| Benjamin Franklin Papers -- Hays Calendar Part 4 Section II 1779 June-November (553 items) B F85
©American Philosophical Society
105 South Fifth Street * Philadelphia, PA 19106-3386
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| Letters to Benjamin Franklin. | |||||||||||||||
| From John Paradise and Sir William Jones. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 1 | L.S. in 3d P. 1p. | XIV, 150. | ||||||||||||
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Desiring Franklin to insert in the enclosed passport the fact that Mr. Paradise is an American gentleman, though born in Greece. Bibliography: Printed in Works (Sparks. VIII, 366).
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| From Dubourg, Barbeu., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 1 | A.L.S. 1p. | LXX, 84a. | ||||||||||||
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The dinner proposed for the morrow at Auteuil has been postponed. (In French.) |
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| From Petterellty, Lieut.-Col. Bregence., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 1 | A.L.S. 2p. | LIX, 59. | ||||||||||||
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Recommends his son, who wishes to quit the Imperial service in order to fight for the American cause. His dismissal was regretfully
granted. |
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| From de Verité, Hippolyte. Olmütz., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 2 | A.L.S. 3p. | XIV, 151. | ||||||||||||
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His military record in Hungary; desires to enter the American army; has a wife and two children, whom he desires to take with
him, should his offer be accepted. (In French.) |
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| From Hardouin,-----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 2 | L.S. 1p. | XIV, 152. | ||||||||||||
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Desiring to know if Franklin wishes to subscribe to the works of M. Charles Bonnet. (In French.) |
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| From Bordot, I. La Rochelle., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 2 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 153. | ||||||||||||
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The arrival of two English privateers, the "Defiance" and the "Ladies Resolution," taken by the frigate "l'Hermione"; slight
resistance encountered; no loss of life; the crews, mostly boys, numbering 194, were sent to prison. |
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| From Conway, Thomas. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 3 | XIV, 154. | |||||||||||||
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Certifying to the excellent character and military zeal of M. de Santuary, who was made prisoner near Philadelphia, in November,
1777; the Congress desires to procure his exchange with an English officer of the rank of major. (In French.) |
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| From de Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel. Marly., to Benjamin Franklin | [Circa 1779.] June 3 | N. in 3d P. 1p. | XLIII, 233. | ||||||||||||
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Received his letter. (In French.) |
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| From "The Representative", Jean Paul Marat. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 4 | L.S. 1p. | XIV, 155. | ||||||||||||
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Inviting Franklin to be present at dinner at the hotel of M. le Marquis de l'Ausbespine, together with Messieurs le Comte
de Maillebois, de Montigni, LeRoy and Sage; desires also his grandson's company, who, if the weather keeps clear, will have
an opportunity to see the experiments. If Franklin has perused the manuscript treatise on fire, begs him to give him his opinion
thereupon. |
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| From John Paradise and Sir William Jones. Calais., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 5 | L. in 3d P. 1p. | XIV, 156. | ||||||||||||
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Acknowledging Franklin's courtesy and hospitality to them, in the most cordial terms. Note: Printed in works (Sparks, VIII, 366). |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 5 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 104. | ||||||||||||
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Decision of Committee appointed by the Holland Assembly to stand by the resolution in favor of unlimited convoys. Enclosing
copy of a memoir [2 p.] presented by Sir J[oseph] Y[orke] to L[eurs] H[autes] P[uissances] complaining bitterly of the calumnies
against England published in the Leyden Gazette and of one in especial put into the mouth of the Russian Minister, and demanding
retraction and satisfaction. Arrival of M. [Conrad Alexandre] Gérard [de Rayneval]'s despatches from Philadelphia. (In French.) |
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| From The Treasurer of Loans. Philadelphia., to The American Commissioners. | 1779 June 5 | A.L.S. Fra[nci]s Hopkinson. 1p. | LIV, 42. | ||||||||||||
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Notification of bills of exchange furnished to the State of Pennsylvania. (In quadruplicate.) |
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| From Schweighauser, John D. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 5 | A.L.S. 3p. | LIV, 43. | ||||||||||||
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Account of expenditures for fitting out the frigate "Alliance" and the brig "Morris," and note of drafts drawn in discharge
of those expenses. |
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| From de Keralio, Chevalier. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 5 | A.L.S. 1p | XIV, 157. | ||||||||||||
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Is about to leave for a tour of inspection among the military schools of the kingdom; promises to keep him informed of any
maritime news he may receive; sends messages from the Comtesse de Forbach to Franklin and his grandson. (In French.) |
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| From de Chaulnes, Duc. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | [Circa 1779.] June 6 | A.L.S. 1p. | XLI, 37. | ||||||||||||
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Desiring to know the title of a book on the transportation of timber in the Pyrenees; promised to procure it for Mr. Vaughan. (In French.) |
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| From Sayre, Stephen. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 7 | A.L.S. 4p. | XIV, 158. | ||||||||||||
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Once more requests letters of recommendation to the Governor of Martinique, Guadeloupe or Dominica. Surprised at Franklin's
silence concerning the construction of a new kind of ship; is sure he can construct a ship far superior to any then in use;
with a very few could render the whole British navy totally useless. Has received letters from London desiring to know how
far and in what manner Franklin would give aid to Ireland; an American Commissioner needed in the matter; offers himself for
the position. Lord North receives constant information of affairs in Paris, through one, Dr. Moore, an ex-clergyman and "a
dirty fellow." |
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| From Ross, Jno. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 7 | N. in 3d P. 1p. | LXXI, 32. | ||||||||||||
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Sending some American papers just arrived by a vessel from Philadelphia. |
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| From Evén, -----. Bannalec., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 7 | A.L.S. 4p. | XIV, 159. | ||||||||||||
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Offering his services to America; desires Franklin to procure him a passage to America; will trust to the justice of that
country to establish himself. (In French.) |
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| From J. Rockquette, A. Elserier and Brothers Rocquette. Rotterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 7 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 160. | ||||||||||||
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Enclose the two bills issued by the States of America, concerning which they desire information. |
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| From Peirce, Jeremiah. Tenterden., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 161. | ||||||||||||
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A native of East Greenwich, Rhode Island; his capture by an English firgate, escape from Forton prison, enlisting on board
a French cutter and his present wretched situation as a prisoner; begs Franklin to procure his exchange; enclosing certificates.
[Endorsement by Mr. Thomas Viny, recommending Pierce as an honest fellow, to Franklin's kindness.] |
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| From Castrioto, Felix Antony. Lisbon., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 8 | A.L.S. 4p. | XIV, 162. | ||||||||||||
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Has received no answer to his letters; such neglect is not merited by the first foreigner who undertook in public defence
of America, and who made a deep impression on many people's minds by his pamphlets on the justice of the American cause; only
desires the opportunity to render himself useful to America. |
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| From Bingham, William. St Pierre, Martinique., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 163. | ||||||||||||
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Recommending Richard Harrison, who has rendered essential service as agent for the States of Virginia and Maryland; his intention
is to enter a commercial establishment at Cadiz; refers Franklin to him for a full and candid report of the situation of affairs
in America. |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 8 | A.L. 3p. | XXXIX, 105. | ||||||||||||
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Opinion of the Grand Facteur and M. Van Berkel as regards the enactment of the resolution granting unlimited convoys. (In French.) |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 106. | ||||||||||||
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Sequel of Sir J[oseph] Y[orke]'s affair with the Leyden Gazatte. Hopes concerning Spain. (In French.) |
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| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 32. | ||||||||||||
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Promising to do all he can for M. Dubourg. Certain small matters of business. |
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| From Torris, John. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 164. | ||||||||||||
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Persuaded Capt. Stephen Marchant, of the "Black Prince," to postpone his sailing until he received an answer from Franklin
to his letter of the 28th ult.; the Captain, however, interprets Franklin's silence as permission to take the packets, and
will sail as soon as weather permits, trusting to Franklin's assistance to have the prizes condemned to his profit. |
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| From Sayre, Stephen. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 9 | A.L.S. 3p. | XIV, 165. | ||||||||||||
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Concerning the plan in his former letter relative to Ireland; assured by certain gentlemen in London that nothing is needed
but a small fleet under a proper person, commissioned from America; trusts Franklin would not consider him an improper person
for this business; discusses the plan in detail. Arrival of Mr. Van der Capellen in Amsterdam to sound the city with regard
to America; a strong party in her favor. Desires to know if he is to receive no countenance or support from America; others
are supported, after accusations, which, if true, ought to hang them. |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 9 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 107. | ||||||||||||
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Amsterdam's attitude and that of M. Van Berkel in the affair of the convoys. Rumored offers of friendship from Ireland to
America. Belief that Spain's declaration is imminent. Arrival of the "Independence" from Virginia. (In French.) |
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| From The Continental Congress. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 9 | L.S. John Jay, President. 2p. | LIV, 45. | ||||||||||||
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In accordance with resolutions of Congress, bills of exchange have been drawn to the amount of 350,000 livres, to be expended
in France for military stores. But should hopes of obtaining the supplies in the French West Indies be realized the bills
will not be presented for payment. Accompanied by extracts from the minutes of Congress, attested by Cha[rle]s Thomson, Secretary,
containing the resolutions (1 p.). |
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| From van Noemer, Petrus. ZiericzÉe., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 May 24 | L. 16p. | XIV, 166. | ||||||||||||
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Interest he takes in the promise that America will be a refuge for the oppressed of all the world; the determination of himself
and his unfortunate companions to escape there as to a sanctuary. Recounts in detail his life and the misfortunes of his political
career in Switzerland. Desires to be informed of the best city in which to settle. (In Latin.) |
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| From Sears, David. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 167. | ||||||||||||
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Announcing the arrival of the sloop "Independence" from Virginia, belonging to Mr. Isaac Sears and Co. of Boston; expects
to return to America on this vessel and begs to be the bearer of despatches. Hears that Mr. Adams and the Marquis de la Fayette
went out in the fleet of M. La Motte Picquet, but being damaged in a storm were obliged to return; hopes it is not true. |
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| From Lee, William. Frankfort., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 1p. | LXI, 28. | ||||||||||||
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Repeats request that he endeavor to obtain from the French Ministry military stores for the State of Virginia. |
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| From Austin, Jonathan Loring. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 4p. | XIV, 168. | ||||||||||||
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His long and fatiguing trip back to Virginia; the vessel by which he forwarded Franklin's letters to Congress was unfortunately
lost or taken. Anxious to return to France, if Franklin can offer him any employment. |
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| From Austin, Jonathan Loring. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 6p. | XIV, 168a. | ||||||||||||
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Copy of preceding with an added postscript, giving an account of the repulse of the British, on May 14th, by Gen. Moultrie
at Charleston; the ravaging and burning of defenseless towns by the enemy exasperates instead of intimidating the people;
its probable result. |
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| From Bek, -----. Vienna., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 169. | ||||||||||||
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Desires to find employment in America and end his days there; his studies in philosophy and jurisprudence; refers to M. de
Vergennes for his character. (In French.) |
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| From Morel, -----. Versailles., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 170. | ||||||||||||
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Asks for further remuneration for his maps, having only received one louis. (In French.) |
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| From Dubuisson, Paul-Ulrich. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 171. | ||||||||||||
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Has waited to receive some acknowledgement from Franklin of a copy of his work entitled "Abrégé de la Révolution de l'Amérique
Anglaise"; although his work has had a fairly flattering reception, Franklin's silence on the subject has made him regret
more than once having undertaken the work; without Franklin's approval and encouragement, is determined not to enter upon
another work concerning the events in America during the past year. (In French.) |
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| From Demezaudré, -----. St Malo., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 3p. | XIV, 172. | ||||||||||||
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Announcing the arrival of a ship from Carolina with news of the taking of Savannah by the English, who were making ready to
march upon Charleston; incredible dearness of all clothing and provisions in America. (In French.) |
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| From John de Neufville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 173. | ||||||||||||
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Concerning their attempt to get subscribers on the papers Franklin intrusted them with; expects the arrival shortly of M.
Van der Capellen; will consult with him as to what might be done for the American cause. |
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| From Lloyd, Richard Bennett. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 11 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 174. | ||||||||||||
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Has just received two letters from Maryland; encloses copies of both, and earnestly desires Franklin's advice as to the possibility
of taking up the money in France. |
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| From Lovell, Langford. Antigua., to -- | 1779 June 11 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 175. | ||||||||||||
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Desiring a recommendation to the Governor of Dominica; since the conquest of the island, has acted in every respect as a neutral. |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 11 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 108. | ||||||||||||
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Manner in which the affair of Sir J[oseph] Y[orke] and the Leyden Gazette terminated. Arrival of letters from London consenting
to Holland's commercial relations with France, provided she does not send them timber. (In French.) |
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| From Gedike, L.F.G.E. Berlin., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 11 | A.L.S. 4p. | LIX, 61. | ||||||||||||
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Wants to aid in the American cause. |
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| From Byrne, Edward. Cherbourg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 12 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 176. | ||||||||||||
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Desires to be released from imprisonment and sent back to Philadelphia; his uncle keeps "The Sign of the Ship" in Walnut Street. |
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| From Anderson, George. Lisbon., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 13 | A.L.S. 3p. | XIV, 177. | ||||||||||||
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Introduces Arnold Henry Dohrman, whose character and proceedings towards the American cause he has before described. Enclosed
is a letter to the same purport addressed to Mons. Guillaume [Jno. G.] Frazer, Bordeaux. |
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| From Kendrick, John. Lisbon., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 13 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 178. | ||||||||||||
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Commanded the brig "Comte d'Estaing" when it was captured by the English; put ashore on one of the islands near Spain; his
subsequent arrival at Lisbon; the kindness he and his companions received from Arnold Henry Dohrman, who furnished them with
clothes and money. |
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| From Lovell, James. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 13 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 179. | ||||||||||||
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The situation of things in Congress makes him daily expectant of interesting decisions to communicate to Franklin; matters
agitated but not as yet concluded respecting Franklin's commission. Enclosing a copy of a Resolution of Congress, desiring
an account of the Commissioners' proceedings in M. Beaumarchais's accounts. (In triplicate.) |
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| From de Mante, Thomas. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 14 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 180. | ||||||||||||
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Owing to Franklin's two guineas paid to the concierge of the prison, is allowed to keep the chamber in which he is lodged;
cannot describe the horrid situation from which Franklin's generosity has extricated him. |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 14 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 109. | ||||||||||||
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Fight in the Assembly over the Resolution to grant unlimited convoys; splendid part played by Amsterdam; her rival Rotterdam
forced to acknowledge it also; the G[rand] P[ensionnaire] likely to regret the role he has played. (In French.) |
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| From Honoré, André. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 Aug. 15 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 181. | ||||||||||||
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United to Franklin by the secret and powerful bonds of the brotherhood; is in great distress; his efforts to gain a livelihood;
begs Franklin to assist him. (In French) |
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| From The Board of Treasury., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 15 | D. 2p. | LIV, 46. | ||||||||||||
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Schedule of 50 sets of bills of exchange dated June 15, 1779, and payable three years later. |
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| From Berail, Peter. Cette., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 15 | A.L.S. 3p. | XIV, 182. | ||||||||||||
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Desiring to represent the thirteen United States in the above harbor, either as Consul or Commissary; his present position
as quay-master; desires that his son, who has learned English, may have the reversion of the said Consulship. |
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| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 15 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 183. | ||||||||||||
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Report received of the "Queen of France," the "Warren" and the "Ranger" having taken a small fleet of transports laden with
arms and stores; the officers on board sent to Boston. Hopes the operations of Spain will cause a fall in insurances and admit
of the resuming of trade with the United States. |
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| From Caffleri, Jean-Jacques. Paris., to William Temple Franklin | 1779 June 16 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 184. | ||||||||||||
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Sends the two busts of Dr. Franklin; the bearer will receive the amount due on them. (In French.) |
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| From Coffyn, Francis. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 16 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 185. | ||||||||||||
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Concerning the commission, instructions and other papers for the cutter "Black Prince," commanded by Stephen Marchant and
owned by Mr. John Torris; the said privateer sailed for Dunkirk on the 11th inst. |
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| From Stockton, Samuel W. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 186. | ||||||||||||
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Expects to sail on the 26th in a small vessel bound for Philadelphia or Baltimore; promises to take the best care of any letters
or despatches Franklin may entrust him with. |
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| From Pine, Joseph. Josselin., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 187. | ||||||||||||
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Was a passenger on board a merchantman bound for Newfoundland, where he was captured by an American privateer; was given his
freedom, only to be once more taken prisoner by a French frigate; begs Franklin to obtain his release. |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 110. | ||||||||||||
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Account of a little scene between Mr. Sayre and de N[eufville], ending in the former's leaving with a displeased air; possible
harm Mr. Sayre may do. (In French.) |
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| From Baudouin, -----. Longchamps., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 188. | ||||||||||||
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M. de Sartine has just heard that an American privateer ["The Black Prince"], is about to intercept the packets from Dover
to Calais, and that the Captain, having communicated this project to Franklin interpreted his silence to mean consent; M.
de Sartine begs Franklin to write at once to this Captain to abstain from attacking any packet from Dover to Calais. (In French.) |
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| From Peter Vesey and others. Bouling Boulogne?., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 189. | ||||||||||||
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On their way to Boston were taken prisoners by the English, and later, having obtained a passage to Halifax, they were captured
by a French cutter; beg to be released from their imprisonment and suffered to go board any American ship. |
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| From Vaughan, Benjamin. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 17 | A.L. 4p. | XIV, 190. | ||||||||||||
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In a few weeks expects to send to Franklin everything complete relative to an edition of his papers; plans to use a certain
engraving of Franklin and the motto, "His country's friend, but more of human kind." Has got the preface of G[alloway]'s speech;
his examination in the House; his testimony concerning the beginning of the rebellion, and also of facts relative to recruiting
in England and America. Little effect produced by the Spanish manifesto; reason for this. Attitude of the English Ministry
towards America and Ireland. Letter from Gov. F. stated to contain accounts of the difficulty America experienced in getting
and supporting an army. |
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| From Alexander, Alexander John. St Germain., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 17 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 191. | ||||||||||||
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Desires to communicate some letters which have passed between a friend of Franklin's and himself. |
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| From John de Neufville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 17 | A.L.S. 5p. | XIV, 192. | ||||||||||||
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Conversations held on the American cause by Messrs. Van der Capellen, Dumas and several American gentlemen. Discusses in detail
the question of the loan for Congress. Hopes the conclusion of that treaty is not far off which will unite forever the twenty
States in two republics. |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 18 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 111. | ||||||||||||
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Concerning M. de N[eufville]'s letter asking permission to apply to Congress for the title of United States Treasurer in Holland.
