Paris. Acknowledging Franklin's letter with the detailed account of the régime he observed in order to rid himself of the stone; would follow his example, if he had not discovered that his sufferings were due to another cause. Good wishes for his future health and happiness. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Vienna. Acknowledging the second volume of the American [Philosophical Society's] Transactions with the honorable and complimentary letter published therein. Sending three copies of his book on Vegetables. Business dealings with Mr. [Samuel] Wharton and Mr. [Francis] Coffyn; reasons for thinking them both, rogues and scoundrels; cannot understand their holding public office; thinks they can both be scared into making restitution. Question of two Loan Certificates which he wishes realized immediately, and the money sent to him; has written several times on this subject to Mr. John Williams, of Boston, with no result. His interest in seeing American newspapers.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

London. Has received from Mr. [John Hyacinth de] Magellan £210 on account of the [American] Philosophical Society at Philadelphia [the principal sum of the Society Magellanic Fund]; ready to have Franklin's bills to that amount.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Wilmington. Recalls himself to Franklin's remembrance; his father, the farmer, is dead; encloses a paper which he desires to have published if Franklin thinks it will be of use to the people.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

London. Sending by Colonel Forest a copy of the second edition of his tract on Congregational Courts together with his tracts on Free Militia. Had hoped his writings would have convinced the Americans that the establishment of a free government is not so difficult as the late Convention seems to have apprehended; discusses the question in detail; his attempts to establish a free government by Frank pledge at Sierra Leone on the coast of Africa, frustrated by the wickedness and intemperance of the settlers; does not despair of finally succeeding. Question of forming a staple paper currency. Wisdom of preserving a sufficient proportion of common ground around every town and village.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Richmond. Sending enclosed the memorial of Colonel Charles Simms; assured that Franklin will do everything which may, with propriety, tend to his relief.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Wilmington. A tirade against sharpers and stock-jobbers and an earnest plea to the rulers of America to fulfill all public contracts and to render justice to her public creditors.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

New York. His reasons for having sent Mr. [John] O'Connor to Franklin with a letter of recommendation; if anything to the gentleman's disadvantage has come to Franklin's knowledge, begs to be informed of it.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

East Nottingham. Concerning a plan to found an institution for the education of the poorest children, orphans and minors who will otherwise grow up in utter ignorance; beginnings of such a Charity School already started in Nottingham; question of bringing the matter before the Legislature.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Newington Green. Acknowledging Franklin's letter by Mr. [Philip] Nicklin. Death of his wife in September. The second volume of Transactions of the [American] Philosophical Society not yet received. Sent him by [Rt. Rev.] Dr. [William] White a volume of his sermons. Desire of the Baron Maseres to know the nature of the method mentioned by Franklin for paying off the National debt.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 283).

Philadelphia. Desiring to know if Franklin wishes the Board Meeting to take place at his house or at the State House. A.E. by Franklin. Electing to have it take place at his own house, because of the uncertainty of the matter.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Nessels. Submits a plan of government, or a Constitution, composed of several Articles, for the Thirteen States of the American Federation. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 5p.

London. He and his brother both out of Parliament, so that his political information is second hand; the promised treaty between France and England; talk of other treaties with European powers; should rejoice to hear of one with America. Question of sending newspapers back and forth.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

New York. Had it not been for the Act which confines the appointment of Consuls to citizens, Sir Edward Newenham's request would doubtless have been granted.

General physical description: L. in 3d P. 1p.

London. Reflections on the Philadelphia Bank. Thanking him for the medallion. Benefits of free trade. Question of coining in America. His age as compared with Franklin's. (In duplicate.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Philadelphia. Concerning certain discoveries he has made; desires neither the conclusion nor the principles on which it is founded to be made known.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Investment of money. American weather as variable as English weather.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. Acknowledging the Catalogue of the Trees and Schrubs of America. by Mr. [Humphry] Marshall. Grief they have experienced through the loss of his sister. His friendship with the Marquis de la Fayette and their constant talk of America. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Slough near Windsor. Acknowledging his election as a member of the American Philosophical Society. Sends a catalogue of new nebulae and clusters of stars.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 569).

London. Acknowledging his election as a member of the learned [American] Philosophical Society; begs the Society to accept a copy of his Inquiry; as soon as it is out of press, will send a copy of his next work, viz.: An attempt to obtain invariable measures from the mensuration of time, etc. If copies of the Standard Troy Weight will be acceptable, they are at Franklin's service.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Desiring Franklin to appoint a time to settle his account with the estate of Eden Haydock, deceased.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Newport. Forwarding Franklin two packets deliverd to him by Captain James Nixon, From Hamburg. His father-in-law, Captain Elnathan Hammond, sends his compliments.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. As the Efforts of genius are ever pleasing to great minds, takes the liberty of sending Franklin the enclosed pamphlet.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Baltimore. Informed by Mr. [Francis] Childs of Franklin's intention to establish a letter-foundry; desires to know what kinds of type Franklin has on hand and upon what terms he could furnish them; intends establishing a printing office in Winchester, Virginia.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Business of the printing-office.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

London. Recalling the pleasurable days they spent together and their frequent games of cribbage. Compares Franklin's position as the head of an Empire with his own as the head of a brewery. Sends him by their friend Watmaugh a cask of beer with his best wishes. News of their old friends, [Samuel] Stanley, [Dr. John] Hawkesworth and [Thomas] Fitzmaurice. [William] Herschel's new discoveries. Hopes to meet him in another world.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Bellchampe. Introducing Mr. Henry Owen who served aboard Count d'Estaing's fleet, thereby forfeiting all hopes of promotion in his native land; recommends him to Franklin's kind offices and friendly advice.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Philadelphia. Stating his reasons for concluding that the position of the magnetic needle, its dip and variation can be ascertained; means by which one can thus discover longitude at sea.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Dublin. Anxious to hear from Franklin concerning his son Robert's request. His eldest son engaged to be married; could have gotten a richer bride for him but neither so handsome nor so well-educated. Voted in favor of the French Treaty of Commerce; finds fault with the duty on French wines. Account of a sanguinary bill on prevent tumultuous risings, lately brought in by their Attorney-General; modifications due to the storm of opposition it raised; Ireland in danger of returning to her former slavery. Surprised at M. Colonne's letter to Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson being printed in the public papers; sends a copy to Franklin.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Philadelphia. Invitation for dinner from the Society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick.

General physical description: A.N.S. 1p.

Fort Pitt. Enclosing a return of the Pennsylvania troops in the service of the United States, together with a statement of their present whereabouts. Sends an interpretation of several words of the Delaware and Shawanoe languages; has written to the Missionary of the Moravian Indians for a printed vocabulary of these two languages, which he promises to forward. Acknowledging Franklin's courtesy to him while in Europe.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Paris. Discoveries in chemistry; M. Fourcroy's work [Leçons d'Histoire Naturelle et de Chimie]; hopes to send him another book by this author. L'Assemblé des Notables absorbs the attention of all; balloons would be forgotten were it not for [François] Blanchard; fate of the artists at Javelle. M. [William] Herschel's brilliant discovery of two new satellites; change made in his telescope. Wishes Franklin to attain the age of Nestor. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Versailles. Acknowledging the honor conferred upon him by the American Philosophical Society; offers his services in any capacity which may be of use to the Society. America a great example to the world. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Paris. Acknowledging with gratitude Franklin's letter written to him at sea, its subsequent publication in the memoirs of the [American] Philosophical Society and his recent election as a member of that Society. Constantly talking of him with M. Keay, Mme. Cheminot and M. Gudin; Mme. Cheminot's admiration and affection for him. Franklin's letter translated by his brother; sends him the first printed copy; his answer to this, in which he treats of the navigation of rivers, likewise printed. Certain theories about the construction of vessels; promises to send him the models. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Boston. Acknowledging Franklin's favors of the sixth and twelfth insts. together with the proceedings of the Council and Assembly of Pennsylvania respecting the rebels against Massachusetts and their proclamation for apprehending several of them. Acknowledging Franklin's congratulations on the success of the measures taken for the suppression of the insurrecion.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Philadelphia. The grandson of Mr. James Peller of Philadelphia; brought up as an engraver; describes a patriotic picture which he desires to engrave and, if permitted, dedicate to Franklin.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Park. Concerning the farms he has rented and the arrangements he has made for the farm he intends to occupy. Begs Franklin to send him fifteen pounds which he will repay in a few days when he returns to the city.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Saint Marc. Served nearly a year under the command of Commodore [John] Paul Jones; sends the commission given to him at l'Orient on May 3, 1779, and begs Franklin to present it to Congress with a request to convert it into an officer's brevert; ready at any time to serve in the American navy; owing to his services not being needed at present, has engaged in commerce. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Philadelphia. Desiring the books mentioned to him by Franklin the other day.

