To Benjamin Franklin from Johann Rodolph Valltravers, 10 November 1777
From Johann Rodolph5 Valltravers
ALS: American Philosophical Society
Rockhall, near Bienne, by Neufchâtel in Switzerland,
November 10th. 1777.
Dear and much honored Sir!
Just returned from a Tour thro’ the principal of our Cantons, I found all my Countrymen concerned for the Misfortunes of England and N. America. Is there no Means to prevent the Destruction of both? Yes, there is, please God! Let but a just, equitable, pacifying Mediator step between both, and reconcile them upon liberal, safe, and honorable Principles. Such I long to open to you, before my Return to England, as Palatine Resident, if agreable.6 Please to inform me of your Pleasure, by a Line directed to Dear Sir! Your obedient humble Servant
Rh. Valltravers.
Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsr. le Dr. Franklin / chés Monsr. de Chaumont / à Passy / prés Paris.
Notation: Valtravers 10. Nov 77
5. We have hitherto followed our predecessors in spelling the name “Rodolphe”; his letter below of Jan. 15, 1778, is the first that he signed with his full Christian name, and we consequently adopt his spelling.
6. He apparently never took up residency, for his letter below of Dec. 4 was from Mannheim, and that of Jan. 10, 1778, said that he has requested and been granted his recall from London.