1From George Washington to Benjamin Franklin, 2 June 1784 (Washington Papers)
Congress having been pleased to appoint Colo. Humphrys Secretary to the Commissioners, for forming Commercial Treaties in Europe, I take the liberty of introducing him to you. This Gentleman was several years in my family as an Aid de Camp. His zeal in the cause of his Country, his good sense, prudence, and attachment to me, rendered him dear to me; and I persuade myself you will find no...
2To Benjamin Franklin from George Washington, 2 June 1784 (Franklin Papers)
ALS : American Philosophical Society; copies: Library of Congress, Bibliothèque Municipale, Nantes Washington here announces that his former aide David Humphreys has been elected by Congress to serve as the secretary of the new commission to negotiate commercial treaties. His election crushed Franklin’s hopes for a diplomatic career for his grandson William Temple Franklin. On August 15 Temple...