This correspondence covers the time that Manning spent in France, mainly in Paris and at Chateau de Serrant. It holds historical interest because Manning was held in France at the outbreak of the Napoleonic Wars and the letters include both official and personal correspondence dating from that time. They are arranged into 4 Sections:

TM/3/1 Official correspondence and documents TM/3/2 Personal Correspondence TM/3/3 Calling cards and invitations TM/3/4 Diligence information

These are official documents which allow Manning to move around in France during the time of the Napoleonic conflict with England. There are also drafts of letters from Thomas Manning requesting permission to travel in France and to return to England.

Letter from Le Ministre de L'Interieur to Thomas Manning, Hotel de Paris, replying on behalf of the Premier Counsul concerning Manning's letters to him regarding his intention of going to China, dated 6 ventose an 11 (25th February 1803) 1 piece, 2 sides. Also handwritten copy of the letter, 1 piece, 1 side

Notification from État-Major Général, ay Quartier général, à Paris stating on the orders of the Premier Consul that Thomas Manning should leave Paris and go to Serrant. This order replaces any previous orders. Signed by A Junot. Dated 6th { ] an 11, (dated in another hand as 9 September 1803). Printed document with handwritten details. Also has in margins a note from Belville. 1 piece, 1 side

Letter from Girardon, Général de Brigade to Thomas Manning to request that he attends the Ministre de la Guerre on his return to Paris. Handwritten, dated 2 frimaire an 12 (24 November 1803). Handwritten, 1 piece, 1 side

Letter from Le Chef de la 5th Division du Ministère de la Guerre to Madame De Serrant née Vaudreuil to request that she returns Thomas Manning to la Guerre. Dated 3 frimaire an 12 (25 November 1803). Handwritten, 1 piece, 1 side

Letter from J.A Junot, Général divisionaire, commandant la 1st Division militaire a la Ville de Paris allowing Thomas Manning to stay in Paris. Dated 5th Nivose an 12 (27 December 1803). Handwritten, 1 piece, 1 side

Letter from Le Ministre de L'Interieur to Thomas Manning, Hotel de Paris, concerning his request for permission to see La Grammaire Chinoise. Dated 11 Pluviouse an 12 (1 February 1804). Handwritten, 1 piece, 2 sides

Letter from Thomas Manning (draft) to Général Consul. Manning writes about gaining a passport to come to France for 2 years to study for his enterprise to China. He asks that he can stay in Paris to continue his studies. He mentions Dr Hager, Conservateur des manuscripts chinois. Dated 17 Frimaire, Hotel de Paris. Handwritten, 1 piece, 4 sides

Letter from Thomas Manning (draft) to "Citoyen Consul" asking permission for an audience to give a letter from Monsieur de Serrant. Dated 7 fructidor. Handwritten, 1 piece, 1 side