From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 6 August 1781
To John Adams
LS:1 Massachusetts Historical Society; AL (draft): Library of Congress; copies: National Archives (two), Library of Congress; transcript: National Archives
Passy. Augt. 6. 1781
Sir,
I some time since gave Orders as you desired to Mr. Grand, to furnish you with a Credit in Holland for the Remainder of your Salary to November next.2 But I am now told that your Account having been mixt with Mr. Dana’s, he finds it difficult to know the Sum due to you. Be pleased therefore to State your Account for two Years, gving Credit for the Sums you have receiv’d, that an Order may be made for the Ballance.
Upon this Occasion it is right to acquaint you that I do not think we can depend on receiving any more money here applicable to the Support of the Congress Ministers. What Aids are hereafter granted, will probably be transmitted by the Government directly to America. It will therefore be proper to inform Congress, that Care may be taken to furnish their Servants by Remittances from thence.
I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant
B Franklin
His Excelly. John Adams Esqr
Endorsed: I have only Time to transmit to Congress, this Copy, for their Consideration.3 It requires no Comments from their most obedient Servant J. Adams. Amsterdam Aug. 15. 1781.
1. In Mumford’s hand, except for the last seven words of the complimentary close and the name of the addressee, which are in BF’s.
2. JA probably made the request during his recent visit to Paris. On June 11, above, BF had recommended that he draw quarterly for his salary.
3. Undoubtedly one of the copies at the National Archives. JA’s endorsement became a draft of his covering letter to the president of Congress (National Archives).