The climactic episode of "Franklin," titled "Think of Three Things," brings the intricate saga of Benjamin Franklin's diplomatic endeavors during the American Revolution to a dramatic conclusion. The narrative opens on a poignant note with Jacques Chaumont (portrayed by Aïtor de Calvairac) embroiled in a personal crisis, caught red-handed stealing jewels from his mother, Therese Chaumont (Florence Darel). His confession to his father, Chaumont (Olivier Claverie), of his inertia and yearning for a life devoid of struggle, leads to his heart-wrenching exile from the family abode, setting the scene for an episode that delves deeply into personal disintegration and political turmoil.
The crux of this final chapter revolves around the relentless negotiations between Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas), John Jay (Ed Stoppard), and John Adams (Eddie Marsan) on one side, and their British counterparts: Oswald (Gary Lewis), Thomas Grenville (Jack Archer), and Strachey (Patrick Kennedy) on the other. The discussions are charged with an electric tension as they wrangle over the terms for the partitioning of America and the cessation of the war. The introduction of the possibility of France's involvement in these negotiations by Britain adds an extra layer of intricacy, posing a significant threat to the delicate balance of power.
A pivotal moment unfolds when Adams, who has harbored resentment towards Franklin for quite some time, confronts him with a spurious letter of betrayal implicating Temple (Noah Jupe). In a dramatic twist, Adams tears the letter into shreds, confessing his unwavering trust in Franklin's and Temple's allegiance to the United States. This gesture signifies a poignant reconciliation between the two, as they pledge to secure the most favorable terms for America.
The negotiations reached their zenith in a landmark accord, formally acknowledging the independent status of the United States, delineating its borders as far as the Mississippi's shores, and granting its citizens the privilege to cast their nets along the coastal waters of Newfoundland. However, the cost of this precariously balanced peace was exceedingly high: France remained unpaid for its invaluable assistance, sparking a taut confrontation between Franklin and Vergennes (Thibault de Montalembert). Despite the underlying currents of strain, Franklin's correspondence to Vergennes emphasized the unshakable camaraderie that bonded America and France together.
In the aftermath of the peace accord, Franklin found himself steering through complex personal dynamics. His heartfelt proposal to Helvetius (Jeanne Balibar) was met with a gentle but firm refusal, as she acknowledged his sacred duty to the nascent nation he had played a pivotal role in shaping. Furthermore, Franklin's awareness of Bancroft's (Daniel Mays) betrayal, coupled with his resolve to uphold their friendship despite this revelation, added a nuanced depth to his character, portraying him as a man of principle and forgiveness amidst the swirl of political intrigue.
Temple's odyssey reaches its climax as he opts to remain in France, carving out a unique path that diverges from his grandfather's footsteps. His burgeoning relationship with Odette (Sonia Bonny) and his pivotal role within the French court serve as testament to his growing maturity and self-reliance. As the episode draws to a close, it offers a poignant insight into Franklin's enduring legacy, tracing his return to the United States, his influential role in the Constitutional Convention, and ultimately, his passing in 1790. The series underscores the monumental impact of Franklin's endeavors on the nascent America, celebrating the profound respect he garnered, even from foreign nations like France that deeply mourned his loss. "Think of Three Things" serves as a fitting and emotional conclusion, encapsulating the essence of Franklin's journey—a tale marked by diplomacy, personal sacrifice, and the forging of a new nation. It stands as a testament to the intricate tapestry of history and the individuals whose lives have irrevocably shaped it.
