320 Letters to Benjamin Franklin 



From J. Ingen Housz. 1780. December 5. Vienna. 



Has been entirely occupied in the contemplation of Nature; principally 

 in regard to the influence of the vegetable kingdom upon the animal, 

 and with the essential ingredients out of which the atmosphere is 

 composed ; intends soon to lay before the public the result of these ex- 

 periments; explains his change of opinion on the effect on air caused 

 by vegetables. Has made use of the several metal wires given him; 

 details his method of employing them ; will make no further use of 

 this investigation save what Franklin, who furnished the materials 

 and suggested the method of inquiry, may think proper. Desires to 

 know if his book was well received in France; German and Dutch 

 translations published. The Emperor prevented from seeing his ex- 

 periments by the death of His Majesty's mother. Wishes to hear news 

 of America and explanation of Arnold's treachery. A. L. S. 3 p. 



XX, 106. 



From Fleury & Nemadieres. 1780. December 6. Orleans. 



Repaired the cases of Madeira and forwarded them to Passy; recom- 

 mending their wine and furnishing prices. A. L. S. i P- (In 

 French.) XX, 107. 



FroTii J. M. Couder. 1780. December 6. Nancy. 



Offers to provide the army with everj'thing necessary in time of 

 war, at a most reasonable figure. A. L. S. 3 p. (In French.) 



XX, 108. 



From John Adams. 1780. December 6. Amsterdam. 



Congratulating him on the recovery of his health. Will be glad to 

 see the details of Arnold's conduct; blames Congress and court-martials 

 for inflicting slight punishment on criminals and then entrusting them 

 with commands and employment; advises suing such knaves at common 

 law; Arnold's case in point; the villain's bravery and baseness. Rumor 

 of Gates obtaining an advantage over Cornwallis. The papers give out 

 that M. Rochambeau has come to solicit more troops; the great need 

 is for ships and money. A. L. S. 2 p. XX, 109. 



From John Adams. 1780. December 7. Amsterdam. 



Enclosing bills of exchange for the use of S[amuel] C[ooper] Johon- 

 not which he begs Franklin to take charge of. L. S. i p. XX, no. 



