Philadelphia. Power of attorney to Deborah Franklin.
Philadelphia. Power of attorney to Deborah Franklin. Facsimile. For original, see: LXVI, 2.
Order for a pair of leather breeches to be charged to his account.
Printed in the Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 2d Ser., XVI, 186.
Articles of agreement for carrying on the business of printing in the City of New York.
A poem on Mareashine. The relative advantages of New York and Pennsylvania for settlers.
I Sing my Plain Country Joan
Song. Toast to his wife, Deborah. Written in another's hand, but attributed to Franklin.
When he compares the Governor's Message to the House [in relation to the expedition against Cape Breton, February 26-28, 1745] with his private conversation cannot but admire at his insincerity, nor can be justify the Assembly from disingenuity in their answer. In short Governor [George Thomas] and the Assembly have been acting a farce and playing tricks to amuse the world. Abstract of the debate in the Assembly on the Governor's Message. (Incomplete.)
See also L(ii), 30, 30a. [Notes on Assembly debates]
Knows of no remedy for the natural inclinations referred to and would not tell him evenif he did, as he considers the proper remedy in marriage.
(In French. Fragment.)
Drinking Song
Trade of Province of 40,000 Inhabitants
Fragment. Our governor thinks they contain the commissions for the officers, and orders to draw for the pay of the troops.
Sally [Franklin] was inoculated April 18, 1746.
Benjamin Franklin to Cadwallader Colden, 1747 August 6
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 93; Bigelow, II, 103; Smyth, II, 322).
Franklin's opinion of the inertia of matter. Is glad to hear that Mr. Colden will proceed with the electrical experiments, and is satisfied that there are workmen in America who can make the apparatus; if Mr. Colden is satisfied to have it made here, he will oversee the work Mr. [James] Logan is satisfied that some of the faults he formerly objected to in Colden's article on fluxions, are his own.
Printed in Works (Smyth, II, 316).
Glad to hear of Mr. [George] Whitefield's safe arrival. Received a letter from Mr. [Joseph] Dowse requesting an explanatiion of Dr. Franklin's dissatisfaction with Mrs. Steel(e); his reply and advice to his brother and sister regarding the affair.
Concerning the Articles of Association for the defense of the Province [of Pennsylvania]. (Final part missing.)
Proposal that the Managers of the Lottery be applied to arrange for defense of the Colony of Pennsylvania against the French and Indians on the Coast and Frontier. Outline of plans for the defense.
Fragment. Suggestion of a partition of the New Building of the Academy [the future University of Pennsylvania].
Philadelphia. Mutilated.
to -----, -----.
Description of a magic circle.
(Incomplete.)
Plan for a Mortgage Association
Read at the Royal Society, June 3, 1756. "By B.F., Esq. LL.D., F.R.S." is the hand of a Royal Society clerk, which means this is the actual manuscript sent for printing in
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 127; Smyth, III, 175).
Printed in Works (Sparks, V, 283; Bigelow, II, 251; Smyth, III, 82).
Regarding the improper distinction of Els.
Printed in Franklin, Experiments and Observations on Electricity, 1769, pg. 350 also Smyth, v.2, pg. 456.
Conclusion of a letter referencing Franklin's magic squares and circles. One-page fragment only. See also: L(i), 52.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 145: Bigelow, II, 267; Smyth, III, 107).
Philadelphia. An apology for not answering sooner. Idea and illustration of a waterspout; its relation to a whirlwind.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 174; Smyth, III, 129).
Philadelphia. Observations relative to water, air, trade-winds, etc. Read before the Royal Society, November 4, 1756.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, II, 459; Smyth, III, 143.)
Philadelphia. Glad to hear of his improved health. Franklin's notion of Good Works—works of kindness, charity, mercy, and public spirit [concluding lines torn out].
Printed, in part, in Works (Smyth, III, 147).
Glad to hear that he has taken a circumstantial account of the appearance at Trumble's house; which is sufficient to establish his new hypothesis of the direction of lightning. Received a pane of glass and a letter from Mr. [Ebenezer] Kinnersley mentioning his suspicions that the stoke was upwards. Wrote Mr. K. a short account of the experiment he made before he left home, and refers him to William Franklin for the explanation according to the new hypothesis. Expects to set out for home next Monday.
P. S. Encloses a letter from William Franklin's uncle with a power of attorney, and desires him to attack for Franklin and Williams, Grant's right to Pitt's Walnut Street land by virtue of his mortgage.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 180; Smyth, III, 186).
An answer to observations by Mr. Colden upon the letter from Dr. Franklin of May, 3, 1753, to Jared Eliot. (Read at the Royal Society, Nov. 4, 1756.)
Mentions Conrad Weiser, George Croghan, Andrew Montour; Half-King.
Printed in O'Calloghan, Doc. Hist. of New York, II, 608-609 and 613-614.
Influence of the French among the Indians; their design to surround the British Colonies. Rules for governing the Grand Council and powers to be entrusted to that body. (Many pages missing.)
Small excerpt of a diary, mentioning travel from White Plains, where he met a company of militia; to New Haven, where he stayed across from the college, [Yale University]; to Wallingsford, where he experienced a misfortune of a broken carriage window.
Presents his duty to her mother and love to the children and to all his friends.
Fragments of a paper "on the Means of Settling a new Colony westward of Pensilvania, (drawn up to divert the Connecticut Emigrants from their Design of Invading this Province, and to induce them to go where they would be less injurious and more useful)." [quote from Franklin to Peter Collinson, 26 June 1755, Pierpont Memorial Library]
Philadelphia. Fragment. Has just returned from a long journey and has found Fothergill's favour of November.
Annapolis. Arrived last night. Shall not return by the same road with the company, but will go round by Winchester, and so to Carlisle in order to settle the posts which the Assembly agreed to support for a year between the Camp and Philadelphia.
Lancaster. Benjamin Franklin's accounts in the matter of the hiring of wagons for the transportation of supplies for General Braddock's army.
Fragment. Interpretation of a seal which is comprised of an altar, two hearts, and a cupid.
Philadelphia. Could not avoid meeting the Assembly who are now sitting; will await his arrival to settle their money accounts and make measures relating to the wagon affair. General [William] Shirley sent his Warrant to Mr. [Sir William] Johnson to pay Franklin such sums as are necessary to settle the wagon accounts.
Written on same leaf as XLV, 9a and 9c. Printed in Works (Smyth, III, 290).
Philadelphia. Settled Colonel [William] Hunter's account. Encloses a copy of General [William] Shirley's warrant to [Sir William] Johnson for such payments as the wagon affair may require. Hopes that when Johnson and Shirley meet some method will be found of transferring the cash for the payment of those poor people, without risk or trouble.
Written on same leaf as XLV, 9b and 9c. Printed in Works (Smyth, III, 289).
Philadelphia. Received his favor of the 1st with discharges of Ewins and Rieger; will take care to observe the directions relating to them.
Philadelphia. Thanks him for the orders for the payment of the wagon owners. Cannot see the papers to which he is referred because of the absence of the Governor. Sorry he cannot see him at New York. Continued on XLV, 11a.
Written on same leaf as XLV, 9a and 9b. Also denoted as XLV, 11b. Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 55; Bigelow, II, 418; Smyth, III, 290).
Philadelphia. Hopes he received the bill for £75 when he wrote for one of Mr. [John] Smeaton's new air pumps for the Academy; sends a bill for £30 with a list of some philosophical implements, which he begs him to send, insured. News just arrived that eight families near Shamokin were cut off last week by Indians. The people on the frontier will be furnished with arms and ammunition. Hopes to be home when the next Assembly meets.
Philadelphia. The new Assembly chose Mr. Partridge and Mr. [Robert] Charles as their agents for the ensuing year. A considerable sum is subscribed for the supply for the troops, on the frontier of New York, etc., during the winter, with warm waistcoats, etc. The Indians last week cut off eight families; 600 arms have been purchased for the people of the frontier. Heard that a petition will be sent to the King against the Assembly. Hopes Parliament will establish a union of the Colonies for the common defence.
Printed in Works (Smyth, III, 292).
Philadelphia. Extract from preceding letter.
(Copy.)
Easton. Glad the companies are forming in town and choosing their officers. Marched Aston's and Trump's companies over the mountains after many difficulties. Waiting for supplies.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 102; Bigelow, II, 445; Smyth, III, 320).
Concerning the assignment of the Dock Ward and other Militia Companies. (Incomplete.)
[Philadelphia]. Congratulations on the birth of a daughter. Sends his blessing to the little stranger and desires to know her name.
List of necessaries wanted for the hospital of the 1st Battalion of the Royal American Regiment at Philadelphia.
Relating to the militia
Relating to the militia; to the establishing of a Post of Tioga, and to the abvisability of concerting with New York and Massachusetts as to the raising of troops; eclipses; physician's fees; amount of linen, etc.
Bethlehem. Thinks the line of forts will be finished in a fortnight or three weeks. will then make a trip to Philadelphia to send away the lottery tickets and pay off the prizes.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 104; Bigelow, II, 447; Smyth, III, 323).
[Philadelphia]. Regarding Colonel Franklin's Philadelphia Regiment of Foot. Asserts that it is false that few people seem inclined to muster arms under the present military laws. States that nine companies of the Philadelphia regiment of foot under Colonel Franklin, consisting of about 1000 men, appeared in arms, being mustered by the officers commissioned in pursuance of the law. States that the German people made a considerable part of the body.
Fredericktown. Excepts to sail that day. Peter [his servant] was taken ill but is almost well again. Informs her if she wants money to present one of the two orders he left with her to Mr. Cha[rle]s Norris. Enjoins her to be careful of her accounts, particularly about the lottery affairs. If there is peace shall probably not come home so soon as he purposed.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 115; Bigelow, II, 457; Smyth, III, 331).
Williamsburg. Account of his journey; may return to New York with Colonel [William] Hunter and his lady in the Man-of-War.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 116; Bigelow, II, 458; Smyth, III, 332).
Arrived at Colonel [William] Hunter's, near Hampton, where he was received in the most obliging manner. Mr. Hunter is not ill but thin. Condition of the place at the time. Uncertain as to the time he may return or the way he shall take back. Asks her to deliver the money, belonging to Colonel Hunter, to Mr. Nelson when he calls for it, taking his receipt. (First par missing.)
Continues well. Arrived with Mr. [William] Hunter yesterday. Have almost finished their business together. (Fragment.)
Philadelphia. Encloses a copy of the late conference at Easton; the Indians are preparing to continue the war. Opinion of Sir William Johnson's step to procure peace with the Six Nations. If Lord Loudoun would order the recruits to the frontier, they would be of great assistance to the inhabitants.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 121; Bigelow, II, 468; Smyth, III, 341).
Events leading up to the French and Indian War
Events leading up to the French and Indian War arranged in chronological order.
to General William Shirley
Is represented at home as an opposer of Government and disaffected to the King's service. Since he is acquainted with what zeal he served Gen. [Edward] Braddock and also with his readiness to assist his forces by affecting the grant from the Asembly for £10,000 in provisions and clothing; he desires him to mention these things in a letter to him that he may be at liberty to communicate it to Sir Everard Fawkener,and thus remove any impressions to his disadvantage.
Like the preceding with but slight change of wording. Acquaints him of what part he took in the grant and that he actually subscribed three tenths of the whole for which he is not yet reimbursed.
[Philadelphia]. Sends him copies of last year's votes, and other valuable papers. It is estimated that £125,000 is necessary to defend the Province for one year; this large sum cannot be raised and three-fourths of the troops must be disbanded. The House has asked Mr. [Isaac] Norris and Dr. Franklin to go to England to assist in getting these matters settled.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 127; Bigelow, II, 483; Smyth, III, 367).
[Philadelphia]. Would have written a long letter but the House desired the Speaker and him to go immediately home and settle the differences with the Proprietors; it is possible that one of them will soon have the pleasure of seeing and conferring with him on their affairs.
Philadelphia. Appoints him postmaster of Philadelphia during his absence; office is not be removed from his house without his consent. Tells him to pay attention to Mrs. [Deborah] Franklin's advice. Is to retain 10 per cent commission. (Torn).
Printed in Works (Bigelow, II, 496).
Philadelphia. Power of attorney.
Trenton. On his journey to New York where he is to take passage to England.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 131; Bigelow, II, 497; Smyth, III, 378).
Philadelphia. Regarding the misunderstanding between them relative to the prize-money and the Academy tickets. (Copy.)
New York. Recommends him to an ingenious physician in Charlestown who knows the rule of making cool, weak, refreshing punch. Prays that he has a pleasant voyage.
Printed in Works (Smyth, III, 382.)
New York. Is about to embark for London; refers him to his article on fire written to Dr. Lining. Introduces Colonel [Henry] Bouquet.
Printed in Works (Smyth, III, 381).
New York. A disquisition on heat and cold. (First part missing.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 203; Bigelow, II, 498; Smyth, III, 383).
Commission of James Parker as their Agent and Comptroller of the Post-Offices of North America. Draft by Franklin of document signed: [Benjamin] Franklin and [Wiliam] Hunder.
Benjamin Franklin and William Hunter to James Parker, 1757 April 22
Instructions for him as Comptroller of the General Post-Office during Mr. [Benjamin] Franklin's absence. Signed: [Benjamin] Franklin and [William] Hunter.
New York. Is determined against going in the first pacquet. Asks her to send him the Indian sealskin hussiff with all the things that were in it, the Indian lady's gut-cambric, and one or two books on the game of chess.
Printed in Works (Smyth, III, 392).
Woodbridge, New Jersey. Has already waited six weeks for the sailing of the pacquet and still does not know when she is likely to sail; will not meddle with his paper currency sinice he always loses by it; his wife is with him, but Billy and Sally [Franklin] are in New York.
New York. Delayed at New York. Dined with Lord Loudoun; French fleet reported to be cruising off the coast. May stay at Woodbridge until the pacquet sails, and, while there, try to finish his work. (Mutilated.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 135; Bigelow, II, 509; Smyth, III, 395).
New York. Delays in sailing. Interview with Lord [Loudoun] respecting the pay to servants enlisted in the army.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 138; Bigelow, II, 512; Smyth, III, 397). For postscript to letter, see XLV(i), 56.
New York. Will go on board the next day. Hopes Sally [Franklin] will be obedient and mind her learning and improvement.
(Multilated.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 145; Bigelow, II, 519; Smyth, III, 405).
[New York]. Is at length going abroad; it is said the fleet will sail tomorrow, but this cannot be depended upon.
Postscript to XLV, 16
London. His arrival in London.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 149; Bigelow, II, 520; Smyth, III, 419).
Tuesday morning. Took the powder he prescribed and had a good night's rest. Had no headache in the morning and therefore did not cup. Had, however, a giddiness and swimming in his head which, whenever he rises or turns suddenly, makes him stagger; hears a humming noise in his head and sees faint twinkling lights. Asks for his advice.
London. His long illness. Will entertain Mr. [Peter] Collinson and Dr. [John] Fothergill with her account of Tedynskung's visit. Glad Sally [Franklin] went to Elizabethtown. General [William] Shirley's affairs in an uncertain state and he (Gen. S.) is endeavoring to obtain an enquiry into his conduct. Tells her not to be troubled about reports spread by his enemies about him; should he not be able to do his country any good; he will at least take care not to do it any harm. The agrecable conversation he meets with among men of learning and the notice taken of him by persons of distinction, are the principal things that soothe him during this painful absence from his family and friends; yet those would not detain him another week if he had not other inducements; duty to his country and hopes of being able to do it some service. (Part missing.)
Three fragments of the same letter. For another fragment, see: LXXVIII, 22c. Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 149; Bigelow, II, 521; Smyth, III, 429).
For other fragments, see: XLVI(ii), 94, 95 and 98. Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 149; Bigelow, II, 521; Smyth, III, 429).
London. His long illness. Will entertain Mr. [Peter] Collinson and Dr. [John] Fothergill with her account of Tedynskung's visit. Glad Sally [Franklin] went to Elizabethtown. General [William] Shirley's affairs in an uncertain state and he (Gen. S.) is endeavoring to obtain an enquiry into his conduct. Tells her not to be troubled about reports spread by his enemies about him; should he not be able to do his country any good; he will at least take care not to do it any harm. The agrecable conversation he meets with among men of learning and the notice taken of him by persons of distinction, are the principal things that soothe him during this painful absence from his family and friends; yet those would not detain him another week if he had not other inducements; duty to his country and hopes of being able to do it some service. (Part missing.)
Recommends arbitration rather than a law-suit to collect a debt, concerning which he has been consulted.
London. Death of his friend [William] Parsons. Hackney coaches in London; London one great smoky house. His health. Account of various articles he sent her. (Incomplete.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 163; Bigelow, III, 5; Smyth, III, 430).
Benjamin Franklin to Deborah Franklin, 1758 June 10
London. Presents. Domestic concerns. Electric bells. Prudent for her not to engage in Party disputes. The Proprietors have determined to discard Governor [William] Denny on account of his conduct. Governorship offered to a certain Mr. Graves, who declined to accept it.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 167; Bigelow, III, 12; Smyth, III, 438).
London. The case of [William] Moore and [William] Smith. Mr. [Robert] Charles attempted to ascertain how far our privileges would be affected by coming immediately under the Crown; recommends that we remove the prejudices that have spread in England against them. The Proprietors are determined to discard their present Governor as soon as they find a successor. (Conclusion missing.)
Printed in Works (Bigelow, III, 19; Smyth, III, 443).
London. Will send her some stuff for chair bottoms, and an iron oven if he can get it on board. Has a violent cold. Billy [Franklin] still in the country. They have lately met with a small rebuff in France. The troops are returned.
Benjamin Franklin to Deborah Franklin, 1758
Wrote to Mr. [David] Hall that he received his bills. Hopes his anger is over. Thinks it would improve cousin Josey if he was to come to England and work in some of the best marble shops for a year or two. Is sorry to hear of any disturbance in the Academy the rather as by his introducing that imprudent man [William Smith ?], he thinks he is in some degree the cause of those misfortunes.
(Mutilated.)
London. Several particulars about himself. Lodges in Craven street; has four rooms, furnished; living in London very expensive; Billy [his son] is with him and very serviceable; Peter [the servant he took with him] has behaved well. Goodeys he now and then gets a few, but apples seldom. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson sends her a pair of knitted [garters]. Will purchase various articles with the £100 she sent him and then send them to her. Will not go to Holland, but intends to see a great part of England as soon as the weather permits travelling. Sends her his picture in miniature. (Part missing.)
Philosophical hints.
[London]. Detailing the contents of two or three boxes sent via the
London. Asks her to tell Mr. [Charles] Thomson that he has just heard that the Proprietor is writing an answer to his book (An Enquiry into the Causes of the Alienation of the Delware and Shawaneese Indians, etc.), and will pay off him and the Quakers. Sends her two boxes in which are articles for herself and his friends.
London. Reasons why she does not receive a letter by every pacquet. Sent her some boxes per Captain Smith but they were not put on the bill of lading. Asks her, in directing his letters, not to put the title, Honorable, before his name.
Liverpool. Has been out on his journey almost three weeks; spent some time at Derbyshire and Manchester; shall set out for Lancaster. The journey agrees very well with him. Not certain whether he is to continue on his route to Scotland or return to London through Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, expects letters at Lancaster that will determine him. Will endeavor to return to Philadelphia early next spring.
Manner in which the fresh supply of twelve million pounds, to continue the war, may be most easily borne by the British public.
Printed in V. Crane (ed.), Letters to the Press, 7-9.
London. Prospect of peace. Combants the notion that Canda should be given up; the poor condition of the laws which are sent to England for the King's approbation. Would be glad to render any service to Maryland's Assembly; will take every opportunity of vindicating them.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 192; Bigelow, III, 42; Smyth, IV, 7).
