Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Priestley, [February 1766]
From:
To:

[February 1766]
[First part missing] myself so much as to think I am able to [carry to completion] this large plan. I only propose to do it [if I can leave] it to you and my other friends in Lon[don readily to sup]ply my deficiencies. In the mean time I should be glad to have your sentiment of it. [Asking your pardon for] trespassing so long upon your patience [I am with the greatest res]pect, Dear Sir your most obliged humble servant
J Priestley
[Torn] contents[torn]ent, to[torn]


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Joseph Fox, 1 March 1766
From:
To:

Sir
London, March 1. 1766
I wrote to you of the 22d past, via Maryland. Inclos’d I send a Copy of the late Votes on the Affair of the American Stamp-Act. The Repeal is now in a fair way of being compleated, on which I congratulate you and the Assembly. I am, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant,
B Franklin

P.S. An Act will pass at the same time with the Repeal of the Stamp Act, similar to that relating to Ireland pass’d in the Reign of George the first; it will be call’d an Act for the better securing the Dependency of His Majesty’s Dominions in America, on the Crown and Parliament of Great Britain; This is merely to save Appearances, and to guard against the Effects of the Clamour made by the late Ministry as if the Rights of this Nation were sacrificed to America: And I think we may rest secure notwithstanding such Act, that no future Ministry will ever attempt to tax us, any more than they venture to tax Ireland. But then it is suppos’d, that we shall be, as we have been heretofore, always willing and ready to grant such voluntary Aids to the Crown as are suitable to our Abilities, when duly call’d upon for that purpose.

Addressed: To / Joseph Fox Esqr / Philadelphia / via New York / per Packet / Free, B. Franklin


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Jane Mecom, 1 March 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sister
London, March 1. 1766
I acknowledge the Receipt of your kind Letters of Nov. 12. and Dec. 20. the latter per Mr. Williams. I condole with you on the Death of your Husband, who was I believe a truly affectionate one to you, and fully sensible of your Merit. It is not true that I have bought any Estate here. I have indeed had some thoughts of re-purchasing the little one in Northamptonshire that was our Grandfather’s, and had been many Generations in the Family, but was sold by our Uncle Thomas’s only Child Mrs. Fisher, the same that left you the Legacy. However I shall not do it unless I determine to remain in England, which I have not yet done.
As to the Reports you mention that are spread to my Disadvantage, I give myself as little Concern about them as possible. I have often met with such Treatment from People that I was all the while endeavouring to serve. At other times I have been extoll’d extravagantly when I have had little or no Merit. These are the Operations of Nature. It sometimes is cloudy, it rains, it hails; again ’tis clear and pleasant, and the Sun shines on us. Take one thing with another, and the World is a pretty good sort of a World; and ’tis our Duty to make the best of it and be thankful. One’s true Happiness depends more upon one’s own Judgement of one’s self, on a Consciousness of Rectitude in Action and Intention, and in the Approbation of those few who judge impartially, than upon the Applause of the unthinking undiscerning Multitude, who are apt to cry Hosanna today, and tomorrow, Crucify him. I see in the Papers that your Governor, Mr. Barnard, has been hardly thought of, and a little unkindly treated, as if he was a favourer of the Stamp Act: Yet it appears by his Letters to Government here, which have been read in Parliament, that he has wrote warmly in favour of the Province and against that Act, both before it pass’d and since; and so did your Lieutenant Governor to my certain Knowledge, tho’ the Mob have pull’d down his House. Surely the N. England People, when they are rightly inform’d, will do Justice to those Gentlemen, and think of them as they deserve.
Pray remember me kindly to Cousin Williams, and let him know that I am very sensible of his Kindness to you, and that I am not forgetful of any thing that may concern his Interest or his Pleasure, tho’ I have not yet wrote to him. I shall endeavour to make that Omission up to him as soon as possible.
I sent you some things by your Friend Capt. Freeman, which I shall be glad to hear came safe to hand, and that they were acceptable from Your affectionate Brother
B Franklin
My Love to your Children.