General physical description: L. in 3d P. 1p.

Philadelphia. Laying before Franklin, as President of the American Philosophical Society, his conclusions respecting the situation of the magnetic needle.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

[Philadelphia]. Announcing his intended departure for Europe in April; desires a letter to the Comte de Vergennes; expects to take his models of bridges with him; will be obliged for a letter to some of the Commissioners in that department. Wishes Franklin's opinion as regards certain points in the construction of his bridge. Letter to Council enclosed offering to show them the two models. [2 p.].

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Philadelphia. Quotes several passages from the Old Testament which gave rise to certain speculations on lightning and the Aurora Borealis.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Georgetown. Introducing Mr. Digges who is desirous of paying his respects to Franklin during his stay in Philadelphia.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Access digital object:
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New York. Regretting his inability to fully comply with his engagement; reasons for his delay; bright hopes for the future. Business of the printing office.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Boston. Introducing his relative, Mr. Hughes, who desires an opportunity of presenting his respects to so distinguished a character.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Sending a pamphlet for Franklin's perusal.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. In the absence of Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson, forwards certain letters by Mr. [Isaac] Norris of Philadelphia.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Mount Pleasant, State of Franklin. Concerning the new State of Franklin; Act of Cession repealed by North Carolina; her attempt to reassume jurisdiction and sovereignty over the State of Franklin; desires to know if their Council of State can count upon Franklin's approbation.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 290; Bigelow, IX, 361).

Access digital object:
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Gaol. Begging Franklin to recommend the enclosed petition favorably; his offense committed at a time when a vindictive spirit unhappily prevailed; his greatest enemies in Bucks County would now be glad to see him at liberty; his good conduct during his long confinement.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Paris. Enclosing a copy of his letter to the Marquis de Castries à propos of his plan to construct a fast ship to ply between London and Paris; took the liberty of placing Franklin's name at the head of his list of subscribers; hopes of a favorable issue. If he were Mme. Cheminot's lover would be jealous of her admiration of Franklin. Sends him the two models of a boat constructed along new lines. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Chatham, Connecticut. Concerning a cobalt mine in his possession which he believes to be the only one discovered in the States; value of this one in trading with China; with proper encouragement, thinks the trade could become an important one; desires Franklin to bring the matter before the Pennsylvania Assembly.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Norwich, [Connecticut]. Acknowledging Franklin's letter of the 14th ult. which, together with the Act of the Pennsylvania Assembly, will be laid before the Legislature of Connecticut; persuaded of their desire to cultivate peace and good harmony.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Access digital object:
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Paris. Forwarding letters from M. [Jean Baptiste] Le Roy, by the French Consul at New York. The diplomas for the European members of the American Philosophical Society delivered wherever possible.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Sannois. Assuring him of her ineffaceable attachment and veneration. Changes in the administration; great hopes arising from the new Minister being a pupil and follower of M. [Anne Robert Jacques] Turgot. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Nothing can be done for the man in question before the next meeting of the Legislature.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Accepting Franklin's invitation to wait upon him the following Saturday.

General physical description: A.N. in 3d P. 1p.

Philadelphia. Regretting their inability to wait upon Franklin on Saturday.

General physical description: N. in 3d P. 1p.

Boston. Introducing William Erving, Esq., a brother of Mrs. Bowdoin and a worthy, sensible gentleman. Returns with thanks the manuscript copy of Dr. [John] Jeffries's aerial Voyages.

General physical description: L.S. 2p.

Boston. Doubts whether Franklin received his former letter; owing to age and palsy, must employ his daughter to repeat his thanks. Congratulates his country on having produced a Franklin.

General physical description: L.S. 1p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 303).

London. Sending him a treatise on Phlogiston, by Mr. [Richard] Kirwan, together with Mr. [Charles] Dilly's collection of Franklin's late papers. Strongly recommends having the first volume of the [American] Philosophical Transactions reprinted. While at sea, read his observations on Maritime Affairs; will send him shortly his thoughts on that subject.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Business of the printing-office.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Advised by his friends to publish the enclosed essay read before the Society for Political Inquiries.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Madrid. Deputed by the Royal Academy of History to acknowledge the second volume of the American Philosophical [Society's] Transactions; reflections occasioned by Mr. Otto's dissertation on the discovery of the Western Hemisphere. Sending Various publications of their Society. (In Spanish. With translation.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Invites him to dinner.

Vienna. Acknowledging his letter with a copy of the second volume of the American Philosophical [Society's] Transactions; his application of the honor conferred in addressing to him the first dissertation on chimneys. His business with Mr. [Samuel] Wharton; urges certain methods by which Mr. Wharton and Mr. [Francis] Coffyn may be forced to pay the money owing him; relies on Franklin's influence and friendship in this affair. Encloses an open letter to Mr. John Williams which he desires may be attended to at once. Civil war begun in his country. Inquiries after Franklin made by the Emperor [of Austria].

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

[Philadelphia]. Accepting the President's invitation.

General physical description: N. in 3d P. 1p.

Philadelphia. Acknowledging Franklin's polite invitation; will wait upon him on Thursday at three o'clock.

General physical description: A.N. in 3d P. 1p.

Hartford. Reminding Franklin of their dining with General Washington, in 1775, and of his having been for thirty years a lodger in the house of his sister, Mrs. [Jane] Mecom; his fruitless attempts to discover her whereabouts and state of health; begs Franklin to favor him with a line on this subject. Desires to know how matters go on at the [Constitutional] Convention. Plan of a new road from Hartford to Boston.

General physical description: L.S. 3p.

Madrid. Acknowledging Franklin's letter of December 4th and his election to the membership of the American Philosophical Society. Deputed by their Academy of History to send Franklin the first volume of a Spanish and Arabic Dictionary, printed under his direction. (In Spanish. Translation. 2p.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 308; Bigelow, IX, 390).

Philadelphia. Accepting Franklin's invitation to wait upon him.

General physical description: N. in 3d P. 1p.

Baltimore. Relative to prizes carried into France during the late war.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Edinburgh. Offering to repair and improve the telescope made by him for Franklin in 1769; desires no pecuniary acknowledgement for this service; merely wishes to receive an accurate report of the situation and number of his brother's family in America; his intention to make suitable provision for them before he dies.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Derby. Writes not only to the philosopher but to the greatest statesman living. Acknowledging Franklin's kindness to his son Robert in France. Description of experiments in electricity performed by a Mr. Bennet, a curate in his neighborhood. Concerning his late translation of the botanical works of Linnaeus.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

New York. Complaining of the conduct of the principal officers in the Custom house, in threatening an innocent man and showing protection to a lawless set of infamous smugglers; states the case in detail.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Access digital object:
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[Philadelphia]. So far, has not been able to find the desired pamphelts. Sends him the Asylum for Fugitive Pieces [London, 1787], in which are some good things and a great deal of trash; recommends discretion in reading certain parts to his fair friends.

General physical description: A.L. in 3d P. 1p.

Philadelphia. Account of being cheated and robbed by his one-time partner, James Pearson; begs Franklin to find him some kind of employment; offers to work in his house or in Mr. [Benjamin Franklin] Bache's letter foundry.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Philadelphia. Introducing himself as the reader in Temple Church in 1761, and author of a treatise on Magnetism; desires the honor of a short interview.

