To Benjamin Franklin from David Hartley, 10 July 1778
From David Hartley
ALS: American Philosophical Society; transcript: Library of Congress
Prisoner exchange was the focus of correspondence between Hartley and Franklin during the summer of 1778, and a major goal of Franklin’s activity. He systematically collected names of British captives from American sea captains to meet the terms of the Admiralty, and negotiated with the French for an appropriate port and safe passage for the cartel ship. At the same time he tried to introduce a measure of flexibility into the Admiralty’s proposal—this, without success. Hartley, repelled by the Franco-American alliance, pictured his own role as part of a larger plan for reconciliation between the Americans and British, while Franklin sought to channel the hopes of his friend into the specifics of an exchange.
Golden Square July 10 1778
Dear Sir
I only write you one line just to tell you that I have received no answer yet from the Admiralty relative to yours of the 16th of June.7 I have applied several times, but I suppose they are employed about other matters. You may be assured that no assiduity shall be wanting on my side but I cannot command an answer. The affair which happened off Brest8 has I presume in its consequences occupied the attention of the Ministry and of the Admiralty. I shall do my best to obtain all the objects mentioned in yours of June 16th. I wish it may be with Success. I shall write again to you soon. Believe me allways to be a friend to peace and to the rights of mankind and most affectionately yours
DH
To Dr. Franklin.
Endorsed: D.H. July 10. 1778.
7. Regarding the proposed exchange of British and American prisoners: XXVI, 626. Hartley was the British negotiator in the discussions that finally led to the first exchanges in 1779: Catherine M. Prelinger, “Benjamin Franklin and the American Prisoners of War in England during the American Revolution,” W&MQ, 3rd ser., XXXII (1975), 272–6.
8. The outbreak of naval hostilities between France and England on June 17.