P.S. I congratulate you and my Countrymen on the Repeal of the Stamp Act. I send you a few of the Cards on which I wrote my Messages during the Time, it was debated here whether it might not be proper to reduce the Colonies to Obedience by Force of Arms: The Moral is, that the Colonies might be ruined, but that Britain would thereby be maimed.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Philip Syng, 1 March 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sir
Philada. March 1st. 1766
I received yours of the 26th of September last, with your very agreeable Present Doctor Lewis’s new Work. You judged very right that I should find in it entertaining Particulars in my Way— the Management of Gold and Silver is treated of in it better and more particularly than I have met with in any Author.
The regard you have always shewn me requires my acknowledgment, which I wish to make by serviceable Actions, because they speak louder than Words, but I fear I shall die insolvent. The Junto fainted last Summer in the hot Weather and has not yet reviv’d, your Presence might reanimate it, without which I apprehend it will never recover. I am dear Sir your Affectionate Friend and obliged Humble Servant
Phil Syng

Addressed: To / Benjamin Franklin Esqr / Post Master general of / North America / in London / per Captn Sparks


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Wharton, 2 March 1766
From:
To:

Dear Friend.
Philada. March 2d: 1766.
About a week since, I wrote thee a few Lines per Capt. Robinson via Lisbon; which Letter was principally to enclose thee an Extract of a Letter wrote by T. Penn to his Governor, respecting the assurances he had obtained that, there would be no change of Government: This account filled the minds of our Friends with great concern, as we thereby—(if it be true) shall experience the in-attention of those in power, to our Prayers, and evince the proprietary Party here that they are capable of carrying every measure against the voice of the People; And when it is considered that, the People who have been for a Royal-Government are those, who in those tumultuous times have kept the Peace, or at least obliged the other Party to be more moderate, it would seem extreamly hard, that, they should be denied that security in their Persons and Properties which they hop’d for from this Change.
There are some of us, who since the receipt of thy Letter have stood their utmost Attacks, which were usher’d forth by the great Giant with his usual vehemence; nay so sure are they of the matter having been finished in their favour, that, they have published it in our Papers, and that of the Dutch; And all we have been able to urge is thy Integrity, Capacity, and Assurance that the Petitions are not rejected, and we find that the Doctrine, which is now directed by some of the wiser and better sort of the People, is that, as the affairs of the Petition are at an end, ’tis best for all Parties to be at Peace; thereby they hope to Lull us a sleep, and inch by inch get our privileges from us: But I hope the People will be watchful and guard every part from their secret, as well as open Attacks.
I think it my duty as a Friend, to inform thee of every part, which seems to wound thy Reputation—either in a private or public capacity, and for which reason I trust, thou’l not be displeased with me.
Thou well knows that there have been Men of the Court side, who have never failed to augment the least omission, and make it as far as in them lays—appear as a breach of Trust; so on the arrival of the December-Packet, they inquired whether the Committee of Correspondence had any Letters from the Agents, and it was answered in the negative; they soon found that our friend J. Galloway had rec’d two from thee, and one from R.J. this they declared was contrary to your Instructions &c. and leave no method un-essay’d to alienate the regard of Individuals of the Assembly from thee. It would give all of us great pleasure if thou would write the Committee as often as it suited: as I dont mean to go into a full detail of this matter, hope thou’l understand the foregoing hint.

Our friend J.G. and self did ourselves the pleasure yesterday—of spending a few Hours with Governor Franklin and his Spouse, who enjoy a good state of Health, and a great share in the Affections of the substantial Inhabitants of N. Jersey. The Governor requested me to forward thee the enclosed Packet.
My Father and Self have made all the enquiry we can respecting the Letter which was said to be read in the Dutch Church, and have rec’d for answer of Parson Millenburg, that to his knowledge no such Letter was read; but that it was a Charter of Incorporation, they had received from the Proprietor; tho’ some others assert that both this Charter and that Letter were read: He told my Father, that W. A. had lately sent for him to know if there was any truth in the report, whom he informed there was not. But for our parts we rather conclude that the sending for him; was to give some directions, how the affair might be best conceal’d.
By the December Packet came an appointment to James Tilghman fixing him in the Land-Office; consequently removing William Peters therefrom; which has given general satisfaction, and it’s said there is £300 per ann. tack’d to the former Perquisites, under some particular Restrictions, respecting his not being concern’d in any Purchases &ca.
I am told that our Courts are to be open this week, and that it is determin’d not to go on with any old Business till June Term, but that they will Issue Writs &ca. returnable to that term; not doubting but before then all Affairs will be terminated respecting the Stamp Act. I remain thy sincere friend
Tho Wharton
To Benja. Franklin Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hall, 3 March 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sir
Philadelphia March 3d. 1766
I was in hopes of a Letter from you by the Packet, but disappointed, was glad however to know from those that had, that you was well.
Inclosed have sent you a Copy of the Accounts settled by Mr. Parker with me on your Account, which I hope will be Satisfactory, as, to the best of my Knowledge I think they are right; tho’, as I suppose he told you, if any Thing is wrong in them, it shall be rectified, either as to what might have been forgot, or as to the Valuation of the Office.
Mrs. Franklin had Fifty Pounds Cash of me, the Tenth of January last, to purchase a Bill of Exchange of Mrs. Stevens. The 18th of last Month, she had One Hundred Pounds; towards Payment of the Lot she purchased of Mr. Siddons; and on the Tenth of this Month, I am to give her One Hundred Pounds more for the same Purpose. When she wants more, she shall have it; and any Service, I may be able to do her in that, or any other Way, you may depend upon it, shall not be wanting. I am Dear Sir Yours most Affectionately
  D H