General physical description: A.L. in 3d P. 1p.

Philadelphia. Several foreigners elected honorary members of the Society for the Relief of Free Negroes; enclosing the brief letters informing them of their election, with a request for Franklin's signature.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Enclosing a true statement of the transactions between Mr. John Leamy and himself concerning the passport of the schooner "Regla."

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Passy. Sends him a work by M. de Volney; introducing the bearer of it, M. Saugrain [de Vigny], a young savant, to Franklin's notice. Reasons why M. De la Valette gave up his intended trip to America. Again urges him to write his memories. American politics; the National Convention; question of imposts and custom-houses; attitude of certain states like Rhode Island in refusing to send Deputies. Regretting Franklin's failure to send his paper on the retention by the English of the posts on the American frontier. Question of paper money. Per cent, paid on investments in real estate in America. Affairs in France; Archbishop of Toulouse made Minister and President of the Council of Finances; M. de Villedeuil made Controller-General; M. de Vergenne's memory somewhat tarnished; work accomplished by the Assemblé des Notables; suppression of the corvées; new taxes levied. Expects to dine with Mr. [Thomas] Paine at M. [Le Ray] de Chaumont's. Return of Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson. Absence of the Due de la Rochefoucauld and all his family. Death of M. Brillon. News of other friends. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Paris. Their work together in exposing charlatanism and imposture. Reminding him of the many questions concerning America with which he used to bombard him at Passy; his desire to emigrate there shared by many of his friends; disgusted with the despotism, superstition and wickedness of France; their wish to establish a settlement on the Ohio river, the home of equality, liberty and friendship; they number a dozen men, some with families, some without; some rich, some poor; among them they can boast of a knowledge of the sciences and useful arts; introducing two of their number, M. Picque and M. Saugrain [de Vigny] who are to be the pioneers of their party; begs for them Franklin's advice, protection and recommendation; flattering account of his brother-in-law, M. Saugrain [de Vigny]. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 10p.

Paris. Recommending M. Saugrain; the recent death of his friend, Don [Bernard] Galvez, Viceroy of Mexico, frustrated his hopes of fame and fortune in that country; his work in the chemical laboratory in Paris; his object in going to America is to choose a site for permanent settlement. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Desiring such directions as will enable them to proceed with their business.

General physical description: L.S. 1 p.

Access digital object:
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New York. Acknowledging Franklin's favor of the 11th inst. with the report of the Officer of the Custom-houses regarding the schooner, "Regla"; his object was not to injure the officer but to protect the United States against smugglers. Need of a treaty between America and Spain.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Access digital object:
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[Paris]. Delighted at the report of Franklin's health received from Mr. [Thomas] Paine; amazed at the amount of work he is able to accomplish. Messages from [Comte] de Buffon, who is still a great sufferer. Mr. Paine's desire to see a balloon ascension; M. [François] Blanchard the only exponent of that art at present. M. [Jean Baptiste Marie] Meusnier's book not yet printed. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L. 4p.

Madrid. Acknowledging his election as a member of the [American] Philosophical Society; enclosing letters of acknowledgment from the Count de Campomanès and Don [Joseph] Miguel [de] Flores; forwarded the books mentioned in those letters.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. Account of his trip from Havre-de-Grace to Paris; his cordial reception by Franklin's friends; kindness of M. Le Roy. Exhibition of fire-works at [Comte] de Buffon's. His model of a bridge not yet arrived; introduced to M. Terenet, the bridge architect.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 310; Bigelow, IX, 393).

Paris. Account of the cruel treatment accorded her by her husband, and of her unchanging devotion to him; left him six months before; miserably unhappy. Disavows any courage in making the ascent in a balloon; wishes it might have carried her to Franklin for whom she has the greatest love and admiration. Her friendship with Mme. Helvétius. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L. 3p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Jan., 1907, 432.

Philadelphia. Offering to rebind all the books which were misplaced through the carelessness of a journeyman.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Jan., 1907, 432.

Invitating the President of the State of Pennsylvania to dinner at their quarters.

General physical description: L. 1p.

Access digital object:
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Philadelphia. Acknowledging Franklin's application on behalf of M. Varranault, for admission into the Society of the Cincinnati; necessary for the gentleman to address himself to the Society in France.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

East Nottingham, [Pennsylvania]. Desiring to be informed, through his brother, Mordecai Churchman, in Philadelphia, if the Astronomer Royal at Greenwich writes anything respecting the affair sent to him three months ago.

General physical description: A.L. in 3d P. 1p.

New Haven. A literary society instituted the previous year, entitled the Connecticut Academy of Arts and Sciences, of which Lieutenant-Governor [Oliver] Wolcott is President; directed by the Society to apply to the [American] Philosophical Society and the Academies of science throughout Europe for their publications; in return will send their literary collections when these shall be published. Signed: Ezra Stiles, Correspond[in]g Secretary.

General physical description: A.L.S.

London. Hoped Franklin would have retained some of Mirabeau's patriotic principles; opposed to taxes on imports; thinks Philadelphia should be made a free port; objects to the loyalists being banished; sees nothing of the liberal disposition of Dr. Franklin.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. On Mr. [John] Jay's advice, came to America in order to obtain possession of his estates on Lake Champlain; if affairs turn out as he now has reason to hope, will remain indefinitely in America; his impatience to see Franklin only held in check by the report of the heat in Philadelphia. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

London. To the memoir of Dr. [John] Fothergill, he has annexed memoirs of some of his associates; his wish to have introduced some anecdotes of Franklin; the importance of such memorials. Discovery by a man, called Borth, of a method of imitating paintings in oil; facsimiles of famous paintings finished in a few hours; the method known only to Borth and a Mr. Johnson, a rich quaker; report that he has been offered £60,000 for his secret; conjectures concerning the method employed. Is cultivating a plant called in France, racine de disette; no more prolific vegetable known; promises to send a description with seeds. Begs Franklin's kind offices on behalf of a clergyman, Mr. George Hunt, who desires the honor of Doctor of Divinity from the College of Philadelphia.

General physical description: A.L.S. 5p.

London. Certificate of Membership.

Jardin du Roi. Acknowledging the seeds and rare plants sent him for the King's garden. Desires to hear of the progerss of the [American] Philosophical Society. Just finished his Histoire Naturelle de Minéraux; offers to send it to the Society. Is printing a treatise on the properties and use of the magnet. Desires to know what remedy Franklin found most efficacious for the stone. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 312; Bigelow, XI, 398).

Auburn. Sending Franklin a curious puzzle from Signor Falconi from New York; explains the position of the three sticks and the adjustment arranged by Falconi; promises further information, if desired.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

London. Arrival of Mr. [Samuel] Jennings with Franklin's letter of recommendation; the young gentleman's fame for painting had already preceded him; will give him every assistance in his power. News of his family. Mr. [Caleb] Whitefoord's desire to hear from Franklin.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Access digital object:
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Auteuil. Necessary to communicate with Franklin as the devout commune with celestial substances; their sacrifice in giving him up to America; their pleasure to imagine that he will be the one benefactor of men to escape their ingratitude. Account of a fête given in honor of the Lady of Auteuil [Madame Helvétius]; French politics; results of the Assemblé des Notables; disordered state of finance; misery of the people; difficult to foresee the outcome. Affairs in Holland. Visit from the Archbishop of Bordeaux; much talk of Franklin. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Auteuil. Pleasure derived from Franklin's letters by the whole "Academy of Auteuil." Religious toleration. Commercial regulations as to imposts and taxation; opposed to duties on foreign merchandise. Affairs in France; praises the Archbishop of Toulouse, the new Minister of Finance, Madame Helvétius; amusing account of their sufferings from her cats. Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson's work [Notes on Virginia] the Abbé [Morellet] translated, much liked. [Thomas] Paine's model of an iron bridge. Demand for an Assembly of the States-General. Messages from friends. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 8p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 313; Bigelow, IX, 399).