London. Has lately been indisposed with an epidemical cold in the head; took Dr. [John] Fothergill's advice and parted with eight ounces of blood from the back of his head; feels better. Acknowledges the receipt of the apples. Sends her two saucepans, plated silver inside. Was blooded on Sunday, 16 ounces being drawn from him.
London. Recovered from his late indisposition. Bought three saucepans plated silver inside, sent her two of them and kept the smallest in which to make his watergruel. The wine is excellent and the apples are a great comfort to him. Sends Sally [Franklin] a cask of Sheffield goods instead of stationery.
London. Mr. [William] Strahan recommends him to settle in England.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 194; Bigelow, III, 44; Smyth, IV, 9).
London. Is recovered of a slight illness he had, the same that affected him when he returned from Gnadenbut—a pain and giddiness in his head; has been cupped, blooded, physicked, and blistered; became somewhat thin on account of those operations; purposes taking a little journey for a few days during the Easter holidays.
London. Has ordered to his care from Liverpool 9 casks and I bale which he requests him to forward to Peter Franklin in New Port, Rhode Island. Requests him to pay the freight and charge to him. Hopes to see him during the summer.
London. Received the invoice and bill for earthenware; desires them to get insurance for £50 which would include the Bale from Kendal; requests them to draw on him for the whole, also asks them to send a copy of the invoice with the goods to Peter Franklin, of Rhode Island if the ship is not gone.
London. Sorry that he cannot be certain as to the time of going into Derbyshire; the Province affairs are to have a hearing before the Board of Trade; he is engaged in public business relating to the Colonies, which will have several hearings before the Lords of Trade and the Council, the first of which is fixed for the 18th and the rest, uncertain, it is imposible for him to forsee when he shall be at liberty; when that time comes, hopes to visit him.
Printed V. Crane, ed., Benjamin Franklin's Letters to the Press, no. 7
Defending the Canada pamphlet. When he read the "Letter of Two Great Men," the "Remarks" on that Letter, and the "Interest of Great Britian considered with Regard to her Colonies," in answer to those "Remarks," he sat down satisfied that he understood something of the subject, until a sensible writer from Bath perplexed him with assurances that the doctrines of that piece are big with mischief, tending to entertain eternal war upon them, and the reasoning is very fallacious.
(Incomplete.)
Complete letter at Library of Congress. See Smyth, vol. 4, pg. 20
There is no rank in natural knowledge of equal dignity and importance with that of being a good parent, a good child, a good husband, etc., in short a good Christian. Nicolas Gimerack, therefore, who neglected the care of his wife and family, to pursue butterflies, was a just object of ridicule.
(First part missing.)
Benjamin Franklin to Deborah Franklin, 1760 June 27
Previously misidentified as being written to Mary Stevenson. (Corrected May 2013.) Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 201; Bigelow, III, 59; Smyth, IV, 22).
London. Advises her not to be troubled by idle reports concerning him. Negro School established by Dr. Bray's Associates. Faults of servants. Marriage in London. Death of David Edwards. (A. copy.)
London. Is well. Sends her the eider-down coverlid and bag for the feet, also a camlet for his sister. Peter is concerned that she should be so perplexed about a house.
London. Has received the money from the exchequer and lodged it in the Bank; thinks the money should be laid out in Stocks. P.S. The sum lodged in the bank belonging to the Province is £26,648 4s. 6d.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IV, 86.)
The proportionment of the Parliamentary Grant according to the number of effective men each Colony had in the field, and the amount allotted to the Province of Pennsylvania and the lower counties.
(A. copy.)
London. Relative to stock he purchased for him. Cause for the present lowness of the stocks. (A copy.)
An hypothetical case to ascertain the custom of merchants in reference to commissions on a commercial transaction.
For introducing an arbitrary government into His Majesty's foreign Plantations.
London. Probable cause for her not receiving his letters. The trouble between Mr. Flower and his wife. Acquaints her that their business draws near a conclusion and that they will have a hearing in less than a month, after which he will be able to fix some day for his return.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 214; Bigelow, III, 130; Smyth, IV, 88).
to the Printer of the London Chronicle
"Of the Meanes of Disposing the Enemie to Peace." Purporting to be a chapter from an old book of Discourses addressed to some King of Spain. Letter signed: "A Briton."
See also: L(ii), 53b. Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 217; Bigelow, III, 132; Smyth, IV, 90); V. Crane (ed.), Franklin Letters to the Press, 18-19.
For analysis of the pamphlet, see V. Crane, ed., Benjamin Franklin's Letters to the Press, #33
Includes draft fragments of: a pamphlet on the Stamp Act (2 pages, circa 1765-1766. See L(ii), 27, 30, 31, & 46 for a continuation); the essay "A true state of the Proceedings in the Parliament of Great Britain, and in the Province of Massachusetts Bay, relative to the giving and granting the Money of the People of that Province, and of all America, in the House of Commons, in which they are not represented" (1 page, circa 1774); and, the essay "The Interest of Great Britain Considered, With Regard to her Colonies, And the Acquisitions of Canada and Guadaloupe. To which are added, Observations concerning the Increase of Mankind, Peopling of Countries, &c. London" (6 pages, circa 1760).
London. Is well; sends her a box in which are letters for herself and his friends, also sends two books, which he begs her to deliver to Mr. Coleman.
London. As Messrs. Portis paid him two bills of the same drawers after a protest, but they refused to do the same with regard to the present bill. Had it been a bill drawn by Mr. [David] Hall he would pay it immediately, but since it is drawn by others, he returns the bill with the protest, that Mr. Hall may recover damages of the drawers.
[London]. Has received the Act; requests him to call and he will converse with him on the subject.
Utrecht, Holland. Travels in Holland and Flanders; is on his way back to London so as not to miss the Coronation [of George III].
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 229; Bigelow, III, 151; Smyth, IV, 110).
London. On his return from a little tour through Flanders and Holland, he found a duplicate of the papers sent him, and among them the address that had been omitted before. Advises that the Address on His Majesty [George III]'s nuptials and congratulation on his accession be blended, and that the other matter be touched in a memorial or petition by itself agreeable to Mr. Wood's advice; which if done, Dr. Franklin is persuaded will be attended with good effect. The Proprietor's and Governor's friends possessed the Ministry with the opinion that the failure of supplies in the Province is due to the Assembly's obstinacy and their disinclination to His Majesty's service. Thanks him for applying to Mr. Green concerning his old account. The retaining of Canada is now become a popular point. (Incomplete).
London. Death of Mrs. Franklin's mother [Mrs. Read]. Expects to set out for Philadelphia next May. Mr. [William] Strahan is surprised he has not persuaded her to come over.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 235; Bigelow, III, 188; Smyth, IV, 150).
[Philadelphia]. The hill-side [of Madeira] affords all climates; they claim 90,000 inhabitants; cultivation of wheat and corn increases and that of the vine diminishes, because of the greater and more speedy profits from the former. Concerning Dr. Barker who used to talk of lands he had in America. Remembrances to the Speaker [Mr. Isaac Norris] and his brothers, and to Mr. [John] Blackburn and Mr. Cooper. First part of the letter missing.
Philadelphia. Thanks him for congratulating him on his son's appointment as Governor of New Jersey. The taking of Havana. Painting and poetry in America; his British lyre.
Printed in Works (sparks, VII, 242; Bigelow, III, 215; Smyth, IV, 183).
Philadelphia. Arrived in Philadelphia and had the happiness of finding his family well. The anatomical drawings and casts that he sent over arrived safely at the [Pennsylvania] Hospital except the breaking of some of the glasses which the Managers repaired. Congratulates him on the taking of Havana.
See History of the Pennsylvania Hospital, by T.G. Morton, Phila., 1897, p. 356.
Philadelphia. Requests to be informed whether he paid for the magnet. Asks him if he could make a thermometer according to the enclosed directions and to forward it to him. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson will pay for it; his respects to Mr. [John] Canton.
Billy is down at Bath. Received a letter inviting him there, but must not leave London as he daily expects bills drawn on him by the Trustees. Shall be glad to receive an account of what is due on Mr. Spoffard's mortgage, as he hopes to recover it from the sellers who never acquainted him that such a mortgage subsisted, though they must have known it. Shall soon send some music for the harpsichord.
(Upper half of sheet missing.)
Philadelphia. His expenses and compensations while in England as Agent for the Province of Pennsylvania. Difficulty of separating private from public expenses. Pennsylvania Assembly Committee of Accounts, draft of report
Printed in Works (Bigelow, III, 229).
Philadelphia. Thanks for congratulations on his son's promotion. Congratulates him on the glorious peace that has been concluded, and which is the most advantagenous to Great Britain of any that history recorded. As to the places left or restored to France he conceives that their strength will soon increase to such a degree in North America that in any future war they may reduce them all with ease and therefore looks upon them as so many hostages or pledges of good behavior from that perfidious Nation. Must soon make a journey to his country but is sorry he shall not be able to meet him; trusts they will meet in a better country with better constitutions and vigorous bealth and everlasting youth. P.S. Sends his best wishes to Miss Ludwell and the other ladies.
Trenton, [New Jersey]. Dined at Bristol and got here last night. Sir John Sinclair obligingly offered his chariot and four for the rest of the journey.
Perth Amboy. Thanks him for his kind endeavors in obtaining the discharge of James Forrester. Condoles with him on the repeated grievous breaches that have been made in his family. It has been discovered that quick silver is a melted metal. Relative to the solidifying and melting of mercury. Relative to some experiments to procure cold by evaporation.
(Conclusion missing.)
Philadelphia. Signed, B. Franklin
Rest of letter is at the Yale University library.
Will send the maps of America as soon as they return from their journey. Shall endeavor punctually to comply with every order and every intimation of the pleasure of the Postmaster General, and shall exert their utmost abilities to improve this part of the revenue. Several Governors of Provinces refused payment of postage, of which he acquainted the Board when he was in London, but some have since paid their account; have hopes of obtaining payment from the others.
(First part of letter missing.)
New York. Purposes taking Sally [Franklin] with him; Mr. [James] Parker will go with her and take care of her, if there is no other suitable compay. Approves of her opening his English letters.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 254; Bigelow, III, 240; Smyth, IV, 202). Also printed in V. Crane (ed.),
Benjamin Franklin to Mrs. [Deborah] Franklin, [1763] October 31
New York. Purposes to proceed homeward the next day if the weather is suitable. Will make a stay at Woodbridge and then shall go forward to Burlington, where he would like to meet her if she can manage to come there; will be home Saturday if he does not meet her at Burlington.
List of articles Franklin wanted to send to Boston and Ezra Stiles in Newport.
Philadelphia. Confidence in divine goodness. Hopes that the bugbcar Boston account of the unhealthiness of Philadelphia will not deter him from visiting them.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 261; Bigelow, III, 250; Smyth, IV, 248).
Benjamin Franklin and John Foxcroft to [Anthony Todd], 1764 September 21
Philadelphia. Received his letter and gave orders for the several Acts of Parliament referred to, to be observed and executed by the officers. Is greatly concerned that the state of their accounts are delayed so long. Cause of this delay. The rule for charging 2d. or 16 gr. of silver on every letter coming from a ship is observed here; think the office would lose if they charged but a penny a letter. Amendments which they propose for the security of correspondence as well as for the advantage of the revenue. Advise that charge for postage be made according to the number of miles letters are carried.
[Philadelphia]. Relative to some amendments which the Governor proposed to a bill passed by the Assembly for the punishment of certain offences, which amendments the Assembly refused to admit. This is one of their offences against the Lord Proprictors for which they were abused with all the virulence that malice can dictate, enforced by numberless barefaced falschoods that only the most dishonest can and would dare to invent. (First part missing.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, IV, 94; Bigelow, III, 305; Smyth, IV, 261).
Philadelphia. Thinks of [Colonel John] Bradstreet's peace [with the western Indians] as he does. Requests that if he writes any letter relating to the present expedition, which is likely to be seen by the Secretary of State, that he will mention him as ever ready to promote the service of the Crown. Tells him that his sentiments of the Constritution are solid and just. Until the change now attempted is effected there will be little internal quiet in the administration of Public Affairs. Voltaire on the subject or religious toleration. Gives a passage which, now that we are torn to pieces by faction, religious and civil, shows that it is advantageous to us that he views us at a favorable distance. Quotation in French concerning unjust criminal laws; what should be accepted as proof or evidence; presumptions should be excluded. Sends a pamphlet entitled "Jugement rendu dans I'affaire du Canada". Thinks it may interest him as during his war with that Colony he must have known some of the characters concerned. For completion of letter, see XLVI(i), 82 1/2.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, X, 305; Smyth, IV, 267).
Completion of letter XLV, 29 (see above).
On same leaf with XLVI(i), 82. Printed in Works (Bigelow, X, 305; Smyth, IV, 267).
This manuscript was issued as a pamphlet, in Philadelphia in 1764. Incomplete
Printed in Works (Sparks, IV, 143; Bigelow, III, 356; Smyth IV, 273). See V. Crane, ed., Franklin Letters to the Press, 23-24.
This is a copy of David Garrick's Epitaph on Hogarth's Mounrment. See Dictionary of National Biography.
Isle of Wight. Have this moment come to an anchor here. Had terrible weather. Their friends' kind prayer for a thirty-day wind was favorably heard.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 281; Bigelow, III, 259; Smyth, IV, 288).
London. Is recovering from a violent cold which lasted 10 or 12 days. Given a cordial welcome by his old friend in London. Parliament does not meet till the 10th of next month.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IV, 288).
Incomplete.
Schedule of Letters Received at the Post Office, [1764] (LXIX, 121)
Table of Distances and Rates of Postage in North America
Fragment. Notes about three acts of Parliament. The acts had granted to areas not previously represented in the House of Commons the right to send knights and burgesses, relating to the principality of Wales; the county of Chester; and the county palatine of Durham. Franklin noted the pertinent parts of these preambles, and underlined significant phrases or passages. He also added his own commentary, pointing out analogies to the situation of the American colonies:
Benjamin Franklin to Mrs. Deborah Franklin, 1765 February 9
London. His health. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson bought the things she wrote for. Hopes to be able to return about the end of the summer. Will purchase a watch for Sally [Franklin]. News of Col. [Henry] Bouquet's success gave great satisfaction in London.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 283; Bigelow, III, 370; Smyth, IV, 358).
Printed in V. Crane, ed., Benjamin Franklin's Letters to the Press, p. 25
Encloses the paper [See L(ii), 18] he desires and requests him to judge of the propriety of publishing it as it is, or what alteration should be made in it. If it is adopted he wishes it to be presented to the Ministry, provided their present scheme of a Stamp Act might be laid aside.
London. Sends her several articles. Glad their pamphlet gave her so little concern. Tells her to allow no one to make her uneasy with idle, malicious stories and scribblings. Hopes a few months will finish affairs in England and bring him to that retirement and repose with his family on which he has so long set his heart.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IV, 359).
London. Encloses a letter from Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson and bill of lading for a chest of goods he sent her wherein are pamphlets for Billy [Franklin] and some books for cousin Cuthbert; will send the rest of the books to him as soon as they can be obtained.
Domestic affairs, his house, etc.
(Mutilated.)
London. Has been well lately, except for a fit of the gout which confined him a fortnight. May spend a week or two at Bath if he can find the time as soon as the Parliament rises. Hopes she is nicely settled in her new home. Rejoices to heat that his good old friend Mr. [Joseph] Wharton has another son [Hudson Wharton]. Thinks she did well in buying the lot, though she paid a high price for it.
Humorous account of newswriters and the intelligence often contained in newspapers.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 287; Bigelow, III, 376; Smyth, IV, 367).
London. Domestic affairs. Acknowledgment of Divine goodness.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 295; Bigelow, III, 390; Smyth, IV, 382).
Benjamin Franklin to [Deborah] Franklin, 1765 July 13
London. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson's directions for washing Sally [Franklin]'s striped gown. Concerning his new house. Is well and in good spirits.
London. Is well. Sends her a small box of tea and a packet wherein are letters for all their friends.
London. Wrote largely to her, but the gentleman who was to deliver the letter did not go aboard. Sends her several articles of which the letter will give her an account. Sends her a pair of tongs and of fireshovels.
Benjamin Franklin to [Deborah] Franklin, 1765 November 9
London. His kind regards to his Presbyterian countryman, who tells the people that Dr. Franklin planned the Stamp Act. Thanks him if he does not charge him (as they do their God) with having planned Adam's fall and the damnation of mankind. Thinks he has the wisest look of any man he knows, and if he would only nod and wink and could but hold his tongue he might deceive an angel.
London. Is well. Will write fully to her and all his friends as soon as Parliament adjourns for the holidays.
to the Royal Society
Proposal for membership of John Winthrop, Esq., Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy in Harvard College.
Printed broadside. Concerning the ruin of Great Britain if she continues to enforce the Stamp Act. With written annotations. An emblematic plate said to have been designed by Benjamin Franklin and struck off on cards and placed in the hands of the members of Parliament as they entered the House on the day preceding the debate on the Stamp Act.
See Kirkland, Penna. Mag, 1949, pp.76-79 for notes on the cartoon.
Also described in APS' subject guide on maps, Realms of Gold, 15 (3) and 15 (4).
Printed in Van Doren (1938), Benjamin Franklin, 332-334
Freemen to be taxed by their Representatives. Ultimate effects of taxation. Three way of avoiding the inconveniences: (1) By allowing each Colony to send members to Parliament; (2) by empowering them to send delegates from each Assembly to a common Council, of which Council the sum to be asked; (3) by the paper money scheme. Draft of a document, possibly prepared for a meeting with a minister.
Relating to the refusal of the House of Commons to receive the petitions from the Colonies and the trouble about the Stamp Act. Two unrelated essay fragments. The latter relates to Franklin's unpublished Pamphlet on the Stamp Act (See also: L(ii), 13, 27, 31, & 46).
L(ii), 30a is Printed: V. Crane, ed. B. Franklin Letters to the Press, no. 33
Printed: V. Crane, ed. B. Franklin Letters to the Press, no. 33
Criticism of the conduct of the Colonial Governor. (Incomplete.) See also: L(ii), 13, 30, 31, & 46. This is a continuation from the "Plan of the Pam[phlet]".
Fragments from a paper on the stamp duty. See also: L(ii), 13, 27, 30, & 31.
Printed: V. Crane, ed. B. Franklin Letters to the Press, no. 33
London. Sends her some curious beans for her garden. Congratulates her on the soon expected repeal of the Stamp Act and the great share of health they enjoy, though going on four score.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 306; Bigelow, III, 454; Smyth, IV, 409).
London. (First part missing.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, IV, 161; Bigelow, III, 407; Smyth, IV, 412).
Sends her a packet in which are letters for her neighbors, some beans, and a letter and parcel of newspapers for Billy [Franklin].
London. Repeal of the Stamp Act. Domestic affairs.
P.S. A young man by the name of Joseph Wharton, who said he was sick and in financial distress, begged him to accept a draft on his brother in Philadelphia for twelve guineas; encloses the bill for payment.
Printed, in part, in Works (Sparks, VII, 308; Bigelow, III, 457; Smyth, IV, 449).
London. Is well. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson is getting something to send her. Captain [James] Robinson has arrived.
Benjamin Franklin to [Deborah] Franklin, 1766 June 13
London. Is well, but feeble. Will make a tour to Pyrmont. In duplicate (see also: XLVI(ii), 45).
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 320; Bigelow, III, 467; Smyth, IV, 459).
London. Is well, but feeble. Will make a tour to Pyrmont. In duplicate (see also: XLVI(ii), 44).
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 320; Bigelow, III, 467; Smyth, IV, 459).