Hopes to celebrate with Franklin the joyful anniversary of July 4th. (In French.) |
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| From De Fraÿ, Madame. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 18 | A.L.S. 3p. | XIV, 193. | ||||||||||||
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Begging that the enclosed letter may be forwarded to her husband, a captain in the service of America; none of her letters
have apparently reached him since his departure. (In French.) |
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| From The Treasurer of Loans. Philadelphia., to The American Commissioners. | 1779 June 19 | A.L.S. Fra[nci]s Hopkinson. 1p. | LIV, 47. | ||||||||||||
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Notification of bills of exchange furnished to the State of New Jersey. (In quadruplicate.) |
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| From The Continental Congress. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 19 | L.S. John Jay, President. 1p. | LIV, 48. | ||||||||||||
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Order to pay Caron de Beaumarchais 20,000 livres, pursuant to resolutions of Congress of June 5, 1779. |
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| From Alexander, William. Dijon., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 19 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 194. | ||||||||||||
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Announcing the favorable termination of certain proceedings in law. The old secret of making the famous Greek fire which can
destroy a fleet at a great distance; the Comte de Rostaing has made the experiment successfully. |
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| From Comtesse de Forbach, La Douairière Duchesse de DeuxPonts. École Militaire., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 20 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 195. | ||||||||||||
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Sending Franklin the scissors she promised him; always delighted at an opportunity to recall herself to Franklin's thoughts. (In French.) |
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| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 21 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 196. | ||||||||||||
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News received of Gen. Clinton's having detached 3000 men upon an expedition; Gen. Washington has apprized the Governor of
Virginia of the fact, supposing the attack to be planned against that State. Concerning the capture by the Americans of a
frigate with 26,000 pounds sterling worth of Indian goods on board, a seasonable and important supply for the use of the States.
Size of the English fleet which is assembled at St. Helena and ready to put to sea. |
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| From Allemand, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 22 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 197. | ||||||||||||
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Forwards Franklin the note he asked for; reproaches himself for the trouble Franklin is so willing to take in aiding him to
perfect his work on canals. (In French.) [Appended is a note in Franklin's hand concerning canals in America.] |
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| From de Magellan, John Hyacinth. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 22 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 198. | ||||||||||||
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Asking Franklin to obtain the release of Richard Nairne, Captain of a merchant vessel, taken by the French frigate "Flora";
Mr. Nairne's brother in London will do all in his power to aid him. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 22 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 112. | ||||||||||||
|
Warns him against two persons whose seal for America may do more harm than good. [M. de Neufville and the Baron de C.] Presented
Messrs. [Sir John] Pringle and [Samuel W.] Stockton to the French Ambassador. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779.] June 22 | N. in 3d P. 1p. | LXXI, 93. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends the newspaper containing the Spanish declaration of war. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 22 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 199. | ||||||||||||
|
The union of the two fleets at Corunna leaves no longer in doubt the resolution of Spain. Arrival of an American vessel at
Bilbao with many prisoners, as well as four prizes. Expects great feats from Capt. Jones. Names and dates of sailing of many
vessels. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Merchant, Stephen. On board the "Black Prince.", to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 23 | A.L.S. 5p. | XIV, 200. | ||||||||||||
|
Account of his cruise in the "Black Prince" and the prizes he captured; sends a list of the prisoners he took, and also of
the men taken from him by the English; an equal number; hopes Franklin can arrange an exchange. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Holtzendorff, Baron. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 24 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 201. | ||||||||||||
|
The severe illness of young Mr. Cochran; as his father is very much esteemed by Franklin, thinks he would be grateful if a
good surgeon or doctor were sent to him. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Duvivier, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 24 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 202. | ||||||||||||
|
Is called away suddenly to Havre; the bearer has not heard from his father for twenty years and desires to send him a letter;
begs Franklin to give him the necessary instructions for forwarding. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jenings, Edmund. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 24 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 203. | ||||||||||||
|
Acknowledges Franklin's kind invitation for dinner to celebrate the anniversary of the declaration of American independency;
unable to accept owing to his departure on his intended tour; will keep the day, however, in his remembrance. |
|||||||||||||||
| From De la Verdière, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 24 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 204. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends Franklin a copy of his memoir. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 24 | A.L.S. 4p. | XXXIX, 113. | ||||||||||||
|
Effect on England and Holland of Spain's declaration. de N[eufville] too ambitious. Baron de C. busy publishing letters he
received from prominent Americans; has too little power and too much rashness to be of service; loan proposed by his friend,
Lieut.-Col. [J.G.] Diriks. Offered his services to the Spanish Envoy, M. Herreria. Vigorous Resolution passed in the Holland
Assembly in accordance with Amsterdam's advice; sad figure cut by Sir
J[oseph] Y[orke]. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From J. Rocquette, A. Elserrier and Brothers Rocquette. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 24 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 205. | ||||||||||||
|
Acknowledging Franklin's favor of the 13th inst., containing his sentiments on the two American bank notes. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Thompson, Farley and Co. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 24 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIII, 59. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring to know if Dr. Busch is still in Paris, as he has charge of some letters and papers directed to them. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Steele, Joshua. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 25 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 206. | ||||||||||||
|
The political differences between their Nations cannot make him forget his affection and esteem for Franklin. Sends him forty
copies of an abstract of the claim of five candidates for the premium offered by the Society [of Arts] for an invariable standard
of weights and measures; makes suggestions for the distribution of these copies. Hopes that a ray of good sense will still
be left to bring back peace and put a stop to miseries which degrade and disgrace them. |
|||||||||||||||
| From C-----, -----. London., to Benjamin Franklin. | 1779 June 25 | A.L. 2p. | XLIV, 36. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanks Franklin for the kind reception given to his son. Wishes the detestable war was over. Assures him of the love and esteem
of his friends in London. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lloyd, Richard Bennett. London., to Benjamin Franklin. | 1779 June 25 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 207. | ||||||||||||
|
Places the enclosed letter in Franklin's care; Mr. Stephenson, a friend of America, is the gentleman who waited upon Franklin
at Passy, eighteen months before. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Green, Jno. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 208. | ||||||||||||
|
Sailed from Philadelphia, the 2d of May, in the brigantine "Nesbitt"; captured by an English cruiser; his crew delivered up
to the press-gang; made his escape and arrived in Bordeaux the preceding night; committed all his packets and letters to the
sea. Beēfore he left Philadelphia, Capt. [John Burroughs] Hopkins, of the ship "Warren." captured a rich prize bound for Georgia;
believed that the British will soon evacuate that State. News received of a famine in Bermuda. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Newenham, Sir Edward. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin. | 1779 June 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 209. | ||||||||||||
|
Steps he has taken in one or two cases to have American prisoners released; wishes to prove to his countrymen in Ireland that
his support of the libertics of America has been noticed by Franklin. Cannot recommend the persons who wrote to Franklin from
Belfast, until he has discovered something more definite concerning their character, names and designs. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Montleger, ------. Port Louis., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 25 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 2091/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Important affairs must have prevented Franklin from acting in the case of the Duchesse Rosnarko, who desires to obtain the
amount due her son, killed on board the frigate "Reprisal" in the service of the United States. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Frazer, Jno G. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 26 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 210. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes on behalf of an unfortunate countryman now a prisoner at Aix in Provence; his desire to return to Virginia and render
some service to his country; his account of how he was forced into the service of the English is true in every particular. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Montgomery, Robert. Alicante., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 26 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 211. | ||||||||||||
|
Has always subscribed himself a subject of the United States, yet the day before, on a proclamation of war being made against
England, he was arrested, his property seized, and his house filled with soldiers; in vain he produced his certificate and
passport given him by Dr. Franklin and Mr. Lee, they obtained him no relief; writes to Franklin for further credentials, that
he may be released from this distressing situation. (In duplicate.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Le Couteulx and Cie. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 26 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 212. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a letter from Messrs. de la Torre; begs Franklin to recommend this firm to Congress, and give his advice as to the
quickest means of obtaining justice in this affair. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Arthur, Lee. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 26 | A.L. in 3d P. | XIV, 213. | ||||||||||||
|
Informing Franklin that he will wait upon him on the 5th of July, and asking for an authenticated copy of the letter from
the Commissioners to the Comte de Vergennes, concerning the agreement with Hortalez and Co., as well as a copy of his Excellency's
answer. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 26 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 214. | ||||||||||||
|
Arrival of Capt. John Green on the 23d inst., having been captured by a privateer; disappointment and loss incident to these
miscarriages. A courier from Madrid has just passed through Bordeaux on his way to Versailles. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Coffin, Alexander. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 28 | A.L.S. 3p. | XIV, 215. | ||||||||||||
|
Indorsing in the highest terms the model of a ship contrived by Mr. Sayre, which he thinks an improvement on any ship hitherto
known; advantage such ships would be to America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 28 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 216. | ||||||||||||
|
Letters from London say that the Ministry and the people are under great apprehension of an invasion, and the possible destruction
of their commerce; measures the English are taking to guard against such an event. |
|||||||||||||||
| From John de Neufville and Co. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 28 | A.L.S. 2p. | XIV, 217. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the plan for a loan which they hope will meet with Franklin's approval. Arrival of the brig known as the "Amsterdam"
from Boston, in reality, the fast-sailing "Gen. Arnold," commanded by Capt. [James] Ma(c)Gee. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dubourg, Barbeu. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 28 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 218. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending Franklin's manuscript on "The Morals of Chess," of which he has retained a copy; expects to have it printed shortly
in le Journal de Paris; hopes to follow it with a few reflections of his own on the subject. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Vausenville, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 219. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending a copy of his work entitled "Essai Physico-Géometrique sur la Quadrature du Cercle." (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Taylor, Cradock. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 220. | ||||||||||||
|
Was pressed into the British navy against his will; desires Franklin to obtain his release from prison, that he may return
to America, his native country. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gillon, Alexander. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 29 | A.L.S. 4p. | XIV, 221. | ||||||||||||
|
Urging Franklin to allow the fleet, fitted out at l'Orient, to proceed to the relief of South Carolina. Lays before Franklin
his scheme to raise 1,800,000 livres by subscription throughout France for the purchase of certain frigates and supplies for
South Carolina. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Newenham, Sir Edward. Calais., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 222. | ||||||||||||
|
Entreating Franklin to obtain another pass from His Majesty, as a protection against any of his privateers, on his passage
from England to Ireland; the former pass is out of date and useless. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hartley, David. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 29 | A.L.S. 4p. | XIV, 223. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the negotiation for peace lately set on foot; his own position as mediator; some recent events which may delay
the proposed treaty for some time; reasons why he considers Spain's manifesto can make no difference in the grounds of this
negotiation; his view of what America's policy should be towards France and Spain, in case of an opportunity arising for her
to enter into a ten years' neutrality with Great Britain. (Copy.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 224. | ||||||||||||
|
Advising Franklin that he has drawn upon him for several sums which he begs him to honor. The Spanish fleet prevented from
leaving port by contrary winds. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 33. | ||||||||||||
|
Has at length obtained a number of auditors to examine his accounts. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jules, Comte de Montfort. Passy., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 30 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 225. | ||||||||||||
|
Accepting with pleasure Franklin's kind invitation to celebrate with him the anniversary of "our glorious independence." (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Guinot, ----- ?. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 30 | A.L.S. 1p. | XIV, 226. | ||||||||||||
|
Is the bearer of a bill drawn on Franklin for a small amount. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Torris, John. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 30 | L.S. 3p. | XIV, 227. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending Franklin an account of the cruise of the "Black Prince," Capt. Stephen Marchant; desires to know what is to be done
with the twenty-one prisoners Capt. M. put on shore, as well as his orders concerning the ransomed brig. Sent Capt. Marchant
Franklin's directions about the packet boats. Has sent one of his clerks express to Morlaix to attend to the cutters and their
prizes. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June 30 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 114. | ||||||||||||
|
de N[eufville] presisting in his ambitious schemes ; disapproves of conferring on him the eminent powers he demands. Conversation
held with the Baron de C. |
|||||||||||||||
| From The Continental Congress. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 June | A.L.S. John Jay, President. 1p. | XIV, 228. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing Acts of Congress of the 5th and 18th inst. respecting bills of exchange in favor of M. Beaumarchais ; Congress earnestly
disposed to make him this payment ; would gladly have done it in produce had not the state of the finances and the hazardous
navigation rendered it impracticable. Flatter themselves that Franklin will be able to discharge the drafts with punctuality. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dehez, Bernard., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 23 1779 July 1 | L. 2p. | LIV, 51. | ||||||||||||
|
Quotes terms of decree by the King of Spain whereby all vessels having merchandise on board belonging to the King's enemies
may be seized, brought into a Spanish port and merchandise confiscated. Asserts that according to this decree Capt. Conyngham's
seizure of the French brigantine "Le Gracieux" from Cadiz, with cargo on board consigned to London, was lawful. Protest made
by Spain aganist the seizure. Calls Franklin's attention to several points of the case. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hay, John Jr. Passy., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 1 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 1. | ||||||||||||
|
The persons in the expedition, to which Franklin has granted his protection, are anxious to know what port in America would
be the safest for them to land; their intention is to settle in Pennsylvania, but, to avoid the danger of British cruisers,
they would make for any other port north or south of the Delaware. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. On board "The Homme Richard," off L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 1 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 2. | ||||||||||||
|
Movements of the American squadron under his command. Disappointed in the sailing powers of the "Bon Homme Richard"; even
the "Pallas" sails faster; belives if the Court would give the ship which they at first offered, it would be possible to make
a useful and honorable cruise with the force now under his command. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Grand, Ferdinand., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779?] July 1 | L. in 3d P. 1p. | XLIII, 183. | ||||||||||||
|
Regrets to be unable to accept Dr. Franklin's invitation to celebrate Independence Day with him. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 1 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXVIII, 34. | ||||||||||||
|
His trial fixed for the following day at nine o'clock; begs for a certain paper, the absence of which may cause a delay. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | A.L.S. 3p. | XXXVIII, 35. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning his trial, which goes on very well; expects to come out of it without a stain, and, he trusts, with honor and applause;
Commodore Gillon chosen to fill Mr. Schweighauser's place; the gentlemen have agreed to inform Mr. Lee that they are sitting
in order that he may have every opportunity to support his charges. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Antony Francis Salucci and Son. Leghorn., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | L.S. 1p. | XV, 3. | ||||||||||||
|
Very unfortunate in their expedition to North America; "La Prosperità" and cargo taken near Chesapeake Bay on April 20 by
two sloops of war of New York; begs Franklin to send their unhappy Captain Bettoja the enclosed letters and to recommend him
to some person in Virginia who may help him. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Frazer, Jno G. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 4. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a letter from George Anderson, of Virginia, who was captured in a vessel of his own and carried to Lisbon; there
he was treated with the greatest kindness by the bearer, Mr. Arnold Henry Dohrman, a friend to all unfortunate Americans;
any civility Franklin may show him is well merited and willl be deeply appreciated by himself. |
|||||||||||||||
| From James Hopkins and James Corrick. Vitry., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 5. | ||||||||||||
|
Desire to be released from their parole and allowed to go on board one of the vessels bound for America; able to act in any
capacity on board ship. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lloyd, Richard Bennett. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 6. | ||||||||||||
|
Franklin the only person who can put him in the way of getting his remittances in the manner decided upon by his friends in
America. Desires some information concerning le Chevalier Milford, who did not succeed in getting a commission in the American
army. |
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| From Gourlade and Moylan. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 7. | ||||||||||||
|
Transcribes a letter received from Capt. John Green with an account of his having been captured by cutter and carried into
Falmouth; his subsequent arrival at Bordeaux; news from America; prizes taken by the "Warren," "Queen of France" and "Ranger";
British will soon be forced to leave Georgia. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Torris, John. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 8. | ||||||||||||
|
Has just received from Stephen Marchant a list of his prisoners delivered at Morlaix, with an equal number of his own men
who he believes have fallen into the hands of the English; encloses Mr. Marchant's letter and warmly seconds his request for
an exchange; recommends that everything be done to enable the "Black Prince" to continue her cruise. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 9. | ||||||||||||
|
Arrival of the "Alliance" and the "Pallas." Question whether Capt. Landais's prize is valid or not. Repairs needed for the
ships. |
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| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 2 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 10. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing Mr. Dohrman of Lisbon, whose distinquished conduct in favor of the Americans is well known. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Becker and Saltzmann. Berlin., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 3 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 11. | ||||||||||||
|
Has sent Franklin a packet containing certain articles of clothing for soldier; hope they may receive an order for these articles
at a modest price. (In French.) |
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| From Diterich, Johann Matthias. Berlin., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 3 | A.L.S. 3p. | LIX, 36. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning a lottery. Requests Dr. Franklin either personally or through M. de Necker to take five or six thousand lots. Accompanied
by printed plan of lottery of Prince zŭ Anhalt Zerbst. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gridley, Joseph. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 3 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 12. | ||||||||||||
|
A small vessel bound for Philadelphia and waiting at Nantes only for her despatches and papers from the Minister of the Marine;
will answer for the fidelity of the Captain, if Franklin cares to send any despatches to America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Vigneron, -----. Beauvoir-sur-mer., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 4 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 13. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to emigrate to America with his family; wishes to cultivate a tract of land there; stipulates that it should bear
his name. (In French.) |
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| From Moffett, David. Vitry., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 4 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 14. | ||||||||||||
|
Is an American in a French prison; begs Franklin to procure his discharge and passage to his home in Boston. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Chaulnes, Duc., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 4 | N. in 3d P. 1p. | LXXI, 124. | ||||||||||||
|
Forwards a letter which he has received for him from Benjamin Vaughan. |
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| From Jones, Jno Paul. "Bon Homme Richard," L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 4 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 15. | ||||||||||||
|
Complains that their ships are unable to overtake privateers; anxious to put to the trial a plan of his, which, however, could
not succeed without troops; would have carried out this scheme, had the Marquis [de la Fayette] embarked with him. Alterations
he would like to make in the "Bon Homme Richard" and the "Pallas." Cannot forego all hopes of commanding the ship in Holland
originally offered him by the Court; leaves it to Franklin's discretion whether or not to mention these hopes to the Minister:
Has saluted the sun both morning and evening; hopes this will be done, to the latest posterity, wherever the flag of freedom
is displayed. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Davison, Samuel. Masterland, Sweden., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 5 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 16. | ||||||||||||
|
Sailed from Norfolk the 1st of May with the sloop "Phoenix"; was obliged to leave without a commission, the Governor of Virginia
not having any blanks from Congress by him at the time; begs Franklin to send him a commission. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Kentisbear, William. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 5 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 17. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes on his own and a fellow-prisoner's behalf to beg Franklin to procure their discharge and enable them to secure a passage
on board some American frigate, as they are both natives of America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Walsh, John. Vitry., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 5 | XV, 18. | |||||||||||||
|
Wrote in June to request that he and four of his men might obtain permission to return to England, and promised to use his
endeavors to have as many Americans exchanged in their places; hopes Franklin's silence is not due to anything Mr. Riou may
have said against him. Encloses a letter of John Paul Jones to show what good terms he has been on with that gentleman. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Sargét, Petre. La Rochelle., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 6 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 19. | ||||||||||||
|
Left New Orleans 20th of April and arrived at La Rochelle 19th of June. Account of the capture of Vincennes [Indiana] first
by one side and then by the other. Number of skins purchased from the Indians by Col. George [Rogers] Clark; letter of exchange
in which the writer was concerned. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Eckstrom, Pierre. Marstrand., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 6 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 20. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a letter from Capt. Samuel Davison; if Franklin will send him the papers the Captain desires, he will deliver them
safely. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hay, John Jr. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 6 | A.L.S. 5p. | XV, 21. | ||||||||||||
|
The expedition which is to leave Ireland for America; advisability of mentioning it in his public despatches to Congress.
