Benjamin Franklin Papers

From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 31 March 1784

To John Adams

ALS: Massachusetts Historical Society

Passy, March 31. 1784

Sir,

I have the honour of acquainting Your Excellency, that an Express from Congress is at last arrived, with their Ratification of the Definitive Treaty. Inclosed I send Copies of the President’s Letter, the Recommendatory Resolution, and the Proclamation, together with three Letters for yourself.1 We have written to Mr Hartley, that we are now ready to make the Exchange. With great Respect, I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant2

B. Franklin

1The editors of the Adams Papers speculate that BF enclosed four letters—one from Elbridge Gerry, one from Arthur Lee, and two from Samuel Osgood: Adams Papers, XVI, 105–6n.

2JA answered on April 10, acknowledging receipt of the papers and the three letters, and expressing the hope that the exchange of ratifications would take place soon. Mass. Hist. Soc.

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