London. Recommends Mr. George Spencer, a merchant of Philadelphia and New York.
London. Receipt of her letter with the account of the death of his brother [Peter]; approves of what she did and recommends his desolate sister to the continuance of Mrs. Franklin's tender care and kindness. Mr. [John] Foxcroft, in appointing his borther, did what was agreed upon. Arrangement for his sister's subsistence.
London. Death of his brother [Peter]; provision for his sister's subsistence.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, III, 472; Smyth, IV, 460).
London. Has been informed of the good purpose to dispose of the profits of one thousand pounds in the instruction of negro children in America. Has been requested by the Associates [of Dr. Bray] to give some account of the nature of landed estates in America, and to give his opinion as to where and in what manner the purchase may best be made. He accordingly advises them.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IV, 463).
London. Descendants of his grandfather in England.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 325; Bigelow, III, 474; Smyth, IV, 464).
[London]. If the venerable society shall appoint Mr. [Elihu] Spencer to the mission of Spotswood, in New Jersey, he will recommend him to the Governor of that Province. Rev. [William] Sturgeon, of Philadelphia, wrote to him that his health is so much on a decline, as to oblige him to retire into the country, and that he should think himself happy if the Society woudl appoint him to succeed Mr. [Colin] Campbel[l] at Burlington. Thinks Trenton, if vacant, would suit him.
Recommends to his favorable notice Mr. [Jonathan] Potts and Mr. [Benjamin] Rush. Is persuaded from the character they bear, that they will improve greatly under his lectures and do honor to his medical school.
Printed in Memorial of Thomas Potts, Jr., Cambridge, 1874, p. 174.
Recommends to his protection the bearers, Mr. [Jonathan] Potts and Mr. [Benjamin] Rush, who came to study in their medical school.
Printed in Memorial of Thomas Potts, Jr., Cambridge, 1874, p. 173.
The bearers of the letter, Mr. [Jonathan] Potts and Mr. [Benjamin] Rush, are drawn to Edinburgh by the fame of ye medical school. Recommends them to his protection and countenance and requests that he would be so good as to favor them with his advice.
Printed in Memorial of Thomas Potts, Jr., Cambridge, 1874, p. 173.
London. Wonders she had not heard of his return from Germany, as he wrote by the August packet and by a ship from Holland just as he was coming over. Asks her whether she paid off Mr. Siddons, and got the deeds recorded. Wants to know what money she received from his brother Peter on the account of the Post Office. Wants to Know how her tenants pay, what rent she receives, whether she insured the house, and whether any use is made of the house Mrs. Broughton lived in.
Benjamin Franklin to [Deborah] Franklin, 1766 December 15
London. Desires her to send him three or four young trees of the Newton Pippin kind or else a few cuttings for grafts, soldered up in a tin tube to keep them from dying.
Glad the intelligence procured from Governor Franklin relating to his lands in New Jersey afford him any degree of satisfication. Recommends to his friendly offices Mr. [Jonathan] Potts and Mr. [Benjamin] Rush, who are in Edinburgh to improve themselves in the study of physics.
Printed in Memorial of Thomas Potts, Jr., Cambridge, 1874, p. 174.
Heads of Articles Relating to the Land Concern
Fragment. Mentions a loan with Henton Brown, which the letter's recipient should be able to pay in four months. Also mentions a partnership with Mr. Hall.
Printed: V. Crane, Ed. Franklin Letters to the Press, No. 33.
Relating to the rise and progress of the differences between Great Britain and her Colonies.
A defence of the system.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 322, Note). See Aldridge, "A Franklin Essay on the Principles of Currency Exchange."
On the Productions and Population of the Colonies
Summary of contents of a dissertation; their imports and exports. Remarks.
Incomplete.
Printed in V. Crane (ed.), Franklin Letters to the Press, 109
Relative to the conductivity of glass.
(First part missing.)
See Priestley's
London. Is well and very busy. Received the clothes, wore them, but find them too tight. Thanks her for the garters. The apples and meal not come ashore yet. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson sends Sally [Franklin] some Pointed lace in place of that which was lost.
Printed: V. Crane, ed. B. Franklin, Letters to the Press #42
Is afraid we have many more rebels among us than we were aware of. Among others they that have not registered the weight of their plate and paid the duty are all rebels; to whom may be added the acting rebels that wear French skills and cambries. The petition is from a number of private person, merchants of New York, stating their opinion that several restraints in the Acts of Trade laid on the commerce of the Colonies are not prejudicial to the Colonies but to the mother country. Those reasons are to be judged of here, and if good and are supported by facts, instead of censure those merchants might deserve thanks; if otherwise, the petition may be laid aside. Petitioning is not rebellion. Signed "A Friend to both Countries." [Fragment]
As the bare letters of a Governor of one of the Provinces, accusing the people of rebellious intentions is looked upon as sufficient ground for inflicting penalties on such Provinces, without hearing anything from the defense, he requests him to give to the public the extract of the pamphlet which was written at the time of their last year's disputes, by one who lived long in America, knew the people and their affairs very well. [A version of this was printed in the London Chronicle, April 7-9, 1767.]
Printed in V. Crane (ed.), Franklin Letters to the Press, 41.
London. Since he is at so great a distance from home and can make no enquiries into Mr. [Richard] Bache's character and circumstances, nor from any judgment, he leaves the matter to her and Sally [Franklin]'s brother; in doubt whether he shall be able to return this summer and would not occasion delay of Sally's happiness, if she thought the match a proper one.
On her birthday. Compares the soul encased in our bodies to good wine in a cask. The outer covering may become frail and weak through time but the wine only improves and becomes more refined with age.
London. Sends her presents, and a book on Mr. [John] Harrison's watch which he wishes her to present to Mr. [Edward] Duffield.
London. Economical advice; the proposed marriage of his daughter; Polly [Mary] Stevenson's match is broken off. The blue room.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 345; Bigelow, IV, 18; Smyth, V, 31).
London. Sends a box of clothes for her and Sally. Has been ill during the week with an epidemical cold but is getting well again.
London. Relating to Mr. Samuel Cooper's honorary degree from the University of Edinburgh. Feels himself happy in having been in any way instrumental in procuring an honor so justly due to that gentleman's uncommon merit.
London. Domestic affairs.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 248; Bigelow, IV, 22; Smyth, V, 37).
Paris. Description of his journey to Paris. French fashions. The King and Queen. Improvements in Versailles. Paris. French politeness.
(Incomplete.)
For other parts of this letter, see LXXVIII, 3 and LXXVIII, 22b. Printed, in full, in Works (Sparks, VII, 358; Bigelow, IV, 33; Smyth, V, 48).
[Paris]. Description of his journey to Paris. French fashions. The King and Queen. Improvements in Versailles. Paris. French politeness. (Incomplete.) Copy, fragment. In hand of Mary Stevenson Hewson.
For other parts of this letter, see XLV, 32.5 and LXXVIII, 22b. Printed, in full, in Works (Sparks, VII, 358; Bigelow, IV, 33; Smyth, V, 48).
[Paris]. Description of his journey to Paris. French fashions. The King and Queen. Improvements in Versailles. Paris. French politeness. (Incomplete.) Copy, fragment. In hand of Mary Stevenson Hewson.
For other parts of this letter, see XLV, 32.5 and LXXVIII, 3. Printed, in full, in Works (Sparks, VII, 358; Bigelow, IV, 33; Smyth, V, 48).
London. Longs to hear of her and Sally [Franklin]'s welfare from their own hands. Is Well and hearty.
Looked over that part of Dr. [Joseph] Priestley's work containing an account of his experiments and found a great number of them, mostly quite new, some very curious and important, and therefore well deserving the honor of the [Royal] Society's [Copley?] medal.
[London]. Draft of an essay addressed to the printer of the
Printed in Works (Sparks, II, 361; Bigelow, IV, 46; Smyth, V, 60).
[London]. Draft fragment of an essay addressed to the printer of the
Printed in Works (Sparks, II, 361; Bigelow, IV, 46; Smyth, V, 60).
Printed in Works (Sparks, II, 361; Bigelow, IV, 46; Smyth, V, 60).
[London]. Draft fragment of an essay addressed to the printer of the
London. Wants her to send him [Henrich] Miller's German Newspapers [Dcr Wöchentliche Philadelphische Staatsbote] for two or three months back and to be continued, and also a lump of that sort of stone they make steps and checks of cellar doors of, at Philadelphia.
Embodied in Pownall's Administration of the Colonies, London, 1768, p. 234.
(Incomplete.)
See also: L(ii), 18.
Perused the remarks made by Captain Coates relative to voyages into the Hudson Bay, the geography of the country and his reasons for believing a western sea to be not far distant. Should be made available to all who should endeavor further attempts to discover a northwest passage.
Incomplete. Printed in Pownall's Administration of the Colonies, 4th Ed., 1768, I, 240.
See also: L(ii), 47.
Is ashamed of his procrastination. (First part missing.)
London. Acquaints him that his certificate [of nomination] has been received by the Royal Society. Asks him to forward his Christian name that it may be inserted on the certificate without which it is not reckoned regular.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 93).
Benjamin Franklin to Abbè Chappe, 1768 January 31
London. Sends him a tooth, which was found together with 30 large skeletons, near the Ohio about 200 miles from Fort Du Quesne; and which is supposed to belong to an elephant. Wants his opinion and would like to know if anything of that kind has been found in Siberia.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 92).
London. Hopes he received Priestley's History of Electricity; wishes that that book might renew his taste for that branch of philosophy. Thanks for the many civilities he received when at Paris.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 227; Bigelow, IV, III; Smyth, V, 94).
London. Esteems the acquaintance with him as one of the happiest incidents of his journey. Has no philosophical news worth communicating. The [Royal] Society is about to send out three sets of astronomers to observe the next transit of Venus; while they were attentive to what would pass in the heavens, their entrusted clerk and collector ran away with £1,500. Sends his respects to his brothers and is obliged to the elder for the generous manner in which he communicated and explained the most ingenious contrivances of his time-piece.
London. Much concerned about the loss of his sister's daughter. Was kind of her to write a letter of condolence, has also written to her on the occasion. Is now and has been in good health all winter.
London. His health. Is beginning to prepare for his return which will be about May or June.
An answer to "the Portugal Merchant of Lisbon" relative to the trade with the Colonies.
For printers copy, see: XLIX, 39. Printed in V. Crane (ed.), Franklin Letters to the Press, no. 58.
London. Written by "the English Editor." Perface to the "Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania." (First part missing.) See also: L(ii), 23
Printed in Works (Sparks, IV, 256; Bigelow, IV, 157; Smyth, V, 127).
Fragment of an essay on the differences between Great Britain and the Colonies. See also: L(i), 6
London. Continues well. Has been at Bath and Bristol. Must stay a few weeks longer in England; is impatient to be with her.
London. Mr. Coleman is with him; the surgeon with whom he hoped a cure being abroad, he has, upon the best advice, submitted to have the diseased part cut out. Hopes he will be able to return with him about the middle of next month.
London. Cause for not writing sooner. Glad he is married. Advantages of early marriages. Advice.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 156).
London. Domestic affairs. Intends to return in the summer. Mr. [Richard] Bache, Benjamin Mecom. His constitution. Sends a box of books for herself and his friends.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 423; Bigelow, IV, 215; Smyth, V, 182).
Diagram with explanations.
Letter addressed "Dear Child." Ladies' disputes and differences are of too delicate a nature for him to interfere with. Their tea and their passions cool with a very little time and he that meddles with them too soon may burn his lips. Signed by Franklin, "Your affectionate Papa."
Expresses his approbation of the design to give to the public some account of his dear friend Peter Collinson. Some biographical facts about him.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 426; Bigelow, IV, 218; Smyth, V, 185).
It is not in their power to give a discharge for his whole debt to the Post Office on his payment of a part, the debt being not to them but to the Crown. If he does not come to a settlement immediately, they will be obliged to commence suit, whereby the accounts will be examined and settled by indifferent men, which will be more agreeable to them than a private settlement. He is immediately called upon to make good his charge against his predecessor. Signed: [Benjamin] F[ranklin] and [John] F[oxcroft].
Does not good to rave against the Americans. Would recommend civility and redress of grievances to restore a solid Union. Signed: "Old England in its Senses."
Printed in V. Crane (ed.), Franklin Letters to the Press, no. 53.
See Benjamin Franklin to William Franklin, [October] 1768, in the Jane Mecom Collection (
Sketch of the room and table where the King of Denmark dined in public, October 1, 1768.
On efforts of France and England to destroy civil liberty.
Printed V. Crane, ed. BF Letters to the Press, p. 160
London. Is well, his arms have perfectly recovered their strength. Mr. Coleman's fresh disorders grieve him. Has a visit from Mr. [Richard] Bache's sister who appears to be a very agreeable, sensible young woman.
London. Has obtained a telescope for him. Sent the new edition of his Philosophical Papers to Harvard College; the resolutions to consume no more British goods, if persisted in, may have a good effect another year.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, IV, 233; Smyth V, 198).
London. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson sent her a case, and a trunk containing things mentioned in invoice enclosed.
London. Continues well. Is impatient for the next pacquet which he hopes will bring good news under her own hand. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson talks of paying her a visit.
London. Thanks him for the many civilities and marks of friendship he received from him and Mad. Dalibard while in Paris. Sends him an engraving of himself.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 230).
London. Sends him some sheets of his piece now printing and requests him to make any corrections. Sends him [Joseph] Priestley's essay on the First Principles of [Government].
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 229).
London. Has sent him one of the achromatic glasses complete, also three of the glasses described in one of his printed letters. The astronomers knew nothing before his return of the comet he [Le Roy] told him about at Paris; they have since watched it very closely, but as the French astronomers have observed it three weeks sooner, he supposes they have been better able to determine its orbit. (Mutilated.)
London. Dr. Franklin's opinion of how the supremacy of the Legislature may be best preserved. Answers to Mr. [William] Strahan's queries. What he fears is like to come to pass.
(Copy in French.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 237).
Relative the Alderman [Barlow] Trecothic[k]'s character; cruelty in starving the poor; his humbug alphabet; orders for paper. Memoranda concerning prisoners; [John Paul] Jone's squadron; notes for letter to John Jay, [1779 October 4], etc., etc.
Printed in V. Crane (ed.), Franklin Letters to the Press, 56
Printed in V. Crane (ed.), Franklin Letters to the Press, no. 102.
London. Is well. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson and Polly send their affections.
London. Told Sally [Franklin] about Sir John Pringle's opinion as to the probability of her son not having the small-pox hereafter; he advised that since no eruption appeared, to make sure of the thing by inoculating him again. His health.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 449; Bigelow, IV, 348; Smyth, V, 264).
London. This letter will be delivered by their countryman, Mr. [Henry] Benbridge; he has so greatly improved in Italy as a portrait painter that the connoisseurs think few or none excel him; hopes he will meet with encouragement in his own country and that they do not lose him as they lost Mr. [Benjamin] West. He chose Pennsylvania merely from affection for that State; could live exceedingly well in England by his profession.
Satirical communication. (Incomplete.)
Printed in Works (sparks, II, 236; Begelow, IV, 361; Smyth, V, 277).
In the
Printed V. Crane (ed.),
London. Benjamin Franklin Bache. Story of two little boys in a street. Is sorry he did not send one of his books to Mr. Rhodes since he was desirous of seeing it.
Printed in Works, (Sparks, VII, 487; Bigelow, IV, 368; Smyth, V, 282).
Dates of setting out and return of journeys in 1766, 1767 and 1769.
London. Acknowledges the receipt of her letters.
Not in Hays Calendar. Catalogued 8 May 1975, M.D.S.
For information about provenance, see L(ii), 25 1/4. Formerly bound with 973.3 AC2
Franklin's account of his audience with Lord Hillsborough, after informing the Secretary for the Colonies that he had been appointed an agent for the colony of Massachusetts by the colony's legislative body.
London. Severe winter. [Thomas] Walpole's grant. The Acts of the New Jersey Assembly; accounts with his son. (Incomplete.)
Printed, in part, in Works [Sparks, VII, 516; Bigelow, IV, 394; Smyth, V, 313).
London. Encouragement of home manufacturers. (Facsimile.)
Printed in Works (Bigelow, X, 315; Smyth, V, 315).
London. Received the bill for £30 on Sir Alexander Grant; sorry she had so much trouble in buying it, especially as it occasioned her some disgust against Messrs. [John and Thomas] Foxcroft for not supplying the money to pay for it. He had limited them in their payments to her to the sum of £30 per month, for the sake of thier more easily settling and to prevent mistakes. Does not like her going around among his friends to borrow money with which to buy bills and asks her to decline buying them in the future. Will order more money to be given her if she will satisfy him that what she receives is insufficient. Is pleased with the little histories of the fine boy.
For Pownall's initial letter eliciting this response, See III, 60
Craven Street. Thinks Mr. Sargent of Downing Street corresponds with Mr. [Daniel] Coxe, [5th], and will probably take out the warrant [appointing him one of the Council of New Jersey].
London. Introducing Mr. [William] Smith, a young man of liberal education and excellent character.
Craven Street. Rule to be observed in travelling through foreign countries.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 320).
London. Made a journey of a fortnight to Birmingham, Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester. The King's birthday. Feels exceedingly well.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 524; Bigelow, IV, 401; Smyth, V, 321).
Is going out of town but will endeavor to return in time for the pleasure be proposes to him to meet Baron Behr. Asks him to advise Mr. [Richard] Jackson, if he should be at a loss how to get ashore the two barrels of flour that came from Philadelphia. Informs him that one barrel of flour is for him. Mr. [John] Foxcroft's high opinion of the flour.
London. Visit at Twyford. Sends a book to Miss Georgiana and a specimen of American dried apples for Mrs. Shipley.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 524; Bigelow, IV, 402; Smyth, V, 329).
London. Is well; will write more fully by next pacquet.
London. Hopes her cold is gone; cure for a cold. Accident to Mr. Rogers and his family. If he were to build again would make his house incapable of burning. Remarks about his grandson. Will return after another winter. Sends her two plated canisters and a sugar canister.
Should have been happy in accompanying His Lordship on that agreeable party, or in being in Twyford instead of being in London. Proposes to set out next Tuesday, if nothing prevents.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 337).
London. His pictures. Visit to the Bishop of St. Asaph's family. Will set out on a trip to Ireland with his old friend, Counsellor [Richard] Jackson. Desires her to push the enquiry after the Lancaster Dutchman and not let it sleep and be forgotten. (Concluding part mutilated.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 538; Bigelow, IV, 415; Smyth, V, 338).
London. Continues well, but finds more exercise necessary to preserve his health. About to make the tour of Ireland with Mr. [Richard] Jackson, and return through Scotland before the Parliament opens. Would not have her send the receipts for the money she pays, but it would be agreeable to him to see from time to time an account of the considerable sums. Introduces Mr. Tyler, who wishes to settle in Philadelphia. Has spent three weeks with his friend the Bishop [of St. Asaph]. Promised to spend the Christmas holidays with him.
Relative to an extension of time to fulfill the conditions of a certain transaction. Signed: B[enjamin] Franklin, Joseph Massie.
Received in a parcel.
London. Agricultural pursuits. Condition of the poor in Ireland. Happiness of the New England people. Benefits of civilization.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 552; Bigelow, IV, 439; Smyth, V, 361).
London. Dr. [Joseph] Priestley. Lord Grenville's sentiment respecting American affairs. Colonial Agents in England. Dined with Mr. [Charles] Lucas in Ireland.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 549; Bigelow, IV, 436; Smyth, V, 358).