His views on the political situation of England, Ireland and America; will inform Franklin of the date of sailing of the expedition,
whenever that is decided upon. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 6 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 36. | ||||||||||||
|
Transmitting a letter from his arbitrators, to be delivered into Mr. Lee's hand, and a certificate of its delivery to be returned. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Frederick Guillaume, Baron de Bessel. Hannover., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 6 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 22. | ||||||||||||
|
His military services to the King of Prussia; the two works he has published relative to his profession. Begs Franklin to
recommend him to Congress and to Gen. Washington, in order that he may obtain a suitable position in the American army. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Montgomery, Robert. Alicante., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 6 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 23. | ||||||||||||
|
On the 26th ult., wrote Franklin of his ill treatment and arrest, notwithstanding he showed his certificate and passport given
him by the Plenipotentiaries of the United States; however, on his representing the facts to the Minister of War at Madrid,
his grievances were redressed with all honor and expedition. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Vaughan, Benjamin. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 6 | L. 2p. | XV, 24. | ||||||||||||
|
Franklin's paper on the "Aurora" has been a good deal controverted, which has lead him to make great exertions. Death of Henly.
Comparison between air at the height of forty feet and that at the pole; the former 10,000 times rarer. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Laneuville, Gen Chevalier. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 7 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 25. | ||||||||||||
|
Has only just received Franklin's invitation to celebrate with him the American independence; greatly sensible of the honor
done him and as keenly disappointed at having been unable to drink to the thirteen United States of America. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Collins, Charles. Pembroke Prison., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 26. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes on behalf of himself and the other American prisoners in Pembroke, who desire to be released from their present confinement,
but if this be impossible, they ask for some clothing, as they are reduced to absolute nakedness. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lee, Arthur. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 27. | ||||||||||||
|
Informed by his brother in Germany that Franklin declared he knew three different merchants who were ready to supply the wants
of Virginia at the time of Capt. Le Maire's visit; desires the names and addresses of these merchants as well as the terms
on which they proposed to supply Virginia's demands. |
|||||||||||||||
| From The Continental Congress, Committee of Foreign Affairs. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 9 | A.L.S. James Lovell 1p. 1st and 3d copies. | XV, 28. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends Franklin some Journals and Gazettes and letters and a complete set of the Journal [of Congress] as far as printed. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 9 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 29. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing the London Packet, containing a part of Mr. Galloway's extraordinary evidence. News received of Sir Charles Hardy
having sailed out of the Channel with 31 sail of the line. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. "Bon Homme Richard," L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 9 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 30. | ||||||||||||
|
Complains of the lack of discretion shown by M. de ------ and the trouble which will arise from such a communicative disposition.
Thinks the necessary repairs will not interfere with the execution of Franklin's orders. Desires to know how far he may use
his own judgement in dealing with the enemy. The illness of the officer chiefly concerned is the reason for delaying the Court
of Inquiry. Is opposed to M. de Chaumont's suggestion to send the "Pallas" and "Vengeance" cruising after privateers until
the "Bon Homme Richard" and "Alliance" are ready for service; his reasons. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Antes, John. Grand Cairo., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 10 | L.S. 4p. | XV, 31. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends Franklin a copy of six quartettes which he lately composed for the use of the Harmonical Society of Bengal; his success
in the watch-making trade. Belongs to the Society of United Brethren who have a missionary post in Egypt; their religious
scruples against bearing arms; hardships they have suffered on this account since the independency of the Colonies; asks Franklin's
influence on their behalf. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hare, J. Venice., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 10 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 32. | ||||||||||||
|
Has been separated four years from his brother and their correspondence completely interrupted by the unfortunate condition
of public affairs; encloses a packet which he begs Franklin to forward to Philadelphia. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Davison, Samuel. Gottenburg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 10 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 33. | ||||||||||||
|
The circumstances which forced him to leave Virginia without his commission; his second mate, a disaffected person, reported
this fact to the British Consul, who at once demanded the cargo taken by him from an English ship; has refused to obey, unless
obliged by the Court of Stockholm; would esteem it a favor if Franklin would forward him a commission at once. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Greig, Henry. Gottenburg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 10 | A.L.S. 7p. | XV, 34. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes to second the request for a commission made by Capt. Samuel Davison, of the cutter "Phoenix"; for lack of these papers,
he is in danger of losing a rich prize, which the English Consul says should be sequestered for an act of piracy; is engaged
in supplying Capt. Davison with guns, ammunition and men; has written to the owners a letter, which he begs may be forwarded
with Franklin's despatches; therein he has enumerated the articles Sweden can furnish with advantage to America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lee, Arthur. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 35. | ||||||||||||
|
Has received Franklin's letter of the 9th inst. with information that Messrs. Bayard, Chaumont and Montieu were the merchants
alluded to; the first he understands is a bankrupt; the second declined an application similar to M. Le Maire's; the third
made no proposals conformable to those of Virginia; understands that Mr. Montieu sent his proposals to Franklin in writing;
begs for a copy of them. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Speakman, Richard. Gand., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 12 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 36. | ||||||||||||
|
Is a native of America; waiting, with his wife and childern, for an opportunity to return home; desires Franklin to point
out the steps he should take and to send him a passport. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Epp, Charles. Altorf., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 12 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 37. | ||||||||||||
|
If he could get to America at a moderate cost, would summon up sufficient resolution to transport himself and his whole family
thither; possibility of Franklin's furnishing him with a consulship in Spain, Italy or Sicily. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 12 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 38. | ||||||||||||
|
The delight he experiences in seeing himself in the midst of warlike preparations against England; prophesies great results
from their expedition; strength of the army at their disposal; believes the Ministry to be in earnest. Chances of success
should Gibraltar be besieged or Jamaica attacked. Laments the situation of Virginia, a prey to the low, pillaging war carried
on by the enemy; desires news of that beloved country and of his dearest friend, General Washington. Wishes Spain would declare
for independency and send a frigate to Boston. Though pleased with the present expedition, will gladly return to America,
whenever he can be of more use by going there than remaining where he is. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 12 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 39. | ||||||||||||
|
Repairs needed on the "Bon Homme Richard"; in obedience to a request of M. de Sartine, the "Pallas," "Cerf," and "Vengeance"
have gone on a short cruise until the "Bon Homme Richard" and "Alliance" are once more ready for service; the "Bon Homme Richard"
too old to admit of the necessary alterations; wishes to render himself worthy of a better and faster sailing ship; suggestions
for strengthening his little force. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Croix, Boyer. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 13 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 40. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring to know when Franklin will be able to grant him a short interview. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Sabardin, Baron. Near Verdun., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 13 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 40 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring to enter the American army; with a rank not lower than Lieutenant-Colonel. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 13 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXVIII, 37. | ||||||||||||
|
Franklin's letter of the 9th inst. concerning insults offered to the Spanish flag by three American vessels of war, the "Resolution,"
"Plymouth" and "Little Resolution," said to have sailed from Nantes; never heard of the existence of any American war vessels
with those names; believes the English cruizers under the flag of the United States, have boarded Spanish vessels, in order
to blacken the character of American ships; will look into the matter carefully. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 13 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 38. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending an answer to the letter of Mr. A. I. A., forwarded him by Franklin. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 13 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXVIII, 39. | ||||||||||||
|
Arrival on the 10th inst. of the "General Mifflin"; account of three prizes taken by her; number of prisoners. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 13 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 115. | ||||||||||||
|
Letter from M. Van Berkel, returning the plan of the proposed treaty between America and Holland, assuring him of Amsterdam's
approval and suggesting slight changes. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Brig, John. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 15 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 41. | ||||||||||||
|
Begging Franklin to obtain him his liberty and a pass to go to Bordeaux and embark on one of the frigates there, which are
being fitted out in the American service; has been master of a ship out of Philadelphia for fifteen years; well known to Mr.
Conyngham. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wernier, Hartsinck and Wernier. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 15 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 42. | ||||||||||||
|
Desire to enter into commercial relations with America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 15 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 43. | ||||||||||||
|
Arrival of various vessels; prizes taken by the frigates with M. d'Orvilliers; a few more favorable circumstances, and trade
will be reviving. |
|||||||||||||||
| From The Continental Congress, Committee on Foreign Affairs. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 16 | A.L.S. James Lovell. 3p. | XV, 44. | ||||||||||||
|
The Minister from France reports that Dr. Franklin's appointment has given high satisfaction to his Court and the Committee
is encouraged to expect proofs of its most confidential reliance upon your character. They have not had a line from Dr. Franklin
of this year's date. Unfortunate that they did not get the information of Mr. Lee earlier respecting the enemy's design against
Connectieut. Will no one under a commission from these United States retaliate on this coasts of England for the burning of
beautiful Fairfield? A single privateer might show there a striking sample of the species of war now carried on by Britain
against America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Nicholas Randle and others prisoners., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 16 | D.S. 3p. | XV, 45 and 50. | ||||||||||||
|
Subjects of George III, taken prisoners by the "Black Prince," and granted their discharge on condition that they answer to
their names in the expected exchange of prisoners. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Vaux, Antoine Alexis François Cadet. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 17 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 47. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning an account, published by him in Le Journal de Paris, connected with the Mazarin College; obtained M. Dubourg's
consent to introduce some things relative to Franklin. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From George Lawder and others., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 17 | D.S. 2p. | XV, 48. | ||||||||||||
|
Parole. Subjects of George III, taken prisoners by the "Black Prince," and granted their discharge on condition that they
answer to their names in the expected exchange of prisoners. |
|||||||||||||||
| From St Suice, -----. Passy., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 18 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 49. | ||||||||||||
|
Hopes Franklin will accept the enclosed couplet in his honor. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Pellegrini, Joseph. Vienna., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 19 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 52. | ||||||||||||
|
Graduated in medicine at the University of Vienna; had planned to go to America with his fellow-student, Kaufmann, a native
of Philadelphia, whose untimely death put on end to these hopes; wishes to know if Franklin can procure him a passage to Philadelphia. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wiliams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 20 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 40. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing Franklin a copy of Arthur Lee's answer to the arbitrators.(XXXVIII, 40a.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hill, Samuel. Carhaix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 20 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 53. | ||||||||||||
|
Surgeon on the "Drake" when she was taken by the "Ranger"; begs permission to return to his native country. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bingham, William. St Pierre, Martinique., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 20 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 54. | ||||||||||||
|
Account of Count d'Estaing's conquest of the island of Grenada and his successful encounter with Lord Byron's fleet; regrets
that circumstances prevent the French from attacking St. Kitts; the importance of such an acquisition; what the loss of the
West Indies must mean to England; the attitude of Great Britain, the disposition of her troops, etc.; believes, should the
war continue, that the West Indies will become a busy theatre of action. |
|||||||||||||||
| From D'amchaga, M., to Benjamin Franklin | [Circa 1779.] July 20 | L. in 3d P. 1p. | XLIII, 125. | ||||||||||||
|
Inquiring if he will dine at home on the following Sunday and if he can see him. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Fontfrede, ------. Clermont-Ferrand., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 21 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 55. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires news of his son, who embarked for America under the command of de Coudray; begs Franklin to find out if he still lives. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gursch, Theodore. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 21 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 56. | ||||||||||||
|
His service in the armies of the King of Prussia; anxious to offer his services to the United States. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Thompson, James. Brest., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 22 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 57. | ||||||||||||
|
Has sent, by Captian Carey, all the letters he brought from Boston; expects to sail for home on the 5th of August, in case
Franklin should have any commissions to entrust him with. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 22 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 42. | ||||||||||||
|
Furnishing proof that the privateers complained of by the Spanish Court were not Americans. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 22 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 43. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the exchange of American prisoners for those captured by the "General Mifflin." |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 22 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXVIII, 44. | ||||||||||||
|
Slow progress of his trial; effort of Mr. Lee, by throwing doubt on the Court's authority, to put a stop to the examination;
will carry the decision to Franklin in person. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 22 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 45. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing Capt. Foligny, who has just returned from the West Indies, and will be able to give him an account of the naval
operations in that part of the world. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Cavallier, -----. Palermo., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 22 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 58. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to give up his prosperous career as a merchant to become a citizen of America and cultivate a little corner of the
earth. His friend, T.T.S. Nicoud, also desires to become an American citizen and writes a line to that effect. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Brillon, Mme., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779.] July 22 | A.L. 1p. | XLIII, 27. | ||||||||||||
|
Postponing a visit to Franklin. Invites him to luncheon on Saturday and promises to dine with him the following day. (In French.) Bibliography: Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Nov., 1906, 173.
|
|||||||||||||||
| From Becker and Saltzmann. Berlin., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 23 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 59. | ||||||||||||
|
Offering uniforms and other articles needed in times of war. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Martin, Pierre. Livourne., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 23 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 60. | ||||||||||||
|
Believes that Franklin is not ignorant of his family and of their possessions on the other side of the Atlantic; is convinced
that the Americans will be ready to restore to the innocent heirs the lands so unjustly seized by the English; if he could
count on Franklin's protection and his intercession with Congress, he would embark at once for America. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dehez, Bernard. Saint Sebastien., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 23 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 61. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the capture by Capt. Conyngham of a French vessel from London, laden with English merchandise; the legal process
which ensued; authority invested in him by Capt. Conyngham to defend his side of the case; desires the necessary funds to
enable him to see the affair through. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Duchemin, Daniel. Amiens., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 23 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 62. | ||||||||||||
|
At present with his family; unable to accept Franklin's invitation to stay with him, as he is suffering with rheumatism, the
result of a wound; has decided not to return to America; begs Franklin to procure for him the sums due him. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Coupe, Pillat. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 23 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 63. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs him to send the seven bills of exchange forwarded by M. Grand for his acceptance. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Lande, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 23 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 64. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing M. des Raggi, who desires to go to America, and establish a business there. Sorry that the "Lodge of the Nine
Sisters" will not be able this year to have their celebration at Passy. [Note from M. Dubourg at the close of the above letter, endorsing the recommedation and asking Franklin to procure him if possible a free passage. ] (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wagner, Philippe. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 23 | L.S. 3p. | XV, 65. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring an advance of twenty louis to enable him to pay his expenses to America. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 24 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXVIII, 46. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes on behalf of the unfortunate American prisoners, recently exchanged; Capt. Babcock willing to give them all ship room,
provided they are supplied with clothes, provisions and necessaries. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 24 | A.L.S. 5p. | XV, 66. | ||||||||||||
|
Outlining the details of a business venture concerning the vessel "La Marquise de Lafayette," which, though bought by the
French Government was equipped out of their capital; thinks M. Ray de Chaumont might be able to help him recover the sum,
if Franklin should ask his influence in the matter; enclosing an account of the affair in French, addressed to M. de Sartine. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Marchant, Stephen. On board the "Black Prince," Morlaix Road., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 67. | ||||||||||||
|
His cruise, since setting sail on the 15th inst.; number of sloops and brigs sunk, ransomed and sent to France; number of
prisoners brought in; apologizes for their fewness, owing to his lack of men. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779? July 25 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 68. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing parts of the Ledger, which may perhaps contain some news; also a letter from a gentleman of good connection and
information in London. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 25 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 69. | ||||||||||||
|
Glad to have his authority increased, as it widens his chances of successful enterprises. Promises to send Franklin a cipher
for private correspondence; desires that further orders may be sent to the port of his destination by the middle of September. |
|||||||||||||||
| From -----, Blittenberg. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 26 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 70. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes on behalf of his friend, Lewis Dupré who was captured by the English and confined in the prison at Gosport; his subsequent
release and safe arrival at Paris. |
|||||||||||||||
| From J. Rocquette, A. Elserier and Brothers Rocquette. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 26 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 71. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a parcel just received from St. Eustatia, also a letter for Mr. Arthur Lee. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Rayneval, Joseph-Matthias Gérard. Versailles., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 26 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 72. | ||||||||||||
|
Begging Franklin to return him a certain letter relative to the vessel "The Three Friends"; has reason to believe it was despatched
without the signature of the Comte de Vergennes. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 26 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 73. | ||||||||||||
|
Has received information that the Jamaica fleet will sail homewards, escorted by a fifty gun ship and two strong frigates;
should they fall in with this force will certainly engage them; fears, however, that they are not strong enough to prevent
the escape of the convoy; asks that the frigate "Monsieur" may be added to his force. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Austin, Jonathan Loring. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 27 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 74. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing Mr. William Knox, of Boston, brother of General Knox, who desires to pay his respects to Franklin on his way to
Holland. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Charles, Gervais. La Rochelle., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 27 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 75. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to enter into commercial relations with the United States; begs Franklin's recommendation. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 27 | A.L.S. 3p. | XXXVIII, 47. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the examination of his accounts; attitude of the arbitrators. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Raspe, Rodolph Eric. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 27 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 76. | ||||||||||||
|
Is neither easy nor happy in a country where low ambition and the pride of kings have driven out virtue and learning; wishes
to procure some work abroad. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de St Hubert, -----. Caen., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 28 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 77. | ||||||||||||
|
Begging Franklin to subscribe to his "Dictionnaire Topographique, Historique, etc., de la France"; describes the number of
volumes, the plan of the work and the proposed date of its completion. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gellée, N. M. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 28 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 78. | ||||||||||||
|
The bearer will deliver the key of the apartment he occupied in Franklin's house; has decided to quit a post which circumstances
have rendered untenable, and as it would humiliate him to touch the salary, M. Didelot will return the money; apologizes for
the scandal caused in Franklin's house by a rascally tailor; reasons why he refused to pay him; intends to leave that night
for Berlin; omitted a personal leave-taking for fear of increasing Franklin's displeasure. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Chaumont, Le Ray. Passy., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 28 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 79. | ||||||||||||
|
Thinks it will be necessary to delay the departure of the "Bon Homme Richard," in order to furnish Capt. Jones with a better
crew; in this case desires Franklin to order Captain Landais to leave L'Orient at once, in the "Alliance," and cruise to the
north of Scotland until the end of September. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From O'heguerty, -----. Nancy., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 Jan. 28 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 80. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to enter the American army. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 28 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 81. | ||||||||||||
|
Hears that a frigate has just arrived at Brest, which may have brought news from America; begs to be informed of anything
which may concern his fellow-citizens. Contradictory reports concerning Charleston; knows not what to believe; evident that
Fort la Fayette is taken. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. "Bon Homme Richard," L'orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 28 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 82. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the court-martial at present in progress; the matter of the "Bon Homme Richard" and the "Alliance" having run foul
of each other not yet settled; two quartermasters before the Court, charged with conspiracy at sea; evidence strongly against
them; should any person be condemned to death, will suspend the execution of the sentence until the arrival of Franklin's
orders. Has sent one of his officers to Nantes in hopes of enlisting a number of Americans who arrived there in the cartel. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Diot, John. Morlaix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 28 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 147. | ||||||||||||
|
Forwarding a journal of all the proceedings of the "Black Prince" during her cruise; account of her prizes and prisoners;
begs Franklin to hasten the condemnation of the said prizes. Certificate enclosed [dated August 26, 1779] of certain English
prisoners having arrived safely at the prison of Bague. |
|||||||||||||||
| From McCraken, John. Morlaix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 29 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 83. | ||||||||||||
|
Was a passenger on board the "Dublin" when she was taken by the "Black Prince"; is now at liberty to return to Bristol; anxious
to rejoin his family there and then embark with them for Pennsylvania; begs Franklin's advice and assistance; is a native
of Ireland; mentions various of his relatives in America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Sr. Boston, to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 83 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning Franklin's scheme for aiding Mrs. Mecom; is willing to assist in every possible way. Introducing Col. Watson. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Miller, Joseph. Tours., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 84. | ||||||||||||
|
Commanded the brig "Sampson" when she was taken in August, 1778, by the "Gen. Mifflin"; has been a prisoner ever since; begs
that he may be allowed to return to England; never took up arms aganist America; was always in the merchant service. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Willams, Jonathan Sr. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 84 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing Mr. Knox, the General's brother. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dubourg, Barbeu. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 29 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 85. | ||||||||||||
|
At M. la Lande's request, urges Franklin to grant to M. des Raggi his protection that he may embark for America to fight for
the country on sea and to serve her on land. Reminds Franklin again of M. Gregoire, a merchant of Havre, who desires a small
consulship of agency in the American service. Awaits with eagerness the remainder of Franklin's works, including the " Morals
of Chess"; will endeavor to use them to Franklin's satisfaction. Desires to know if he has sure intelligence of the defeat
of Gen. Prevost by Gen. Lincoln. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Keay, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779.] July 29 | L. in 3d P. 1p. | XL, 193. | ||||||||||||
|
Returning the History of Welsh Poetry, with thanks. Illness of Mme. de Cheminot prevented their waiting on Franklin together. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Temple, E. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 30 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 86. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring Franklin to add the necessary address to the enclosed letter and forward it to Mr. [John] Temple. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lavaysse and Co. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 30 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 87. | ||||||||||||
|
Asking that the commander of the "Alliance" be made to return the ship "The Three Friends," of Dublin, to her owners, together
with her cargo in good condition, and also idemnify them for the loss caused by this delay. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Grasslang, Godt. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 30 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 88. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending a proposition from one of the Swiss cantons to establish a settlement in America; desires to wait upon Franklin and
explain the details. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Vaughan, Benjamin. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 30 | A.L. 3p. | XV, 89. | ||||||||||||
|
Editing of Franklin's works; believes Franklin will not be displeased with what follows his "Aurora Borealis." Desires to
know if the Due de Chaulnes ever showed him a letter out of the "Public Advertiser," signed A. B. upon the subject of Wilson's
Experiments; the paper contained novelties as well as errors. Sorry to say that Mr. Henly cut his throat; he died in good
circumstances. Wishes to know if Franklin wrote a piece on Liberty and Necessity in 1729 or 1739, with a dedication to Truth.
