From Benjamin Franklin to Stürler, 10 September 1780
To Stürler
Copy: Library of Congress
Passy, Sept. 10. 1780.
Sir,
M. De Frey has, I think, quitted our Service, and is excused by the Congress from the Necessity of returning. I nevertheless lent him 16. Guineas on his Promise of repaying me in a few Days. He broke that Promise and borrowed 4. Guineas more of me on a new Promise, which he likewise broke; for when he paid me it was much after the Time. I do not like to be troubled with such uncertain Borrowers or their affairs, or their Pledges. I therefore return the Billets he has sent me, thro’ your Hands and desire to be excused lending him any more Money.9 I am sorry if this Refusal should happen to be any Inconvenience to you, but as I have had no part in occasioning it, I hope you will likewise excuse me. With great Esteem and Regard I have the honour to be, Sir, &c. &c.
M. le Baron Storler.
9. Three weeks later, however, BF did lend de Frey more money. On Sept. 30, at Paris, de Frey drafted a letter of exchange: “A dix jour de Vue de celle ci ma Seconde lettre de change (la premier netant pas paié) Payé à l’ordre de Monsieur Benjamin Franklin Ecuyer Vingt Louis dor valeur récu, qui vous posseroy au Comte de Votre très humble Serviteur.” APS. Endorsed by BF, the letter was addressed to Monsieur Strekfisen, probably Jean-Georges Streikeisen, a merchant banker and consul for Prussia at Bordeaux: Lüthy, Banque protestante, II, 216. Frey received 480 l.t. (20 louis) on Sept. 30. Account XXVII (XXXII, 4).