London. Reason why the Governors should be paid by the Provincial Legislature rather than the Crown. Commissioners should not be exempt from the payment of taxes. Commodore [James] Gambier. Shall continue to exert himself in behalf of his country whether he is rechosen Agent or not. Anecdote.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 545; Bigelow, IV, 432; Smyth, V, 354).
London. Tour in Ireland. Visit to Lord Hillsborough, his extraordinary civilities and his sentiments on American affairs. Introduced to the Irish Parliament. (Incomplete.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 554; Bigelow, IV, 441; Smyth, V, 363).
London. How to choose a wife. Just returned from a long journey through Wales, Ireland, Scotland and the Northern parts of England.
Printed, in part, in Works, (Sparks, VII, 559; Bigelow, IV, 446; in full, Smyth, V, 370).
[London]. Sends a receipt for making cheese and hopes that she may be the means of introducing a valuable manufacture into the country-the more valuable, as the as cream is saved and hence the farm affords more butter; as the same time that the cheese is of so much greater value. Bids her not to be discouraged and send a piece of right Parmesan that she may be acquainted with it, and know when she has hit it.
(First part missing.)
London. Draft of the two concluding paragraphs and postscripts.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 541; Bigelow, IV, 428; Smyth, V, 348).
London. Received her "angry-a-little" letter though he "had suffered a preceiding one to remain two years unanswered." If he did so, which he doubts, he begs to be excused. (Incomplete.)
London. Zoroaster's writtings in French. Remarks on the work.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 559; Bigelow, IV, 447; Smyth, V, 371).
London. Thanks him for recommending Mr. Marchant to him had the pleasure of his company in Scotland and will do what he can to serve him. Condoles with him on the loss of his amiable partner. Hopes he will find comfort in his children.
London. Received the 52 shillings. Hopes Mr. Winthrop received the Transactions for 1770. Will forward the new volume as soon as it arrives. Wants to know whether he should give the paper he enclosed to him to the [Royal] Society.
London. Pleased with the little history of his grandson. Advised Mr. [Richard] Bache to settle down to business in Philadelphia, to deal in the ready money way only; has given him £200 to add something to his cargo. Received neighbor Haddock's silk and carried it to her relations. The squirrels, buckwheat, Indian meal, dried peaches and apples came to hand, but the sturgeon did not arrive. Sends her a piece of Holland from Ireland.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 561; Bigelow, IV, 448, Smyth, V, 372).
London. Received his turkey and drank to his and Mrs. Tissington's health. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson is ailing with rheumatic pains. Sorry he could not call at Alfreton.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 375).
London. Met Mr. [Richard] Bache at Preston and advised him to settle down in business in Philadelphia. Advice to his daughter. Pleased that the things sent proved agreeable.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 563; Bigelow, IV, 451; Smyth, V, 376).
London. Lord Hillsborough's civilities. A tour in Ireland. Lord Hillsborough's opinion of the obnoxious treatment of the Colonies. Introduced into the Irish Parliament. Trip through Scotland. Mr. [Richard] Bache's desire. American Agents in England. Proposes returning home.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 564; Bigelow, IV, 452; Smyth, V, 378).
London. Continues well, and hopes they are also well.
London. Recommends the Rev. Mr. [Thomas] Coombe; not only an excellent preacher, but practices the morality he preaches. Parliament opened with a calm in party affairs. Peace seems about restored between the Turks and Russians.
London. Common error in friends to make comparisons and depreciate the merits of others. Not necessary to do so in this case. Mr. [Samuel] Wharton will have a good deal of merit in the affair [the Walpole grant] if it succeeds, he having been exceedingly active and industrious in it. But though he [Dr. Franklin] has not been equally active his advice may have been thought of some use, since it has been asked on every step and he believes he has lent some weight to the negotiations by his joining in the affair, from the greater confidence men are apt to place in one they know than in a stranger. As he neither asks nor expects any particular consideration for any service he may have done, he only thinks he ought to escape censure. Let all do their endeavors in their special capacities, and if one has the ability or the opportunity of doing more for his friends than another, let him think that a happiness and be satisfied. The business is not yet completed and as many things happen between the cup and the lip perhaps there may be nothing of this kind for friends to dispute about. Adjustment of their private accounts.
London. Common error in friends to make comparisons and depreciate the merits of others. Not necessary to do so in this case. Mr. [Samuel] Wharton will have a good deal of merit in the affair [the Walpole grant] if it succeeds, he having been exceedingly active and industrious in it. But though he [Dr. Franklin] has not been equally active his advice may have been thought of some use, since it has been asked on every step and he believes he has lent some weight to the negotiations by his joining in the affair, from the greater confidence men are apt to place in one they know than in a stranger. As he neither asks nor expects any particular consideration for any service he may have done, he only thinks he ought to escape censure. Let all do their endeavors in their special capacities, and if one has the ability or the opportunity of doing more for his friends than another, let him think that a happiness and be satisfied. The business is not yet completed and as many things happen between the cup and the lip perhaps there may be nothing of this kind for friends to dispute about. Adjustment of their private accounts. [extract]
See also XLV, 46. Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, I; Bigelow, IV, 473; Smyth, V, 382).
London. Thanks him for his excellent book in which he appeals to the public on the subject of the National Debt.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 389).
Philadelphia. Power of attorney to his wife, Deborah, and son-in-law, Richard Bache.
Relative to his accounts with James Parker.
Benjamin Franklin to [the Managers of the Contributions for Promoting the Culture of silk in Pennsylvania], [1772 February]
[London]. In relation to silk culture in America and the waste of silk in dyeing. Peculiar customs in the silk trade. (First part missing.)
London. Is glad to hear that her kingbird [Benjamin Franklin Bache] has gone through his second inoculation. Sends her the curtains she wrote for. A new bedstead is being made. (Mutilated.)
London. Hopes the petition relating to the controverted lands may be brought to a favorable conclusion before the closing of the House. Shall interview Governor [James Wright] on his arrival here, relative to his treatment of the Assembly and Mr. Jones. Relation of the Parliament to the King to facilitate intercourse. Comparison of the liberties taken by Kings and Governors. (Incomplete.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 390).
Craven Street. Tapped the porter and found it excellent; Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson sends him some souns and tongues from America, with direction for dressing them.
Craven Street. Is of the opinion that Cook should be agreed with, notwithstanding the advance on what he once offered the right for. Dr. [Cadwalader] Evans thinks it worth double.
London. Glad that he is happily married. Intended French Expedition to the North Pole. Messrs. Banks and Solander are to sail soon with two ships for the south; they expect to be out four years.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, IV, 480; Smyth, V, 393).
London. Dr. Franklin's electrical machine; the Abbé Nollet's machine. De Lor's machine. Le Roy has received an electrical machine which he has improved so as to produce the positive and negative electricities separately or together at the same time.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, IV, 482; Smyth, V, 394).
London. The session of Parliament has been a quiet one and draws near a conclusion. Lord North manages ably. Peace is negotiating between the Turks and the Russionas, and miserable Poland is in a fair way of being pacified too. There is no present appearance of any other war likely to occur in Europe. Sir John Pringle has proposed to him a journay to Switzerland for the summer, but he has not resolved upon it. Proposes visiting America in the summer, if not returning for good and all. Will spend the summer in the country with his friends, if he does not visit America. (Mutilated.)
London. Is sorry for the disorder that has befallen his friend Mr. [Ebenezer] Kinnersley. Hopes Mr. [Richard] Bache is, by this time, home. For another draft of this letter, see XLVI(ii), 80b.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 8; Bigelow, IV, 484; Smyth, V, 396).
Fragmented draft of letter. London. Is sorry for the disorder that has befallen his friend Mr. [Ebenezer] Kinnersley. Hopes Mr. [Richard] Bache is, by this time, home. For a more complete version of this letter, see XLVI(ii), 81.
On same leaf as XLVI(ii), 80a. Printed in Works (Sparks, VII, 8; Bigelow, IV, 484; Smyth, V, 396).
Benjamin Franklin to Sir J[ohn] Pringle, [1772 Before May 10]
Is greatly obliged for the trouble he took in the affair of the silk and is happy to hear that the Queen condescended to accept it with a purpose of wearing it. This will afford the silk raisers of Pennsylvania great encouragement to proceed in a measure the British Parliament seems to have had much at heart, the procnring a supply of that valuable article from the Colonies, for which large sums are paid yeartly to France, Spain, Italy and the Indies.
London. On the security of the powder magazines at Purfleet. (Translation in French.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, V, 427).
Reason for one sect persecuting another. Relative to the justice of the charge against the present dissenters, particularly those in America. (Incomplete.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, II, 112; Bigelow, IV, 466; Smyth, V, 408).
Benjamin Franklin to Deborah Franklin, 1772 July 14
London. Visits to the North of England.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 9; Bigelow, IV, 494; Smyth, V, 408).
London. Mangled fragment of a letter. Mentions Sir John Pring[le] and a report.
Meeting attended by Mr. [Henry] Cavendish, Dr. Franklin, Dr. [William] Watson, Mr. Benjamin Wilson and Mr. [John] R[obertson]. Agreed that conductors to the magazine are necessary. How and where they should be placed.
London. Had a severe attack of the gout but is somewhat better. Mrs. [Benjamin] West has another son to whom he is godfather. His other godson, Billy Hewson, is a fine boy. Mr. [Alexander] Small returned home full of the praises of America. Rejoices that she had so much pleasure with her kingbird [Benjamin Franklin Bache].
[London]. Relative to the size of conductors necessary to protect houses from lightning. (Incomplete, fragment.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, V, 435; Bigelow, IV, 508; Smyth, V, 420).
With the greatest pleasure he received the information of his nomination by the King to fill a vacancy in the Academy of Sciences as Associé étranger; begs him to present to His Majesty his grateful acknowledgments.
(With a French translation.)
London. America is obliged to him for his continued good wishes and schemes; the obtaining money from the poor treasury to forward such schemes, although beneficial to America, is out of all expectation. A new colony is forming where good land may be had cheap.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 435).
London. Glad that he intends publishing an account of his experiments. Dr. [Joseph] Pricstlcy found that growing vegetables restore air that has been spoilt by putrefaction.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 436).
Printed in V. Crane, ed., Benjamin Franklin's Letters to the Press, no. 107
Rebukes M.S. for abusing the New Englanders in his attempt to defend Lord Hillbororough's conduct. Comments on the disagreeable consequences that may result from it. (Incomplete.)
Draft of letter. Finished product is held by the Bibliothèque de Genève.
Relative to the use of pointed conductors in Philadelphia and London to secure buildings from lightning. Pointed conductors for the magazines of gunpowder at Purfleet. Hopes he removed the prejudice of his fellow-citizens relating to his conductor, and that he has since completed it, so as to make the experiment with it, he had in view.
Acknowledges receipt of package containing two parcels of the Ephemerides. Sends salutations of Madame Dubourg, Mille. Bihéron and other friends. Promises himself the happiness of seeing, them and him once more, for he thinks of returning home (when he does return) through France and Italy, taking his passage at Leghorn in some of the ships that go thither with corn or fish.
(First part missing.)
Benjamin Franklin to Dr. Cadwalader Evans, Philadelphia, 1772 December 2
London. Is much concerned to hear of his illness. Has received his favor of October 21st, with bill drawn by order of the Managers for Promoting the Culture of Silk, and is glad the purchase he made was satisfactory. As the sum exceeds his disbursement the overplus will wait his orders. The truss was sent, is vexed that it did not came to hand, and must inquire what became of it. Franked: "B., Free, Franklin."
London. Spelling. Will enquire of Messrs. Dilly for the American [Philosophical Society's] Transactions.
Printed in Works (Smyth, V, 463).
Printed in Works (Sparks, V, 412; Bigelow, III, 466; Symth, V. 539).
Warning against any further publication of malicious libels and forged articles. Signed: "An Offended Fellow of the R[oyal] Society."
Franklin's new version of the Lord's Prayer, appearing side-by-side with the traditional version of the prayer. Giving reasons for the proposed changes in expression. See L(i), 5 for a draft of this work, with other assorted notes.
Printed in Works (Sparks, I, 77; Smyth, VII, 427).
Franklin's new version of the Lord's Prayer, appearing side-by-side with the traditional version of the prayer. Giving reasons for the proposed changes in expression. Includes a completed version of the work, a draft, and other assorted notes. See L(i), 4 for finished version of the text.
Printed in Works (Sparks, I, 77; Smyth, VII, 427).
London. His birthday. Glad she continues well.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 31; Bigelow, V, 86; Smyth, VI, 4).
Does not think damp clothes caues colds any more than wet clothes. The securing of fruits from the mischief of frosts. (Incomplete. Mutilated.)
London. Sends her a box containing sundry parcels for his friends, and silk and gowns for her Sally [Franklin]. Continues well and hopes soon to see her and home.
London. Pointed conductors for the public magazines of gunpowder, and their disadvantages as claimed by Mr. [Benjamin] Wilson in his pamphlet to alarm the people of their danger. Sent a volume of American [Philosophical Society's] Transactions to the Academy of Sciences in Paris and when he found it was favorably recived, he acquaints him, he nominated him a member of that Society and he was elected January 15. Two ships are being fitted out by the Admiralty at the request of the Royal society to make a voyage to the North Pole.
Printed in works (Bigelow, V, 120; Smyth, VI, 28).
London. Did all he could to serve Mrs. [Patience] Wright, but somehow or other he displeased her of late and she does not now come near him. Condoles with her on the loss of their friend Mr. David Hall. His old friends so drop off that he is afraid, when he comes home, he will find himself a stranger in his own country. Is pleased with the accounts of her kingbird [Benjamin Franklin Bache]. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson and Polly send their love, Sally her duty, she is to be married and leave us next week.
London. Surprised to learn that Bedford thinks there is a difference between their families. Mentions power of attorney given to Franklin and that he will endeavor to settle the accounts himself. Photostat.
London. Possibility of abolishing slavery in America. Influence of the English merchants with the Government. Ships transporting convicts to America.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 42; Bigelow, V, 128; Smyth, VI, 39).
London. A new carriage wheel. Heard that some person has discovered a new moving power; asks him if he knows anything of the application of this power. Has completed his stove which consumes its own smoke.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 383; Bigelow, V, 129; Smyth, VI, 40).
London. Will forward what remarks he has made when he finishes examining the rest of the sheets. Is obliged to him for proposing to insert the letter as written from Dubourg to Franklin. Remarks on the papers relating to the powder magazine. Wishes that some chemist with a knowledge of electricity, would work on glass with Dubourg's views, this would prevent misunderstandings and contradictory sentiments when the same experiments are performed by different persons. Cause for the breaking of the glass bottles when highly charged in the Leyden experiment. His globe, that could not be excited, is of a different composition from the other glass. Dubourg's Para Tonnerre. (Incomplete.)
London. Hospitals. Effect of fresh air on diseases.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 385; Bigelow, V, 151, Smyth, VI, 59).
London. Thanks him for his polite letter and the present of his valuable collection. Has purchased of M. Magalhaens [John Hyacinth Magellan] all the numbers of small form. Thinks it must prove a useful work in science and wishes it success.
London. A list of errata in the French translation of the Works of Franklin. The causes of taking cold.
Printed, in part, in Works (Sparks,VI, 387; Bigelow, V, 153; Smyth, VI, 61).
London. Mr. [John] Walsh intended to draw up an account of the numerous experiments on the torpedo, but his other avocation has not permitted him to execute it. Has lately received permission to lay before the [Royal] Society what Mr. [John] Walsh had communicated to him.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 72).
London. Account of articles he sends her. Congratulates her on Sally [Bache]'s safe delivery of another son, hopes he proves another pleasure to her.
His cash is lower than usual. After examining his accounts he finds that he cannot, without the greatest inconvenience to himself, comply with his request.
London. Thinks he would be a great acquisition to the Colonies if he could remove there, but doubts the Colonies being able to bear the expense. Would be glad to be informed where he could see some samples of printing in imitation of painting.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 113).
London. Sends him a Boston newspaper in which his sermon is advertised. His sermon is universally received with great approbation and wonder. The Speaker of the Massachusetts Assembly says it is much liked, as it discovers a Catholic spirit and sentiments very favorable in regard to America.
London. Received and sent the coal-mine drawings to France; hopes they are not too late to be use to M. [Jean François Clément] Morand, who, in despair of receiving them, thought of publishing his book without them.
London. Death of Dr. [Cadwalader] Evans. Fears that when he returns home, he will find himself a stranger. Her god-daughter Amelia Evans, who was married to a Capt. Barry of a ship in the Turkish trade, returned from Africa; Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson and he dined with her and her husband. Mrs. Barry's children. A new translation of his book, being the thrid edition in French; to this a print of him has been prefixed which has so French a countenance that she would take him for one of that lively nation.
Printed, in part, in Works (Sparks, VIII, 117; Bigelow, V, 213; Smyth, VI, 118).
London. Thoughts on what should be done with writers who try to widen the breach between the Colonies or with those who are nurtured in revolutionary principles, undated. On reverse: list of bottles from Brown and Whitford, dated September 2, 1773.
London. Sale of printers' types. Sheet of Chinese paper. Asks him whether he should purchase any matrices for him from Rumford and James's foundries.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 87; Bigelow, V, 222; Smyth, VI, 125).
Informs her that there is no grant of land as yet to be obtained from those concerned in the new colony, their grant from the Crown not having yet passed the Seals. Thinks with so many children she will be better in Pennsylvania than in London; the children can be got into sober, industrious families and taught a trade on much easier terms than in London. Mr. A ---'s dexterity in business may induce his being engaged in some store. Thinks Mrs. A--- could open a boarding school for girls. Refers her to Mr. and Mrs. [Richard] Bache.
West Wycombe, Seat of Lord le Despencer. Benefits and manner of taking the census every year in China. The amazing number of deaths in Manchester due to the unwholesomeness of the manufacturing life. Moist air not unwholesome. Healthiness of the inhabitants of Bermuda, St. Helena, etc.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 402; Bigelow, V, 235; Smyth, VI, 138).
London. Hopes to leave England next May or June. Sri W[illiam] Hamilton writes from Naples that he has not been able to perceive any certain signs of electricity in the torpedo. Magnetic needle. Nairne's electric machine. Electric rods for the powder magazine at Purfleet. Mr. [Benjamin] Wilson objects to pointed rods. Received a spy glass from M. Tremont, an ingenious young Italian.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 406; Bigelow, V, 237; Smyth, VI, 141).
Rules by which a great empire may be reduced to a small one.(Incomplete.)
Printed in The Public Advertiser, Oct. 1773, also as a pamphlet, 16 p., 8 vo., London, 1793, and in Works (Sparks, IV, 387; Bigelow, V, 223; Smyth, VI, 127).
If he should think fit to give the enclosed [Rules for Reducing a Great Empire] a place in his paper, he should take care that the compositor observes strictly the italicizing, capitalizing and the pointing. Requests him to let the enclosed appear in the P[ublic] A[dvertiser] as soon as he can, conveniently. [It appeared in October, 1773.]
London. Must stay another winter in England, but nothing shall prevent his return in the spring. His health continues but cannot expect it much longer, which makes him the more anxious to be where he would choose to die. Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson's grandchildren.
London. Relative to the marriage with one's deceased wife's sister. Can see no political or moral objection to it.
London. Art of engraving on chinaware. Will not contest the honor for the copper-plate engravings for earthenware. Use of the art in teaching moral lessons. Mr. [Joseph] Banks is preparing to publish the Botanical Discoveries of his voyage. (Copy.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 94; Bigelow, V, 249; Smyth, VI, 149).
Relating to the choice of proper Psalms. Written for the "Abridgment of the Book of Common Prayer."
Letter on the cure of rheumatism by electricity
Letter written to an unidentified recipient, relative to the cure of rheumatism by electricity.