People in England refuse to be frightened by the bugbear of an invasion. |
|||||||||||||||
| From The Navy Board, Eastern Department. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 30 | A.L.S. W[illia]m Vernon, Pres[iden]t. 1p. | LIV, 54. | ||||||||||||
|
Notice that Samuel [Simon?] Samson, Captain of the "Mercury" packet boat, has been commissioned to carry dispatches to France. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Coffyn, Francis. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 Aug. 30 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 90. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the prizes taken by Capt. Marchant of the "Black Prince" and their disposition; trouble caused by the delay in
their condemnation; the owners so pleased with the execution wrought by this vessel, that they intend to fit out a companion
cutter called the "Black Princess," for which they desire a commission. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul . L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 30 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 91. | ||||||||||||
|
The Irish brigantine the "Three Friends," taken by the "Alliance," has sunk at her anchors; if the accident arose from carelessness,
a courtmartial shall determine what punishment to inflict; in case it is death, he will execute the sentence at sea. The "Bon
Homme Richard " only lacks one hundred men to be completely ready for sea. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Landais, Pierre. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 30 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 92. | ||||||||||||
|
The prize, "The Three Friends," has lately sunk in the harbor; they have obtained permission from the Admiralty to unload
her cargo; cause of the accident not yet discovered. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 31 | A.L.S. 3p. | XXXVIII, 50. | ||||||||||||
|
Arrival of Capt. Thompson from Boston with the following news: Battle in Carolina on May 17th; the English put to flight;
number of dead and wounded; return to New York of the English who had been ravaging Virginia; the American frigates, "Ranger,"
"Providence," and "Queen of France" sailed the beginning of June to cruise off the entrance to the Chesapeake. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Abbé Le Breton, de la Loutière. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July 31 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 94. | ||||||||||||
|
Asking permission to present Franklin with his little work on the present war. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lucas, Henry. Cherbourg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 July --- | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 93. | ||||||||||||
|
Is a Virginian by birth and was serving as officer on board the brig "Betsey" from Baltimore, when she was taken by the English;
his subsequent escape and arrival in France, where, through the kindness of a M. Drouet, he embarked on board a French privateer;
M. Drouet offers to join him in the purchase of a privateer, to be called the "Happy Alliance"; waits only for a commission
from Franklin to take command of it under the American flag and proceed against the enemy. Enclosing an account of the proposed
transaction, written in French by M. Drouet. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Leroy, Jean-Baptiste., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779 after July 28] | A.N. 1p. | LXXI, 80a. | ||||||||||||
|
Inquiring if it is true that Franklin has parted with M. Gellée, his secretary, and if he requires one to replace him. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Neufville Er Fils, Jean., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779 before July 9] | A.L.S. 3p. | XL, 149. | ||||||||||||
|
Their worthy friend, M. Dumas, the bearer of this letter; saw the plan of which he was the bearer; glad to defer to his intercession
as regards the proposed loan. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Petrie, S. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 1 | L. in 3d P. 1p. | XV, 95. | ||||||||||||
|
Is about to set forth with two friends on a tour through Flanders; begs Franklin to favor them with a pass. Memorandum inserted that Mr. Wharton told Dr. Franklin on August 5th that Mr. Petrie had gone to meet William Lee. |
|||||||||||||||
| From De St Firmin, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 2 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 96. | ||||||||||||
|
Has received a commission as first lieutenant of volunteers on board the "Brave Normand" with the understanding that he was
to join his troop at Caen; an illness of fifteen days has absorbed all his little money and he desires a loan to enable him
to reach Caen before the ship sails. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Chaumont, Le Ray. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 2 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 97. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the expulsion of the English from the "Bon Homme Richard" and the substitution of Americans and Portuguese; if
Franklin has any orders for Capt. Jones, desires him to send them at once. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Palmer, I. Germantown., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 3 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 98. | ||||||||||||
|
Has just heard of Mr. Adams's arrival in Boston, and also that the fleet and army sent to Penobscot to dislodge the enemy
had captured seven or eight hundred land forces, six or eight men-of-war and had driven the enemy up the river. This letter
will be handed Franklin by the writer's nephew, Joseph Palmer, who, having finished his studies at Harvard College, is returning
to his father, near Plymouth, in England; begs Franklin to advise the young man in all things necessary for his passage to
Plymouth. |
|||||||||||||||
| From -----, -----. Brussels., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 3 | A.L. 4p. | XLIV, 38. | ||||||||||||
|
Thinking of settling in Pennsylvania. Could bring many good colonists, artisans and farmers from the country about Liege.
Wishes to know what advantages would be offered to them and how they would be provided for on the journey and on their arrival. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 3 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 99. | ||||||||||||
|
Hears that Gen. Knox's brother is expected shortly in France; hopes Franklin will direct him to his (la Fayette's) address.
Rumor of Gen. Washington's army being very strong, and of Gen. Sullivan's having gone into Canada; would be glad to have this
report confirmed. They are now ready to embark, but M. d'Orvillier's fleet has not yet been heard of. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Taylor, Cradock. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 4 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 100. | ||||||||||||
|
Hard that he should be kept a prisoner in France when he is a native of Virginia and a subject of the United States; would
never have gone on board a British sloop of war, had he not been betrayed into it by the showing of the American colors; begs
for an early answer. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Brice?, John. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 4 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 101. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes again to beg Franklin to procure him his liberty, that he may use it in defense of his country. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Auer, M Deacon. Ebingen near Bahlingen, Württemberg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 4 | A.L.S. 2p. | LIX, 35. | ||||||||||||
|
States that son of widow Anne Catharine Höcklerin went to Pennsylvania and worked for her brother-in-law, Christian Schneider,
a tanner in Germantown, and saved some money. Her son died three year ago. Schneider desires to send her the money he left,
but fears for its safety in these troubled times. |
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| From Auer, M Deacon. Ebingen near Bahlingen, Württemberg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 4 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 116. | ||||||||||||
|
States that son of widow Anne Catharine Höcklerin went to Pennsylvania and worked for her brother-in-law, Christian Schneider,
a tanner in Germantown, and saved some money. Her son died three year ago. Schneider desires to send her the money he left,
but fears for its safety in these troubled times. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From De La Faye. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 4 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 102. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin to listen to the proposition which Madame du Lin is entrusted to make to him. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Poullin, -----. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 4 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 103. | ||||||||||||
|
Reminding him of a promise of letters of recommendation whenever he should be ready to embark for America; expects to sail
about the 14th. (In French.) |
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| From Besson, Leopold George. Montbéliard., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 6 | A.L.S. 6p. | XV, 104. | ||||||||||||
|
Is paralyzed and without means; begs Franklin to contribute towards his support. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lovell, James. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 6 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 105. | ||||||||||||
|
Franklin's favor of July 22, 1778, never came to hand until the 31st of July, 1779. Concerning the fight between Messrs. Deane
and Lee; thinks the former wrecked himself upon the quicksands of indiscretion, and that his publication of December 5th totally
ruined his claims to any public trust; admits that Congress was misled in the case of Mr. Lee, but does not think it follows
that they should destroy an able and faithful servant. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bache, Richard. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 6 | A.L.S. 2p. ; A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 106. | ||||||||||||
|
Expressing the greatest astonishment at not hearing from Franklin for more than twelve months. Begs leave to trouble him with
a few more circular letters of Bache and Shee, and asks for the names of the houses to whom their letters are sent. Congratulates
him on Count d'Estaing's successes in the West Indies. (Two Copies.) P. S. August 9. Concerning a sum he sent to Mr. Williams to be laid out in various articles for Sally's and the family's use; considerable inconvenience caused by their non-arrival. |
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| From The Continental Congress., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 6 | D.S. Cha[rle]s Thomson, Sec[retar]y. 2p. | LXXV, 81, 83. | ||||||||||||
|
In relation to the salary, expenses and accounts of the Commissioners; Commercial Agents and others in Europe. A. E. by James Lovell, requesting Dr. Franklin to furnish copies to those whom it concerns who are not furnished by this opportunity, through haste. Bibliography: Printed in the Journals of Congress, Philadelphia, 1782, V, 308.
|
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| From The Marquis de la Fayette. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779?] August 7 | L. in 3d P. 1p. | XLII, 148. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending him the memoir of which he spoke. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Beymont, Pigault. Calais., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 7 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 107. | ||||||||||||
|
His intention to go to America and enter the army; hopes Franklin will send him over with a letter of recommendation to Congress. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Courcy, Veuve. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 7 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 108. | ||||||||||||
|
Her husband embarked for Boston eighteen months before to join the insurgents; desires Franklin to procure a certificate of
his death and furnish her with the means of subsisting. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Aycard, -----. Marseilles., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 7 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 109. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring to know if the statue of his King, sculptured by himself, arrived safely in America; it was shipped in April, 1778,
on the frigate "Adelaide"; trusts it proved an acceptable gift. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Didelot, Jean-Françis. Paris., to Bon or W.T. Franklin | 1779 August 7 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 110. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending for a trunk belonging to M. Gellée. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 111. | ||||||||||||
|
The Messrs. Neave intend to wait upon him to take the oath of allegiance. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Sr. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 1111/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Promises to do everything Franklin wishes for his worthy sister [Mrs. Mecom]. Arrival of the French Ambassador, M. de la Luzerne;
friendly intercourse he has had with him. Arrival of the "Three Friends." |
|||||||||||||||
| From Torris, John. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 9 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 112. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the promised exchange of the twenty-one men belonging to the crew of the "Black Prince," who were captured by the
English; has reason to fear harsh treatment for them, and so begs Franklin to put them out of the reach of English malice
and fury. (Two copies.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From De Foligné, -----., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 9 | A.L.S. 3p. | LXII, 45. | ||||||||||||
|
His commission of Captain of a frigate from Congress seized by the enemy; requests Franklin to give him a written permission
to wear the uniform of the American navy. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 9 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 113. | ||||||||||||
|
News received from America that Gen. Prevost was totally defeated near Charleston. Another vessel reports great illuminations
and firing of guns in Elizabethtown and Newark and it was generally believed that Gen. Prevost was vanquished. St. Vincent
was captured about the middle of June by Count d'Estaing. Byron and his fleet have gone to St. Christopher. The English West
India Fleet of 240 sail has arrived without losing a single ship of the convoy. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Harrison, Richard. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 10 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 114. | ||||||||||||
|
Apologizing for not having sent the enclosed to Franklin earlier. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Berger, J.C. Münster., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 10 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 115. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to enter the American army with a higher grade than Captain; has a cousin who also wishes to enter the army; begs
Franklin to procure a lieutenantcy for him. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dubourg, Barbeu. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 10 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 116. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning Franklin's project of procuring a loan; believes he knows some one who would undertake it under certain conditions;
desires his answers to the nine questions propounded by his principal in this affair; adds one more question on his own account. (In French.) |
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| From des Neuf-Sœurs, La Loge. St Germain., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 11 and 18 | Printed N.S. 2p. | LXXIII, 69 and 71. | ||||||||||||
|
Announcement of a Féte Académique for the benefit of the lodge of Noeuf Sœurs [the Masonic Order of Saint John of Jerusalem,
Commanders of the Temple]. |
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| From des Neuf-Sœurs, La Loge. St Germain., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 11 and 18 | Printed N. 1p. | LXXIII, 70. | ||||||||||||
|
Postponement of the above mentioned fête from August 11 to August 18. |
|||||||||||||||
| From William Moody and John Crawford., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 11 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 117. | ||||||||||||
|
Hoping Franklin will have compassion on them as American prisoners and procure their release as well as berths on board any
Continental ship; begging for some clothes with which to cover their nakedness. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hardy, Amable. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 12 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 118. | ||||||||||||
|
Forwarding the preceding; the assistance he has been enabled to render these prisoners; their longing to return to America.
Offers his services in his rôle of merchant. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Matigny, Garde. Guines., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 12 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 119. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin to forward the enclosed to his only son, who sailed for America more than two years before and served as aide-de-camp
to M. de Coudray; apparently not one of his letters has ever reached him. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Montgomery, Robert. Madrid., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 12 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 120. | ||||||||||||
|
Informed Franklin in his last letter that he had been granted every liberty and protection by the Count de Florida-Blanca;
since then incurred the Governor-Assessor's ill will and has been ordered to retire twenty leagues from the coast till he
can prove the authenticity of the passport and certificate signed by Franklin, Lee and Adams; relies on Franklin to obtain
him redress. |
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| From Coffyn, Francis. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 12 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 121. | ||||||||||||
|
Services he hopes to render the French sailors, who belonged to Capt. Conyngham and who were exchanged by the last cartel
as Americans. Concerning a report that in England they regard the "Black Prince" as a sort of pirate-ship navigated by a parcel
of Irishmen and that those men who were taken will be tried as pirates; effect of this rumor upon the Irish sailors who have
flocked to Dunkirk to ship on board other privateers; desires Franklin's opinion of the best steps to take to save the poor
men from an ignominious punishment. |
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| From Mercy and Lacaze and Fils. Cadiz., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 13 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 122. | ||||||||||||
|
Safe return of their ship from Philadelphia; left Messrs. Lacaze and Mallet to form a commercial establishment there; their
ship to sail for Philadelphia again towards the end of September. Wish to Know if a bank is to be established by the united
efforts of Congress and France. Desire letters of recommendation for a commercial establishment which they intend to form
in Baltimore. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. On board the "Bon Homme Richard.", to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 13 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 123. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing the proceedings of the court-martial relative to the "Bon Homme Richard" and the "Alliance" being run foul of each
other. Asks Franklin's advice respecting the proper division of prize-money belonging to the little squadron. M. de Chaumont's
journey kind but useless; all the necessary measures for engaging the men were taken before his appearance. Expects to sail
the following day. Good understanding prevails among the little squadron. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Landais, Pierre. On board the "Alliance.", to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 13 | L.S. 1p. | XV, 124. | ||||||||||||
|
Unable to comply with Franklin's orders to proceed on a cruise, owing to the sinking of the prize brig on the 27th inst.;
will leave the said prize in the hands of Messrs. Gourlade and Moylan. Concerning the charges made by the Captain of the Swedish
ship "Victoria" for the maintenance of himself and crew; his reasons for considering them exceedingly unfair. |
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| From Gresslang, ----- Gostde. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 14 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 125. | ||||||||||||
|
Thinks Franklin has forgotten to answer his letter of the 30th ult. (In French.) |
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| From Dubourg, Barbeu. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 14 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 126. | ||||||||||||
|
Will direct the person to M. Grand and hopes they can come to some agreement. Recommends M. Grégoire to Franklin's favor;
his desire to be intrusted in some way with the welfare of the Americans. |
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| From Bauer, Conrad. Dunkerque., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 16 | A.L.S. 2p. | LIX, 3. | ||||||||||||
|
A certain Wagner, of Seerbrücken, has lodged at his house and left without paying his bill. Asks whether Wagner will soon
return. |
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| From Tabor, Samuel. Rotterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 16 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 127. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs pardon for troubling Franklin with the enclosed letter, which he desires forwarded to his friend Mr. Gordon. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Welsh, John. Cadiz., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 16 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 128. | ||||||||||||
|
His late partnership with James Duff; in future will carry on the business under his own signature. Forwards the enclosed
letter from their friends, Messrs. Ingles and Co., of Philadelphia. |
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| From Tellejus, Tirsius. Lutetia Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 129. | ||||||||||||
|
Hard lot of authors; acknowledges the receipt of assistance twice from Franklin, again asks his aid. (In Latin.) |
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| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 130. | ||||||||||||
|
Nothing as yet in motion; impatiently awaiting orders. Desires Franklin's opinion of the ultimate attitude of Great Britain,
and of affairs in America. Delighted that his country is doing so much for the noble cause in which he is so deeply engaged.