Addressed: To Benjamin Franklin Esq.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Free, 4 March 1766
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To:

Sir,
Newington Butts Mar. 4. 1766
The Books inclosed in these Parcels, to wit;
Dr. Free’s Controversy with the Methodists
His Petition to the King,
His Petition to the H. of Commons, against the two Archbishops,
His Speech at Oxford; and

Voluntary Exile a Poem,
are a Present from the Author, who lives at Newington Butts near Southwark
To an old Subscriber of his Mr. Richard Dunscomb of new York and sent with a View, of being conveyed to him by the kind assistance of either Dr. Franklin or Mr. Kelly: but if Mr. Dunscomb be dead or removed; they are then the Property of Dr. Franklin, if he pleases to accept of them.
In the Meantime Dr. Free would be glad of a Penny Post Letter to signify the Probability of their being conveyed.

Addressed: For / Dr. Franklin of / New York. / with 2 Small Parcels
Endorsed: Dr. Free Dated March 4, 1766.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Amelia Evans, 6 March 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sir,
Portsmouth 6 March 1766
I write to beg ten thousand pardons for not having waited on you before I left town but having been excessively hurried with the necessary preparations for our embarkation I deferred seeing most of my friends till I found I was not mistress of a moment. But I hope you will pardon me Sir and allow me to intreat yours and Mrs. Stevensons wishes for success to the Æolus which is the Man of war we are to sail in. She is command by Capt. Gower brother to my Lord Gower. We are to have a prodigious number of passengers among the rest is Sir Thos. Erskin who is I believe going to visit the remains of antient magnificence in the African world from whence I shall certainly (having your permission Sir) do myself the honor of writing to you.
If you will please to give yourself the trouble of sending to Mrs. Mistiviers french school at the Edinburgh Castle Drury lane you may get a Copper plate of my fathers of Pensilvania, New Jersey, New York and the Counties up the River Deleware. It can now be of no use to me and possibly to nobody but I would not have it lost as it was my fathers and when you return to America it m[a]y chance to be of some use.
My respectful compliments wait on Mrs. Stephenson to whom I ought to appologize for not having waited on her but the excuse I have pleaded to you Sir I hope will entirely satisfy that Lady. With the greatest sincerity and respect I am Sir your most obliged Humble Servant
Amelia Evans

Endorsed: Amelia Evans


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ezra Stiles, 7 March 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sir
Newport March. 7th. 1766.
This waits upon you by Dr. Grant, with whom I have had the pleasure of an acquaintance during his Residence in Newport the winter past. He was educated at Aberdeen and received the Finishings in Medical Literature at Edinburgh and Paris. Your Reputation in the learned World excites a Curiosity in Gentlemen of Taste and Erudition to be known especially to one of your Humanity and Politeness. Permit me therefore to ask your kind Notice of my amiable Friend, in addition to the numerous Favors by which you have condescended to make me, my Dear Sir, Your most affectionate Friend and obliged humble Servant
Ezra Stiles
To Dr. Benja. Franklin FRS. London

Endorsed: By Dr Grant who sailed on Board the America 9th. Mar. 1766.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Mary Stevenson, 9 March 1766
From:
To:

My dear Sir
Sunday Morning March 9. 1766
You will give us great pleasure if you will favour us with your company to day, our dinner shall be ready at any hour you will appoint, four o’clock will be as convenient to us as any other time; say you will come and you make us happy. My mother gave us hope that you might come to day, and thought it was the only one you could. I will flatter myself that I shall see you both this day, which is one of the highest pleasures that can be enjoy’d by Your dutiful and affectionate
M Stevenson

Addressed: To Dr / Franklin / Craven Street / in the / Strand


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Matthew Boulton, 19 March 1766
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To:

Dear Sir,
London, March 19. 1766
You will I trust excuse my so long omitting to answer your kind Letter per Mr. Garbet, when you consider the excessive Hurry and Anxiety I have been engag’d in with our American Affairs. I thank you for introducing me to the Acquaintance of that very sensible worthy Man, tho’ I could have but for a short Hour the Pleasure of his Company.

I know not which of the Valves to give the Preference to, nor whether it is best to introduce your Jet of Cold Water above or below. Experiments will best decide in such Cases. I would only repeat to you the Hint I gave of fixing your Grate in such a Manner as to burn all your Smoke. I think a great deal of Fuel will thus be sav’d, for two Reasons. One, that Smoke is Fuel, and is wasted where it escapes uninflam’d. The other, that it forms a sooty Crust on the Bottom of the Boiler, which Crust being not a good Conductor of Heat, and preventing Flame and hot Air coming into immediate Contact with the Vessel, lessens their Effect in giving Heat to the Water. All that is necessary, is, to make the Smoke of fresh Coals pass descending thro’ those that are already thoroughly ignited.
I sent the Model last Week, with your Papers in it, which I hope got safe to hand.
Please to make my Compliments acceptable to Mrs. Boulton, and present them likewise to our Friends Mr. and Mrs. Baskerville, and Mr. Small. With great Esteem, I am, Dear Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant
B Franklin
To Mr M: Boulton

Endorsed: Benjn: Franklin—19 March 1766.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Sarah Franklin, 23 March 1766
From:
To:

[Honoured] Papa
Philadelphia March th 23 [1766]
Our dear Friend Mrs. Smyth after an illness of 5 months and 6 days Expired Yesterday morning. In the whole time she had not been out of bed a quarter of an hour at a time, so thankfull she was for any thing her friends did for her and patient to a Miracle. Poor Mrs. Dufield and poor Mama are in great distress, it must be hard to lose a Friend of 50 Years standing, but when we saw her in such extreame pain it would have been selfish to wish her stay, when so much happyness await’d her.
Miss Greame has lost her only Sister Mrs. Stedman who died a Week or two ago. I write the bad news first as it is upermost in my thoughts.
Brother and Sister is to be in town next Monday and stay some time with us, they are both well he was in town last Saturday.
March 25
I meet Mr. Read of Burlington last evening he told me he had been down to Capt. Egdons Wreck and among the things he saw a parcel of nice Wax work fruit, which the Capt. told him was put on board by Dr. Franklin for his Daughter. He then had a box made for it (for the things had been strangely hawld about) packed it Carefully and it was coming round. I told him I was much obliged to him for his kindness, but did not think it belonged to me, as I was sure you would have mentioned it, if you had sent it.
  We have heard by a round about way that the stamp act is repeal’d, the People seem ditermined to beleave it, tho it came from Ireland to Maryland. The bells rang we had bonfires and one house was illumanited, indeed I never heard so much noise in all my life the very Children seem distracted. I hope and pray the news may be true. As your time is now taken up so [much] a short Letter will be more agreable than a long one. I beg leave therefore [to] Conclude with my love to Mrs. Stevenson and Miss, and my Love and [duty] to you. I am as ever Your Dutiful Daug[hter]
S Franklin

Addressed: To / Benjamin Franklin Esqr / in / Craven Street / London / per Packet
Endorsed: Mrs Franklin and Sally, from Nov. 1765 to March 1766 —answered