Corrections of a text on electricity.
Relative to the Committee's report on pointed conductors for the magazines at Purfleet. Mr. [Benjamin] Wilson's criticism. Advantages of the pointed rods. Conditions under which pointed rods are not essential. (Incomplete.)
Note in the "Abridgment of the Book of Common Prayer" under the first page of the catechism, that it is not so well adapted to the capacitics of children as might be wished and therefore only those plain answers which express their duty towards God and their neighbors are retained.
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 211, Note, first paragraph; Bigelow, V, 279, last paragraph, Smyth, VI, 170, Second paragraph).
Incomplete.
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 207, Note; Bigelow, V, 274; Smyth, VI, 165).
London. Has been displaced from office. Proposes to return home next May. Sends a number of boxes of printing letters which he purchased exceedingly cheap.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 193).
London. Was displaced from office before he had an opportunity of answering his letter, which puts it out of his power to do him any service in what he proposed; will speak to Mr. [Henry] Potts concerning his letter and acquaint him with the result.
London. Received his bills and has given credit for them to the General Post Office; begs that the account may be sent punctuaily that he may settle them before he leaves England, which is now necessary as he is no longer in office.
London. Hopes nothing he has written has occasioned any coolness. Although no longer colleagues, he begs that they part in friendship. Displaced unwillingly by his masters who were obliged to comply with the orders of the Ministry. Proposes coming home next May.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 197).
London. Received his account. Thanks him for ordering the six barrels of flour. Tea ship arrived having a very short passage. Wrote to his family to receive no more payments, being displaced from office.
London. Acts of the Pennsylvania Assembly. Duty on tea. Hutchinson letters. Indecent treatment he received at the hands of the Privy Council. Wishes a Constitution was formed and settled for America.
Printed in part, in Works (Sparks, VIII, 115; Bigelow, V, 314; in full, Smyth, VI, 194).
London. Accepted the draft and will duly pay it. Happy to find that his small services have been acceptable to the Society [for promoting the Culture of Silk].
London. Received their letter and immediately ordered the books. The new edition of the Encyclopedia may be excepted in about two years. Received the catalogue. Glad the Library [Company of Philadelphia] is satisfactorily situated.
London. Sends them the Act for settling their boundary between their Province and New York. The obstruction in America to the importation of tea has occasioned great resentment; violent measures are apprehended. Sends his respects to the Assembly.
to the Printer of the Public Ledger
[London]. On the causes of the existing bad feelings between England and America. Signed: "A Londoner."
London. Mr. [John] Walsh discovered that vacuum resists the passage of the electric fluid. (Incomplete.)
For conclusion of letter, see: LXXVIII, 7. Printed in Works (in part Sparks, VI, 413; Bigelow, V, 343; entire letter, Smyth, VI, 225).
Fragment. Conclusion of XLV, 83.
Printed in Works (in part Sparks, VI, 413; Bigelow, V, 343; entire letter, Smyth, VI, 225).
London. Answer his questions about America.
Printed in Wroks (Sparks, VI, 411; Biglow, V, 341; Smyth. VI, 221).
London. His family in England is in great distress. Mrs. [Mary] Hewson has lost her husband and Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson her son-in-law. Distress of the family.
Relative to the power of the Crown to make void laws presented for its approval. (Incomplete.)
London. Massachusetts affairs. Lord Chatham blamed the Americans for destroying the tea, but condemns the measures taken in Parliament in consequence thereof. Is obliged to remain in England a little longer. Has been displaced from office.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 122; Bigelow, V, 354; Smyth, VI, 231).
London. Will send him all the perfected Acts lately passed relating to the Province. Sends copies of two more letters of Mr. Hutchinson. The Chancery suit goes on against him.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, V, 356).
London. Has had no line from him. Captain [Nathaniel] Falconer put the casks of type in his cellar, not knowing for whom they were; asks him to get them and store them with the rest.
London. Bishop of St. Asaph's speech. Sends him the "Heroic Postscript," a poem, the author of which is unknown. Use of eloquence in a preacher.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 124; Bigelow, V, 356; Smyth, VI, 233).
London. Has not received a line from her, but flatters himself it is not owing to indisposition. Mrs. [Amelia] Barry, daughter of Lewis Evans, and Mrs. Franklin's god-daughter, who married the Captain of a ship in the Levant trade, is now again at Turnis, where she has lately lain-in of her third child. Her father was geographer, and his daughter has now some connection with the whole globe; being born herself in America and having her first child in Asia, her second in Europe, and now her third in Africa.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 125; Bigelow,V, 358; Smyth, VI, 234).
London. Thought it best to postpone Dr. Rush's publication until after his election to the [Royal] Society; should the article be published before his election, Dr. Franklin fears it might prejudice some votes against him. Dr. North's apparatus for the making of Pyrmont water.
Printed, in part, in Works (Smyth, VI, 235).
London. There is a good deal of uneasiness at the office concerning the delay of the accounts. Mr. [Anthony] Todd showed him a letter which he sent to Mr. [John] Foxcroft. Urges him to pay attention to the contents if he values the continuance of his appointment. Thinks Some person is ready to step into his shoes.
London. Decided to stay in England until he learns the result of the first Congress. Thinks the Bostonians ought not to pay for the tea that was destroyed. Death of Sir W[illiam] Johnson. Asks him to request Mr. [James] Kinsey to acknowledge to Mr. [James] Parker, the receipt of the Boundary Act. A Spanish war is seriously apprehended.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 130; Bigelow, V, 359; Smyth, VI, 239).
London. Great expectation of the result of the appointed Congress both among friends and enemies. If the Colonies declare and resolve their rights and confederate not to use British goods till they are acknowledge and confirmed, they will carry their point. The Ministry must be disbanded and the late Acts repealed. A war with Spain is apprehended.
London. Informs him he was directed by letter from Messrs. Kinsey and Hewlings to solicit the Royal confirmation of the Act for the establishment of the division line [between New Jersey and New York]. Sent those gentlemen authenticated copies. Will obtain a copy for Mr. [James] Parker should be deem it necessary, although the expense is very large.
London. The Acts of the Assembly for which he is to obtain the Royal approbation. Hopes to receive copies of the Acts and also the votes. Unanimity and firmness in Congress will do everything for them. Will inform them of any measures that may affect the liberties of America. War with Spain apprehended.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 242).
London. The success of the Congress depends upon the unanimity and firmness of its members. The Ministry must give way. Intends remaining in England another winter.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 131; Bigelow, V, 361; Smyth, VI, 243).
London. Has not received a line from her for the last nine months; censures her for not writing. Continues well and hopes to hear the same from her. Recommends Mr. Westley to her civilities.
London. Election of a new Parliament. Lord Percy's friends published a letter of his expressing that he is on good terms with the people of Boston. The Court persists in its severe measures against America. His situation in England hazardous. (Incomplete.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 138; Bigelow, V, 370; Smyth, VI, 252).
London. Officers of the Plantation Board as well as its members are out of town; nothing can be done in regard to the late Acts until their return. A dissolution [of Parliament] has taken place which was very sudden and unexpected. Cause for this dissolution.
Relative to the giving and granting the money of the people of that Province, and all America in the House of Commons in which they are not represented. Incomplete draft of the essay, "A true state of the Proceedings in the Parliament of Great Britain, and in the Province of Massachusetts Bay, relative to the giving and granting the Money of the People of that Province, and of all America, in the House of Commons, in which they are not represented."
Printed in Works (Sparks, IV, 466).
Has a just demand on one of his officers, Mr. Eyles, Warden of the Fleet, which he refuses to satisfy. Too poor to go to law, therefore applies to His Lordship's goodness to be informed of the case and to do him justice. "Rough draft." Letter for Bourke, French Master.
A humorous paper relative to the political affairs of the several countires at the beginning of the American Revolution. Copy.
Printed in Works (Sparks, V, 116; Bigelow, VI, 118; Smyth, VII, 82).
When we see how easily the Nation is moved by party writers and declaimers, how its mind is easily changed to purposes directly contrary by a pamphlet or a protest, how can we resolve to submit to its Government without check or without being represented. Will submit only when we can no longer resist. (Incomplete.)
Fragment of Franklin's ongoing argument for the colonies which appears to be directed at the British public. Astonished to see in the [British] newspapers individual military officers proposing to "reduce the Americans" with a few regiments and a few ships. Do they not know they are instruments for establishing tyranny?
London. Lord Chatham's motion for conciliatory measures rejected. More troops sent to America. Petitions to restore the commerce with America are daily arriving. The Petition from the Congress was brought into each House without any particular recommendation from His Majesty that they should be considered. From one of General Gates's letters it appears that Lord Dartmouth advised him to disarm some of the Colonies by force.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 140; Bigelow, V, 426; Smyth, VI, 301).
London. Begs to be informed whether his of the 26th of Febryary, 1774, came to hand.
London. All their Acts of March last are likely to pass the Board of Trade except those for lowering the interest of money and for the relief of an insolvent debtor. Petitions are being received from all parts praying that commerce be restored. Both Houses have addressed the King declaring a rebellion to be in Massachusetts; more troops are about to be sent thither. A bill is preparing to deprive the four New England Colonies of their fisheries. Lord Chatham's plan for conciliation was rejected by the Lords.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 307).
London. Plan of union sent by Galloway to England. It is hinted that Mr. Galloway and Mr. [John] Jay are friends of the Ministry, Dr. Franklin does not believe it. Objections to a union. Preliminary articles to be agreed upon before such a plan should be adopted. Lord North's proposal meant to divide rather than to unite the Colonies.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 144; Bigelow, V, 435; Smyth, VI, 311).
London. Protests against the blockading of Boston harbor and the pending Acts for depriving that Province of fishing rights. In duplicate (see also: XLV, 103).
Printed in Works (Sparks, V, 79; Bigelow, V, 529; Smyth, VI, 397).
London. Protests against the blockading of Boston harbor and the pending Acts for depriving that Province of fishing rights. In duplicate (see also: XLV, 98).
Printed in Works (Sparks, V, 79; Bigelow, V, 529; Smyth, VI, 397).
London. Is about to embark to America, and requests him to omit purchasing the Theatrum Machinarium if he had not already done so; has an offer of a set in London. Informs him that if he has purchased it, his draft will be paid by Mrs. [Margaret] Stevenson. Proposes to return in October. Presents his respects to the Prince.
London. Sends extracts from letters from Mr. [John] Foxcroft to Dr. Franklin, to show what reason Dr. Franklin had to suppose the accounts might have been settled.
Philadelphia. Arrived last night and learned that there is the most perfect unanimity throughout the Colonies. Introduces Captain Falconer.
(Copy.)
Philadelphia. Applies to Mr. Bradford in behalf of a clergyman who is supposed to have spoken some disrespectful words of him; claims they are greatly misrepresented; hopes he will find the offense not to require such marks of resentment as may be misconstrued in English.
Printed in Works (smyth, VI, 402).
Thanks by The [Continental] Congress to the Earl of Chatham, Edmund Burke, David Hartley, and the Bishop of St. Asaph, for their efforts in behalf of America.
Philadelphia. Advises the proper use of his youthful oppurtunities to get knowledge. Has sent part of his baggage to Amboy. Family news.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 405).
Philadelphia. Requests them to pay the balance of his account to John Sargent whose receipt will be their discharge.
Philadelphia. Asks him to keep the money which will be given to him by Messrs. Brown and Collinson. Fears his Ameican property, which consists of houses in seaport towns, may be burnt by Great Britain. America will give England one more oppurtunity for recovering her affections and retaining the connection.
Since America aided Great Britain in conquering Canada and Louisana, and has not been given any consideration for it, resolved that, in case such satisfaction is refused, all lands in America claimed by the Crown and all quit rents unpaid to the same, shall be considered as liable to an appropriation for that purpose. Advise all persons not to pay quit rents and not to purchase lands from the Crown till such satisfaction shall be made.
Philadelphia. Finds no convenience of putting out her money in America, and has concluded to return it. Sends an order for £260. Advises her what to do with her money.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 411).
Philadelphia. Sets out for the camp to-morrow. Asks him to tell Dr. [Richard] Price that America is determined and unanimous, and to calculate how long it will take the British to kill all the Americans and conquer their whole territory, from the statstics he gives. (Copy in French.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 429).
Philadelphia. Sending £200 as compensation for his services and to defray the expenses of his mission. Promise that his services will always be recognized and rewarded by Congress. (Copy.)
For a copy of Franklin's letter to Dumas, see J.L. to ?, After 9 December 1775: XLV, 109.
Incomplete draft. An introduction to a congressional resolution authorizing an action against the crown.
Draft of a motion to shut up all custom houses in the Colonies from and after July 20, 1776; to discharge the officers of the same, and to open all the ports to the ships of every state of Europe that will admit their commerce and protect it; resolve to support this freedom of commerce for two years and as long after as the late Acts of Parliament for restricting the commerce and fisheries shall continue unrepealed.
Printed in Journals of the Continental Congress, Vol. V, 1776, p. 554, Note (Washington, 1906).
Protest against the First Draft of the Articles of Confederation. Rough of Protest against the Inequality of Voting in Congress [Franklin's note:] This Paper was drawn up by B Franklin in 1776, he being then President of the Convention of Pennsylvania; but he was dissuaded from endeavouring to carry it through, from some prudential Considerations respecting the necessary Union at that time of all the States in Confederation.
Philadelphia. The temper of the Colonies as professed in the several petitions was sincere; the terms they proposed should have been closed with and all might have been peace. The contempt with which the petitions were treated and the cruel measures since taken have changed that temper. To propose submission to the Crown would now be fruitless.
Philadelphia. Cause for not answering sooner. Concerning an interview requested by his Lordship.
Priinted in Works (Sparks, VIII, 187; Bigelow, VI, 30; Smyth, VI, 462).
Philadelphia. Thinks it not advisable for him to go at this time to his father. Will send clothing by first oppurtunity. Attempt of Benny [Benjamin Franklin Bache] at letter-writing.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 467).
Philadelphia. Reasons for not wishing him to take the journey to his father.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VI, 468).
Philadelphia. Has an advantageous offering for him if he returns immediately.
Philadelphia. Thanks Erskine for sending the Drawing of a Chevaux de Frise (see IV, 102.25 and IV, 102.75). Is persuaded that the contrivance "will answer the purpose wherever the bottom is so hard as to prevent the points being pressed into the ground by the passing ship before the resistance shall become great enough to force the upper points through her bottom."
On same sheet as Erskine to Franklin, IV, 102.25. Printed J.W. Jackson,
The proof to be inserted. [Pierre] Penet to give Franklin his address, in return Franklin will give him the address of John Daniel Schweighauser, merchant in Nantes.
Cannot treat for all the tobacco that may arrive in France, as a great part will come on account of private merchants, to discharge debts. Whatever contracts they make concerning tobacco, in order to obtain immediate supplies for the armies of the Congress, will be executed. Considering the lowness of the price of tobacco, they do not think their proposal that the Farmers-General should be at a risk of transporting the goods, to be unreasonable. The English carried on the trade on the same conditions.
There is no place in which all the tobacco is collected for transportation. It is brought to the public magazines of the Inspectors for each District. Are willing that Congress shall procure receipts for 20,000 hogsheads of tobacco lodged in the magazines and that the ships of the Farmers-General may take it, as the British ships used to do. Price of the tobacco and the manner and condition on which they are to take it.
Gives the four conditions made by M. Duportail which the Commissioners grant.
Paris. His precaution against spies. The various conjectures concerning his business do not harm him; does not think it necessary that he should take the least pains to rectify them.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, VI, 54; Smyth, VII, 11).
Paris. Relative to his entering the service of the United States.
Agreement concerning the employment of Duportail, de Laumoy, and de Gouvion in the American service.
(In English and French.)
The American Commissioners cannot accept the price offered by the Farmers-General nor make any change in their last proposition.
(In French.)
[Passy]. Have consider the proposition of the Farmers-General. Are willing to agree to the articles proposed but with an additional proviso regarding the eventual cost of the tobacco to both parties.
Copy of contract or agreement between the American Commissioners and the Farmers-General, represented by M. Paulze, by which the former agree to purchase in the American Colonies and deliver to the Farmers-General in France a certain quantity of tobacco at a fixed price per pound to be paid by the Farmers-General.
(In French. Copy.)
For repairing and cleaning arms at Nantes
Charleville. Agreement between the American Commissioners and ----- Mercier with reference to the repairing of arms and weapons of warfare. (In French.)
Paris. Introducing M. de Bretigny, Captain of Infantry, who brings nine officers to America at his own expense. Names of officers given.
Asking for M. Hennet's address.
(In French.)
Paris. Passport.
Paris. Passport.
Passport.
For the purchase and delivery in America of 180 cannon of various sizes, the purchase price to be paid in tobacco by the Continental Congress. Signed: Rey de Morande, B[enjamin] Franklin, Silas Deane, Arthur Lee.
Found it was eleven o'clock when he returned home. Fears that he was so engrossed in his game of chess that he may have incommoded her by keeping her so long in her bath. Will never begin another game of chess in her bath room. Sends her M. [Paul Jérémie] Bitaubé's Homer, and asks if he may bring M. Bitaubé with him next Wednesday to make her acquaintance.
(In French.)
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 312.
Passy. Has no authority from Congress to entertain officers for their service, except a few engineers and officers of the artillery who are long since gone. All others who have passed to America have gone at their own expense and contrary to his advice.
Passy. M. [Antoine Félix] Wuibert one of his countrymen and as such may depend on the same care and pains to procure his liberty as for any other the most favored of our people; hundreds are in the same situation; England has rejected, with insolence, all proposals for exchange of prisoners.
Passy. Is glad that so many brave soldiers in Europe have offered their services to his country. Thanks him for his intentions and is grateful for the verses sent. (In French.)
Thanks for verses. Is not proficient enough in French to fully appreciate their worth, but is grateful for the sentiments expressed about his country and himself. (In French.)
Thanks for verses. Is not proficient enough in French to fully appreciate their worth, but is grateful for the sentiments expressed about his country and himself. (In French.)
Thanks for verses. Is not proficient enough in French to fully appreciate their worth, but is grateful for the sentiments expressed about his country and himself. (In French.)
Acknowledging the author's beautiful poem, with the flattering mention of himself contained therein.
(In French.)
Passport.
Paris. Can not otherwise give an order for his passage gratis than by giving an order to their correspondent to pay the money on Franklin's account, and that should not reasonably be expected. Thinks that as he left the service of the States without leave, he should bear the whole expense of the voyage.
Passy. Until he can see him submits to remain under the opinion he has formed not only of his poor understanding in the general interests of America, but of his defects in sincerity, politeness, and attention to his instructions. Offers him a maxim which may be of use in preventing imaginary hurts.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 229; Bigelow, VI, 124; Smyth, VII, 97).
Passy. Mr. [Arthur] Lee has changed his sentiments regarding Article 12. Owing to the importance of unanimity they suggest that Articles 11 and 12 be omitted in the Treaty of Commerce. Draft of letter written by Franklin.
Passy. Informing him of their request to M. Gérard [de Rayneval] to omit the 12th Article, although not concurring in his view of it. In Franklin's hand.
Printed in R. H. Lee's Life of Arthur Lee, Boston, 1829, I, 128.
Outline of letters to be written.
Passy. Will be pleased to receive his visit at the time proposed.
(In French and English.)
Paris. Two drafts of a letter (only one of which was sent) acquainting Mr. Lee that they are ready to consult with him, whenever he pleases, upon any circumstance relative to the despatches. In Franklin's hand.
Passy. Necessity of acquainting the Court immediately with the return of their dispatches; Mr. Lee was not consulted as the case seemed a plain one, and any delay dangerous; thinks Mr. Deane deserves his thanks, and neither of them merit his condemnation. In Franklin's hand.