Desires to know when a favorable opportunity occurs of writing to Gen. Washington and his acquaintances in that part of the
world. |
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| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 131. | ||||||||||||
|
In daily expectation of hearing of the safe arrival of the ships under the convoy of M. La Motte Picquet. Desires to know
if there is hope of his receiving any indemnification for the loss of his property in "La Marquise de la Fayette." |
|||||||||||||||
| From Cary, J. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 18 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 132. | ||||||||||||
|
Begging Franklin to forward the enclosed. (In French.) |
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| From The Navy Board, Eastern Department. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 18 | A.L.S. by J[ames] Warren et al. 1p. | LIV, 56. | ||||||||||||
|
In regard to differences which had arisen among the officers of the "Alliance." Matter referred to the Marine Committee of
Congress. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lee, Arthur. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 18 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 133. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanking Franklin for having communicated to Count de Vergennes his letter of the 14th. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Nairne, Richard. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 19 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 134. | ||||||||||||
|
With Franklin's assistance he might get his parole to England, Mahen or Gibraltar, where he is certain of procuring an exchange
of himself and son with persons of equal rank. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Madame. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 19 | A.L. in 3d P. 1p. | XV, 135. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends the enclosed letter to Franklin, who if he desires, may send his answer that night to Havre by a safe opportunity. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Sykes, H. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 20 | L.S. 1p. | XV, 136. | ||||||||||||
|
Acquainting Franklin that his large electrical machine is completed. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Taylor, Cradock. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 20 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 137. | ||||||||||||
|
Hopes to furnish proof of his being a native of Virginia and of being impressed on board his Britannic Majesty's ship. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Guines, Thomas. Delfthaven., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 20 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 138. | ||||||||||||
|
Is a gunsmith and desires to settle in America; too poor at present to pay his passage money; has a brother, a sail-maker,
who wishes to go with him. |
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| From de Chaumont, Le Ray. Passy., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 21 | N. 1p. | LXX, 54. | ||||||||||||
|
Has had a small case of quinia brought from Bordeaux for Franklin. Requests him to send for it at M. de Chalut's house. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Vicq d'Azyt, Félix. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 21 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 140. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending Franklin a volume published by the Royal Society of Medicine, containing an extract of a paper by Mr. [John] Perkins,
a doctor of Boston. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Marchant, Stephen. Brest., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 23 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 141. | ||||||||||||
|
His late cruise and the prizes he captured; for fear his last letter went astray, repeats the details of that cruise also,
and the disposition made of the prisoners. Has got a new bowsprit and is almost ready for sea again; all hands behave well. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Strange, Mrs. Paris., to Benjamin Frankin | 1779 August 23 | N. in 3d P. 1p. | LXXI, 68. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending a letter to be forwarded to her friend, Mr. Livingston, formerly of St. John's but whose present address is unknown
to her. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 23 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 142. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing three newspapers received by way of Amsterdam; all papers are intercepted which come by way of Ostend; desires advice
as to the best route in future. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Montgomery, Robert. Alicante., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 24 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 143. | ||||||||||||
|
Had an interview with the Minister of State, who told him to return to his house and promised to send the necessary order
to the Governor, which he has not done; consequently he has been ordered by the Count de Ricla, Secretary of War, to retire
inland and not to carry on his business during the war; again begs Franklin to intercede in his favor; any order for supplies
Franklin might charge him with at this time would be of great advantage to him. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Liger, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 24 | A.D.S. 1p. | XV, 144. | ||||||||||||
|
A receipted bill for 4800 livres, payment for a sword ornamented with gold relief work [presented, by order of the Continental
Congress to the Marquis de la Fayette]. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From O'Connell, Robert. Malaga., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 24 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 145. | ||||||||||||
|
Offering himself as Consul to the United States at any of the ports in Spain. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Blankenberg, Charles. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 26 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 146. | ||||||||||||
|
Has been reduced by misfortunes to the most pitiful destitution; hopes Franklin's generous compassion will bestow some benefit
on him. |
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| From Besson, George Leopold. Montbéliard., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 27 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 148. | ||||||||||||
|
Applies to Franklin again to alleviate his miserable condition. (In French.) |
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| From de Grasslang, ----- Godt. Versailles., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 27 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 149. | ||||||||||||
|
Astonished at receiving no answer to his former letters. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bingham, William. St Pierre, Martinique., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 28 | A.L.S. 5p. | XV, 151. | ||||||||||||
|
The troops intended for Georgia have been retained for the defence of St. Christopher and Antigua. Concerning the probable
movements of Count d'Estaing's fleet; reasons for thinking that he is engaged on an expedition to Georgia; should he once
get possession of Port Royal he could bid defiance to the whole British navy. The enemy repulsed in their attack on Charleston.
Hopes America will be encouraged by the attitude of certain of the European powers; the internal divisions in the Colonies
give the enemy more courage than all their military achievements. The depreciation of the currency another circurnstance of
a most alarming nature. Has no doubt of the favorable issue of the war, but regrets that America will have to struggle against
various difficulties that might have been obviated. Rumors of the English fleet having been seen near Antigua. |
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| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 29 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 153. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanking Franklin, as a private individual, for the flattering tributes which he added to the noble present just received
from Congress; immense effect such a gift has had upon the army. Concerning [William] Temple Franklin's ardent desire to join
their expedition to England; points out a way of procuring him for his aide-de-camp. His earnest wish to see more service
in America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 29 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 154. | ||||||||||||
|
Acknowledging the presentation of the sword, a gift from Congress. Bibliography: Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 381).
|
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| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux, to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 29 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 155. | ||||||||||||
|
Advised of the capture of one of the ships under the escort of La Motte Picquet; the fate of the other two not yet known;
bewails the chain of misfortunes which has attended him. Prevost's defeat confirmed. |
|||||||||||||||
| From The Marcquis d'Amezaga. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | [Circa 1779.] August 29 | N. in 3d P. 1p. | LXX, 19. | ||||||||||||
|
Inviting Dr. Franklin to dine at M. Amelot's. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Rattier, --------. Tours., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 August 30 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 156. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes on behalf of four English prisoners at Tours who desire to enter the service of the United States; wishes to know the
necessary steps to be taken. E. by Dr. Franklin. Cannot accept the offer; it is prudent to distrust such offers by Englishmen. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Petrie, S. Paris., to W.T. Franklin | 1779 August 30 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 157. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the insolent behavior of a fellow called Boush, who was in the employ of Mr. Arthur Lee; wrote to Mr. Lee on the
subject, and in return received a most arrogant, insulting and impertinent letter which he treated with silent contempt; lately
Mr. Boush has called again and vows he will support his statements with his life and honor; under these circumstances, has
thought best to write to the Count de Vergennes, a copy of his letter he encloses. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Vigneron, --------., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 After July 4 | A.L.S. 3p. | XL, 19. | ||||||||||||
|
No reply to his letter of July 4th; his passionate desire to emigrate to America. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Capitaine, -------. Havre-de-Grace., to W.T. Franklin | 1779 September 1 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 158. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing M. Perrier who engraves his map of the theatre of war in America; desires to send some copies to America, if possible. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Luzerne, Chevalier. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 1 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 159. | ||||||||||||
|
Has been the recipient of endless politeness from Franklin's friends. Gen. Clinton's movements; 1200 men have been made prisoners
by the Americans in the different engagements since his arrival; the slight setback on the Penobscot more than balanced by
the ten vessels of the Jamaica fleet taken by the Americans. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Le Roux, ------. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 1 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 160. | ||||||||||||
|
During the previous winter sent Franklin a memoir on the establishment of a Bureau of Information and begged him to recommend
it to M. Necker. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lee, William. Frankfort., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 1 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 161. | ||||||||||||
|
Has received no letter from Franklin since June, when he appeared unwilling to make any further applications to the French
Ministers for the arms, artillery and ammunition for the State of Virginia; desires that Franklin will decline taking any
further steps in that business. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Smith, Samuel. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 2 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 162. | ||||||||||||
|
On his way from Philadelphia to France was captured, and therefore destroyed certain bills in his possession drawn on the
Commissioners of the United States; has reason to believe that the other bills of the set were likewise destroyed; warns Franklin
against accepting any of these bills without consulting him. |
|||||||||||||||
| From d'Amezaga, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | [Circa 1779.] September 2 ; [1780] | N. in 3d P. 1p. | LXX, 20. | ||||||||||||
|
Inquiring if Dr. Franklin will dine at home. (In French.) |
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| From Nolin, Abbé Versailles., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779.] September 2 | A.L.S. 3p. | XL, 45. | ||||||||||||
|
Begging his assistance in finding two boxes of plants sent him from Philadelphia. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Taylor, Cradock. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 3 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 163. | ||||||||||||
|
M. Grégorie will convince Franklin that he (Taylor) is no impostor; Mr. Frazer will also have informed Franklin who he is;
hopes under these circumstances he may procure his liberty. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Sauseuil, Chevalier. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 3 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 164. | ||||||||||||
|
Believes Franklin knows enough of him to pity his unemployed state. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Luscombe, Roger. Angers., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 3 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 165. | ||||||||||||
|
Held a prisoner in France; desires Franklin to procure his release and enable him to obtain a passage to America; long ago
his friend and cousin, Gen. Horatio Gates, promised him a surgeon's berth in the army, and therefore is anxious to join him. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bordot, I. Rochelle., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 4 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 166. | ||||||||||||
|
Arrival of the frigate "Diligente," belonging to Count d'Estaing's fleet, with express despatches. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bertrand, V. I. Ostend., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 4 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 167. | ||||||||||||
|
The enclosed will show the satisfactory settlement of Mr. Peters's affair. Every care and attention paid to Capt. Conyngham
as soon as his presence in England was known; will send him whatever he may be in want of. Arrest of Capt. [Thomas] Hutchins,
accused of treasonable correspondence with Dr. Franklin, Mr. S. Wharton and other Americans; despairs of being acquitted and
has given himself up for lost; likely to be tried by court-martial; other people arrested and their papers seized and examined,
particularly a Miss Stafford and a clerk of Mr. Neave. Advice concerning the safety of their correspondence in future. The
situation of the two grand fleets presages a great naval combat; a critical hour for Englishmen. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Raspe, Rodolph Eric. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 4 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 168. | ||||||||||||
|
Public and private affairs grow worse and worse. His own ruin almost accomplished by a foreign nobleman; narrates the affair
in detail; beseeches Franklin's influence and protection to procure him a field for his literary abilities. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Escudier fils, -----. Toulon., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 5 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 169. | ||||||||||||
|
Applies for permission to serve with the army in America. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hopkinson, Francis. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 5 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 170. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanking Franklin for the little piece of Oxford wit; in return, sends a few of his political squibs; ammunition of his kind
scarce in America; their writers too deeply engaged in party disputes. Greatly obliged for the loan of Franklin's electrical
apparatus; use he is making of it; anxious to hear of any new scientific discoveries. Offices he holds barely enable him to
support his family. M. de la Luzerne not yet arrived; this letter goes by M. Gérard who has made himself beloved by everybody
except the Tories. Looks forward to seeing Franklin's bust; a good likeness of Washington goes over with M. Gérard, from which
capital engravings will doubtless be made at Paris. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bridgen, Edward. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 6 | L. 1p. | XV, 171. | ||||||||||||
|
Recommending Mr. Sterry and asking Franklin to assist him in his views. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gourlade and Moylan. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 6 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 172. | ||||||||||||
|
Arrival of the schooner, "Grand Tiger" from Fredericksburg, Va., with news of the defeat of the enemy by Gen. Lincoln and
of Sir Henry Clinton's refusal to leave his den. Arrival in port of a prize taken by the "Poor Richard." Extract of a letter
from Fredericksburg with an account of a plan lately adopted for strengthening the currency; believes that want of reinforcements
must soon compel the enemy to relinquish the subjugation of America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Frazer, John G. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 7 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 173. | ||||||||||||
|
Cradock Taylor, now a prisoner at Aix, is a native and a subject of the United States; has known his family and friends for
years; has supplied Mr. Taylor with a little money. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Didelot, Jean-François, to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 7 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 174. | ||||||||||||
|
No reply to his letter of the 2d inst. concerning M. Gellée. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Vaux, Antoine Alexis François Cadet. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 7 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 175. | ||||||||||||
|
Thinks his sister-in-law must now regret not having had her children inoculated, as there is small-pox in her house at Montmartre;
desires to introduce her some day to Franklin. Concerning an experiment for the preservation of wheat and flour in which Franklin
will be interested. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Auer, Deacon M. Ebingen, Württemberg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 7 | A.L.S. 2p. | LIX, 37. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanks Dr. Franklin for favor shown to a widow in distress (see August 4, 1779, LIX, 35) and encloses fourfold attest with
request to forward same to Germantown. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Chaumont, Le Ray., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 8 | LXX, 53. | |||||||||||||
|
In reference to dinner at Mme, Helvétiu's house. 2 Notes. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Le Duc, -----., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 178. | ||||||||||||
|
Has written a eulogium on Franklin's genius. Begs Franklin's influence with his Majesty to annul a certain order; is the victim
of calumnious enemies and an envious family. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gourlade and Moylan. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 179. | ||||||||||||
|
Requesting his compliance with the annexed letter from Capt. Blackwell of the schooner, "Grand Tiger"; pledge themselves for
the faithful performance of any instructions contained in the desired letter of marque. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Alexander, William. St Germain., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 180. | ||||||||||||
|
Their intention to dine with Franklin the Sunday of the ceremony [Mr. Jonathan Williams's Jr., marriage with his daughter];
expects Franklin and his grandson to dinner on Monday when they may judge of the post-nuptial happiness of the young couple. |
|||||||||||||||
| From The Treasurer of Loans. Philadelphia., to The American Commissioners. | 1779 September 8 | A.L.S. Fra[nci]s Hopkinson. 4p. | LIV, 57. | ||||||||||||
|
Notification of bills of exchange furnished to the States of New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut,
New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and South Carolina. (In duplicate.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Baumé, -----. Paris., to [Ferdinand Grand?] | 1779 September 9 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 182. | ||||||||||||
|
His efforts to eradicate the spots from the shirt, have failed. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dessoud ?, -----. Loches., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 9 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 183. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a letter which he begs Franklin to forward to Philadelphia. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Delamoignon, Marie Elizabeth. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 10 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 185. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires news of her nephew, le Chevalier de la Luzerne. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Touzel, W. Tours., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 186. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin to procure passage for America, for himself and their friends who desire to join the service. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Holtzendorff, Baron. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 11 | N. in 3d P. 1p. | LXX, 117. | ||||||||||||
|
Requesting Dr. Franklin to appoint a time when he can confer with him on an important matter. (In French.) |
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| From de la Potherye d'Andilly, Vicomte. Fort I'Evèque., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 12 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 189 | ||||||||||||
|
In extreme distress on account of debt; throws himself on Franklin's generosity. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Torris, John. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 12 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 190. | ||||||||||||
|
Cheering effect of Franklin's remarks concerning the prisoners and crew of the "Black Prince"; her approaching departure;
Mr. Coffyn voices the general desire that her Captain should have a commission. Long delay in the condemnation of the prizes;
appeals to Franklin's sense of justice in his misfortunes. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lee, Arthur. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 12 | N. in 3d P. 1p. | LXX, 130b. | ||||||||||||
|
Returning journals to Dr. Franklin. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jupin, Mlle. Chaillot., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779.] September 12 | L. 1p. | LXX, 63 b. | ||||||||||||
|
Has just arrived from the country and wishes to see Dr. Franklin. Asks if she can dine with him to-day. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. St Germain., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 13 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXVIII, 52. | ||||||||||||
|
Desire of Mr. Alexander to ascertain from Lord McCartney the particular situation of his estates and affairs on the island
[of Grenada]. |
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| From Raredon, Bartholomew. Fougères., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 13 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 191. | ||||||||||||
|
An American sailor; his various misfortunes since leaving home; his present imprisonment; hopes Franklin will obtain his release. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Emery, Jacob. Montpelier., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 13 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 192. | ||||||||||||
|
His peculiar fitness for the consulship. (In French with an English translation.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 14 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 117. | ||||||||||||
|
Holland still vacillating in the affair of the convoys. Congratulates him on the good news from the west. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dubourg, Barbeu. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 15 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 194. | ||||||||||||
|
Commissioned by Mr. Cochin to invite Franklin to dine with him at Chatillon and see his garden, which is renowned for its
curious and rare plants. |
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| From ------ Fournier, le jeune. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 16 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 195. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin to instruct Lucien Senurier upon certain points connected with the work in hand [the stamping of coin?]. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan Jr. St Germain., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 16 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXVIII, 53. | ||||||||||||
|
Believes his industry equal to that of any newly-married man; promises Franklin the paper the next day; sends copies of his
accounts. |
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| From Bridgen, Edward., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 196. | ||||||||||||
|
Has sent M. Genet samples of metal intended for the current coin; terms on which like coin would be delivered; if a die is
needed, that may also be procured. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Girardot, Haller and Co. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 17 | L. in 3d P. 1p. | XV, 197. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a letter and offering to take charge of any answer. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bett, William. Brest., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 18 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 198. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes on behalf of himself and two other Americans on board the "Gentle Frigate" who are eager to return home; certain that
they can be of assistance on board some American vessel. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Morris, Robert. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 18 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 199. | ||||||||||||
|
The Chevalier de la Luzerne not yet arrived; hopes he may compensate them for the loss of M. [Conrad Alexandre] Gérard [de
Rayneval] who enjoyed the esteem of all men, unbiassed by party views. His own opposition to the Constitution of Pennsylvania
as well as to parties in Congress, has procured him much unmerited abuse; armed with conscious innocence and unshaken integrity,
has never failed to route his enemies. (In triplicate.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Coffyn, Francis. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 18 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 200. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing copy of a French regulation concerning the formalities to be observed in the condemnation of prizes; advisability
of avoiding these difficulties in future by taking French commissions for the "Black Prince" and "Princess"; reasons against
such a step; unparalleled success of the "Black Prince" in capturing upwards of thirty vessels in the course of three months;
suggests that these two privateers should cruise together in order that the large number of prisoners they will take may be
exchanged for Americans in English prisons. The approaching arrival at Dunkirk of the "Black Prince"; desires instructions
as to the maintenance of any English prisoners who may be on board. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Caty, Greene. Warwick., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 19 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 201. | ||||||||||||
|
Family news; poor health of Mrs. Mecom; loves to hear of Franklin's health and of his releasing them from the British yoke. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Heimenthal, Baron. Valence du Minho., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 20 | A.L.S. 7p. | XV, 202. | ||||||||||||
|
Wishes to serve in the American army; desires to form artillery corps, to choose his own officers and to have no one placed
over him. Encloses anonymous letter of reference which recommends him to Franklin's notice in the highest terms and mentions
various other foreign officers whose services would be invaluable to America, especially those in Portugal. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From J. Rocquette, Elserier and Brothers Rocquette. Rotterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 20 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 203. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a parcel for Franklin, and one for A. Lee to be forwarded to his present address. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Vaughan, Benjamin. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 20 | A.L. 4p. | XV, 204. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the time of publication of Franklin's works. Sluggish attitude of John Bull. Promises to send further conjectures
on the subject of the "Aurora." Crawford's book on "Heat" most admirable. Account of Mr. Henly's having deliberately cut his
throat with a pen-knife. Begs for the immediate return of his three manuscripts as he has made no copies. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Vaughan, Benjamin. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 21 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 205. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin to write a letter of recommendation for Langford Lovell and address it to the Governor of Dominica, and at the
same time send a duplicate there to Lovell. Desires Franklin to procure him a table or map of Dupont's System of the Economists. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 21 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 118. | ||||||||||||
|
Expects to set out the next day to meet the person and deliver Franklin's letter and instructions. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Samson, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 22 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 206. | ||||||||||||
|
Implores Franklin's assistance for himself and family. (In French.) |
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| From Bertinot, -----. Paris., to Franklin's Secretary | 1779 September 22 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 207. | ||||||||||||
|
Begging Franklin to intercept and return to him a letter addressed by him to M. Gellée, which circumstances have caused him
to regret having written. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Conyngham, Ann. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 22 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 208. | ||||||||||||
|
Entreats his intercession on behalf of her husband, Capt. Conyngham, of the cutter "Revenge," taken prisoner in April and
under sentence of death in England. Begs him to forward the enclosed letter as directed, since it may be the means of affording
some relief to her poor husband. (In duplicate.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Peter Vesey and others. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 22 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 206 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
A number of sailors, whose time on a French cutter is almost expired, desire Franklin to procure them a passage back to America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Nesbitt, Jonathan. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin. | 1779 September 22 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 209. | ||||||||||||
|
Has received information from Philadelphia of the misfortunes of Capt. Conyngham of the "Revenge"; he has been sent to England
in irons with the intention of having him tried for piracy; charged with having taken the Harwich packet without having any
commission; urges Franklin to prove this accusation false and to do all in his power for the unfortunate man who can expect
no mercy at the hands of the English on account of the great harm he has done them. Bibliography: Printed in Hale's Franklin in France, I, 344.
