In the shadowy depths of the Port of Le Havre, the second episode of "Franklin," titled "Welcome, Mischief," commences with a chilling act of violence. A figure, obscured by the night, oversees the loading of a ship with guns, cannons, and an arsenal of weapons, critical to the American cause. As he makes to leave, a dock worker, unsuspecting and unrecognized, approaches him. In a brutal instant, the worker is stabbed and his lifeless body is consigned to the ocean's depths—a grim foreshadowing of the treachery and danger that lurk beneath the surface of diplomatic negotiations.
The episode shifts to Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas), now residing with the wealthy merchant Chaumont (Olivier Claverie), who is secretly supplying arms to America. Franklin initiates a propaganda campaign, teaching his grandson Temple Franklin (Noah Jupe) to operate a printing press imported from America. Their mission: to disseminate literature that will sway Parisian sentiment in favor of the American Revolution, as they await a response from French Foreign Minister Charles Gravier, Comte de Vergennes (Thibault de Montalembert).
Vergennes, well aware of Franklin's activities thanks to the watchful eye of Lieutenant Jean-Charles Pierre Lenoir (Olivier Rabourdin), opts to ignore the American envoy for the time being, despite Lenoir's offer to seize the printing press. This calculated move sets the stage for a game of diplomatic chess, where each player's next move could tip the balance of power.
The Franklins' relationship with their neighbors, Anne Louise Brillon de Jouy (Ludivine Sagnier) and her daughter Cunegonde Brillon (Lily Dupont), deepens as they are treated to a private performance. In a moment of privacy, Benjamin confesses his intoxication with Anne, only to be interrupted by her husband, who jests about their possible indiscretion. Meanwhile, Temple and Cunegonde's own bond strengthens, as they share an innocent kiss that speaks volumes of the complexities of their burgeoning affection.
As Benjamin and Anne's flirtation intensifies, she reveals her own tragic marriage at the tender age of 15 and promises to spread Franklin's propaganda among her influential friends, further bolstering American support. Their alliance is not just one of passion but of political strategy, as Anne's connections prove invaluable to Franklin's cause.
Temple's circle expands with the inclusion of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette (Théodore Pellerin), who, along with his companions, nearly incites a brawl with the king's brother. The group later comes across merchandise adorned with Franklin's likeness, sparking Gilbert's curiosity about Temple's connection to the famous Dr. Franklin. Upon learning the truth, Gilbert expresses a fervent desire to join the fight for liberty in America. After some deliberation, and with Temple's persuasion, Benjamin reluctantly agrees, and Gilbert sets sail for America to join the revolution.
Across the Channel, Prime Minister Frederick North extends an olive branch to Franklin, proposing a private meeting to discuss peace. Franklin, adept at evading his French tails, meets with Bartholomew Williams (Tom Hughes), an associate of Lord North. Williams presents a peace offer that would see America submit to Parliament in matters of policy and foreign trade, with the promise of a handsome reward for Franklin. However, Franklin, interpreting this as a sign of English desperation, declines the offer, confident in America's eventual triumph.
Back in France, Chaumont's fears about the secrecy of his arms shipments are realized when he meets with Beaumarchais at the port. The latter's nonchalance about the legality of their operations is short-lived as they discover the body of the murdered dock worker. Chaumont's concerns about his investment in America's cause are further exacerbated when he learns of a spy who has detailed the cargo being sent to America.
Vergennes, confronted with the British Ambassador's fury over France's illegal arms smuggling, is forced to address the issue. The revelation of a spy within their ranks casts a shadow over Franklin's operations, leading to the destruction of his printing press and his confinement for "safety" while the incident is investigated by Lenoir, who is likely the orchestrator of the sabotage.
"Welcome, Mischief" concludes with a series of blows to Franklin's mission, from the loss of his propaganda tool to the exposure of a spy and the very real threat to his personal safety. The episode is a testament to the high stakes of diplomacy and the lengths to which nations will go to protect their interests. As the shadows of war loom and the intrigue deepens, Franklin's resolve is tested like never before, setting the stage for a thrilling continuation of his quest for America's independence.