Passy. The treaties [with France] are being copied in French and English; no desire to postpone Mr. Lee's proposition, only two things cannot be done at once; believe the convoy to have sailed. In Franklin's hand.
Passy. Should have separated the papers relating to the House of Willing and Morris from those relating to the business of the Committee. Sees no necessity of Franklin being concerned in opening the trunk that contains those papers. If Mr. Lee chooses, on his departure for Germany, he will take care of the trunk [containing the papers of Mr. Thomas Morris] sealed until he receives orders to deliver it up, but otherwise declines to meddle with it.
Printed in Works (Smith, VII, 115).
Passy. Returns the keys; wishes Mr. Lee's brother to keep them during his stay in France. Will have no hand in the appointment of his nephew, Mr. [Jonathan] Williams, [Jr.,] as Agent in one of the parts. Did not advise the delivery to himself of the trunk [containing the papers of Mr. Thomas Morris]; said he had no objection to receive it, if Mr. Lee chose to leave it with him sealed.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VII, 116).
Benjamin Franklin to Anne Louise Boyvin d'Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy, 1778 March 10
Passy. Hailing with delight his lovely confessor; pleads guilty of coveting his neighbor's wife whenever he is with her; asks for instruction in meeting his particular temptation.
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 311.
Passy. As soon as any treaties are completed, and it is in their power to do so, will comply with his request; they will be happy to confer with him at his pleasure. In Franklin's hand.
Passy. Has not made use of the offer of Mr. Beaumann, of Bordeaux, to carry his despatches, now knowing what confidence may be placed in the Captains of their packets. Concerning bills drawn by Congress on the Commissioners.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 248; Bigelow, VI, 145; Smyth, VII, 121).
Requests the loan of his piano.
(In French.)
Passy. Will not give the man the pass to Italy. Prevented giving Mr. Izard the satisfaction he wishes, by much and very important business; reasons why Mr. Izard received no answer to his letter of the 5th inst. Condoles with him on the Charleston fire.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 250).
Passy. Reply to his charge of negligence or unfaithfulness. Settlement of the Commissioner's accounts.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 256; Bigelow, VI, 154; Smyth, VII, 129).
Passy. Reason for not answering some of his letters.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VII, 132).
Passy. France has a right to send as Ministers whom it pleases, without their approbation. Mr. Lee's extraordinary conduct in regard to the personal intercourse of the Commissioners. Settlement of the accounts. Reply to the charge of being inconsistent with his duty to the public. Cause for not answering some of his letters.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 257; Bigelow, VI, 155; Smyth, VII, 132).
Passy. Regarding orders given to Mr. [Jonathan] Williams, Jr., for a large quantity of clothing; the discharge of drafts.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 265; Bigelow, VI, 162, Smyth, VII, 136).
Passy. Draft of three letters, resenting Jay's lack of confidence in the Commissioners.
Passy. Thinks the produce of Captain [John] Burnell's prizes never came to their hands, but was paid to Mr. [Joshua] Johnson or to Mr. [William] Carmichael for Mr. Johnson who resides at Nantes and is concerned for the owners. Captain Burnell should apply to Mr. Johnson.
Passy. Are extremely sensible of his good offices in obtaining the King's orders relating to the presentation of Mr. Adams to His Majesty. Will do themselves the honor of waiting on His Exellency on the day agreeable to his obliging invitation.
Passy. Engaged for to-morrow and every other day next week; but will do themselves the honor of dining at Surêne on Monday the 18th, if convenient to them.
Draft of petition asking him to give a frigate to the firm of Recule de Basmarin and Raimbaux, of Bordeaux, to wage war on English shipping. (In French.)
Passy. Desiring Mr. Grand to accept no bills without the joint order of the Commissioners, and to forward to them all letters that come to him addressed to Mr. Deane.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 272, Note; Bigelow, VI, 176, Note I: Smyth, VII, 154, Note I).
Passy. His reasons for not signing Mr. Lee's letter [XLV, 124b] to Mr. Grand the American banker.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 272; Bigelow, VI, 176; Smyth, VII, 154).
Passy. Thanks him for the kind care of his letters and packets.
Printed in works (Smyth VII, 163).
The same as XLV, 127. (In French by Jean Baptiste Le Roy.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 277; Bigelow, VI, 185; Smyth, VII, 163).
Passy. Objects to the proposed engraving on the score of its being too flattering; advises placing a senator in Roman dress in the picture instead of a portrait of himself [Franklin]; desires to have it dedicated to Congress and not to himself.
Passy. Would like to know French well enough to appreciate fully the merit of hs verses. Received from M. Brillon the gift he sent and thanks him for it.
(In French.)
Passy. Gave him two or three guineas for which he was to receive the History of England when written; received two volumes of that history, and four volumes of histories of Sweden and Denmark, which he never desired. Requests him to send his correspondent to receive back the six volumes of different histories.
Was very sorry not to have been able to call to see her yesterday evening. Makes a comparison to prove that he loves her "too much" and more than she loves him. (Part of letter written in an imitation of Mme. Brillon's handwriting.)
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 313.
Only sees one defect in her which consists in a kind of sentimental avariciousness or a deisre to restrict and monopolize all his affection and not allow him to bestow any of it on other charming women. She is wrong in thinking that his affection cannot be divided up amongst a number of persons without loss to herself. Maintains that esteem, admiration, respect and even affection may be extended to a number of objects. She has no right to complain, moreover, as she excludes everything material from their relations and only allows him a few polite kisses now and then, such as she might give to her young cousins. Thinks he would have more reason to complain of her harsh treatment of his affections. Does not wish to be at war with her and proposes that they sign a treaty of peace, Submits the preliminary articles for her considertation and consent.
(In French.)
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 313.
The real cause for his leaving her house so soon was that he had been up carly that day, had worked hard, had dined in Paris and felt rather sleepy after she had retired to the garden. Thought it more seemly to take his leave early in the evening and go home. She must, therefore, forgive him and not be angry over little things.
(Press copy.)
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 314.
The real cause for his leaving her house so soon was that he had been up early that day, had worked hard, had dined in Paris and felt rather sleepy after she had retired to the garden. Thought it more seemly to take his leave early in the evening and go home. She must, therefore, forgive him and not be angry over little things. (In French.) [Autograph Draft of XLVI(i), 48.]
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 314.
[Passy]. Denies having given her husband the least encouragement in his project of entering the American army; lent him fifteen guineas which he never repaid; refuses to extricate him from further difficulties. Commiserates her unhappy situation, and, as she says she has not a shilling, sends her a guinea.
Passy. Is ready to deliver the trunk to him, but is unwilling to have any concern in the opening of it; or in examining or sorting the papers.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VII, 184).
Passy. Regarding the exchange of prisoners.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VII, 185).
Passy. By the 8th Article of the Treaty of Commerce His Majesty engaged to employ his good offices with the Emperor of Morocco and the other powers on the coast of Barbary to provide as fully as possible for the safety of the inhabitants of the United States and their vessels and effects against violence from the Barbary States. Heard that there are American vessels in Italy desiring to return home and that there are merchants in Italy desiring to enter American trade, but that an apprehension of danger from the Barbary States is a discouragement. Requests his attention to the matter.
(Press copy.)
Passy. Answers to questions on the subject of marriage in Pennsylvania.
Passy. Another translation. (In French.)
Should certainly pay the greatest respect to the recommendation of Madame [Noailles de la Fayette, but it is impossible for him to do what is desired for M. Rolandeau, formerly an officer in the American service. M. Rolandeau's conduct. Has been ordered by Congress to encourage no more officers to come over. Rejoices on the good news from their friends in America, and the reputation her particular friend acquired there.
Passy. Obliged for being informed of Captain [Gustavus] Cunningham's misconduct. Regulations of Congress respecting privateers. Two copies. One is incomplete.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 298; Bigelow, VI, 214; Smyth, VII, 190). See also XLVI(i), 64 & LVI(i), 73. On same leaf as XLV, 132c.
Relative to a complaint made against Captain [Gustavus] Cunningham's conduct towards Spain. (First part missing.)
See also XLV, 132a, b & LVI(i), 73
[Passy]. Letter to the Secretary of the Royal Medical Society of Paris. Received the copies of the Charter and the tickets which he sent him in behalf of the Royal Society [of Medicine]. Is extremely sensible of the honor they did him in placing him at the head of their foreign members. Will not fail to attend the meeting of the 20th instant to which he is invited.
Passy. Passport.
See also XLVI(i), 64
Reply to a complaint made by the Spanish Government against [Gustavus] Cunningham for his actions in seizing Spanish trading vessels. Expresses regret at his conduct on the occasion referred to and promises to lay the complaint before Congress.
(In French by Ferdinand Grand.)
Relating to Mr. Thomas Morris's papers, and his desire to have nothing to do with them except to deliver them up at once, before witnesses.
[Passy]. Thanks him for his readiness to serve Captain [Job] Prince. His bills for moderate supplies will be honored. Recommends his grandson to his civilities.
(Copy.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, VII, 201).
Passy. Informs him that he may safely confide to W[illiam] T[emple] Franklin what he has to communicate to the Commissioners. Has received no account of his vessel or its destination, from Congress. Informs him that if he sends any prizes into the ports, to address them to one of the American Agents there.
(Copy.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, VII, 201).
Passy. Acquaints him that a person in their confidence, as desired by Captain [Job] Prince, sets out for Dieppe with answers to his and the Captain's letters.
(Copy.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, VII, 202).
Passy. Believes the whole a piece of roguery; wants him to return to Passy.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VII, 203).
Benjamin Franklin to Anne Louise Boyvin d'Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy, 1778 December 10-15
Humorous description of Heaven and how Franklin intends to spend his time there. Will wait for Mme. Brillon's coming. Asks her not to renew her contract there with M. Brillon but to pledge her troth to him.
(In French.)
Transcribed by Mme. Brillon from the original and corrected by her, with memorandum of corrections of French in Dr. Franklin's handwriting.
For Franklin's hand in French, see Mss.B.F85.br, Franklin to Mme. Brillon, [1778]. Printed in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 1901, Vol, XL, 109, also in Putnam's Monthly, Nov., 1906, 167.
Benjamin Franklin to Anne Louise Boyvin d'Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy, 1778 December 10-15
Fragment containing English to French translations relating to humorous description of Heaven and how Franklin intends to spend his time there (see XLIII, 87).
Asking for the address of the Governor of San Domingo.
Expressing thanks for the verses and a wish that the connection between France and Amercica may be everlasting.
Cannot see her this evening and desires to know if the dinner with M. De La Fay will take place to-morrow.
(In French.)
Discussion about electricity. Reply to a correspondent who had made some experiments with the Leyden jar and who differed with Franklin in his deductions. Explains the phenomena observed in his experiments with the Leyden jar. Draft by Jean Baptiste Le Roy. (In French.)
On the issue of paper money by Congress to the amount of one hundred millions. Simply a kind of loan with which to pay its debts that Congress was unable to do otherwise. The paper money will have to be redeemed, just as a loan, the Government will have the use of one hundred millions for a certain time without any interest charges. The paper money also promotes and helps the circulation of money in general. [In the handwriting of Le Ray de Chaumont]. (In French.)
In the form of a letter to Mme. Brillon with an explantory preface by the translator.
(In French.)
Printed in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 1901, Vol. XL, 90, also in Works (Sparks, II, 177; Bigelow, VI, 237; Smyth, VII, 206).
It gives him great pleasure to learn from his respected neighbor that her lovely child is to be married, but that they are not to be deprived of her company. Assures them he will make no use of his "paratonnerre" to prevent this match.
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Jan., 1907, 431.
Address of M. Fleuri(ot)[an] de Langle, formerly an officer in the French cavalry.
(In French.)
Requests him to send Mr. [Jonathan] Williams [Jr.]'s letter that objects to the clothing furnished by Mr. Mont(h)ieu; also the paper relating to his accounts.
E. Dr. Franklin must send somebody to search for the papers as Mr. [John] Adams has no more the custody of them than Dr. Franklin and never will have.
Passy. Financial affairs of the United States in Europe. Hopes he will not insist on their giving him farther credit with their banker. Thinks he should reimburse the sum they advanced to him.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 308; Bigelow, VI, 292; Smyth, VII, 216).
Passy. Thanks him for his letter and the ingenious fable in verse. Is not proficient enough in French to fully appreciate the fine qualities of the verse but thinks the idea of the fable excellent and well applied. Pleased to hear of so many partisans of his country in France. [In hand of Jean Baptiste Le Roy.] (In French.)
Passy. Is pleased to meet so many partisans of his country in France. Read with pleasure the statutes of their Society and the verses addressed to him. Appreciates the honors received from the Society of the friends of America at Marseilles. Hopes the alliance between France and his country will endure forever and contribute to the prosperity of their city. [In hand of Jean Baptiste Le Roy]. (In French.)
Passy. Money advanced to Ralph Izard and William Lee. (Incomplete.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 310; Bigelow, VI, 294; Smyth, VII, 218).
Passy. His promise, whether made in the presence or absence of witnesses, should be fulfilled; repeats his intention of sending a copy of the letter with some farther reasons in addition.
Requests him to forward all the public papers in his possession. Promises to keep them in order and to cheerfully furnish him with any papers he may have occassion for.
E. Mr. Adams on receipt of this, put all the Public Papers in to the hands of W[illiam] T[emple] Franklin.
With reference to a lawsuit over a vessel recaptured from the English by the American privateer
Passy. Requests them to replace the goods which were sent over to Congress by mistake, for the account of Mr. Simeon Deane, charging the Commissioners with the account; he also asks them to remit the remainder of the money belonging to the United States to Mr. Ferdinand Grand.
Passy. Passport.
Passy. On the subject of procuring military supplies for the State of Virginia. Mr. William Lee's conduct in the affair.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 320; Bigelow, VI, 317; Smyth, VII, 238).
Paris. Present state of affairs does not permit him to begin negotiations for a loan of 1,500,000 florins. The attempt by the United States to get a loan in Holland last year was not successful. Fears another attempt would not meet with more success and might injure the credit of the United States. If he can, with his credit and good offices, first succeed in getting a sufficient number of subscribers, Dr. Franklin could sign and send the preliminary agreement proposed by M. de Chaumont.
(In French.) Copy.
Passy. Draft, by M. de Chaumont, of previous letter and preliminary agreement of proposed loan.
(In French.)
Preliminary agreements between Dr. Franklin, as minister from the United States, and Jean de Neufville & fils, of Amsterdam, respecting a loan of 2 million florins to be made by the latter to the United States. Draft in M. Le Ray de Chaumont's handwriting. Signed: B[enjamin] Franklin. In French.
See also: LVI(i), 28b
Passy. Agreement for negotiating a loan of two million gulden in Holland.
Passy. Agreement for negotiating a loan of two million gulden in Holland.
(In French.)
Advises him to make his complaint to the Court of Admiralty of Massachusetts Bay to which the privateer belonged; offers to transmit any papers and proofs thither.
Points out that the effect of such long and unreasonable delays in deciding claims by American vessels for prizes retaken from the English will be to discourage offensive operations by American war vessels against the English in European waters. Cites the claim of Captain [Daniel] McNeill, of the American privateer
Passy. Passport.
Has no orders to send over any physicians; America is open to all French people who desire to settle there, but they must pay their own expenses.
Passy. The business of selling prizes, distributing the shares and paying salaries, has never been in his hands; recommends him to write to Mr. [Jonathan] Williams, [Jr.], at Nantes, for information.
Passy. The lands of Pennsylavania not yet granted all belong to the Proprietary, Mr. Penn; the price is £5 the hundred acres; enumerates the advantages which render a free gift or land unnecessary.
Passy. On the method of harrassing England by sea.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, VI, 339; Smyth, VII, 269).
Passy. Passport for Mr. [Guillaume] Bousie's vessel, the
Thanks him for his good will towrads America, but their laws and language being different from those with which he is acquainted, can neither advise nor encourage him to go thither.
The army is full; with a small captial he might succeed in commerce or agriculture. but his voyage thither must be at his own expense; is not authorized to promise any kind of establishment, office, or employment to new-comers; the advantages he will find there, without any additional inducements.
She is too sensitive and kind-hearted and he gives her some advice. Ingratitude is a terrible evil, but it only hurts the ungrateful. If those whom she has benefited prove ungrateful, it is their crime and should not disturb her. Those who have heaped injuries on her in return for benefits have only lowered themselves and become inferior to her. She should not seek to be revenged on them; time will prove the rectitude of her conduct and those who have slandered her will seek her friendship. Hopes she will be able to make out his meaning in spite of the defects and clumsiness of his style in French.
(In French.)
Printed in Putnam's Magazine, Dec., 1906, 315. For duplicate, see Mss.B.F85.br
Passy. Passport.
Passy. Passport.
Asks him to acquaint the people that have a mind to remove to America, that they may do so with great safety to themselves and effects. Tells him to state the advantages of living in America.
to ----- -----: Invitation
Passy. Blank invitation to dinner for Monday, July 5, to celebrate the Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Order for types and paper.
Draft of letter granting passports to Irish settlers on board the brigantine
List of names of Irish Settlers seeking passports to the United States. See also: LXXIV, 89.
Regrets that he did not receive his invitation to celebrate the Anniversary of the American Independence till the day appointed was passed. Assures him, however, that he was not forgot when the company drank to the brave strangers who have hazarded their lives in support of American Liberty.
Passy. Passport.
Passy. Certifies that the accounts of John Ross have been audited by Messrs. Wharton and Bancroft, and recommends that the United States pay the balance owing. Accompanied by the auditing report of Sam[uel] Wharton and Ed[ward] Bancroft. (Copy.)
Passy. Requests him to send the sword [for the Marquis de Lafayette] by his servant, as Madame Brillon desires to see it.
See also: XLVI(i), 16; L(i), 19; L(ii), 17
Passy. Sends him a sword in the name of the Congress.
Passy. Sends him a sword in the name of the Congress. XLV, 148 translated into French. (In French.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 380; Bigelow, VI, 436; Smyth, VII, 370).
Description of the sword given by Congress to the Marquis de Lafayette. In handwriting of William Temple Franklin.
See also: XLV, 148; L(ii), 17
See also: XLV, 148; L(i), 19
Description of the decoration on one side of the pommel of the sword which was presented by the Congress to the Marquis de Lafayette and the signification thereof.
Passy. (Press copy.)
Passy. Cannot accept proposal made by four English prisoners of war to give their services to the United States as artillery or battery officers. It is always prudent to beware of such offers made by English soldiers. (In French.)
Passy. Passport.
Passy. Wishes he could write something positive to the Congress in regard to the supplies they have asked for. Congress will be placed in a state of uncertainty; and the disappointment will give great advantage to their enemies, external and internal.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 382; Bigelow, VI, 441; Smyth, VII, 376).
Passy. The story of the whistle.
Printed in Works (Sparks, II, 180; Bigelow, VI, 239; Smyth, VII, 414).
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 353; Bigelow, IV, 556; Smyth, VII, 438).
Exercises in French. Translation of a chapter from the Bible—Abraham and the stranger.
Passy. Passport.
Passy. Returns the bills accepted; in case any of the duplicates should be presented endorsed, relies on Mr. Nesbitt's honor to reimburse him.
Passy. Requests him to correct the defects in lettering on proofs of medals submitted. (In French.)
Passy. Wishes to come to an understanding with him about the portrait of himself (Franklin) which M. Fournier desires to have made. Will consent to give sittings to the artist, but doest not intend to pay the expense. Thanks him for his paper on the invention of musical characters. Would like to see the treatise on the "Origin of Printing." (In French.)