|
|||||||||||||||
| From Smith, Samuel. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin. | 1779 September 23 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 210. | ||||||||||||
|
Sorry that he was not sufficiently explicit in his former letter, but had destroyed necessary data. Acknowledging receipt
of bills of exchange. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Phelps, Charles. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 23 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 211. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes on behalf of the poor sufferes of Charlestown near Boston; their impoverished and wretched condition; their town pillaged
and laid waste by British barbarians; begs Franklin to appeal to the King of France, the nobility and the gentry for aid;
cites instances in ancient history of countries helping each other; effect of such broad charities. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bailly, Jean Sylvain. Chaillot., to Benjamin Franklin. | [1779.] September 23 | A.L. in 3d P. 1p. | XLIV, 277 a. | ||||||||||||
|
Inquires if he will be at home to-morrow afternoon. The Comtesse de Beauharnois wishes to pay him a visit. The Chevalier de
Cubières, a man of letters, authors of several works in prose and verse, has also desires to pay him a visit. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Villiequier, Due. Courteille (?)., to Benjamin Franklin. | 1779 September 23 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 212. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires instructions for the placing of lightning rods on his town and country house; thinks little of the danger himself
but wishes to take all possible precautions on behalf of his family; desires also to be an example to the neighboring proprietors. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Capitaine, -----. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 23 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 213. | ||||||||||||
|
Requesting Franklin to forward the enclosed letters. Hopes to see him soon at Havre. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Torris, John. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 23 | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 214. | ||||||||||||
|
Thinks the judgment and his request to the Admiralty will determine them to sell the prizes. His reasons for soliciting American
commissions for his vessels; Irishmen will not fight under French colors. Dissatisfaction expressed by the sailors of the
"Black Prince" with the master, Stephen Marchant, and their intention of begging Franklin to replace him by the brave Luke
Ryan. Urges Franklin to procure the exchange of the twenty-one prisoners taken from the prizes of the "Black Prince" and to
send them to Dunkirk to man the "Black Princess". |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bondfield, John. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 23 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 215. | ||||||||||||
|
Encloses packets brought by Capt. Bonin from Boston; Captain reports that on account of British reinforcements at Penobscot,
the Americans were obliged to destroy their shipping and abandon their attempt. Arrival in Virginia of the "Governor Livingston"
and "Mary Fearon"; the "Chasseur" taken and sent to New York. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bond, Dr Thomas. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 24 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 216. | ||||||||||||
|
The departure of M. Gérard affords an opportunity of sending messages to Franklin from his friends, Luke Morris, Hugh Roberts
and S. Rhoads; speaks of Israel's death being a great loss to the Quakers. The poor-house and hospitals almost untenanted;
can scarcely find material for his clinical lectures. Election of Gérard to the American Philosophical Society; presented
him with a certificate and a volume of the Transactions emblematically bound. Wrote an essay in defence of inoculation; begs
Franklin to give it a friendly reading. News of the Bond family. Hopes now for a more frequent literary correspondence between
America and Europe. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Coffyn, Francis. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 24 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 217. | ||||||||||||
|
Announcing the arrival of the "Black Prince"; officers report but indifferent success, only two prizes; wishes for Franklin's
instructions as to the eighteen prisoners on board. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Flachenfeld, -----. Erlangen., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 218. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin to procure him a place in the American army. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Martinelli, Vincenzio. Florence., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 219. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends a copy of his History of England, dedicated to Thomas Walpole, at whose home he met Franklin several times; recommends
M. Jean Baptiste la Bordet to Franklin's kind protection. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From du Moreau, Raby. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 220. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs for an immediate answer to several questions concerning fighting at Charlestown and the defeat of Prevost. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From De Freÿ, Capt. Cremona., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 26 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 221. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires that the enclosed letter be forwarded to his brother in America who is Captain in the Count du Pulaski's regiment. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Manssallé, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 26 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 222. | ||||||||||||
|
Asking for an interview in the interest of a merchant of Dunkirk. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lee, Arthur. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 26 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 223. | ||||||||||||
|
Congress, while continuing him as their Commissioner to the Court of Spain, has failed to supply him with the necessary funds;
if Franklin cannot furnish him with money for his expenses, will return forthwith to America, and deliver up a commission
for whose execution the means are not provided. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Priestley, Joseph. Calne., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 27 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 224. | ||||||||||||
|
His successful experiments since the publication of his last volume; vegetation of plants in water; Dr. Fothergill and friends
to assist him in defraying the expenses of his next publication. Note: Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 423). |
|||||||||||||||
| From Moreau, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 28 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 225. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends the razors, in order that Franklin may try them before recommending them. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lucy, -----. Meaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 28 | A.L.S. 2p. | XV, 226. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin's intercession on behalf of several American sailors, now prisoners in France. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Marchant, Stephen. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XV, 227. | ||||||||||||
|
Safe arrival in the "Black Prince"; has ten prisoners in Dunkirk jail. Is just setting out for Ostend to take command of the
frigate, the "Countess of Berigèn"; will wait on Franklin in a few days with the journal of his entire cruise. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Delagrange, -----. Brancourt., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 29 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 228. | ||||||||||||
|
His wife and children suffering for want of food; implores Franklin's assistance. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From The Board of Treasury. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 29 | A.L.S. Rob[ert] Troup, Secretary. 2p. | LIV, 59. | ||||||||||||
|
Refers to Resolutions of Congress [of July 26, 1779] that medals to commemorate the storming of Stony Point be struck, and
asks that Franklin have them made as soon as possible. Colonel Henry, a gallant actor on the occasion, who bears this letter
may be able to assist the medallist. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Brllhac ?. Rennes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 29 | L.S. 4p. | XLIV, 37. | ||||||||||||
|
Project to make Concarneau, in Brittany, a free port for the Americans; advantages of the port. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wharton, Samuel. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September 29 | A.L. in 3d P. 1p. | XV, 229. | ||||||||||||
|
Returns the Journals of Congress and the newspapers with thanks; details concerning the price of copper in 1770. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Barbeu-Dubourg, Jacques. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 Sept. 27 | A.L.S. 3p. | XV, 230. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring a letter of introduction for a young Frenchman, M. de Valmer, who expects to travel in America; Madame de Cheminot,
one of Franklin's most ardent admirers, seconds this request. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Jouy, Jaoques Brillon., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779. Circa September.] ; [1779? Sept. 6] | A.N. 1p. | LXX, 34. | ||||||||||||
|
Has just arrived from Havre. Called to greet Dr. Franklin and his grandson and to present the compliments of Marquis de la
Fayette whom he saw at Havre. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Griffin, Cyrus. Philadelphia., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 September -- | A.L.S. 4p. | XV, 231. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a packet of letters to be delivered to their address. Praises M. [Conrad Alexandre] Gérard [de Rayneval] in the
highest terms; the enormous expense of entertaining prevented their paying him all the attention he merited. Reason why Congress
thought of recalling all the Commissioners. (Copy.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Scot, William. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 1 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 1. | ||||||||||||
|
An American subject; served on a French privateer; when he applied for his freedom to go on board an American vessel, he was
turned over to a French man-of-war; on refusing to serve he was committed to prison; other American sailors in the same plight;
begs Franklin to obtain their release. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Helker, Jean. Montigny., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 2 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 2. | ||||||||||||
|
Solicits his interest on behalf of a Mrs. Butler, who was taken by the "Black Prince" and lost some bonds and effects. |
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| From James Turing and Son. Middelburg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 2 | A.L.S. 12p. | XVI, 2 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Their vessel, "De Brunetta," with a cargo of fruit and wine, was seized as a prize by the American privateer "General Mifflin";
desires indemnity as well as immediate restitution of their property. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. At the Helder, near the Road of Texel., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 2 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 119. | ||||||||||||
|
Waiting in this abscure corner for Franklin's friend. Information of the tremedous profits made by Messrs. Fiz[eaux] and G[ran]d
on the arms sold to the Americans. Gave one of Mr. Bache's circular letters to Messrs. de Neufville and Sons. |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. From the Helder, Road of Texel., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 3 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 120. | ||||||||||||
|
The damage inflicted by Paul Jones's squadron; capture of the "Serapis" and "Countess of Scarborough." |
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| From Landais, Pierre. "Alliance," off Texel., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 4 | A.L.S. 7p. | XVI, 4. | ||||||||||||
|
Transmitting the material parts of his journal of their late cruise, from August 14th to October 3d; their fleet consisted
of the "Bon Homme Richard," "Alliance," "Monsieur," "Pallas" and the armed brigs "Vengeance" and "Grandville." |
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| From Coffyn, Francis. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 5 | A.L.S. 5p | XVI, 3. | ||||||||||||
|
Wishes directions in regard to liberating, on security, certain prisoners taken by the "Black Prince." Lists and details concerning
prisoners. Intelligence received of the successes of the American Squadron in the German ocean and of the capture of the "Serapis"
and "Countess of Scarborough." Hopes Commodore Paul Jones will be able to reach the coast of Norway and repair damages, before
the English squadron attacks him. |
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| From Greene, William. Warwick, R.I., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 5 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 6. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanking him for his kindness towards his son-in-law and Ray. Prevented from seeing the Chevalier de la Luzerne. Thanks him
on behalf of the General Assembly of Rhode Island for the gift of Bennger's History of Geneva, in 6 volumes. Glad to hear
of Franklin's grandson being so useful. Franklin's sister has sent him two letters and a dozen cakes of soap and expects to
write him again shortly. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 6 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 7. | ||||||||||||
|
Delighted with the news of the capture of the Baltic fleet by Capt. Jones; this good news counteracts the impression of sorrow
left by Sir George Collier's expedition. Trusts to Count d'Estaing to revenge their injuries, though not with the cruelty
practised by their enemies. His reasons for regretting that he did not rejoin Washington's army; thought he could be of more
service on the other side of the Atlantic. Hopes America will soon receive the much-needed supplies of clothes, arms and ammunition.