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from [Joseph Priestley], 25 March 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sir
Warrington 25 March 1766.
I have received your letter, containing some remarks on my experiments, and a printed paper for the transactions which has given me very great satisfaction, and for which I think myself much obliged to you. I shall think myself very happy if the accounts you are pleased to permit me to send you of my imperfect experiments do but revive your attention to your once favourite study; for that seems to be universally acknowledged to be the great desideration to further discoveries.
Immediately upon the receipt of yours, I set about pursuing the hints you gave me, and I am impatient, little as I have done, to give you an account of it. My great ambition would be to act under your auspices in the business of electricity.
I carefully repeated the experiment with condensed air and could perceive no more cloudiness when it could not be excited than when it could, as I have written more at large to Dr. Watson, to whom I beg leave to refer you.
I have this day tried the experiment with the vanes, and I believe I should have done it; tho not so soon, if You had not recommended it to me. I took a cork, and stuck into the sides of it (pointing directly from the center) thirteen vanes each consisting of half a common card. Into the middle of the cork I stuck a needle, by which I suspended [passage missing] glass stand, in contact with a pointed wire projecting some inches from the jar. In this situation it is evident, that for every spark that I took from the inside, one must enter at the point which communicated with the outside. I then held the vanes about two or three inches from the point of the wire, but a little on one side, that the streams of air (if there were any) might act to advantage, on the extremities of them; and observed, that all the time I was taking sparks from the wire communicating with the inside, the vanes turned, as if strongly blown upon by a current setting from the point. In a great number of trials they never failed to turn the same way, and even if they were made to turn as much as possible the contrary way, the stream never failed to fetch them back again, and make them turn as before.
To determine whether this effect was produced by any electrical attraction or repulsion, I placed a wire communicating with the ground, between the vanes and the point, to intercept the electricity, but the vanes turned as swiftly as before. The motion was sometimes so swift, that I could hardly distinguish the separate vanes as they turned round, and the motion would continue a very considerable time.
As I never chuse to depend upon my own testimony, I called in Mr. Holt to witness the experiments, and we repeat[ed passage missing] different principles, and very agreeable to the theory of negative and positive electricity.
I shall make all the experiments you direct, and many more which I have thought of relating to mephitic air when my apparatus is completed, and I have finished the greatest part of my treatise on Electricity. I have sent to Mr. Price five numbers, a quire each, and I shall send (if all be well) three more the beginning of the next week. You must only consider it as a very rough draught, but I think I have made the most of the materials I have at present. I am impatient to receive the books you are so kind as to procure for me, and wish you could likewise procure me the histoire de l’electricité you mention. Desire Mr. Canton also to favour me with his Gilbert, and that piece of Otto Gueric, if he have it, which treats of electricity. Please also to desire Mr. Johnson to send me a copy of Theophrastus for I have not the book, tho’ I remember reading it formerly, I think, in an edition of Dr. Hill’s. I have this day been favoured with [a] letter from Mr. Price, for which I beg you would make my acknowledgments to him. After puzling myself to no purpose with some of Mr. Wilson’s experiments, you will find that I have related them just as he published them himself, with very few remarks. I thought that the most [about five words missing] directed by you what to do [remainder missing]

Addressed: To / Doctor Franklin / at Mrs Stephens’s, Craven-street, / in the Strand / London.


Title: Heads of a Bill to Authorize Paper Currency, [31 March–5 April 1766]
From:
To:

Franklin’s belief that a viable system of paper currency was essential to the colonial economy goes back to 1729, when he published a pamphlet he called A Modest Enquiry into the Nature and Necessity of a Paper-Currency. His most recent proposal was the scheme he and Thomas Pownall had presented to George Grenville in February 1765 as an alternative to the Stamp Act. In March 1766 that act was repealed, and he and his friends and associates in England could turn their attention to other matters relating to the colonies that would require parliamentary action. High on his list of priorities was the repeal, or at least the considerable modification, of the Currency Act of 1764, which extended from New England to the other colonies a complete ban on issuing paper money that would serve as legal tender.
On Jan. 14, 1766, the Pennsylvania Assembly approved a petition to the House of Commons asking for the repeal of the Currency Act, and ordered the Committee of Correspondence to send the petition to the agents, Jackson and Franklin, in London. The Committee’s first letter of transmittal and instruction has not been found, but on April 12 Franklin acknowledged its receipt and reported the presentation of the petition. In his letter he also told the Committee of Correspondence that “last Week at the Request of one of the Members” he had drawn a bill to repeal the Currency Act and provide a new system of colonial currency.
The document in Franklin’s hand printed below is undated, but it appears to fit the description he gave the Committee and is probably the outline of this proposed bill. It provides for the repeal of all the acts restraining colonial paper currency and substitutes a parliamentary authorization for such issues by the assemblies with what Franklin seems to have believed would be adequate safeguards against runaway inflation and with protection of the interests of British merchants. In strong contrast to the scheme he and Pownall had presented to Grenville the previous year, the proposed measure was permissive, not mandatory, and it did not assign to the British government the interest arising from loans of the bills of credit, but specified that this income was “to be applied to the current Service of the Year in each Colony.” No one in America, therefore, could assert that Franklin was here offering a plan, however disguised, by which Parliament would impose internal taxes on the colonies against the will of the people as expressed through their elected representatives, or by which the money produced would go to support British troops in the colonies or any other service normally paid for from British revenues.
A motion was made in the House of Commons, May 14, for leave to bring in a bill for repealing the acts of 6 Anne, 24 George II, and 4 George III, relating to coinage and bills of credit in the colonies, and the Rates of Silver and Gold, in all Payments, in His Majesty’s Colonies and Plantations in America,” which sounds very much like the present proposal. The motion was negatived, however, without a record vote.

