It's July 4, 1778, when Franklin episode 5, "The Natural State of Man," opens. Now staying at Chaumont's (Olivier Claverie) home with Benjamin (Michael Douglas), John Adams (Eddie Marsan) practices his French phrases early in the morning, then writes into his diary. He celebrates the anniversary of America's independence, then admits he can't abide Benjamin. He watches from a window inquisitively as chairs and tables are set up outside in the garden for a huge party.