Passport for the Moravian Brethren's Brig,
Passy. Sorry he is not satisfied with the twenty guineas be lent him, but demands more. Does not advise him to return to America in his condition, for should be again be taken prisoner, it would be fatal to him. His family would be happy to have him at home.
Passy. Relative to the small indemnity granted for the destruction of the "Fair Play." As the owners apprehend there was no fault on the Captain's part, he begs him to reconsider the matter, or else to send him the information he has received from Gaudaloupe, of the blameable conduct of the Captain, that be may satisfy the owners.
(Copy.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, VIII, 476; Bigelow, VII, 98; Smyth, VIII, 113).
Passy. Recommendation of M. le Baron d'Arros.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VIII, 119).
Passy. Instructions as to how to pack the gun barrels, locks and bayonets that they may be conveyed to America in the cheapest manner. Does not think the woodwork of the arms worth sending. Asks him to have the barrels and locks oiled that on their arrival they might not be in a worse condition than they are. Thinks common laborers can do the oiling. May perhaps send what he has ready in the course of a month and at that time he will be glad to know the quantity.
Passy. Confirms the power he gave him to freight a ship to carry out the public stores. Tells him to draw on him for the amount if he agrees with M. [Le Ray] de Chaumont for the "Breton" or other large ship. Approves of M. de Chaumont's proposition for the clothing he has at Nantes and authorizes him to accept it. Wants to know the amount as soon as he makes out the invoices that he may draw his bills on the Congress. Should Mr. [John D.] Schweighauser have anything ready for the public, when he loads the ship, and should there be sufficient room, requests him to freight it.
Passy. Passport.
Passy. All bills of exchange drawn on Mr. Franklin should be presented for acceptance at his house in Passy, and then at their expiration to M. [Rodolphe Ferdinand] Grand, banker.
(In French.)
With corrections by a "savant' and critical notes by a woman who is not a "savante" [Mme. Anne Louise Boivin d'Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy]. (In French.)
Printed in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 1901, XL, 98.
Returns the orginial draft of her fable. Is sorry if he did wrong and will not do so again until the next opportunity; such being the general practice of all sinners. Denies that excessive indulgence in sexual pleasures is the cause of gout as he had no gout when he was a young man. His condition somewhat improved; is still very weak but not too ill to jest a little. Sends her his "dialogue [with the gout]" and hopes it will amuse her.
(In French.)
Printed in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 1901, XL, 97, and in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 312.
Printed also in Works (Sparks, II, 185; Bigelow, VI, 253; Smyth, VIII, 162).
Incomplete. For a version in French, printed by Franklin's press at Passy, see 094, F85 [in printed materials catalog].
Will call to see her and try to go up her stairs if she is unable to come down. Enjoyed M. Brillons's visits to him during her illness and was much amused by his humorous stories. M. [Pere] Pagin called to see him yesterday and had the patience to listen to him playing an air on the harmonica. (in French.)
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec 1906, 314, also in Works (Smyth, X, 426).
[Passy]. Reply to his memoir relative to the agreement between himself and Jonathan Williams, Jr., for freight to be loaded on his vessel the "Marquis de Lafayette" for America.
Reply to his memoir relative to the agreement between himself and Jonathan Williams, Jr., for freight to be loaded on his vessel the "Marquis de Lafayette" for America. (Incomplete copy of L(i), 33.)
Question of paying freight for a vessel before she arrives at L'Orient to receive her cargo.
Passy. Returns M. De Segray's account with his approbation. A new demand of 15,000 of account of the "[Marquis de] la Fayette" before she will be suffered to depart. M. [Le Ray] de Chaumont demanded 40,000 lives more on account of freight. Chaumont's inability to pay his acceptances; informed by young Chaumont that Williams owes his father 40,000 livres. Wishes to know whether this is not a mistake. Is advised to advance 12,000 livres for the "Mars"; thought she took sixty tons instead of one hundred tons.
Passy. Proposed to M. de Vergennes that the Government should take the bargain of the vessel off his hands. He did not care to embarrass himself with this, but kindly offered to lend him the sum if he desired it. Received an engagement from Messrs. Cot[t]in and Co. to sign for the payment of 150,000 more, being the price of the ship. Their menace. Reason for not signing it. Wants to know whether they can not lay hold of the vessel. Standing of his account with M. [Le Ray] de Chaumont.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VIII, 197).
Passy. Relative to the payment of bills for clothing. M. [Le Ray] de Chaumont writes he received news and some remittances from America and that his fortune there is employed in the service of the army; the receipts of the army, when he can produce them to Government, will be ready money for him. Jauge and Cot[t]in threat that they shall lose not only the ship but the freight they paid, notwithstanding M. de Chaumont's promise to refund it, if the vessel did not arrive.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VIII, 198).
Passy. Acquaints him that Mr. [Francis M.] Dana, a late member of Congress, desires to lay before him some letters relative to the indeminification of the brig "Fair Play," to which papers he requests him to afford a favorable attention.
Printed in Works (Smyth, VIII, 205).
To his faithful interpreter of German letters.
Passy. Passport.
Will apply for an order to permit him and his friends to go to L'Orient, where they will find vessels bound for America.
Passy. Repeats his congratulations on his election to the Government of his Country. Encloses copies of letters relative to the enemy's posts and the proposed operations in its neighborhood, also copies of letters which may be of interest to Massachusetts Bay, which were taken from an English packet bound to New York, by a privateer.
(Press Copy.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, VIII, 249).
Battle between Generals [Nathanael] Greene and [Earl] Cornwallis and naval engagement between Admirals [Charles René Dominique Sochet] Des Touches and [Marriot] Arbuthnot. Neither side had much to boast of in the victory. Does not see how he can do anything
[Passy]. P.S. Referring to Colonel [John] Lauren's departure for Brest and the harmony that had subsisted betwen them. Wants information as to the purchases made by Mr. Adams, at his request, to send in the "Indienne."
Believes that there are many pleasures in this world, as well as pains, and is glad to live. Providence should not be blamed; many of our duties are by Nature made pleasures.
(In French.)
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 316.
To prove that she does not really love him, narrates the story of a Bishop who refused alms to a beggar but was willing to give him his blessing. Declares that although she is as rich as an Archbishop in all moral and Christian virtues she has refused him her love, so as not to have to sacrifice the smallest particle of her virtue.
(In French.)
Printed in Puttam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 315.
[Passy]. Asking her to use her influence with M. d'Aguesseau, in the case of Alexander vs. the Bank of England, as it concerns a very interesting family, who merit protection. (In French.)
Passy. Certification of the genuineness of a deed.
Offering congratulations and homage to her on behalf of all the States of North America [on the occcasion of the birth of the Dauphin].
(In French.)
Versailles. Sends copy of London paper giving account of the naval engagement in Chesapeake Bay. The English acknowledge their defeat. Refers to junction between Rochambeau and la Fayette's forces and probable capture of Cornwallis and his whole army. Rejoicings over birth of the Dauphin. Sends his love to the de Chaumont family.
Passy. Acquaints him that Messrs. Neufville and Son are willing to deliver the goods, but they cannot control the owners of the ship, who have a right to detain the goods for damages done by Captain [Alexander] Gillon's refusing to sign the charter parties. His sentiments on the affair. Scheme of a loan proposed by John de Neufville and his opinion of it.
Printed in Works (Sparks, IX, 106; Bigelow, VII, 328; Smyth, VIII, 341).
Benjamin Franklin to Anne Louise Boyvin d'Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy, 1781 December 25
Passy. Fully appreciates the extent of the victory gained and the possible consequences thereof. Does not exult however over it, as war is so uncertain. Is always careful not to appear presumptuous or overconfident lest fortune might change. Kind inquires about Mme. Brillon from nearly every person he meets. No longer covets his neighbor's (M. Brillon's) house, but still covets his neighbor's wife. Dined at Chaillot this Christmas day. Weather was mild and balmy, could not be finer at Nice. (In French.)
Printed in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, XL, 107, and in Works (Smyth, VIII, 350).
Power of attorney, by Franklin, to negotiate, in Holland, a loan of two million florins for the United States. (In French).
Printed sheet with twelve engraved images, including Franklin's stove.
Passy. Promising to send his letter by the first opportunity. (In French). See also: 1782 February 14, Beraurd de Ciccati, Lt. Col. to BF (XXIV, 80a)
Received his "Dialogue [with the Gout]" and her charming epistle. Hopes that the next time the gout pays him a visit she will come to see him; her presence and care would turn the pain into a pleasure. (In French).
Passy. Received their letter relating to some accepted bills that have been protested for non-payment at Madrid. Sorry for the uneasiness this accident occasioned them. Shall immediately give orders to have them taken up and the moeny paid by his banker to Massrs. Pache, Frères & Co.
Passy. Requests him to take up sundry bills of exchange which were accepted by Mr. [John] Jay at Madrid and afterwards protested for non-payment, and which are now in the hands of Messrs. Pache, Frères & Co. at Paris.
Passy. Is obliged to him for communicating his plan but declines to engage in the scheme. Should he think fit to propose it to this Court, he advises him to confer with M. [Ferdinand] Grand, whose opinion, if he should approve of it, would weigh with the Ministry as would that of his brother Sir George Grand, lately commissioned by the King as Banker to France in Holland.
Passport.
Passy. Agreement between Benjamin Franklin and Jacques Donatien Le Ray de Chaumont relative to the settlement of their respective claims by arbitration. (In French).
See also: LIV, 125 (15)
Passy. Reply to Mr. de Chaumont's answer respecting the observations of Dr. Franklin on his account.
Passy. Reply to Mr. de Chaumont's answer respecting the observations of Dr. Franklin on his account. Fragment. For complete letter, see LIV, 125 (8)
Le Ray de Chaumont's agreement respecting the final settlement of their accounts and indebtedness to each other and accepting the decision of M. [Ferdinand] Grand as arbitrator of their differences. (In French.)
Passy. Remarks upon M. [Le Ray] de Chaumont's second account.
Appointing William Temple Franklin as Secretary of their Commission to draw up and conclude peace with Great Britain. This appointment was approved of by Henry Laurens and John Adams, the other members of the Commission, who were then absent. (Copy.)
"A true copy from the original in my possession," signed W. T. Franklin, Sec[retar]y. With separate article. Press copy. Attested. In duplicate (see also: LV, 12). Signed: John Jay, Henry Laurens, Richard Oswald, John Adams and B[enjamin] Franklin.
Printed in Treaties and Conventions between the United States and other Powers, Washington, 1873, 309.
With separate article. Press copy. Attested. In duplicate (see also: LV, 11). Contains duplicates of several pages. Signed: John Jay, Henry Laurens, Richard Oswald, John Adams and B[enjamin] Franklin.
Printed in Treaties and Conventions between the United States and other Powers, Washington, 1873, 309.
Making an appointment to meet him, the Ambassador of Sweden to France.
(In French.)
Paris. Congratulate Congress on the signature of the preliminaries between Great Britain and the United States, to be inserted in a definitive treaty as soon as the terms between France and Great Britain shall be agreed on. Remarks on Articles 2,4,5, and 6 of the preliminaries. Signed: John Adams et al. (Press copy.)
Printed in Diplom. Corres. of Am. Rev., Wharton, VI, 131.
With reference to the claim of Andrews, owner of the ship
Passport. See also, LXXIV, 92.
Passport. See also, LXXIV, 91.
Franklin, Benjamin to [Gaetano Filangieri], [1783 January 11]
Passy. Congratulations on learing of his marriage. Regrets he cannot personally make their acquaintance. Draft by Le Ray de Chaumont. (In French.)
Passy. Relating to the exchange of prisoners. (Press copy.)
[Passy]. Wishes it were in his power to give him the information he desires. Will send him the information as soon as he can obtain it. (Press copy.)
Having received from Mr. Alleyne Fitz-Herbert, Minister Plenipotentiary of His Britannic Majesty, a declaration relative to the suspension of arms to be established between the United States and Great Britain. They accept the same and reciprocally declare a cessation of hostilities. (Copy.)
Having received from Mr. Alleyne Fitz-Herbert, Minister Plenipotentiary of His Britannic Majesty, a declaration relative to the suspension of arms to be established between the United States and Great Britain. They accept the same and reciprocally declare a cessation of hostilities. (In French. Press copy. Concluding page only.)
Passy. Relative to the death of his friends. Declines visiting England at present. His opinion of wars. Requests her to visit Paris. (Press copy.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, IX, 475; Bigelow, VIII, 254; Smyth, IX, 11).
Passy. Rejoices that the war is over and that they can communicate freely. Thanks God for the protection he had given him hitherto and hopes for its continuance to the end. Is pleased with the account of his family except that his eldest son so long continues unmarried. His attitude towards marriage. Is concerned at the losses he suffered by the war. (Press Copy.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, IX, 447; Bigelow, VIII, 256; Smyth, IX, 13).
Given upon the cessation of hostilities between Great Britain and the United States. Printed form.
Printed
Versailles. Article II of the contract made by Comte de Vergennes and Benjamin Franklin relative to the fixing of the periods for the reimbursements of the six millions at the Royal Treasury.
Printed in Treaties and Conventions between the United States and other Powers, Washington, 1873, 259.
Passy. Franklin is sorry that he has an engagement for the day mentioned; suggests two other days, on either of which it will give him great pleasure to dine with them. (In French.)
Has just seen, in a French newspaper, that the American Republic is about to erect, in Philadelphia, a statue to the French King. The idea pleases him but he criticises the inscription. (In Italian. In handwriting of Dr. Franklin.)
Passy. Wishes to have printed, by M. Pierres, the French translation of the Constitutions of the United States of America. No complete translation of them has yet been published. Requests Count de Vergennes to give his approval to this publication and to use his good offices to have the necessary permission granted to the printer. (In French.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 27).
Introduces Mr. Märter, professor of natural history in the service of the Emperor.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 35).
French and English in parallel columns with a steel plate of the medal. Printed.
Passy. Passport.
Passy. The bearer, Pierre André Gargaz, is the author of a very humane project for establishing a perpetual peace. Is much interested in his behalf. He served twenty years as a galley slave and now requests letters of rehabilitation that he may enjoy, for the rest of his life, the douceurs that state would be attended with.
Passy. Knows Mr. [Jonathan] Williams [Jr.] to be a just man and hopes the favor he asks for an "arrèt de Surséance" may be granted, being persuaded it will be employed to the complete satisfaction of his creditors.
Printed in works (Bigelow, VIII, 295; Smyth, IX, 47).
Passy. Received the copy of the Constitutions. The ratification of the Swedish treaty is arrived so that there is no further obstruction to the publication. Instructions for binding the books.
Printed in Works (Sparks, IX, 523; Bigelow, VIII, 295; Smyth, IX, 47).
[Passy]. Favorable reception likely to be given to the trade with German States. Enumerates articles which America purchases from Europe; reasons why he cannot point out the most reliable business houses in America.
Passy. Has received his letter notifying him of the ratification of the treaty between Sweden and the United States. Expects to receive soon from Congress notice of its ratification also. Will acquaint Congress of the King of Sweden's desire that the United States be represented at his Court by a member of the Franklin family. Congress will, no doubt, do all in its power to be agreeable to a Sovereign who was the first in Europe to offer his friendship to the United States. (In French.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 53).
Passy. The Empress of Russia and the Emperor of Germany desiring to put a stop to the calamities of war, offered their mediations to the belligerent powers, and as they were informed by Comte de Vergennes that the Kinds of France and England have accepted the mediations of their Imperial Majesties in the Definitive Treaty of Peace about to be concluded between these two powers, they are ready to accept, in behalf of the United States of America, the mediations of their Imperial Majesties in the Definitive Treaty of Peace to be concluded between Great Britain and the United States. Draft letter.
Passy. Accepting the proffered mediation of the Emperor of Germany and the Empress of Russia to bring hostilities with Great Britain to an end and requesting that the mediation be extended to the final Treaty of Peace. (In French.)
This is the first draft, by John Adams and emended by Benjamin Franklin. The final draft was sent to David Hartley, dated 17 July 1783, signed "John Adams, B. Franklin, John Jay". See "Papers of Benjamin Franklin", vol. 40, p. 315, note 4.
Paris. They have received from Congress their ratification of the provisional articles [of the Treaty of Peace] and are ready to exchange ratifications with the British Minister. Contrary to one of the articles in which it is stipulated that the British shall, without causing any destruction or carrying away any negroes, withdraw their armies and fleet from the United States, they have been informed that a number of negroes have been carried away from New York. Have instructions from Congress to demand reparation. State that it is agreed that no execution for any debt contracted before the war shall be permitted to be taken out within three years from the day of the signing of the definitive treaty and that no claim of interest shall be admitted.
St. James'. (Press copy. Attested.)
Printed in Diplom. Corres. of Am. Rev., Wharton, VI, 631.
Letter purporting to be written to a newspaper. Hears that chemists are trying to find a lighter and less expensive gas for filling balloons. Suggests that they turn to Nature and utilize the air or light gas of which lovers' and courtiers' promises are made, widowers' sighs, good resolutions and praises in letters of recommendation, and which is ten times lighter than inflammable air or gas. In French. Franklin signed the letter: "Une Abonnée."
Passy. Returns the essays submitted; was pleased to see the progress made by the author in a style different from his. (In French.)
Passy. Having represented to the Congress the service rendered to the American prisoners by the Rev. Mr. Wren, he now takes the pleasure of transmitting their thanks, together with a diploma from the College at Princeton, Which he begs him to forward.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 124).
Acknowledges the receipt of the memoirs and promises to communicate them to Congress who doubtless will respect his recommendation of a Consul at the Cape.
[Passy]. Never heard of the Resolution of Congress which he mentions, and doubts much of its existence; nor has he heard anything of the supposed decision in Council at Versailles concerning it. Understands that a number of American officers have agreed to form themselves into a society for the purpose of relieving their poor widows and orphans hereafter.
[Paris]. Memoranda for a letter.
[Paris]. Memoranda for a letter. See also, LVI(ii), 21 (OS); XLVI(I), 74a.
Commercial and financial affairs. Congratulations upon quitting public life. (First part missing. Press copy.) See XLVI(i), 74b for a partial outline of the letter this comes from.
Sends her the little pieces she asked for. The one on "The Game of Chess" should be dedicated to her, as the best piece of advice in it was suggested by her magnanimous way of playing. His grandson has seen the hotel recommended by her, finds it too magnificent for him and his household. Is very sorry it does not suit him, as he would have liked being nearer to her.
(In French.)
Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Dec., 1906, 315.
Civil employments [in America] are few and all are filled by persons elected by the people. He may make a settlement there and will be kindly received, and will soon be considered as a citizen. He may acquire the esteem and confidence of the people and obtain in consequence public employment, either civil or military.
A Drawing.
Passy. Relative to the loss of his ship. Is not enough acquainted with teh French laws and customs to inform him what claim the widow of M. Le Vaché, may have upon his property. Relative to the validity of marriages by Protestant ministers.
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 53; Bigelow, VIII, 427; Smyth, IX, 152)
See also: XXXI, 16a
Acknowledging the letter and poem [de Pace]; his friends who are better judges than he, pronounce it excellent.
Passy. Received his three letters relating to aerostatic machines and the means of directing their motion. Communicated the letters to the committee which was appointed by the Acedamy of Sciences to consider that subject.
Passy. Encloses a letter and sundry papers which he received from Mr. [Anthony George] Eckhardt, of Utrecht, a most ingenious mechanician. IF he can do him any service, he requests him to do so; also to show to [Joseph Michel] Montgolfier what Mr. Eckhardt says of balloons. Copy.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 173).
Mr. [Jonathan] Williams [Jr.] having amicably arranged his affairs with the bulk of his creditors he now joins his request for an "arrêt de surséance" that he may be secured against the small number remaining who aim at forcing him to favor them to the prejudice of the others.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, VIII, 451; Smyth, IX, 173).
