ALS signed 'B. Franklin,' one page, 7.75 x 12.75, May 31, 1784. Letter to 'His Excellency, the Count of Vergenennes.' In full, 'Some Inconveniences are said to have arisen from a want of Certainty in the Powers of our Consuls. The Articles respecting that matter have been some time prepared and agreed to between Mr de Rayneval and me. If there is no Change of Sentiment respecting them. I beg leave to request your Excellency would direct such steps to be taken as may be proper for compleating [sic] them. I am ready on the Part of the United States to sign them at any time. With great respect, I am, Sir, Your Excellency's most obedient and most humble Servant, B. Franklin.' The Count of Vergennes was Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, who served a Louis XVI Secretary of State for foreign affairs from 1774 until his death in 1787. Joseph-Mathias Gerard de Rayneval was one of Vergennes' two chief assistants. This letter from Franklin pertains to a Consular Convention agreement signed by Franklin and Vergennes on July 29, 1784. This document established the rules and privileges afforded to Consuls of either country. All Consuls shall be exempt from military duty, as well as all taxes, with the exception of the real estate tax. This agreement also spelled out the details of grounded or shipwrecked ocean vessels, giving the respective Consuls final judgement for the salvage and disposition of the vessels as well as jurisdiction over all crew and passengers on their respective country's vessel. In fine condition, with expected folds, a touch of light soiling, small pencil notation to blank area, and a mounting remnant along top edge, which could be easily matted out. A very interesting letter, written less than a year after the treaty of Paris, which shows the continuing partnership between the United States and France. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives and RRAuction COA.
