[Footnote 55: The surrender of Lord Cornwallis, at Yorktown, which took place October 19, 1781.] _____ _Benjamin Franklin to Sir William Jones._ To Sir William JONES. Passy, March 17, 1783. Sir: - - - - - The engraving of my medal, which you know was projected before the peace, is but just finished. None are yet struck in hard metal, but will be in a few days. In the meantime, having this good opportunity by Mr. Penn, I send you one of the "_épreuves_". You will see that I have profited by some of your ideas, and adopted the mottoes you were so kind as to furnish.... B. FRANKLIN. _____ _Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston._ To the Honourable Robert R. LIVINGSTON, Passy, April 15, 1783. Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Sir: I have caused to be struck here the medal which I formerly mentioned to you, the design of which you seemed to approve. I enclose one in silver for the President of Congress and one in copper for yourself. The impression on copper is thought to appear best; and you will soon receive a number for the members. I have presented one to the King and another to the Queen, (p. 091) both in gold; and one in silver to each of the ministers, as a monumental acknowledgment, which may go down to future ages, of the obligations we are under to this nation. It is mighty well received, and gives general pleasure. If the Congress approve of it, as I hope they will, I may add something on the die (for those to be struck hereafter) to shew that it was done by their order, which I could not venture to do till I had authority for it. With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, B. FRANKLIN. _____ _Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston._ To the Honourable Robert R. LIVINGSTON, Passy, July 22, 1783. Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Sir: I made the Grand Master of Malta a present of one of our medals in silver, writing to him a letter of which I enclose a copy, and I believe our people will be kindly received in his port. With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant. B. FRANKLIN. _____ _Benjamin Franklin to the Grand Master of Malta._ To His Eminent Highness THE GRAND MASTER OF MALTA. Passy, 6 April, 1783.