Franklin, Benjamin, 1706-1790 to Charles Dumas
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06402 Author/Creator: Franklin, Benjamin, 1706-1790 Place Written: Paris, France Type: Letter signed Date: 6 August 1781 Pagination: 2 p. ; 31.7 x 19 cm. Order a Copy
Written shortly after his appointment as one of five commissioners to negotiate peace with England, Franklin complains about the limited assistance the Netherlands had given the United States during the American Revolution. Referring to the Dutch Revolution he notes: "[F]or tho' it was formerly in the same situation with us, and was glad of assistance from other nations, it does not seem to feel for us or to have the least inclination to help us." Also cites a comparison of Holland to a shop, commenting "I begin to think it has no other Principles or Sentiments but those of a Shopkeeper." Also discusses some correspondence with Congress and letter sealing methods. Dumas was a Dutch intellectual and colonial agent who was sympathetic to America's cause. Written in the hand of William Temple Franklin, Franklin's grandson who acted as his secretary in France.
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