Kendal's Plantation, Barbados. Has been in Barbados over seven years looking after estates there.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Yale College, New Haven. Acknowledging Franklin's favor of the 14th inst. with the list of Philosophical Societies in Europe; discouraged by his advice to wait until they can send forth a volume themselves, before applying for publications from learned Societies; fears this will mean a long delay. Delighted to see an example of the new method of taking copies of papers from the originals. Acknowledging the second volume of the Transactions of the American Philosophical Society.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. Account of a serious illness which brought him to death's door and caused him great fear. Messages from the Count d'Estaing, who has done all in his power for Franklin's freind, Mr. [Thomas] Paine. Trouble in Holland; fear of war; influence of Mr. [William] Pitt in England against anything which will mar the present peace. (In French. In duplicate.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Understands that Franklin sometimes has occasion to draw upon Paris; desires to know if he will oblige them with bills to the amount of three or four thousand livres, and upon what terms?

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. Request for Franklin's advice and assistance on behalf of Messrs. Picque and Saugrain [de Vigny]; begs him to recommend their inexperience to a capable adviser wherever they go; Illinois likely to be chosen as their place of settlement; understands from Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson that grants of land may be had there. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

New York. Sending him the Judiciary Bill and the bill for the punishment of certain crimes; question of the power invested in Congress; the members cautious lest their measures should not meet with the approbation of their constituents. Enclosing a report of the Assembly in Jamaica on the slave trade and slavery in that Island.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

New York. Enclosing an important letter for Mr. Williams.

General physical description: L. in 3d P. 1p.

Wilmington. Reported in 1777 that Franklin sent Congress a package of all clean sheets of paper; sends him something similar with the hope that he and Washington will fill them. Expects the gentlemen of the Convention to carry out the terms of every treaty America has made. A. E. by Franklin. "Jonathan Rumford--crack'd."

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. Praise for Mr. [Thomas] Paine; has been appointed, by the Academy, one of the Commissioners to examine his design; delay in preparing their report; thinks his model has certain advantages over the others presented. Sir Joseph Banks's election to membership in the Academy. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

St. Christopher. Sending Franklin his old pamphlet on Magnetism; introducing Mr. Clifton. After the hurricane months, proposes trying Franklin's improvement on his horizontal wind-mill.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Relative to the account of John Ross against the United States. Signed: Samuel Osgood, Arthur Lee. See also: LV, 107.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

London. Sends his little attempt towards obtaining invariable measures; offer of Dr. [Nevil] Maskelyne to keep the machine under his inspection at the Observatory, in order to authenticate its going.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Karlsruhe. Reminds Franklin of his appreciation of the medal struck on account of the American peace. Introducing M. de Schilling, a gentleman of birth, education and honor, who served with distinction in the army of the King of Sardinia; his present wish to settle in America and engage in agriculture or commerce.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Baqueres-Luchon. Regrets being absent from Paris during Mr. [Thomas] Paine's visit; the interest the Academy will take in his model for a bridge. Impatient to hear the result of the Convention called together to revise the Constitution; high hopes for an Assembly which numbers Franklin and Washington among its members. Agrees with him on the instability of popular favor; believes Franklin's case, will prove the exception. French affairs; result of the Assemblè des Notables; the formation of Provincial Assemblies; the Marquis [de la Fayette] and himself both elected members from different Provinces. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

New York. Humble apology for again postponing certain payments due Franklin; proposes to come to Philadelphia and draw up and a new agreement. Business of the printing office.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Concerning the estate of the late Robert Smith, carpenter, of which he is administrator; has settled all the accounts except the one with Franklin; suggests a method by which the money can be paid.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Roxborough. Account of successful experiments in agriculture tried by Mr. Kirwan; slothfulness and apathy of the Irish peasantry; has endeavored in vain to convert them to these new methods of raising crops. Promising to send the car by the first opportunity. Completion of their city canal. Meeting of volunteer regiments; threats to disperse them; expects to visit the encampment incognito and drink the health of American patriots, with success to the Convention; rails against Rhode Island for not sending delegates. Affairs in Holland. Advice to America, should a European war break out in consequence of Dutch or Brabant politics; disapproves of England's attitude in taking the Stadtholder's part. Enormous addition of taxes and pensions. His trip to America delayed by a tiresome lawsuit.

General physical description: A.L.S. 7p.

Boston. Requesting his acceptance of a discourse given before the Humane Society of Boston; encouraged by Mrs. [Jane] Mecom to make himself known to Dr. Franklin.

General physical description: A.L. in 3d P. 1p

Philadelphia. Sending Franklin the message for the General Assembly, in case he wishes to make any alterations.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Prevented by illness from waiting on Franklin. Asks for an introduction to his son, Richard Wharton, Attorney-at-law, to Colonel [John] Armstrong, President of Court of Quarter Sessions in Armstrong County; his intention to settle in Dauphin County and practice law.

General physical description: L.S. 1p.

Port-au-Prince. For thirteen years has been engaged on different works relative to the French Colonies; his ardent desire to become a member of the [American] Philosophical Society; offers to send the first five volumes of a work which he thinks will prove of interest to America; expects to return to France in May. Recalls his introduction to Franklin by Dr. [Matthew] Maty in London. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Philadelphia. Accepting Franklin's invitation for dinner on Wednesday.

General physical description: A.N. 3d P. 1p.

Philadelphia. Begs leave to renew in person his request to Franklin for a certain appointment.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Franklin. Delighted with his friendly attitude towards their young republic. Predatory excursions of the Creek Indians; so far their frontier has been unmolested.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

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London. Enclosing memorial relative to Francis Dashwood [Baron Le Despencer]. Question of banks, paper money and coining. Criticism of a publication dedicated to Mr. [John] Adams, entitled Political Sketches. Interested in the result of the [Constitutional] Convention. Their relative ages. News of their friend. Dr. [William] Rowley.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

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Le Havre. Experiments in navigation; sure of the success of this new kind of vessel; the simplification and perfecting of his system of sails; offers to arrage this new style of rigging on any ship sent from America to Roucn Havre. Introducing M. Le Roux. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Philadelphia. Account of his being shipwrecked on his passage from Ireland to America; his wife and child drowned and everything else lost; is now a sufferer from epileptic fits, the result of his grief and terror; cared for by the managers and physicians of the Pennsylvania Hospital; begs Franklin for a change of clothes, as he is destitute of everything.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Florence. Account of merchandise sent in 1783 through Mr. [Jonathan] Williams [Jr.], to Bache and Shee at Philadelphia, to be sold on commission; has never received but a small part of the profits of that sale; gives the details of the affair; if Franklin refuses to intercede, must endeavor to obtain justice in a more public manner. In French. In duplicate (see also XXXV, 134).

General physical description: L.S. 4p.

Florence. Account of merchandise sent in 1783 through Mr. [Jonathan] Williams [Jr.], to Bache and Shee at Philadelphia, to be sold on commission; has never received but a small part of the profits of that sale; gives the details of the affair; if Franklin refuses to intercede, must endeavor to obtain justice in a more public manner. In French. In duplicate (see also XXXV, 124).

Philadelphia. Concerning the purchase from him of type; takes exception to a remark of Franklin made during their interview on this subject.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Hackney. Acknowledging his election as member of the Pennsylvania Society for abolishing negro slavery; similar institution just founded in London. Waiting for an account of the [Constitutional] Convention. Spirit of liberty beginning to prevail in Europe as a result of the American war. Departure of Mr. [John] Paradise and family for Virginia. Report of war between Turkey and Russia. Rumor of the King of Prussia having entered Holland and reinstated the Stadtholder in all his powers.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 320; Bigelow, IX, 411).

