To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Jefferson, 25 November 1784
From Thomas Jefferson1
AL: Library of Congress
Nov. 25. 1784.
Mr. Jefferson’s compliments to Dr. Franklin. He was formerly well acquainted with mr. Beaumarchais’ demand against the state of Virginia of which Mr. Chevallié’s makes a part. But many circumstances have escaped his memory, and he is quite unacquainted with the footing on which it stands at present. Mr. Short, who for two years past has been a member of the Council of Virginia, is arrived at L’Orient & will be here on Sunday.2 He will be able to recall some circumstances to mr. Jefferson’s memory, & to inform him of the present state of this demand, after which he will be able to give Dr. Franklin a more satisfactory answer.
Addressed: A Son Excellence / Monsr. Franklin / en son Hotel / à Passy.
1. In answer to BF’s of Nov. 23, above.
2. William Short, whom Benjamin Harrison introduced to BF in his letter of Aug. 28, above, arrived in Lorient on Nov. 14, and was in Paris by Monday, Nov. 29: Jefferson Papers, VII, 521, 599.