[Passy]. Appointment of consuls does not belong to him. Thinks that whenever one is appointed for Dunkirk, it will be Mr. [Francis] Coffyn, who for seven years has constantly taken care of and relieved the poor prisoners escaping from England, without any compensation.
Passy. Received his letter respecting the necessity of producing legal proof of the arrangements made with the creditors mentioned in Mr. [Jonathan] Williams's state of affairs, and sends herewith the original of those arrangements for his inspection.
Printed in Works (Bigelow, VIII, 454; Smyth, IX, 176).
Passy. No one else has seen the paper, and it will probably not appear until after his decease, if it does then; his opinion of the translation.
Benjamin Franklin, to to La Sablière de La Condamine, 1784 March 19
Passy. Acknowledging his favor of the 8th inst. Thinks maladies caused by obstruction may be helped by electricity; doubts the existence of animal magnetism; fears the new method will prove a delusion.
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 75; Bigelow, VIII, 460) and in Hale's Franklin in France, II, 293.
Passy. Acknowledging M. Mazue's letter; believes it is yet too early to put such a project into execution; the culture of wheat is more profitable and certain, and in exchange the wines of Europe can be procured cheaper than the cost of home production.
Passy. Has no orders or authority to encourage any person to go to America by promising lands or other favors from Government; the enclosed printed paper describing the country will perhaps convince the young man that he is better where he is.
Sends her one of his "serious pleasantries." Hopes it will amuse her and that she will recompense him by playing a Christmas carol and the "March of the Insurgents."
(In French.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 191), and in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 1901, XL, 113.
Savages we call them, because their Manners differ from ours, which we think the Perfection of Civility. They think the same of theirs. Perhaps if we could examine the Manners of different Nations with Impartiality, we should find no People so rude as to be without Rules of Politeness, nor any so polite as not to have some Remains of Rudeness...[Conclusion missing.]
Printed in Works (Sparks, II, 453; Bigelow, IX, 25).
Passy. Sent her, by M. [Jean Baptiste] Le Roy, the "Notice for those who wish to remove to America" and "Remarks on politeness amongst the savages." Sends with this note several other little pieces printed in his house at Passy. With "The Deformed and Handsome Leg" and the "Morals of Chess" previously presented to her, this completes the collection of his "bagatelles" printed at Passy. Is sorry to hear M. Brillon is suffering from gout. Sends him some advice given him by "La Goutte" herself which he did not follow but which he hopes will be useful to a fellow-sufferer. (In French. Press copy.)
Printed in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, XL., 96.
Fragment of a draft of an essay written to the authors of the journal of Paris.
Passy. Sorry to learn that Mr. [Rodolphe Ferdinand] Grand declines acting as an arbitrator, because if it must be settled by others than themselves it is best it should be done by their common friends. Has always been ready to submit the matters in dispute, but knowing the difficult situation of his affairs he forbore from pressing the point, believing that so soon as his affairs should be arranged it would not be difficult for them to adjust their accounts themselves without the help of any arbitrator and proposes that they should try that experiment.
Containing an account of an English sailor who deserted in China from Captain Cook's ship.
Passy. Notes upon M. [Jacques-Donatien Le Ray] de Chaumont's accounts.
Passy. Power of an individual to do good. Two erroneous opinions prevalent in Europe which is injurious to National felicity, but which is not found in America. Perepetuation of families by estates.
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 98; Bigelow, VIII, 497; Smyth, IX, 221).
Passy. Requests him to peruse the enclosed letter of the Marquis de Castries, with the Resolutions of Congress respecting the division of the prize-money, and to favor him with his opinion. Also desires to know whether there have been any decisions upon a similar case in America or any subsequent rules given by Congress.
Passy. Advises them to bring suit against Wahrendorff to recover the money due them, when they find out in what state he resides. Should send a power of attorney and full instructions to some Danish firm in the same state or to the Vice-Consul of France who could then act for them. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Duty on slaves imported into the French Islands. Does not see any possibility of their avoiding the payment. (Press copy.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 119; Bigelow, IX, 23; Smyth, IX, 249).
Passy. Requests him to deliver the enclosed pacquet from M. [Louis Guillaume] Le Veillard which contains two letters of recommendation which he gave the Count [Mirabeau] at M. Veillard's request, one to Dr. [Richard] Price and the other to Mr. [Benjamin] Vaughan. [Friederich Anton] Mesmer's complaint to the Parliament of their report. M. Mesmer will be obliged to disclose all.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 170).
Passy. Declares report untrue that he was anxious to find some person to prospect for and work iron ore mines in America. Several mines have been found already and are being worked by the inhabitants. Cannot advise him to leave his own country to go to America where he might meet with disappointments. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Cannot give him a letter of introduction to the United States Minister at London, as none has been appointed yet. Has been away from London too long to be able to tell him what are the most reliable business houses in that city. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. The Catholic religion is allowed in all the States of the Union; but no lands are given away free. Has no knowledge of the establishment of Bishops referred to, but knows there is such an establishment in Canada and a suffragan bishop in Maryland. Congress has allotted no fund for persons wishing to emigrate to the United States. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Thanking him for the twelve copies of Reports on Magnetism which he sent. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. The Catholic religion is tolerated in the United States, but the government has nothing to do with appointments of priests. They are entirely under the jurisdiction of their ecclesiastical superiors. Could not be of any service to him in securing an appointment as his recommendation would be useless to him. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Should make his claim in America for wages and share of prize-money due him by the privateer "Boston," as that vessel was fitted out there. Advises him to send his claim and proof to the French Consul at Philadelphia. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Has suffered somewhat by his riding in a carriage to Auteuil; will not repeat the experiment again. Procured a
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 272).
Passy. Recommending M. Prosper Mouret, a printer.
Passy. Sends him the desired letters of recommendation but would not advise him to go to North America. Thinks he would get on better in the French West Indies where there are printing houses and where French is the language of the country. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Has heard of Mr. [John] Jay's safe arrival home. Mr. [David] Hartley has been recalled. Messrs. [John] Adams and [Thomas] Jefferson have arrived. (Press copy.)
Passy. Rebukes him for not writing since September 7. Thinks his father should write if his fever returned.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 274).
Franklin, Benjamin to William Carmichael, 1784 October 11
Passy. Incloses the Count d'Aranda's answer to his last letter. Has not replied to it yet. Glad to learn that Mr. [Diego de] Gardoqui is sent to America. Relative to the seizure of James Hartwell, of Salem, with a cargo of tobacco, by the officers of the Spanish Inquisition. Requests him to take proper steps for his release and the restitution of his property. In duplicate (see also: XLV, 189).
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 274).
Franklin, Benjamin to William Carmichael, 1784 October 11
Passy. Incloses the Count d'Aranda's answer to his last letter. Has not replied to it yet. Glad to learn that Mr. [Diego de] Gardoqui is sent to America. Relative to the seizure of James Hartwell, of Salem, with a cargo of tobacco, by the officers of the Spanish Inquisition. Requests him to take proper steps for his release and the restitution of his property. In duplicate (see also: XLV, 188).
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 274).
Passy. Glad to hear that Mrs. [Mary] Hewson resolved to come to Paris. Consents to his remaining in England to the end of the month on condition that he visits Chilbolton and brings him word of the welfare of that dear [Shipley] family. Saw an advertisement in an English paper of cast iron tiles for covering houses. Asks him to bring him one as a sample and to ascertain the price. Would like to cover his house in Philadelphia with them.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 277).
Passy. Sends him a pamphlet of advice to intending emigrants to North America. Does not doubt he could make a good living by farming in Pennsylvania. On account of his age and family, however, would not advise him to undertake such a long journey to settle amongst strangers.
Passy. Sends him a pamphlet of advice to intending emigrants to North America. Does not doubt he could make a good living by framing in Pennsylvania. On account of his age and family, however, would not advise him to undertake such a long journey to settle amongst strangers. (In French. Press copy.)
Copy of XLV, 191, in French
Passy. Has some doubts whether he will find the book-selling and printing business sufficiently profitable to support three families. Thinks if they can add to the sale of books the different manufactures of his country, the profit may be considerable. Incloses a pamphlet which will give him some information respecting his country.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 279).
Passy. Has some doubts whether he will find the book-selling and printing business sufficiently profitable to support three families. Thinks if they can add to the sale of books the different manufactures of his country, the profit may be considerable. Incloses a pamphlet which will give him some information respecting his country. (Press copy.)
Copy of XLV, 192. Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 279).
Passy. Too much a stranger to every dispute on mesmerism to consent to have his name appear directly or indirectly, except in the report of the Commissioners. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Cannot give a free passage to America to Francisque Sube, as there is no vessel belonging to the United States in any port in France, and, as peace has been concluded, there will probably be none for sometime.
(In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Did not receive the plan referred to in his letter. Has no authority to grant or refuse the commission he desires. Can only forward his request to Congress and communicate its reply to him.
(In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Relative to the habit people have of asking assistance in whatever they do. In duplicate. Press copy. See also: LVI(ii), 11.
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 151; Bigelow, IX, 70; Smyth, IX, 281).
Passy. Relative to the habit people have of asking assistance in whatever they do. In duplicate. Press copy. See also: XLV, 193.
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 151; Bigelow, IX, 70; Smyth, IX, 281).
Passy. Has not been directed by Congress to send anyone to the United States to establish factories there. No special inducements are held out to draw foreigners there. Should reflect well before deciding to go with his family such a distance to live amongst strangers. Sends him a little printed notice on the subject of emigration to America.
(In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Cannot advise him to undertake a long and costly journey to establish a medical practice in America where he would be without friends and unable to speak the language of the country. Thinks he would do better to go to the French islands.
(In French. Press copy.)
Benjamin Franklin to Anne Louise Boyvin d'Hardancourt Brillon de Jouy, 1784 November 29
Congratulating her on the birth of the baby.
(Press copy.)
Printed in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, XL, 105, and in Putnam's Monthly, Oct., 1906, 37.
Concerning the different kinds of currency in use in the United States and their value. Explaining the exchage and banking system.
(In French. Press copy.)
Alphabetical list of Americans who escaped from English prisons and were furnished money by the American Commissioners to return home.
List of names beginning "Mr Grand" and ending with "Hartley." A number appears next to each name, with an x next to most numbers.
Passy. Regrets to be unable to appoint M. Dupüis as Consul for the United States at Le Havre. Mr. [Thomas] Barclay, the Consul-General, can alone make such appointments and he is obliged to select citizens of the United States. (In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Relative to a proposition respecting the payment of the interest on the Holland Loan, and other financial concerns. (Press copy.)
Printed in the Diplom. Corres, 1783- 1789, Wharton, II, 40.
Passy. Sends him an extract from letter written to him by Bache and Shee with reference to the claim fo M. Thomas against that firm for goods shipped to them at Philadelphia.
Extract from M. Thomas's reply addressed to Abbé de St. Non and dated at Florence, March 11, 1785, with reference to his claim against Bache and Shee.
(In French. Press copy.)
Passy. Congress in taking steps to redeem the contracts issued by the Loan Office and to insure payment of interest thereon, which was interrupted for a time. Neither the principal nor interest, however, can be paid without the contracts being produced. Holders of the contracts should not have sent them to Europe, where they are of no value. Advises him to send the contracts he has back to America to some merchant or to M. [Pierre François] Barbé de Marbois, French Consul at Philadelphia.
(Mostly in French.)
Passy. Cannot but approve of the article enclosed in his letter. Will forward any copies of it to America which he may send.
(In French.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 290).
Passy. Answer to M. Deumié Groc's favor of Nov. 26th, 1784, also copies of other original papers relating to the affair of the vessel,
Benjamin Franklin to [William] Vernon, Jr., [1785 February 28]
Was informed that he was still embarrassed in his money affairs. Advises him to return to America; can see no necessity of his staying in Paris any longer. Is willing to lend him more money to pay off his debts, on condition that he returns to America.
Passy. Communicated his letter to Messrs. [John] Adams and [Thomas] Jefferson; had several meetings on the Barbary affair. Is daily expecting permission from Congress to return home. (Press copy.)
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 159; Bigelow, IX, 90; Smyth, IX, 301).
Passy. Received his letter relative to the advance made to Mr. [William] Bingham, Agent of the United States at Martinique. Mr. Bingham has moved to London. Submits to his consideration whether it would not be well to charge the French Minister at London with the demand, as he (Dr. Franklin) is about to depart for America and will not have an opportunity of seeing Mr. Bingham. (Press copy.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 328).
Passy. Certifies that M. [L]air De Lamotte served as one of his Secretaries and conducted himself uniformly with great diligence, exactitude, fidelity and ability. Parts with him because, having resigned his employment, he has now no occasion for his services.
Passy. Sends the sketch he promised. Perhaps it may be of use to publish something of the kind; for it the power of choosing now in the boroughs continues to be allowed as a right, they may think themselves justifiable in demanding more of it, or in holding back longer, than they would if they find that it begins to be considered as an abuse. (Press copy.)
Are all upset by preparations for leaving. Is very anxious to see her but cannot go to her house as he is suffering from the gout. Invites her to dine with him on Sunday.
(In French.)
Passy. Practicability and expediency of establishing a bishop in America.
Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 202; Bigelow, IX, 140; Smyth, IX, 353).
Passy. Is about to return to Philadelphia where he will be glad to be of service to him. (Press copy.)
Franklin, Benjamin to [Charles Joseph] Mathon de la Cour, 1785 July 9
Passy. Accepts with gratitude the title conferred on him by the Academy of Lyons. Will never forget what he owes to the French people and still less to the Academy which has honored him on the eve of his departure from France. (In French.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 362).
Itemized list of improvements and repairs made to [Jacques Donatien Le Ray] de Chaumont's house by Dr. Franklin during his occupancy of it. (In French.)
Produced the foregoing to [Jacques Donatien Le Ray] de Chaumont in opposition to his demand for reparation to windows, furniture, etc. They agreed to strike a balance and that all should be considered as even on both sides.
Send [Governor] W[illiam] F[ranklin] in London all papers tending to elucidate his (Benjamin Franklin's) title to lands in Nova Scotia, and such agreement as may be necessary form him to sign. He is to convey half of what he may recover to his sister [Mrs. Richard Bache].
Philadelphia. Account of his son [William Vernon, Jr.,]'s conduct in Paris. His opinion of what seems most necessary to be done respecting him.
Philadelphia. Is surprised they did not receive his reply to theirs of May 18. Encloses a copy of it. (Press copy.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 475).
To avoid the gulf stream on one hand, and, on the other, the shoals that lie to the southward of Nantucket and of St. George's Banks. Read before the American Philosophical Society, December 2. 1785.
Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 496; Bigelow, IX, 194; Smyth, IX, 405).
[Philadelphia]. The report he mentions that his conduct has been disapproved of by him is an infamous falsehood; he has always appeared to him to be an excellent officer, well understanding the duties of his station and indefatigably active in their performance. (Press copy.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 545).
Relative to the payment of the National debt and the evacuation of the frontier posts by Great Britain.
(Incomplete.)
Certificate by Dr. Franklin that the list of inventions had been submitted to him.
(Copy.)
[Philadelphia]. Found Major [David Salisbury] Frank's note and encloses it; if he cannot get the money immediately, and the Major proposes to pay it shortly, directs him to leave the note with Mr. [Richard] Bache and request him to receive the money for him.
Philadelphia. His paper does not come regularly; is glad to hear, however, that it is well established and is likely to be profitable. Relative to the imperfection in the founts; his grandson [Benjamin Franklin Bache] will cast the sorts for him, as soon as he has taken his degree and got clear from College.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 580).
Philadelphia. Respecting the accounts of Mr. [John] Ross supposed to be in his hands. Made a search but could not find them. Thinks they were delivered with the other public documents to Tho[ma]s Barclay. Will order his grandson, who is now in Albany, to make a more careful search for them when he returns. Will deliver them should they be found.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 606).
Philadelphia. Received his letter requesting a loan of £130 to be repaid if not found due to the estate of his father. Asserts that if he could persuade himself that he really owed the money, he would pay it immediately, but he belives the accounts must have been settled and adjusted. An account of the circumstances which persuade him that he is in no way indebted to his father. (Copy.)
Philadelphia. Is again called upon by the Board of Treasury for the vouchers to Ross's accounts with Congress, which were produced to Messrs. [Samuel] Wharton and [Edward] Bancroft. Much of this transaction took place as long ago as 1779, and has escaped his memory and therefore requests to be informed with what he knows concerning it, and particularly in regard to the whereabouts of the vouchers; cannot find them among his papers.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 630).
[Philadelphia]. Cannot find the vouchers of Mr. [John] Ross's accounts, deposited with him when in France. When he left France be ordered all papers relating to public affairs and everything deposited with him as Consul, to be put in Mr. [Thomas] Barclay's hands. Is of the opinion that the vouchers are among those papers. Mr. Ross writes that he has an authenticated copy which he is ready to produce, if necessary, but thinks that some of the copies that were made still exist.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 631).
Philadelphia. His health. The horror and cost of wars. Is sorry for the losses he met with in his attempt to make profit by commerce in America. Decline of Continental money, and the cause thereof. Relative to his trouble with Mr. [Samuel] Wharton. (Press copy.)
Printed in Works (in part, Sparks, X, 333; Bigelow, IX, 454; in full, Smyth, IX, 633).
Philadelphia. Received and read the letter she sent him last summer.
[Philadelphia]. The periodical compilation he proposes seems to be a novel idea. Such a work, if well executed, recommends itself; and if it is not well executed, it will not be helped by any other recommendation. Incloses a note of the value of provisions 34 years ago in Philadelphia and Boston, which he thinks might be proper to be preserved in his works.
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 660).
Philadelphia. In looking over his papers he found a copy of a certificate of Commodore [John Paul] Jones in favor of John Jackson. Wishes to be informed whether anything has been done for Jackson, in consequence of Jones's promise. Sends him two papers relative to the services done the United States by Mr. [Andrew] Limozin of Havre and M. Milliet of Lisbon, for his consideration and to be disposed of as he should think proper. (Press copy.)
Printed in Works (Smyth, IX, 662).
Philadelphia. Declines the arbitration of a sectarian squabble. His advice to them.
(In duplicate.)
Printed in Works (Bigelow, X, 18; Smyth, IX, 680).
[Philadelphia]. Some mistake in the supposition that the box [containing sundry geometrical solid bodies] was ever lent to him. His memory still pretty good and it affords not the least trace of any such transaction.
See also letter from Van Braam Houckgeest, 17 December 1777 (LXII, 59) for reference to Franklin's membership in society at Harlem.
Fragment. Among other advice recommended, implores Britons, particularly politicians, to look beyond their own private interests and look after the welfare of Ireland and the colonies. Implores electors to reject the candidate that offers you a bribe. "Britons, there still subsist among ye Wisdom, Honesty, and Bravery; exert them, and ye may still be victorious, glorious, and happy." Signed: "Plainman."
Facsimilies of Franklin's signature.
In French
Address Leaf
Address Leaf
Benjamin Franklin to Mrs. [Deborah] Franklin, undated
Envelope only.
Sends him the book on education said to be written by Mr. Walker. An account of the author may be found in the Athenae Oxoniensis.
See Franklin to Fothergill, 1757 October, XLVI(i), 18.
Definition of British newspapers. Like Ambassadors, they are sent abroad to lie.
Label only.
Label only.
Notes about British law, politics.
Label only.
Copy by Franklin. Fragment
Two slips of paper, one which appears to read "Wiggo Warse [?] many overs Southwark," and the other which is a cipher code, of 8 numbers x 8 numbers.