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Vienna. Desires Mr. [John] Williams to finish up the business of his loan-receipts and send him over the money. Finds fault with the American postal service. Question of the money due him by Mr. [Samuel] Wharton; convinced that Franklin's powerful influence can obtain justice for him. Dismal outlook for Europe; distracted state of his own country; the English at the bottom of it; Turkish war probably blown up from the same quarter.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

London. Delighted with his reception by Mr. [Benjamin] West, who is at Windsor, finishing the paintings designed for the Castle; much impressed so far by the elegant performances in the Fine Arts; especially struck with the statuary in Westminster Abbey.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

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Kiel. Hopes he received the first volume of a work, of which he now sends the second.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Boston. Thanking Franklin for the plan of government sent him; thinks it the best that could be formed under the present circumstances; influence exerted against it. News of Mrs. [Jane] Mecom.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Au Cap [Francois]. Sending a work on questions of rural economy just published by Le Cercle des Philadelphes; desires one copy presented to the [American] Philosophical Society. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. Recommending to Franklin's attention, his eldest son [Victor Mario Du Pont] who goes to America to complete his education by studying the conditions of a free country. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

London. Sending receipt for a small box shipped in the Convention, Captain Jones commanding.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

[Philadelphia]. Resignation of Mr. [John] Armstrong [Jr.] as Secretary to Council; desires to obtain the appointment; asks Franklin's friendship in the matter.

Pittsburgh. Announcing their safe arrival after a journey of eighteen days; expense of living as dear as in Philadelphia. Amused by the sight of savings. Thinks the country will suit them better than this sad little town. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Charleston, South Carolina. No vessel at present ready to sail for New York; begs him to forward the enclosed commissions by the first safe opportunity; necessity of keeping their representation in Congress complete.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Mr. Swain will make Franklin a small payment, enough to show his (Childs') good intentions; disadvantages under which he has worked; hopes Franklin's silence is not due to displeasure.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Port-au-Prince. Appreciated Franklin's recommending Captain John Earle to him; will serve him in every way in his power. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. Deaths of M. Brillon and her granddaughter, aged three; crushed by these two sorrows; news of her two daughters, their husbands and their combined household; begs him to write. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L. 4p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Jan., 1907, 435.

Access digital object:
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Boston. Franklin's speech, made just before the close of the [Constitutional] Convention, calculated to prevent war and blood-shed; with his permission, desires a copy for publication; the great weight and influence it would have in New England.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Pittsburgh. Anxious concerning their letters and remittances from France; begs Franklin to forward them as soon as they arrive. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Paris. Thanking him for his gracious reception of Messrs. Saugrain [de Vigny] and Picque; sends the enclosed letters for them; impatient for the time to come to pay his respects to Franklin. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

State of Franklin. Creek Indians still carrying on their depredations. Great results expected from the [Constitutional] Convention. Desiring Franklin's patronage and interest for their State; feeling among the Western Americans that their interests are neglected. Introducing Major Droomgoole, who goes to Congress with letters from the Cherokee Indians; his wish to act as Superintendent over some of the southern tribes; his influence among the Cherokee chiefs; recommends him warmly for the position.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

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Bordeaux. Forwarding a box of books arrived for Franklin from Madrid. (In French.)

General physical description: L.S. 2p.

Port-au-Prince. Reminding Franklin of certain astronomical observations by M. le [Comte] Granchain [de Sémerville] which were given a favorable reception some years before by the [American] Philosophical Society; M de Granchain presented to the Society as a candidate for membership, but by some error the Comte de Guichen was elected in his place; begs that this mistake may be corrected; also recommends for membership M. Moreau de St. Méry, who desires to present to the Society his work on the Laws and Constitution of Saint Domingo. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

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Boston. Visiting Franklin's sister [Mecom]; expects to return home that day. News of friends. Account of her family, the marriages and occupations of her children. Mortified at the depravity of their State [Rhode Island].

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Versailles. Forwarding a letter from M. Thomas, who begs that Franklin will act as a mediator in a business matter between him and Franklin's son-in-law [Richard Bache] and nephew [Jonathan Williams, Jr.]; asks him to consider this request favorably. (In French.)

General physical description: L.S. 1p.

Worcester. Has reprinted an edition of Perry's Pronouncing English Dictionary, at his own risk and expense; desires to dedicate the first American edition to Franklin.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Sent the car and harness to Philadelphia. Rejoiced at the new Constitution of the United States; criticizes part of it; rails against ascendency of the Clergy. Trouble in the Netherlands; war averted. Death and funeral of the Duke of Rutland, Viceroy of Ireland. Eulogy of Lord Chatham. Desires the appointment of Consul for his son at Marseilles; recommends their having one in Dublin. Opposite his desk is Franklin's bust, on his left are the pictures of the American worthies and across from them is [Benedict] Arnold suspended by the heels.

General physical description: A.L.S. 6p.

Bladensburg. His wife suffering greatly from stone in the kidney; heard that Franklin obtained great relief from blackberry jelly; has tried it without result; if it was really successful in Franklin's case, begs for more particular information; requests an early answer as his wife is extremely ill.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Baltimore. Only daughter of Thomas Franklin; lately left a widow with five helpless children; miserly and unfeeling conduct of her brother James; her other brothers not in a position to help her; desires Franklin to do something for her children; their present destitute condition.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

St. Kitts. Concerning Franklin's improved plan of a horizontal windmill; on trial, found it insufficient to overcome the resistance of canes, through it may grind corn or raise water; begs Franklin to lay the matter before the [American] Philosophical Society.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Requesting his presence at the speaking exercises to be performed in the German language at Zion Church.

General physical description: L. in 3d P. 1p.

Annapolis. Meeting of the House of Delegages; the presence of their deputies required to give information of the proceedings in [the Constitutional] Convention, attended with Messrs. [Daniel of St. Thomas] Jenifer, [James] McHenry, and [Luther] Martin; attack made on the Convention, on Washington and Franklin by anti-federalists; felt compelled to read them Franklin's speech on Representation given before the Convention, and also the one of September 17th; fears Franklin's displeasure on this head; has allowed no copies of the speeches to be taken; awaits his commands in the matter.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Boston. Sympathizes with his painful disorder; hopes he will be long spared to his country. Some of his letters to her destroyed by mice; begs him to rewrite the paragraph to which he referred.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Paris. Recommending to Franklin's kindness the Marquis de Chappe de Laisne. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

[Swedish Consul]. Philadelphia. Complaining of the rough, rude and violent behavior in his house of two Constables who would have dragged his servant, John Bergman, away, had he not interfered; they said they belonged to Justice James Loughead's office and that they came for taxes; Bergman not taxable; begs Franklin to use his authority to prevent such extravagancies. Apology to the Consul annexed. L.S. [Justice] James Loughead.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Warwick, [Rhode Island]. Sending him a small bag of sweet corn. Longs to see him. News of her family; Mrs. General [Nathanael] Greene in good health and living at Hartford.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Pittsburgh. Anxious about their letters from France; have bought a small boat and expect to leave Fort Pitt shortly. Also contains: endorsement of Saugrain and Picque at Mr. Fannehill's, Fort Pitt. In French.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Putnam's Monthly, Jan., 1907, 435.

Petitioning Franklin to obtain him employment in some of the public offices.

General physical description: L. in 3d P. 2p.

Philadelphia. Certifying that he has been on board Mr. [John] Fitch's steam-boat when it was worked against both wind and tide; thinks it will meet with the encouragement it so justly deserves. (Copy.)

General physical description: L.S. 1p.

Charlestown. Happy effect attending the publication of Franklin's speech [in the Constitutional Convention]; read and applauded by almost every one; opinion of Franklin's old friends in Boston. Prospect very encouraging in South Carolina.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Passy. Begging for news of the [Constitutional] Convention. Messrs. le Duc d'Orléans, l'Abbé Sabattier and Frelot, Counsellors of Parliament, still exiled; efforts made to obtain their retun. Promises of M. [Ferdinand] Grand to send the portrait by a sure hand. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L. 1p.