Asks his opinion in regard to aiding the Irish. |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. At the Helder, Road of Texel., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 6 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 121. | ||||||||||||
|
All the vessels safe in the Road; mentions their names; delivered Franklin's letter to the Commodore [Jones]. |
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| From de Villiers, Dufourny. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 6 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 8. | ||||||||||||
|
Comte de Chillau, Commander of the frigate "Diligente," desires permission to wait on and relate to him various matters of
interest. (In French.) |
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| From John de Neufville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 7 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 9. | ||||||||||||
|
Arrival of John Paul Jones, whose orders they have carried out to the best of their ability. |
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| From Schtller, A.C. Brunswick., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 10. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs him to forward the enclosed letters to his brother, in the Duke of Brunswick's regiment, who was among those surrendered
with General Burgoyne. (In French.) |
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| From Barry, Amelia. Leghorn., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 December 31 | A.L.S. 7p. | XVI, 11. | ||||||||||||
|
Her Long and painful residence at Barbary brought to an end. Franklin having been deaf to her repeated supplications in favor
of Mr. Barry, has little hope of this letter being honored with any notice. Desires his advice concerning the Proprietary
grant for a piece of ground in the Province of Pennsylvania. Annexes a copy of a poem written to James Traile and his lady. |
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| From Capitaine, -----. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 5 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 5. | ||||||||||||
|
Grateful for the kind things said à propos of the map; begs that serveral copies should be sent to America. (In French.) |
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| From Ryan, Luke. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 12. | ||||||||||||
|
Expects to have a large cutter completed in four months, with which he hopes to do great damage to the enemy. If his abilities
deserve Franklin's protection, begs for a rank in the United States navy; regards American cause as his own. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Oliver, Thomas. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 13. | ||||||||||||
|
Complains of the terms which the Comte de Durat has laid upon the inhabitants and absentee proprietors of the captured island
of Grenada; if the Court of Versailles will not relax the proclamation, their estates must suffer considerably; begs Franklin's
interest in the matter. |
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| From Vaughan, Benjamin. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 8 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 14. | ||||||||||||
|
Asking for letters for Mr. [Thomas] Oliver to the French Governors of Grenada and St. Vincent; may desire letters for his
own family in the future; Mr. [William] Manning will request letters only in case of an accident of St. Kitts. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 8 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 15. | ||||||||||||
|
Encloses letter to Congress assuring them of his love and gratitude, a packet for General Washington, letters for officers
in the American army, and one to the President of Congress with letters to various of the members. Desires news of the lately
arrived frigate belonging to Count d'Estaing's fleet; thanks him for the painting of Gen. Washington. |
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| From Torris, John. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 8 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 16. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin to send on the commission for the "Black Princess." Knows nothing of the "Black Prince of Salem." Capt. Ryan
and officers did not fire at the "Good Will" with English colors, albeit they have always been decoyed in this manner by the
English. Hopes that a title in the U.S. Navy can be obtained for the brave Mr. Rayan; the new cutter being built for him at
Boulogne; great things to be expected from such a ship and captain. The new commander of the "Black Prince," Mr. Patrick Dowlin;
his strong recommendations for the prisoners; question of his commission. Exchange of prisoners. The retaking of the "Hopewell,"
Capt. Bell, by the brilliant privateer of Jersey. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 17. | ||||||||||||
|
His reception at Amsterdam. Anything consonant with the good of the common cause will always meet with his full attention,
but he can accept of no honor that could call in question his ardent attachment to the American cause. Difficulties in the
way of a court-martial for Capt. Landais; will await Franklin's orders before taking any measures in regard to the trial;
discusses who is to take the place of Landais as Captain of the "Alliance." Needs more officers. The refitting of the "Serapis,"
"Countess of Scarborough" and "Vengeance." Far from desiring a quarrel with M. [Paul] de Chamillard, wishes to know him long
as a friend but not as a master. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lee, Arthur. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 18. | ||||||||||||
|
Informed by Franklin on the 17th ult, that the Courit de Vergennes has charged himself with inquiries regarding the attitude
of the Court of Spain in respect to the conclusion of the treaty; begs to be informed what answer, if any, has been received. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Meyer, J. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 9 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 19. | ||||||||||||
|
Claims a share of the prizes taken by the "Ranger," Capt. Jones, when he served as a volunteer; cannot proceed in the matter
without Franklin's authorization. (In French.) |
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| From Coffyn, Francis. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 9 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 20. | ||||||||||||
|
Resignation of Stephen Marchant as Captain of the "Black Prince"; question of making out his commission in favor of Patrick
Dowlin. Movements of the "Edgar," "Dromedary" and "Diamond." The "Black Prince" and "Princess" almost ready for sea. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Coffyn, Francis. Dunkirk., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 9 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 21. | ||||||||||||
|
Introduces Capt. Marchant who is about to leave for Paris with the intention of returning to America; begs Franklin to advise
him in what manner to proceed. |
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| From Landais, Pierre. The "Alliance," of the Texel., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 9 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 22. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing plan of engagement with the "Serapis" and "Countess of Scarborough" in the night of September 23d. Articles, stores
and men needed to get the "Alliance" into proper condition; desires to have French deserters enlisted at Amsterdam as fifty
more men are needed to man the ship properly; repairs needed. Sees, by the regulations concerning the navigation of neutral
ships, that the Swede he took in February will be condemned. Good behaviour of his crew during the last cruise; speaks highly
of two gentlemen of family, volunteers: a Mr. Spencer of South Carolina, and a Mr. Ingraham of Boston; hopes to see their
merit rewarded. Has just beard of the accusations against him of Capt. Jones; extremely indignant; begs for an instant trial. |
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| From Sayre, Stephen. Valenciennes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 10 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 23. | ||||||||||||
|
Has heard of the probable dismissal of the Captain of the "Alliance"; offers to take command of her. |
|||||||||||||||
| From De Valazé, Charles Eléonor Dufriche. Sées., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 10 | A.L.S. 8p. | XVI, 24. | ||||||||||||
|
Wishes property arranged on socialistic basis. (In French.) |
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| From Vaughan, Benjamin. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 25. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosure from Mr. Thomas Oliver. Has deffered preparing a copy of his analysis of Mr. Crawford's book. Thinks by this time
Franklin has received his own papers, also a corrected plate of Cotopaxi, taken from Bouguer, who differs greatly from an
English translation of Ulloa, which is full of mistakes. |
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| From Hartley, David. G.B. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 11 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 26. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends copy of a letter he wrote Franklin on the 29th of June, which he fears; miscarried. Still eager for an opportunity of
forwarding the blessed work of peace, and, in the name of philanthropy, desires a speedy end of war. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dalton, Tristram. Newburyport., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 11 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 27. | ||||||||||||
|
If nothing respecting the within-mentioned loss has been done, renews his request on behalf of the owner. A.E. by Franklin,
"Papers relating to the 'Fair Play,' Capt. Giddings." |
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| From Blunt, Charles William., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 11 | L.S. 2p. | XVI, 28. | ||||||||||||
|
Recommending Mr. Suard, whose affairs are deeply involved by the capture of Grenada. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 11 | A.L. 4p. | XVI, 30. | ||||||||||||
|
From private intelligence, has reason to believe that a negotitaion is pending, a place having been pointed out for a meeting
of the various Ministers and Envoys; the interests of the United States will be chiefly in the hands of the French; reasons
for doubting the ability of the French diplomatists in such an affair; much as he is wedded to military renown, offers his
services to America upon this occasion; his heart set on American independence; the only man of his rank who is acquainted
with American affairs; desires Franklin to place this proposition before Count de Vergennes; entreats the strictest secrecy
and begs that this letter may be burnt. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Grand, Sir George. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 11 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 31. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing letters and packets. Sent him a box of the best "kinkina" [quinine] which he trusts he will have no need for. Great
sensation created at Amsterdam by Capt. Jones, who has not as yet honored him with a visit; M. de Neufville has taken possesion
of him and exhibits him as a curiosity. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hartley, David. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 11 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 32. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the exchange of prisoners; desires a passport for the cartel ship to Morlaix, and a list of prisoners ready for
exchange there; concerning the other proposition of exchanging by written agreement. Description of Mr. John Stephenson, in
whose favor he applied to Franklin in a previous letter; urges his release. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jones, Jno Paul. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 11 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 33. | ||||||||||||
|
Has determined to retain the Captain of the "Scrapis" as a hostage for Conyngham's release as a prisoner of war; is willing
to set all his other prisoners at liberty if the English Ambassador will give security in his public character that an equal
number of Americans shall be sent at once to France. Unseemly conduct of Landais; his extraordinary demand for supplies of
every kind; has ventured to reduce these requests to one tenth the amount; anxious to form a court-martial. Thinks his prisoners
will number four hundred; will forward list of killed and wounded, a loss far exceeded by the enemy's. |
|||||||||||||||
| From John de Neufville, and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 11 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 34. | ||||||||||||
|
Sir Joseph Yorke's private applications to have the wounded prisoners landed and taken care of; if this is done, believes
they would be claimed forthwith as English subjects; importance of forwarding an exchange of prisoners. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Stevens, M. E. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 12 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 35. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin's interest on behalf of Mr. Currie, Captain of an English privateer, now a prisoner at Tours, who desires to
be exchanged, or, if that is impossible, to have leave of absence to return to England. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Collas, Peter. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 12 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 36. | ||||||||||||
|
This goes with the Captain of the "Sensible," together with a case of twenty-four cakes of Crown Soap, which Franklin's sister
[Mecom] made at Governor Green's. Question of undertaking the business of soap-making; the expense at present too great. Their
market scarcely sufficient to supply three quarters of the inhabitants. Messages from Mrs. Mecom. Gov. Greene and Mrs. Collas. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Greelaud, H. I. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 12 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 37. | ||||||||||||
|
Sending him six bills of exchange received from St. Domingo for acceptance. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| FromSamuel Vaughan and Son. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 12 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 38. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing Mr. Suard, who goes to France to solicit more moderate terms for the interest of his concerns in Grenada. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 12 | A.L.S. 3p. | XXXIX, 122. | ||||||||||||
|
Extracts of his letters to Commodore Jones relative to his next cruise. The squadron to leave as soon as they are refitted.
Fears the Captain of the "Alliance" [Landais] is a mischievous fellow. Warm welcome given Jones by the people of Amsterdam.
Sir J[oseph] Y[orke]'s memorial claiming that the "Serapis" and "Scarborough" are not legal prizes, being taken by rebel subjects
of England. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel. Versailles., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 14 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 40. | ||||||||||||
|
The case of François Vermeille, who embarked on an American corsair, "The Revenge," in 1777, but, having been transferred
to one of her prizes with several other sailors, they were captured by two English frigates; he now claims his share of the
fourteen prizes taken by the "Revenge," which, so far, Mr. Coffyn has refused to give him; desires Franklin's opinion in the
matter. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Williams, Jonathan. Sr. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 14 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 40 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Recommending Mr. Jeremiah Allen to Franklin's civilities. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Rousseaux, Jean. Wakefield, to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 14 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 41 | ||||||||||||
|
Desires his exchange; has been in the service of Congress and was Captain on board the American vessel. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 14 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 42. | ||||||||||||
|
Doctor Roemer, of Zurich, desires to settle in America; he has recommended the gentleman to Congress, but as it is a question
of learning, prefers that his own praises should be backed by an endorsement from Franklin; waits with the greatest impatience
for news of Count d'Estaing; hopes which he entertains. His use of the word "our" in referring to the Americans. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Price, Richard. Newington Green., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 14 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 43. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing a letter for Arthur Lee which, if not delivered, he desires burnt. News of Dr. Priestley and Dr. Ingen Housz. The
Society of Honest Whigs. Concerned at the death of Dr. Winthrop. Bibliography: Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 395).
|
|||||||||||||||
| From Trullon, -----. Rouen., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 15 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 44. | ||||||||||||
|
Has forwarded to Franklin the box of quinine. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Deane, Silas. Headquarters., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 15 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 45. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing M. [Pierre] Colomb, who came out to America with the Marquis de la Fayette and served with honor in the army.
He can give information of the state of the army and its operations. Hopes to embrace Franklin in Paris in the course of the
winter. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Coder, ----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 17 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 46. | ||||||||||||
|
Gratitude for the interest taken in his brother in connection with M. de Sartine; begs him to read the enclosed memoir asking
for assistance for M. Dubourg's nephew, left penniless by the death of this uncle. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Keralio, Chevalier. Forbach., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 17 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 47. | ||||||||||||
|
Expressing his devotion and gratitude towards Franklin; begs for news of him. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Stuart, Danniel. Dinan., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 18 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 48. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires his release from prison and a passage on board an Americanship. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 18 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 123. | ||||||||||||
|
Sir Joseph's memorial and the Admiralty's decision thereon. Reasons why it will be well for the squadron not to delay their
departure. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Cuming, James. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 18 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 50. | ||||||||||||
|
Will deliver letter, directed to Mr. [James] Lovell, to the Captain of the sloop with instructions to destroy it in case of
necessity. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Richard Booth and John Brevitt. Ostend., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 18 | L.S. 3p. | XVI, 51. | ||||||||||||
|
Articled to an attorney of eminence in London; their growing sympathy with American affairs; their ardent desire to serve
as officers in the Provincial Army; are about to start for Paris in the hope of obtaining an interview. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gourlade and Moylan. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 18 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 52. | ||||||||||||
|
Have received orders from Captain Jones to forward any letters to him through Franklin. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Frazer, John G. Bordeaux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 19 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 49. | ||||||||||||
|
Expects to sail for America; offers to take charge of any packets, Renews his intercessions on behalf of Mr. Cradock Taylor,
a prisoner at Aix. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Jules, Comte de Moatfort. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 19 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 53. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring the return of his "Plan on the General Education of the Distinguished American Youth" with Franklin's observations
thereon. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Crossley, Adam. Dinan Castle., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 19 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 54. | ||||||||||||
|
Is in a French prison for refusing to serve under French colors; is an American sailor; begs Franklin to procure him his liberty
and give him a pass to his own country. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Bourgeois, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 19 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 55. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires information relative to a bill of exchange payable to Philip Allen. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Stadel, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 20 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 56. | ||||||||||||
|
A project for raising a force, which will be serviceable to America in times of war and peace, by a Colonel in the sevice
of the King of Prussia who wishes to remain incognito. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From John de Neufville, and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 21 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 58. | ||||||||||||
|
Capt. Moses Grinnell, having fallen into the hands of an English ship, was robbed of all letters and bills of exchange; thinks
they will have time to the necessary precautions to prevent the bills being presented. Capt. Robinson's imprisonment and the
cause of it. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Brocklesby, Richard. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 22 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 59. | ||||||||||||
|
Lieutenant Richaard Croft, a prisoner at Charlottesville, Virginia; begs for his release from captivity on the established
terms of exchange. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lafreté, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 22 | A.L. 1p. | XVI, 60. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanking Franklin for the coins (?) he was kind enough to send him; Mr. Holker desires others like them. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 22 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 124. | ||||||||||||
|
Extracts from letters of M. Cottineau [de Kloguene], the Due de la Vauguyon, Dumas and Commodore Jones, relative to the pursuit
and capture of several deserters from the squadron [4p.]; prospect of the squadron's being repaired and ready for sea in about
a week. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Grantien, Lieut-Gen. Morlaix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 22 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 61. | ||||||||||||
|
Difficulties in the way of acceding to the demand of a Mme. Butler, who claims a thousand pounds indemnity for loss of property
on board the "Dublin." (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Girardot, Haller and Co. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 23 | L.S. 1p. | XVI, 62. | ||||||||||||
|
Mr. William Bingley, of Rotterdam, is about to proceed to America; instructions or introductions from Franklin will be greatly
appreciated. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Grillet, J. Winchester., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 24 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 64. | ||||||||||||
|
Surgeon on board an American corsair; captured by the English; has been two years in prison in England; begs assistance to
regain his liberty. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Landais, Pierre. "The Helder.", to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 24 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 65. | ||||||||||||
|
Why he has been prevented from complying with Franklin's order of the 15th inst; does not wish to go without a certificate
from Mr. Cottineau [de Kloguene]. Captain of the "Pallas," who is ill, but fears that if he stays longer, Franklin or the
French Minister will suspect him of delaying matters. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Genet, Edme Jacques. Versailles., to Benjamin Franklin | [Circa 1779.] October 24 | A.L. in 3d P. 3p. | XL, 204. | ||||||||||||
|
Transmitting several interesting papers from the Royal American Gazette; calls attention to the aspersions and lies they contain;
desires Franklins observations thereon for publication; they will appear as if by some anonymous writer in London. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Traxler, -----. Stanz., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 66. | ||||||||||||
|
His project of bringing Swiss and German troops to America. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 125. | ||||||||||||
|
Believes that the reply of the States-General to Sir J[oseph] Y[orke]'s memorial will be very satisfactory to Congress. Begs
for the return of the proposed treaty. General discomfiture in England. Mr. Sayre anxious to have the letters of marque promised
by Franklin. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Taylor, Cradock. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 25 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 67. | ||||||||||||
|
Encloses proofs of his being an American; rather than go into the English service again, will enter the French, provided there
is no hope of his returning to his native country. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Le Brun,-----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 68. | ||||||||||||
|
Desired by Messrs. de la Goaner, of Corunna, to find out if Arthur Lee is still the Deputy of Congress at the Court of Spain,
as it has been some time since they have been honored with his correspondence. They are also anxious to hear some news of
Capt. Conyngham, concerning whose fate they are uneasy. |
|||||||||||||||
| From John de Neufville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 69. | ||||||||||||
|
Promising to fill all orders for the supplies of the American squadron. Holland's friendly attitude towards America. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Du Bois, Henry. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 26 | A.L.S 2p. | XVI, 70. | ||||||||||||
|
Has rendered essential service to American Captains and prisoners escaped from England; would like a share of his orders and
commissions. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hartley, David. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 26 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 71. | ||||||||||||
|
Fearing that his letters relative to an exchange of prisoners have failed to reach Franklin, copies three of them; the first,
dated Sept. 1st, promises to recommend to Government Franklin's propositions respecting the best method of releasing prisoners
of war, desires Franklin's mediation in the case of Capt. Tattwell, an English prisoner; the second letter, dated Sept. 18th,
discusses the question of a third exchange and begs Franklin's intercession on behalf of another English prisoner, Mr. John
Stevenson; for the third letter, see page 154, XVI, 32. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Hartley, David. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 26 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 71 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning the exchange of prisoners; desires Franklin's intervention in the case of Capt. Stephenson, and another English
prisoner. A detailed account of Captain Conyngham's treatment since his capture by the English; his present imprisonment at
Plymouth, where he is tolerably well off; thinks this should be made known in America, in order that the three officers confined
in the jail at Philadelphia "to abide his fate" may also receive better treatment; evils arising from retaliation in the treatment
of prisoners. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gourlade and Moylan. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 27 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 72. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing Mr. Louis Le Grand, a well-known merchant of Havre, who has shown a particular attachment to the American cause. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Samson, Simon. Nantes, to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 28 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 73. | ||||||||||||
|
According to instructions received from the Navy Board at Boston, awaits Franklin's orders before sailing for America; reasons
why lie desires to hasten his departure. Several destitute American officers and sailors at Nantes, to whom he would willingly
give a passage, provided the Continent would furnish them with provisions and stores. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Johnson, Joshua. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 28 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 74. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to know whether an American settling in France is esteemed a subject of his Catholic Majesty and therefore liable
to certain taxes; upon the answer depends his continued residence in France. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 28 | A.L.S. 3p. | XXXIX, 126. | ||||||||||||
|
Holland's decision to admit the American squadron on the same footing as the vessels of other foreign powers. Begs for the
return of the proposed treaty with his remarks thereupon. Recommending Capt. Robinson, captain of an American merchant ship
who, with his son, escaped from the English. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Locke, John. Nantes., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 28 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 75. | ||||||||||||
|
An American sailor, captured by the English; after his release, went on board a whaler and was taken by the French; begs Franklin
to obtain his liberty. |
|||||||||||||||
| From von Steuben, W.A. Cüstrin., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 29 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 76. | ||||||||||||
|
His son, Frederick Wilhelm von Steuben, entered the American army in Sept. 1777, with the rank of General; since then, they
have received no news of him; begs to know if, he is still alive; hopes Franklin will not refuse this favor to two old people. (In German with a copy in French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From James Turing and Son. Middelburg., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 29 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 77. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanking Franklin for the interest he has taken in their efforts to reclaim the brig "Brunetts," seized by Capt. Babcock;
in accordance with Franklin's recommendation, they have invested Mr. Jonathan Williams, of Boston, with full powers to demand
redress from the Government of Massachusetts Bay. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 29 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 127. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing the opinion of the College of Admiralty at Amsterdam in answer to Sir J[oseph] Y[orke]'s memorial letter received
from Newfoundland from Wm. Franklin. (2p. in French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Varage, Capt Joseph. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 29 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 78. | ||||||||||||
|
Sends Franklin a signal code which he arranged with Capt. Jones. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Holker, Jean. Rouen., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 29 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 79. | ||||||||||||
|
Concerning Mrs. Butler's claim for property lost at sea; his wife presents her compliments, and is glad Franklin liked the
apple jelly. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Méchain, Pierre Francois André. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 30 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 80. | ||||||||||||
|
Begging Franklin's protection on behalf of M.de Roemer, who desires to settle in America, and about whom the Marquis de la
Fayette has already written. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Gautray, -------. Dourdan., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 30 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 82. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin to procure him some occupation. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From O'Gorman, Chevalier. Tonnerre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 30 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 82 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
The quantity of that year's vintage small, but the quality excellent; mentions prices at which he hopes to furnish Franklin
with several casks. Good wishes for the success of Count d'Estaing; reminds Franklin of his desire to become one day a subject
of the United States. Hopes to receive a visit from Franklin when America is free and there will be plenty of time to enjoy
the furits of his vintage. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 October 31 | A.L.S. 3p. | XXXIX, 128. | ||||||||||||
|
Copies of letters from M. de la Vanguyon and Dumas to Jones, à propos of his departure with the squadron for Dunkirk; second
furious memorial printed by Sir J[oseph] Y[orke]; advisability of the squadron leaving before Holland weakens. The affair
of the unlimited conveys no nearer completion. Mr. Izard at Amsterdam. Vessel being built from there after Mr. Sayre's pattern.
Affair of the deserters from the "Serapis." |
|||||||||||||||
| From Lenoir, Jean Charles Pierre. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 1 | L.S. 1p. | XVI, 83. | ||||||||||||
|
Acknowledging Franklin's letter and promising to have Mr. Smith carefully watched; will give orders to the police officers
to wait on Franklin for certain necessary details. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From John de Neufville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 1 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 84. | ||||||||||||
|
M. Dumas gone to the Hague. The American squadron to be placed on the same footing as the French men-of-war, so that the English
spies at the Helder may do as little harm as possible. Desires to see the Danish pay forfeit in American Possessions for their
disrespect towards the Colonies of the United States at Bergen and for their adoption of English party. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Marassá, ------. Mareuil., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 1 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 85. | ||||||||||||
|
Desiring news of Báchet de Rochefontaine who embarked for America in 1778 and entered the army with the rank of Major. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Haag, Jean. Boulogne-sur-mer., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 1 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 86. | ||||||||||||
|
Born in Charleston; served on board an American corsair until captured by the English; his arrival in France destitute of
everything; begs Franklin to pay his debts and to procure him passage to America. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Brillon, Mme. La Thuillerie., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 1 | A.L.S. 2p. | XLIII, 35. | ||||||||||||
|
Only the Expectation of a happier life beyond the grave enables us to bear this one, where we have continually to part with
friends. In heaven we shall all meet again, never to be separated. Gives her idea of what heaven will be like. (In French.) Bibliography: Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Oct,1906, 38.
|
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| From de la Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 2 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 87. | ||||||||||||
|
Glad that Irish patriots are beginning to stir. Desires Franklin's opinion in regard to the situation in Great Britain. Hears
that Capt. Conyngham is to be exchanged; attributes this clemency to fear of retaliation. Describes the conduct of the Danes
toward America as dirty; despises them too much to feel great anger, but thinks Jones might take some little revenge on them.
