From — Hennessienne
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Vienna, September 28, 1778, in French: A friend and I have
discovered a method for neutralizing gunpowder in such a
way that it will not explode under any circumstances. We also
know how to render it explosive again. Such a momentous
secret is yours if you pay my collaborator a lump sum of 8,000
florins. As for me, I will rely on the well-known fairness of
your country where I wish to settle. We can demonstrate our
technique to anyone you will appoint in Vienna or come to
Paris at your expense.>
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