Richmond. Mr. Joseph Elam arrested in Philadelphia as a proper subject for the hospital [for the insane] there and of his subsequent escape; has done business with him for two years and found him intelligent and orderly; Mr. Elam afraid to return to Philadelphia on business without Franklin's protection.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Fragment. Is sending a small harpsichord to Franklin. Her father sends Franklin his friendship and thanks. Speaks also of a distinguished author who was written several books on politics, trade, and finance. Her sister is very happy. In French.

Philadelphia. Meeting of the [American] Philosophical Society and the disposition of Mr. [John Hyacinth de] Magellan's annual premium; many dissatisfied with the manner in which the affair was conducted and entered on the minutes; desires Franklin to summon another meeting before the end of the month to reconsider the proceedings and revise the minutes. Signed: "Vires acquiret cedendo"

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Application made to him as a magistrate by Mr. Henry Clawes to recover a debt from John Dean, Esq., member of the Supreme Executive Council; is uncertain whether such an act on his part would be counted a breach of privilege; has written the enclosed [1 p.] to Mr. Dean without result; desires Franklin's advice.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Carlisle. [Richard] Wharton shall not lack recommendations for admittance to the Court of Carlisle. Dr. Nesbit and himself in favor of adopting the Constitution, keeping in view such Amendments as experience and a fittter time may point out; expects good results from the publication of Franklin's last speech in the Convention; pernicious effect of the minority's dissent.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Richmond. Pursuant to a Resolution of their General Assembly, encloses two copies of their Act concerning the Convention [to ratify the Constitution] to be held in June next; one copy intended for the Pennsylvania Legislature.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Writes on behalf of Jean Vicard, whose petition he encloses [2 p.]; account of his being forced to marry a woman of the town, who pretended that he was the father of her child; at present he is in prison for failing to support them; begs Franklin to obtain his release. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Business of the [American] Philosophical Society; permitted their determination, respecting inventions that came nearest to the annual premium, to be inserted in one of the public papers; apologizes for seeming to act contrary to Franklin's opinion; explains his reasons.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Recommending to America, the formation of a navy and the building of harbor defenses. Description of their Parliament; their late imperious Viceroy censured instead of impeached. Affairs in France; the National Assembly nearly completed their laws; attitude of King and Queen; La Fayette the Washington of Europe. War between the Brabanters and the Emperor Joseph. Mr. [Silas] Deane's vote in Ireland. [Conclusion missing.]

General physical description: A.L. 4p.

Statement for 1787.

General physical description: Mem 2p.

[Philadelphia]. Account of experiments with cedar wood in coloring glass.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Lately crossed the ocean with Commodore [John] Paul Jones; takes advantage of his departure for Philadelphia to transmit to Dr. Franklin a letter from the Comtesse d'Houdetot and the 2d edition of the Farmers Letters.

General physical description: L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Asks for help in obtaining employment.

General physical description: A.L.S 2p.

Requests Dr. Franklin to send the estimates of building, as bill for scantling amounts to more than the estimate. The bill for land will be published by [Eleazer] Oswald to-morrow, when it and the Alien's Bill will be called for.

General physical description: A.L. in 3d P. 1p.

New York. Question of imperfections in the type.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

[London]. General opinion in England that America had better adopt a limited form of government. English commercial prosperity. Mr. [Josiah] Wedgwood's beautiful earthenware. Advises a recall of American tories. Future of France. America likely to take Mexico from Spain.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 321; Bigelow, IX, 452).

London. Refers to his letter of April, 1786, accompanied by Dobson's Treatise on Fixed Air; relief obtained from the stone by drinking water impregnated with this air; sends a new apparatus which obviates the frequent burstings; would be glad to hear if it procures him ease. Iniquitous traffic of slaves; believes an end will be put to it soon. Hopes America will not create any orders of nobility or hereditary honors.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

[London]. Had promised himself the pleasure of communicating certain remarks on Franklin's observations on the gulf-stream [see "Maritime Observations," Lonodn, 1787]; prevented by his mother's serious illness; has sent her to Hackney for change of air; by Capt. Spruce they have sent Franklin a cheese.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Worcester, [Massachusetts]. Thanks him for the desired permission which, however, came too late for publication; delayed printing the dedication [of William Perry's Royal Standard English Dictionary] as long as possible, and finally inscribed it to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences; will make use of the liberty granted him in the next edition.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Elizabeth Town. Announcing that the State Convention of New Jersey has unanimously ratified the Federal Constitution.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Paris. Introducing M. Dupuy du Gurard a young man, whó has determined to seek employment in America. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Leadenhall St., London. Acknowledging his election as member of the Pennsylvania Society for promoting the Abolition of Slavery; thinks a state which sanctions slave-dealing and salve-holding invites divine retribution; takes exception of two clauses in the new Federal Constitution (9th Section of 1st Article and 2d Section of 3d Article).

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

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Pittsburgh. Everything frozen including the river; obliged to postpone their departure until the spring. At present they are settled about three miles from Pittsburgh; their dissipation consists in felling trees and trapping game. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Relative to the account of John Ross against the United States. Signed: Samuel Osgood, Walter Livingston. See also: LV, 106.

Boston. His repeated losses, amounting to six thousand pounds; two promising sons killed in the war; can no longer provide for his family; when he was able, gave his services gratis to the public; begs Franklin to obtain some relief for his family without mentioning his name; would be grateful for some position which a man of his advanced years could fill; desires this letter burnt.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Notice of the assembly of Congress and of the election of Cyrus Griffin as its President.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Havre-de-Grace. Forwarding to Congress an Act passed in the King's Council for sundry favors granted to the American trade. Reminds him of the number of American prisoners who came from England to the above port in a destitute state, and of the assistance rendered them there; mentions his own part in relieving this distress; reminds Franklin of his promise to recommend him to Congress, if not for reimbursement—then for a reward; since then has performed the duties of Agent for the Untied States; desires to be legally appointed their Agent with power for his son to act as such in his absence.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

New York. The vigorous reply of the King of France to the deceitful and impudent message of the English Minsiter, has checked for a time England's fury against France for having aided the Americans. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Asking Franklin's opinion concerning Mr. [John] Fitch's steamboat; desires to know how far he thinks it could be rendered useful for inland navigation.

General physical description: L.S. 1p.

Poughkeepsie. Regrets that Franklin's grandson [Benjamin Franklin Bache] has been disappointed. Appreciates his offer of further time; would pledge himself to complete the payment by January 1789. A. Mem., on fly leaf, by Dr. Franklin. "The opposition given more or less in every State to the propos'd Constitution, and from a Jealousy of Power, strengthens an Opinion of mine that America is too much enlightened to be enslaved; and thus the Happiness of its People is less in danger from an Excess of Power in the Governors, than from the Defect of due Obedience even to their own Laws, in the Governed."

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Other Descriptive Information: See letter of Franklin to Charles Vaughan, 12 February 1788, for this memorandum used in correspondence (Benjamin Franklin Miscellaneous Collection, Mss.B.F85.332).