Begs for any news from "home." |
|||||||||||||||
| From de Berger, J.C. Münster., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 2 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 90. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires positions for himself and cousin in the American army. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 2 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 129. | ||||||||||||
|
Quotes from M. de Neufville to show the efforts of the English to cause trouble in the American squadron. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 3 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 130. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing copies of the permission to land the wounded British prisoners, and of the agreement between the American and English
Commodores. [4p.] Necessity of his having a secretary to help him with the work; understands the Messrs. Lee had such aids
with far less reason. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Adams, James. Mill Prison., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 3 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 88. | ||||||||||||
|
In want of the absolute necessaries of life; asks for a small supply of money. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Montgomery, Robert. Alicante., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 3 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 89. | ||||||||||||
|
The enclosed Spanish letter is due to Franklin's intervention and shows that he will be left perfectly tranquil for the future. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Brillon, Mme. La Thuillerie., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779 November 4?] | A.L. 2p. | XLIII, 36. | ||||||||||||
|
Is happy amongst her kindred and friends, surrounded by the beauties of Nature, but is not wholly contented, as she thinks of her absent friends. Prefers the quiet pleasures of country life to the excitement and pleasures of the city. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Dumas, C.G.F. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 5 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 131. | ||||||||||||
|
Enclosing copy of the Resolution of the States-General on the subject of the Chevalier Yorke's memorial, and also a copy of
the Chevalier's new momorial. (6 p. in French.) Attempt made on the life of Paul Jones by the English prisoners. Further proofs
of untrustworthiness on the part of Chevalier G[ran]d. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Boyd, William R. Nantes Castile., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 5 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 91. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to be released from prison; is an American sailor, and wishes to return to his native land. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Pine, Joseph. Angers., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 6 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 92. | ||||||||||||
|
After being released by Capt. Allen and given a passport to England, he fell into the hands of the French and is now in prison;
begs for his liberty. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Mitchell, George. Brittany., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 6 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 93. | ||||||||||||
|
Wishes to go to America; begs to be released from prison; his father famous for the number of persons he brought to America
from London-derry, Ireland. |
|||||||||||||||
| Fromde la Gaudinay, Chevalier. "Grandville"., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 6 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 94. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to serve in the American army or navy; is in the French service, so desires secrecy. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From von Steuben, Chevalier W.A. Custrin., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 6 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 94 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Having seen in the French Gazette that his son was actually in the American service as Inspector-General, he again takes the
liberty of enclosing a letter to be forwarded to him. (In German, with French translation.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Van der Capellen, Baron J.D. Zwolle., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 8 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 95. | ||||||||||||
|
Begs Franklin not to sign his name on the outside of the envelope, as it excites too much curiosity, leading to the last one
being opened. Good news from Capt. [J.G.] Diriks. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Wahrendorff and Son. Wismar., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 8 | L.S. 4p. | XVI, 96. | ||||||||||||
|
Writes in praise of the peas produced around Wismar. The English purchase great quantities for their marine service and hopes
that Franklin will give them commissions for America. (In French.) |
|||||||||||||||
| From Nesbitt, Jonathan. L'Orient., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 8 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 97. | ||||||||||||
|
Encloses bond for the purpose of obtaining a commission and letters of marque for Arthur Kirk, of the schooner "Independence,"
arrived at Nantes from Baltimore. |
|||||||||||||||
| From de La Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 9 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 98. | ||||||||||||
|
Wishes Franklin's opinion on the sudden change of orders; was just prepared to go into winter quarters with his troops, when
to his great surprise, a special courier arrived with orders to be ready to march at a moment's warning; meaning of all this
entirely unknown to anyone at Havre; various conjectures as to the project on hand; no orders arrived for the navy. Delicate
treatment of Irish affairs necessary. |
|||||||||||||||
| From Brillon, Mme. La Thuillerie., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779 November] 9 | A.L. 2p. | XLIII, 38. | ||||||||||||
|
Is displeased at not having beard from Franklin. Hopes he will see his error and repent. Her brother invites Franklin's son
to spend a few days with them in the country and to go hunting. (In French.) |
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| From De La Fayette, Marquis. Havre., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 10 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 99. | ||||||||||||
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Introducing Mr. Smith and Mr. Watts of Virginia, who desire letters to the American agent at Bordeaux. Is still mystified
as to the change of orders and awaits with impatience any messenger from Versailles. |
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| From Dalton, John et al. Coutances., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 11 | L.S. 2p. | LX, 32. | ||||||||||||
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Six American seamen tell of their escape from Mill Prison in England. Crossed the Channel to France in an open boat. On arrival
were arrested and imprisoned, suspected of being Englishmen. Appeal to Franklin to secure their release. |
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| From Gradelmüller, Hferonymus. Erfurt., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 11 | A.L.S. 3p. | LIX, 88. | ||||||||||||
|
Desires to establish a printing-house in Philadelphia for the benefit of the Germans there; however, can print in any language;
wishes his expenses paid; mentions his qualifications for other employment. (In German.) |
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| From Gradelmüller, Hferonymus. Erfurt., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 11 | 2p. | XVI, 100. | ||||||||||||
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Abstract of the same. (In French.) |
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| From John de Neüfville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 11 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 101. | ||||||||||||
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Has tried to prevent the captors of a certain vessel receiving money in England on letters of exchange which fell into their
hands. Commodore Jones to sail soon. |
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| From Austin, Jonathan Loring. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 12 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 102. | ||||||||||||
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Has not time before the vessel's departure to inform Franklin of occurrences here; refers him to the Hon. Mr. Adams, who sails
by this vessel. |
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| From Palmer, Joseph. Germantown., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 12 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 103. | ||||||||||||
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Wrote in August, 1779, by his nephew, Joseph Palmer, passenger on the "Mercury" packet; since then has heard nothing of him
or the vessel. His friend, Mr. Adams, sails the next day and will be able to give Franklin all particulars of recent events.
Evacuation of Rhode Island by the enemy two weeks before, leaving the town of Newport in a tolerably good condition. |
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| From Cooper, Samuel. Boston., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 12 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 104. | ||||||||||||
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Introducing his little grandson, who is to sail for France under Mr. Adams's care, where he will perfect himself in the French
language. |
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| From Jones, Jno Paul. "Serapis" Texel., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 13 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 106. | ||||||||||||
|
Has been afraid to send evidence against Capt. Landais by post; takes advantage of M. Dumas's kindness to send it now. Is
exceedingly sorry for the unavoidable delay in sailing; difficulty of obtaining supplies; embarrassed with more than 500 prisoners;
expects to be ready to start in a few days, though he must run the risk of meeting the enemy who are far superior to his whole
force. Hopes Franklin will approve his arrangements on board the "Alliance." Men and officers on board the "Bon Homme Richard"
in want of everything; afraid to mention this to M. de Chaumont after his unmerited reproaches; has written to Dr. Bancroft
on the subject of his misunderstanding with de Chaumont; hopes Franklin approves his attitude. |
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| From Brillon, Mme. La Thuillerie., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 13 | A.L. 1p. | XLIII, 32. | ||||||||||||
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Has been away for sixteen days and has not heard from him. Sends compliments of her family.
(In French.) |
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| From Boyd, William, R. Nantes Castle., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 14 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 107. | ||||||||||||
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Begs Franklin to procure his release from prison; has been in the American navy. Falsely accused of breaking jail and taking
money from the Agent. Received three wounds in the American service. |
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| From Coder, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 15 | L.S. 2p. | XVI, 108. | ||||||||||||
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Grateful for Franklin's intervention on his brother's behalf; begs him to say a few good words in his favor to M.de. Sartine,
that justice may be rendered him. (In French.) |
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| From d'lvernois, M.F. Geneva., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 15 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 109 1/2. | ||||||||||||
|
Franklin's connection with M.de Vergennes fits him above all men to make the truth known. His fellow-citizens have a difficult
course to follow, but they have a new model to imitate. (In French.) |
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| From de Brady, Baron. Tabor., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 16 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 110. | ||||||||||||
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His brother is a Captain in the American army; wishes to obtain a military position for himself. |
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| From Brillon, Mme. La Thuillerie., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779?] Tuesday [November ?] 16 | A.L. 2p. | XLIII, 34. | ||||||||||||
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Has received Franklin's story of the "Whistle" translated into French by himself. It amused them all very much. Will try in
future not to pay too dearly for "the whistle." Has often been deceived by others but has never deceived anyone herself. (In French.) Bibliography: Printed in Proc. An Philos. Soc., XL, 106.
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| From Hartley, David. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 16 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 111. | ||||||||||||
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The enclosed letter from the Committee of Sick and Hurt (XVI, 109) requires no comment. Arranging details concerning the exchange
of prisoners. |
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| From de Sanlecque, Veuve. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 16 | L.S. 2p. | XVI, 111 1/2. | ||||||||||||
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Heard that Franklin desired to procure some type; takes the liberty of offering him all that is left of her husband's stock. (In French.) |
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| From Martel, -----. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 17 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 112. | ||||||||||||
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Wishes information in regard to the commercial affairs of the United States. (In French.) |
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| From Le Veillard, Mile. -----. Dreux., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 18 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 113. | ||||||||||||
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Appreciates Franklin's desire to have her write to him, though she infinitely prefers talking to him or indeed embracing him,
although he has accused her of doing it with a bad grace; in spite of his great knowledge of men and things, accuses him of
not understanding a French girl. Reasons why she has not written before; gaieties incident to her cousin's wedding. Expresses
the greatest affection for him. Sends messages from her father and mother. (In French.) |
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| From Green, John. Nantes, to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 18 | L.S. 1p. | XVI, 114. | ||||||||||||
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Has heard that the "Alliance" is without a Commander; offers his services. |
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| From Housz, J Ingen. Brussels., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 18 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 115 | ||||||||||||
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During his stay in England, was engaged in writing on small-pox and inoculation, also upon electricity and medicine. Believes
he could be more useful to the world and to his Royal Mistress, were he allowed to stay where he pleased; England agrees with
him and Vienna does not. Visits he paid to Sir John Pringle, Lord Shelburne and Dr. Priestley. Has sent Franklin his book,
also two papers on electricity; wishes he could spend the winter in Paris to superintend the translation of his works; expects
to pay Franklin a visit very shortly. |
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| From Conyngham, Gustavus. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 18 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 116. | ||||||||||||
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His escape from Mill Prison; harsh treatment he has experienced; desires to retaliate; always ready to serve his country. Bibliography: Printed in Hale's Franklin in France, 1,346.
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 18 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 132. | ||||||||||||
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Everything adjusted on board the squadron. Capt. Conyngham's escape from an English prison and his arrival at Amsterdam. |
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| From John de Neufville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 18 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 117. | ||||||||||||
|
Encloses letters; has forwarded others to the Texel for M. Dumas. Squadron delayed further. |
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| From The Treasurer of Loans. Philadelphia, to The American Commissioners | 1779 November 19 to 1780 October 23 | L.S. Fra[nci]s Hopkinson. 9p. | LXIV, 22-29. | ||||||||||||
|
Statement of sets of exchange issued to the States of New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York,
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Has reason to believe that the Continental loan office bills have been counterfeited in New York, but as yet has not seen any of these counterfeits. |
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| From Bridgen, Edward "Friend". London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 19 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 118. | ||||||||||||
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Directions as to his future address. Motto for medals. Question of the coins; the design, mottoes, emblems, cost, etc. |
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| From Montgomery, Robert. Alicante., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 20 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 119. | ||||||||||||
|
Thanking Franklin for his intercession with the Count d'Aranda on his behalf; encloses a copy of a Spanish letter written
by the Governor to the Minister, which acknowledges his justification; offers further proof, in order to eradicate any doubt
in Franklin's mind. |
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| From de Chaumont, Le Ray. Passy., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 20 | L. 3d P. 1p. | XVI, 120. | ||||||||||||
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Sends a letter and memoir, which may prove of use of M. Landais, whose reputation suffers from the accounts in the gazettes. (In French.) |
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| From Sayre, Stephen. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 11 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 121. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing Captains Hodgson and Grenel, both of whom merit Franklin's assistance. Begs that the promised letter of marque
may be sent by the first post. |
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| From de la Elancherie, Pahin Champlain. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 22 | L.S. 2p. | XVI, 123. | ||||||||||||
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Asks Franklin's interest on behalf of the institution which so engrosses him; begs Franklin's presence at the next meeting. (In French.) |
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| From Hodgson, William. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 23 | A.L.S. 3p. | LXI, 43. | ||||||||||||
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Relating to exchange of prisoners detained at Forton. |
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| From Hodgson, William. London., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 23 | L. 2p. | XLIV, 39. | ||||||||||||
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Relative to the exchange of prisoners at Morlaix. |
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| From John de Neufville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 23 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 124. | ||||||||||||
|
Introducing Capt. Moses Grinnell, who had the misfortune lately to fall into the enemy's hands, and begging Franklin to indicate
to him the best and speediest passage to America. |
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| From Taylor, Cradock. Aix., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 24 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 125. | ||||||||||||
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Is informed that a cartel arrived at Marseilles some time ago, which is expected to sail on the 4th or 5th of December; desires
Franklin to procure him his liberty before then. |
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| From Thevart, -----. Beauvais., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 24 | A.L.S. 4p. | XVI, 125 1/2. | ||||||||||||
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Offering to furnish America with cloth of his own manufacture. (In French.) |
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| From Besson, George Leopold. Montbéliard., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 25 | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 126. | ||||||||||||
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Implores Franklin's assistance once again in his miserable situation. (In French.) |
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| From John de Neufville and Son. Amsterdam., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 25 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 127. | ||||||||||||
|
The resolution taken by the States concerning Capt. Jones and his prizes; it was carried by the nobility and ten voting cities
of little importance, but opposed by Amsterdam and five other large cities. Wishes that Jones could have departed before this
resolution was carried. |
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| From Evans, John. Angers., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 27 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 128. | ||||||||||||
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Through Franklin's interest hopes to procure a pass to return to England; Sir Edward Newenham and Mr. Green will be his security
to obtain an exchange. |
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| From Darang, Chevalier. Nancy., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 27 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 129. | ||||||||||||
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Concerning several bills of exchange drawn on Franklin. (In French.) |
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| From Beerenbrock, Dr. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | [Circa 1779.] November 27 | A.L.S. 1p. | XLI, 102. | ||||||||||||
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Desiring to know whether Dr. Ingen Housz has arrived in Paris. |
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| From de Bomare, Jacques-Christoph Valmont. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 27 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 131. | ||||||||||||
|
Has not forgotten his kindness in inviting him to Passy but his duties as Director of the Museum of M. le Prince de Condé,
keep him at Chantilly. (In French.) |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. Texel Road., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 28 | A.L.S. 1p. | XXXIX, 133. | ||||||||||||
|
Resolution of November 17th, still refusing to deliver up the prizes to Sir J[oseph] Y[orke]'s second memorial, but ordering
the squadron to sail with the first fair wind; protests against this last order by various Dutch towns. |
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| From de Conti, L.H. de Bourbon Prince. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 28 | L.S. 1p. | XVI, 132. | ||||||||||||
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Asking for passes for two of his grooms whom he is sending into England to purchase dogs. (In French.) |
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| From Jones, Jno Paul. "Alliance," Texel., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 29 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 133. | ||||||||||||
|
Forwarded Franklin the required certificates respecting Capt. Landais. Hopes his second interview with the French Ambassador
will meet with Franklin's approval. Has one hundred prisoners on board; expects to embrace the first fair wind for L'Orient.
His reason for not coming on board the "Alliance" earlier was a feeling of delicacy, Capt. Landais having accused him of using
his interest with Franklin to supersede him in the command. His strong desire that the "Serapis" should become the property
of America. Only his attachment to his duty prevents his embracing Franklin before leaving Europe. Capt. Conyngham is with
him. |
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| From Le Roy, Jean Baptiste., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779.] November 29 | A.L.S. 2p. | XLII, 181. | ||||||||||||
|
His lecture on lightning-rods. Forwarded Franklin a box containing the engravings of birds and the memoirs of his brother.
Acknowledging Franklin's courtesy to his relative, M. Stanley; recommending M. Desdonaires to his kind attention. (In French.) |
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| From Dumas, C.G.F. Texel Road., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 30 | A.L.S. 2p. | XXXIX, 134. | ||||||||||||
|
Still waiting for a fair wind in order that the "Alliance" may set sail. At the request of Commodore Jones, encloses copies
of letters relative to his two prizes, taken to Norway. [1 p.] |
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| From de Sanlecque, Veuve. Paris., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 30 | A.L.S. 1p. | XVI, 134. | ||||||||||||
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Concerning printing and type about which Franklin wrote him. (In French.) |
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| From Holker, John. Rouen., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November 30 | A.L.S. 2p. | XVI, 135. | ||||||||||||
|
Acknowledging Franklin's favor of the 22d ult., and promising to look after the eight boxes, sent from Amsterdam, until further
notice; his eagerness to oblige Franklin in every possible way; his wife's great admiration and affection for Franklin; begs
him to visit them. Anxious for news of Comte d'Estaing's expedition. (In French.) |
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| From de la Rochefoucauld, Duc., to Benjamin Franklin | [1779. November] | A.L. in 3d P. 2p. | XLIV, 224. | ||||||||||||
|
Would not have enough time to translate the "Amiens letter." If he wishes, he could send it to the editor of the Journal,
who understands such matters. Encloses a note by M. Turgot. Asks if it is true that New York has been taken. (In French.) |
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| From de la Vauguyon, Duc. The Hague., to Benjamin Franklin | 1779 November [25?] | A.L.S. 3p. | XVI, 136. | ||||||||||||
|
Has informed Mr. Johnes [Jones] of the King's intentions, as transmitted by M. de Sartine; Mr. Jones's conduct in this affair
has been most admirable; all he asks is that his crew shall not lose their share of the prize money and that his prisoners
may be exchanged for Americans. (In French.) |
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