Benjamin Franklin Papers

From Benjamin Franklin to Bernard Pées, 19 March 1779

To Bernard Pées

Copy: Library of Congress

Passy March 19 1779

Sir

I received yours with the Paper Money inclosed, (mostly of Georgia) which you desire me to change for you, abating for the Difference of exchange.8 As the value of that Money has been very variable, and I am totally ignorant of its present Situation, my appearing to set a certain Value on it here, by exchanging it at a particular Rate, might be attended with great Inconveniencies. I am therefore obliged to return it to you, as I do inclosed. You will easily find at Nantes Some Person going to America who will give you the worth of it. I am, Sir &c

M. Bernard Pees

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

8Pées’s letter, dated March 12, was written from Nantes and recounted his story. A native of St. Pierre, Martinique, he had twice been captured by the British. The money which he entrusted BF to exchange was the sole resource he possessed to rejoin his wife and children. APS.

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