Paris. Forwarding letters for Messrs. Saugrain [de Vigny] and Picque, for whom he begs a continuance of his kindness; their silence of fourteen months very alarming; begs for a line from Franklin. Desires information and advice concerning their choice of a place of their settlement; his desire to become an American citizen increased by the splendid work of the late [Constitutional] Convention; gives to Franklin the chief credit for the result; foretells a fairy future for America. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Monday. Concerning the case of Miss Lydia Frazier, of Boston, who was placed as a day scholar in a convent at Auch in Gascony; induced by the nuns to commit herself to the religious life; as she is an American and under age, appeals to Franklin to help in the effort to return her to her relatives.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

La Rocheguyon. His pleasure in knowing Mr. [Thomas] Paine; his bridge approved by the Academy [of Sciences]; is aiding M. Beaumarchais in the construction of a similar bridge at Paris. Affairs in France; much occupied with the meetings of Parliament; Edict in favor of non-Catholics a step towards tolerance; Assembly for the States-General announced for 1791. Desires the first volume of the [American] Philosophical [Society's] Transactions. Report of the ancient fortifications and other proofs of a previous civilization being found near Fort Harmar at the confluence of the Muskingum and Ohio rivers; desires to know if this is true. Messages from his host, the Abbé Rochon. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Receipt for the balance of his account.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Pittsburgh. Account of an attack of sciatica, which was much alleviated by the use of a root common to the country; offers to send a specimen to Franklin as a remedy for the stone; hears it has been extremely efficacious in such cases; not sure of the name; the savages call it "déje jon konā."  (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

New Castle. Asking for assistance to repair the Episcopal Church at New Castle.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Irish politics; unbounded confidence placed by the whole nation in the Marquis of Buckingham; the last Viceroy one of the most abandoned, corrupt and profligate of men; no new pensions nor taxes; prevalence of gambling. Foreign politics; opposed to the Empress Catharine's ambitions; believes the Turks would suffer much before yielding the whole of the river Danube to the Sovereign of Hungary. Affairs in Holland. The English East India Co. afraid government will refuse a renewal of their charter.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

New York. Received his appointment [Succeeded Comte de la Luzerne as Minister to America] on September 3d and left for Paris on the 10th of October; wished by this alacrity to prove his affection for the Americans and his eagerness to strengthen the bond between their two nations. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Bethlehem. Presenting Franklin with a copy of the rules of their Society [for Propagating the Gospel]; their petition to the Pennsylvania Legislature for incorporation; recommends the Society and the Brethren's Church to Franklin's favor and protection.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Nantes. Account of a commercial transaction between himself and Pierre Charles Peyroux, and of the latter's failure to carry out his part; in 1785, M. Peyroux was at St. Louis, in the United States; desires that he may be made accountable for the debt he owes to him. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Concerning his affair with Mr. Thomas.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Glasgow College. Forwarding Franklin his "Institutes of Physics," which may be of use to some young lecturer in Philadelphia; sends with it Sir John Dalrymple's "Memoirs," [of Great Britain and Ireland], volume two; reviews this work.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Bordeaux. Transmits the account. French politics; strenuous struggle by the Parliaments to fix the prerogatives of the Crown; refusal of the Bordeaux Parliament to hold their meetings in the small inland town to which they have been ordered; possibility of a great change in the Constitutions of France. Commercial relations between France and America.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Paris. Recalls the pleasant hours spent together at Madame Brillon's, M. and Mme. Le Veillard's and other friends. Reminds him of his promise on behalf of his nephew, M. Milliet, to whom M. Dorhman owes a considerable sum of money; encloses a memoir with an account of the affair, also an open letter from his nephew to M. Dorhman. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Glasgow College. Sending him two books with a long explanatory letter in each one.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Golden Square, London. Sending this letter by the American Ministers, Mr. [John] Adams and Col. Smith; they are not the bearers of any Treaty of Amity and Commerce; hopes for better feeling in the future; wishes America peace and prosperity under her new Constitution. Compares England to old wine in old bottles.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Boston. The papers of Dr. Ingen Housz in Mr. [John] Williams's possession. Interest on certain moneys. Account of the Conventions [to ratify the Constitution] in New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

London. Sending a few cameos for the use of Franklin and his friends; the subject of them the abolition of slavery; delighted to be embarked with Franklin in the same great and good cause. Owing to a continuous headache, is obliged to make use of his nephew's hand.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

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London. Books he is sending to Franklin.

General physical description: L. in 3d P. 1p.

Pittsburgh. As they are about to leave Fort Pitt, begs Franklin to hold their letters until their destination is assured. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Greenwich. Concerning Churchman's theory of the variation of the magnetic needle; opinion of the Board of Longitude unfavorable; their reasons. Hopes the [American] Philosophical Society received his Greenwich Observations.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, VI, 462; Bigelow, IX, 571).

New York. Obliged for his opinion concerning the steam-boat; trusts the encouragement Mr. [John] Fitch hopes from Congress, will enable him to cheapen, simplify and render his machine still more useful; should he succeed in perfecting it, he will deserve the applause of America and Europe.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

London. His attitude concerning the abolition of the slave-trade; does not agree with the Society in all its tenets. News of Dr. [William] Rowley; works to serve the public not to gain money. Refuses to believe in the report of Franklin's death.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Paris. Begs for a reply to his questions concerning America; entreats the continuance of his kindness and protection towards Messrs. Picque and Saugrain. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Worcester, [Massachusetts]. Presenting Franklin with a copy of his edition of Perry's Dictionaries.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Good reports of Franklin's health; sees his handwriting has undergone no alteration.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

London. Concerning two small boxes sent to Franklin, one containing the Philosophical Transactions from the Royal Society, the other De Luc's Hygrometer, a present from Mr. [ Edward] Nairnc. Urges Franklin to collect in book form many of his useful little papers that apply to common conduct in life for the lower and middle classes.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

London. Wrote on the 1st inst. principally to ascertain the chances of his friend Dashwood receiving the money due him from Mr. George Henry of Philadelphia. Has finally heard from Mr. Jonathan Williams [Jr.]; the sin of procrastination. At Dr. [William] Rowley's request, sends one of his late publications on a malady, the treatment of which he considers improper.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Passy. The result of the great [Constitutional] Convention in America; objects to certain points; thinks the power of the President too great. News of friends at Passy. His election as Syndic of his town; if his position is not so brilliant as Franklin's, is surrounded by more charming women. Entreats him to hasten the writing of his memories; false and stupid anccdotes written about him by Baron de Trink and others. Concerning imposts and duties. Critical and alarming condition of affairs in France; financial situation deplorable. With the exception of his wife, cares more for Franklin than anyone else in the world; why he cannot gratify his desire to go to Philadelphia. M. [Jacques] Necker's work on the importance of religious convictions. Death of [George Louis Le Clerc, Comte] du Buffon; his successor, [Comte Charles Claude La]billarderie [D'Angiviller]. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 5p.

London. News in his family. Messages to his friend, W[illiam] T[emple] Franklin.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Bristol. Report of Franklin's death. Is the only Commissioner left of those representing and acting for the several Provinces in America, who met at the Congress in Albany in 1754. Political condition of the Swiss Cantons. Constitution of the United States; fears the result of a four years' term for the President.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 342).

Glad to see that the people abroad look with desire at America, in spite of the disordered situation of commerce and Government. Will take a few days to turn over in his mind the letter enclosed to him by Franklin; will then ask his attention to one or two points.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Flamstead, Jamaica. Concerning the Island of Jamica; the cause of mortality among the soldiers; condition of the slaves far better than that of the poor in several parts of Europe; if there is to be a reform, it must be of slow growth; this applies also to conditions in the Southern States; believes however that white men can labor equally well in the cultivation of sugar, etc. Facts determined by the thermometer and hygrometer. Meteorological observations he has made which point out other laws than those in Franklin's ingenious theory.

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Au Cap [Francois]. Introducing M. de Moret, who goes to America for his health. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Directed by General [Henry] Knox at the last General Meeting of the Cincinnati, to translate and return to Franklin the enclosed letter.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

[Wilmington]. Sending him samples of such kinds of paper as have been made at the Brandywine manufactory; his uncle, Mr. Fisher, desires the loan of those books on the subject of paper-making which Franklin was good enough to offer him yesterday.

General physical description: A.L. in 3d P. 1p.

