the risk of his head, had bravely embarked, on board
an American frigate, and, with two prizes taken on the way,
had landed, at Nantes, in France, and was to be at Paris on
the 14th, where the highest admiration and expectation of
him were raised."

Upon his arrival Mr. Deane exultingly wrote, "Here is the hero and
philosopher, and patriot, all united in this celebrated American, who,
at the age of seventy four, risks all dangers for his country."

CHAPTER XIV.

_The Struggles of Diplomacy._

Anecdote of Gibbon--John Adams--Residence at
Passy--Lafayette introduced--Cruise of the Reprisal--Paul
Jones--Capture of Burgoyne--Alliance with France--Anecdote
of the Cake--Excitement in England--Franklin's introduction
to the king--Joy in America--Extraordinary letter of Count
Wissenstein--The reply--Injustice to Paul Jones--French
troops in America--Character of John Adams--Franklin's
mature views of human nature--Anecdote of the Angel--Capture
of Cornwallis--Its effect in England--Prejudices of Mr.
Jay--Testimony of Dr. Sparks--Jealousy of Franklin--Shrewd
diplomatic act--The treaty signed.

In the journey from Nantes to Paris, a curious incident occurred,
which is well worth recording. It so admirably illustrates the
character of two distinguished men, as to bear internal evidence of
its truthfulness. At one of the inns, at which Franklin stopped, he
was informed that Mr. Gibbon, the illustrious author of the "Decline
and Fall of the Roman Empire," was also tarrying.

Mr. Gibbon was an Englishman. He was a deist, being in entire sympathy
with Franklin in his views of Christianity. He was also a man of
letters. Mr. Franklin addressed a very polite note to Mr. Gibbon,
sending his compliments, and soliciting the pleasure of spending the
evening with him. Mr. Gibbon, who was never renowned for amiability of
character, replied, in substance, we have not his exact words,

"Notwithstanding my regard for Dr. Franklin, as a man and a
philosopher, I cannot reconcile it with my duty to my king, to have
any conversation with a revolted subject."

Franklin responded to this by writing, "Though Mr. Gibbon's principles
have compelled him to withhold the pleasure of his conversation, Dr.
Franklin has still such a respect for the character of Mr. Gibbon, as
a gentleman and a historian, that when, in the course of his writing
the history of the 'Decl