshed in New England, and well supply’d with fresh Provisions might proceed at the Approach of Winter for the West Indies, in good Health and fit for such Service as may be required there.
The Congress had Thought of attacking Canada this Summer and requesting some Aid of Ships and Men for that purpoze; but as Paper Money is not current in that Country where hard Money alone can procure Provisions, which must for want of such Money be brought at a vast Expence from the United States, and being salted is not so good for the Men; it is uncertain whether the Expedition will be attempted. There is however, to encourage it, a good Disposition in the Inhabitants; and if it succeeded, the Fur Trade and a great Vent for her Manufactures would be opened to France, her Fisheries would be more easily protected, and the Frontiers of the States being secured, their Agriculture might again be pursued in those Parts, and the general Strength employed where the Interest of the Alliance might require it.
The Congress have made no Mention to me of their Views with regard to New York. Perhaps they hope that the Enemy will abandon it, or that they shall be able to reduce it by Gen. Washingtons Army.
The Commissioners here, had before the Treaty the Honor of making in a Memorial to your Excellency the following Proposition by Order of Congress, viz: “That in Case it is agreed that the Conquest of the British Sugar Islands be attempted, the United States shall on timely Notice furnish Provisions for the Expedition to the Amount of two Millions of Dollars with six Frigates manned, of not less than 22 Guns each, with such other Assistance as may be in their Power, and as becoming good Allies.” As soon as they shall by the Aids abovementioned be happily freed from the Embarrassments occasioned by the Lodgments of the Enemy on their Coasts, it will be in their Power to assist much more amply in such an Expedition than they can at present; and I may assure your Excellency, that they will do their utmost to fulfill the Expectations given by that Member tho’ the Losses in their Marine, and the Depreciation of their Currency, since, may render it more Difficult.
I need not intimate to your Excellency the great Utility, if such joint Operations or Expeditions should be agreed to, of appointing Commanders of conciliating Tempers, & if possible who know and Esteem each other, and are acquainted with both the Languages. By this means the little Misunderstandings apt to arise between Troops of different Nations might be prevented or soon removed, and thence a greater Probability of Success in their Enterprises. I have the honor to be, with the utmost Esteem & Respect, Your Excellency’s, most obedient & most humble Servant.
B Franklin

II.
Sir
Passy, Feb. 25. 1779.
I received duly your Excellency’s most obliging Letter of the 19th Instant. I was then so ill with the Gout and a Fever, that I could neither write nor think of anything. This necessarily prevented my Attending at Court to present my Letters of Credence on Tuesday last, agreable to his Majesty’s gracious Permission. But as the Fit seems to be going off, I hope that in two or three Days I shall be able to pay my Respects to your Excellency at Versailles.
I thank your Excellency for your kind Notice of the Affair of Capt. MacNeil.
I have ordered the Alliance Frigate to prepare for returning immediately to America, in order to convoy thither about 15 Sail of Ships going from Nantes. As this Ship is said to be an admirable swift Sailer, I mention her as an Opportunity by which Dispatches may probably go safely, if your Excellency should think fit to write by her. With the most perfect Respect, I have the honour to be Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
Excellency the Comte de Vergennes

Notation: rep le 26 Fev.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henrÿ Dubois, 25 February 1779
From: Du Bois, Henrÿ
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monseigneur
Amsterdam le 25. fever. 1779
Les offres gracieuses que votre Excellence a daigné me faire lorsque j’eus l’honneur de la voir dans mon voyage de paris au mois de mars dernier, me donne la Confiance de lui marquer que jusqu’a présent je n’ai pas été assez heureux de trouver l’occasion de lui être utile; sauf celle d’aider M. Wallisch et Mr. hancock, de posmoute, en les recommandant a M. Grand, Banquier ici et votre Correspondant, qui les a satisfait, et leur a rendu à ma sollicitation, tous les services qui dependoient de lui, vis avis Made. Anna Magrath, chez laquelle ont logé ces Messieurs, et où logent ordinairement tous les Capitaines des navires venant de l’amérique. Comme je suis dans le cas de leur fournir divers articles de mon Commerce, J’ai recours, a Votre Excellence, pour la suplier de vouloir bien me faire la grace de faire passer par sa premiere dépeche, la lettre ci jointe a son adresse. J’ai lhonneur de vous faire part, Monseigneur que le navire du Capite. Moses Grinnell, the sale et Bikky, de Boston, destiné pour notre port, a dû rentrer a Rotterdam, et est a la veille de partir pour sa destination.
Je suis avec un trés profond respect Monseigneur De Votre Excellence Le très humble et très obeissant serviteur
Henrÿ Dubois Negt. à Amsterdam

Notations: henry Dubois amsterdam 15 fr. 1779. / Dubois Feb. 15. 79


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Gridley, 25 February 1779
From: Gridley, Joseph
To: Franklin, Benjamin

May it please your Excellency
Nantes 25th Feby 1779
Having been informed of your Intentions, to appoint a Consul for the United States of America to reside in France. My own observation from the various difficulties that have frequently happen’d since my stay here, between the Masters & Marriners in the American Trade, and other matters, make it highly Necessary in my opinion, such appointment should take place.

I have been prevail’d on by several of my Friends, to make application to your Excellency for that purpose, & flatter myself that your knowledge of me, and in a more particular manner, that of my Father & Family, whose attachment to the American Independence & Liberty, is undoubted, together with my knowledge of the French Language, & in a general way, their Customs, renders it, not altogether an improper application.
One great inducement I have to address your Excellency on this Subject, is, the difficulty of getting to America, not only the risque, but the Ships, which are now about takeing their departure, are so Crowded with Passengers, who have lately obtained their enlargement from confinement & prisons, whose circumstances are deploreable, give them, in the Eye of Humanity a very great prefferance, & of course obliges me to remain till a more conveinant oppertunity.
I shall write to my Family in Boston, to interest their Friends in Congress, for a Confirmation of such appointment, if your Excellency should approve of him, who has the Honor to be with the most profound Respect. Your Excellency’s Most obedient most obliged & Very Humble Servant
Joseph Gridley

if yr. Excellency should be pleased to favour me, with an Answer. direct to me chez Monsr Hamelin pres La Bourse. a Nantes


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Le Roux, 25 February 1779
From: Le Roux, C.-J.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Monsieur
Paris 25. fev. 1779.
C’est à Mr. Le coeur, mon ami, et au précepteur de m. votre petit-fils, que j’ai l’obligation d’avoir pu vous voir et vous communiquer quelques papiers qui peuvent être utiles au public. Je vous prie instamment, Monsieur, de me faire le plaisir de remettre à Monsieur Necker le Mémoire intitulé Plan d’un Nouvel Etablissement patriotique et désinterressé &c. J’aurai l’honneur de vous en presenter une autre copie pour Vous, si ce Plan peut mériter votre estime.
J’ai l’honneur d’être respectueusement Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur
Le Roux

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / à Passi./


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Comte de Sarsfield, 25 February 1779
From: Sarsfield, Guy-Claude, comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Jeudi 25 fr. [1779]
Mr De Sarsfield Envoye Savoir des nouvelles de Monsieur franklin. Il est tres faché de ne pouvoir pas aller s’en informer lui meme mais cela lui est impossible. Il a Lhr De l’assurer de Son Sincere Attachement.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franklin Ministre / plenipotentiaire des Etats reunis / d’Amerique / A Passy