London. Boxes sent to Franklin; one containing De Lue's Hygrometer. His mother's health much better. Dr. [Joseph] Priestley well and busy. Dr. [Richard] Price engaged in calculations respecting poor laws and rates for the House of Commons. Mr. [Thomas] Gilbert's bill thrown out.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Boston. Hopes that among the large circle of his Excellency's friends, some relief may be afforded him.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

[Philadelphia]. Meeting of the Society [for the Abolition of the Slave-trade] called; [the Wedgwood] cameos mostly distributed; suggests sending a few of the pamphlets also. The ship which fitted out the previous summer for the nefarious business to Africa is reported to be refitting at some port in Delaware; their intention to notify the Governor as well as the Abolition Society in Wilmington that, if practicable, the attempt may be frustrated.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Boston. Introducing the Rev. Mr. [Timothy] Hilliard and Mr. Thomas Lee, both of Cambridge, Massachusetts.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Boston. Introducing Christopher Gore, Esq., a lawyer of note, and a warm advocate of federalism and of the proposed Federal Constitution; favorable prospect of its adoption in New Hampshire; already adopted by Maryland; trusts the complete adoption of it is not far distant.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Boston. Introducing the Rev. Mr. [Timothy] Hilliard, who succeeds the venerable Dr. [Nathaniel] Appleton to the ministry at Cambridge; his travelling companion is Thomas Lee, Esq., a wealthy retired merchant. Feels himself acquainted with Franklin on account of his friendship with Mrs. [Jane] Mecom. Sends him the last publication of their Humane Society; thinks the world improves.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Annapolis. Sending the enclosed letter by Mr. E. Lawrence.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

[Philadelphia]. An unexpected call from the city prevents his dining with him.

General physical description: L. in 3d P. 1p.

Annapolis. Desiring Franklin to authorize the delivery to Samuel Swan, of one William Clelone, committed to jail in Philadelphia, charged with stealing a horse and saddle; necessary that he should be tried in Maryland for this and other offenses against the state. Instructions to Samuel Swan. [2 p.]

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

L'Orient. Acknowledging the present of his "Maritime Observations"; solaces himself for Frankliln's absence by regarding his portrait. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Transmitting the enclosed papers for Franklin's approbation and signature.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Introducing Captain and Mr. Cochrane, both brothers of Lord Dundonald; belives all three carry on the famous coal and tar works in divers parts of England and Scotland; the great effects produced and experienced from the use of their tar, etc.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Introducing Messrs. John and [Sir] Alexander [Forrester] Cochrane.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

New York. Is the bearer of a letter from the Marquis de Lafayette. Intends making a tour through the country with a view to finding a convenient settlement for himself and family.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Hopes the unhappy misunderstanding over the types purchased from Franklin will not prevent Franklin from doing him a favor; his plan to increase the subscribers to the American Museum published by himself; suggests a highly laudatory description of the American Museum which he wishes Franklin to write for him and sign.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Begging the loan of Franklin's sedan-chair for a Virginia gentleman, who is laboring under such severe and weakening complaints, as to render him incapable of being moved in a wheel-carriage.

General physical description: L. in 3d P. 1p.

Inclosed the report of Council authorizing him to purchase the land adjoining the northern boundary of the State.

General physical description: L. 1p.

Germantown. Begging for assistance.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Bordeaux. Concerning certain casks of wine shipped to Franklin by order of M. [Louis Guillaume] Le Veillard. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Boston. Non-arrival of the second volume of the [American] Philosophical [Society's] Transactions sent to their Society; enclosed Mr. [Caleb] Gannett's letter on the subject [XXXVI, 63]; trusts the French work which Franklin has left them in his will, may be long out of their possession. Franklin's expectation of retiring from public cares. Pleasure derived from reading his ingenious queries concerning magnetism and the theory of the Earth; pleasant speculations to which they give rise. Introducing Mr. John Stewart, a grandson of the late Captain Erving.

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

Alt-Stettin on the Oder, Pomerania. An eulogy on Dr. Franklin as Philosopher, Statesman and Patriot. (In German.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

St. Nicolas. His misfortunes increased; begs for a letter of recommendation to M. [Barbé] de Marbois, who may procure him a position which will enable his family to live. Sent him two engravings of the Loge des Commandeurs de Carcassonne in December, 1787. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Paris. Overwhelmed with horror at the news of the massarce by Indians of the party from Pittsburgh; doubts not that the French botanist and mineralogist mentioned are his two young friends; report that one of them, though severely wounded, escaped; begs for further news; such a tragedy would cause the complete abandonment of the proposed settlement; if both men are alive, begs that they may be given every care and assistance; will send the necessary funds. (In duplicate. In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Annapolis. Sending the enclosed by a safe hand.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Acknowledging his election to the [American] Philosophical Society. The new Federal Constitution of the United States; if nothing better could be obtained, looks upon it as a necessary evil. Affairs in France; clamors against despotism; dread of civil war or bankruptey. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L. 2P.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 353; Bigelow, X, 1).

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Paris. His affair with Messrs. Bache and Shee; acknowledging Franklin's reply with the bill of sale, asked for so often in vain; cannot regard the business as ended, since the balance due him has never been paid; relies on Franklin's good offices to receive prompt payment. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 3p.

New York. If he had a fraction of the talents of the celebrated Abbé Raynal, would erect to Franklin a monument as lasting as his name. Condemns the base mutilation of William Pitt's statue at New York, Revolution of the last ten years; America has broken her chains and Holland has embraced hers. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Varennes. Memoirs of Franklin's life. The new Federal Constitution; extent of the power granted the President; confidence implied in Washington and his successors. Political condition of France; States-General demanded by the public; faults in the form of this body; preference for a National Assembly; fears for these first steps in the career of liberty; America's position far more favorable for the establishment of a good Constitution. Sending him a disscrtation on Nyctalopia, a disease endemic in the neighborhood of La Rocheguyon. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 7p.

Other Descriptive Information: Printed in Works (Sparks, X, 354; Bigelow, X, 2).

Philadelphia. Enclosing an extract from Dr. [David] Ramsay's intended history of the Revolution; with the author's request for any corrections in the facts which Frankliln deems neccessary.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Boston. At the request of Mr. [Thomas] Paine, sends Franklin the report of the French Academy of Sciences on his iron bridge. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Washington County, Pennsylvania. His purchase of a small plantation six miles from Pittsburgh where he is at present living in great content; expects a sum of money to arrive from France for him; begs Franklin to take charge of it and have it forwarded by a safe conveyance; M. Saugrain [de Vigny] has promised to see that it is sent to Franklin's care. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 4p.

Princeton. Has only one more year to finish his college course; begs Franklin, as a great friend of his mother, to send him a small sum of money and the articles of clothing mentioned; promises to repay the loan in money or land.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Begs him to consider her husband's case and give her his opinion; sure he will agree with her that Mr. [Eleazer] Oswald has been unjustly confined. A.E. by Frankliln. As he may be called on to judge her husband's case officially, cannot give her his present sentiments thereon; wishes that her prudent counsels might cause him to change the conduct of his paper.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

London. Sent him twelve copies of her brother's work; account of various misfortunes experienced since she last saw Franklin.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Boston. Introducing M. [Brissot] de Warville and his fellow-traveller, Colonel de La Terrière.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

[Philadelphia]. Returning with thanks, the two volumes of the Transactions of the French Academy; remarks concerning the memoirs on paper manufactures. Sends a ream of paper lately manufactured at Brandywine Mills; thinks it an improvement on the last.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

Philadelphia. Observations on paper-money.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

London. Mr. [Benjamin] West's kindness to him; has forwarded four pictures for him; is at present on the fifth-St. Paul shaking the viper from his hand, intended for the chapel at Greenwich. Exciting election in Westminister.

General physical description: A.L.S. 1p.

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Paris. His arrival in Paris; saw Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson, who drew up the power of attorney which will enable Mr. [Samuel] Vaughan [Jr.] to act for him in his affair with Mr. [Samuel] Wharton. Accepts the advice to hold his Certificates of Congress until the new Government is established; question of buying land with the money. Franklin's pointed remarks on the Turkish war. Dined with Mr. [John] Paradise.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

London. Money to be made if he had the privilege of erecting boats to go by steam; possibility of forming a connection with Messrs. Bolton and Watt; his boiler much improved; favorable opinion expressed by all who have seen it.

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Boston. His desire to obtain the Order of Cincinnatus; states his services under the Comte de Grasse. (In French.)

General physical description: A.L.S. 2p.

Sannois. The new Constitution given to America; part played by Franklin and Washington in this great work; sends him her felicitations; hopes his life will be as famous for its length as for its talents and virtues; quotes the verses she recited in his honor at the small entertainment at Sannois. (In French.)

General physical description: L.S. 3p.