[March 31–April 5, 1766]
Preamble, Necessity of an equal Currency for all America.
2.
  Acts of 6 Anne, 24 Geo. II. 3 Geo. III to be repeal’d after Sept. 1. 1766.
3.
  All present P. Money to sink at its present Periods, no more to be issued but as follows
4.
  After Sept. 1. 1766 it shall be lawful for any Colony Legislature, to issue any Sum they find necessary for the Revenue, Trade Business Agriculture of each Colony, each Bill to express Sterling Money, or Silver at 5s. 2d. Gold at £3 17s. 10½d. per oz., which Bills to be received in any and every Colony in all public and private Payments. Provided, Taxations laid on all Estates for calling in and sinking the same 1/6 per Annum. Bills not brought in in 6 Years to be destroyed, void, after 3 Months. Deficiency in Taxes to be paid in Gold and Silver, Bills to be redeem’d with Gold and Silver if brought in Time. Profit of Bills lost to be applied to the current Service of the Year. In Emergencies, War, &c. may issue to be sunk 1/12 each Year.
5.
  All Debts, Specialties &c. contracted or commencing after Sept. 1. 66 to be estimated in Gold and Silver at aforesaid Rates and recoverable accordingly, payable in Bills equivalent at the price of Gold and Silver at the Time, according to Certificate upon Oath of the Majority of any 5 of the most eminent and judicious Merchants of the Town or Colony.
6.
  Legislatures of each Colony may lend the Bills on Securities at 4 per Cent per Annum taking care to make the Colony responsible by Taxation for the same in due and proper time, for all Deficiencies of Security. Interest to be applied to the current Service of the Year in each Colony.
7
  To counterfeit, Death.
8
  Governors contravening this Act, cashiered. Laws contrary to be void.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Deborah Franklin, 6 April 1766
From:
To:

My dear Child,
London, April 6. 1766.
As the Stamp Act is at length repeal’d, I am willing you should have a new Gown, which you may suppose I did not send sooner, as I knew you would not like to be finer than your Neighbours, unless in a Gown of your own Spinning. Had the Trade between the two Countries totally ceas’d, it was a Comfort to me to recollect that I had once been cloth’d from Head to Foot in Woollen and Linnen of my Wife’s Manufacture, that I never was prouder of any Dress in my Life, and that she and her Daughter might do it again if it was necessary. I told the Parliament that it was my Opinion, before the old Cloaths of the Americans were worn out, they might have new ones of their own making. And indeed if they had all as many old Clothes as your old Man has, that would not be very unlikely; for I think you and George reckon’d when I was last at home, at least 20 pair of old Breeches. Joking apart, I have sent you a fine Piece of Pompador Sattin, 14 Yards cost 11s. per Yard. A Silk Negligee and Petticoat of brocaded Lutestring for my dear Sally, with 2 Doz. Gloves, 4 Bottles of Lavender Water, and two little Reels. The Reels are to screw on the Edge of a Table, when she would wind Silk or Thread, the Skein is to be put over them, and winds better than if held in two Hands. There is also an Ivory Knob to each, to which she may with a Bit of Silk Cord hang a Pinhook to fasten her plain Work to like the Hooks on her Weight. I send you also Lace for two Lappet Caps, 3 Ells of Cambrick (the Cambrick by Mr. Yates) 3 Damask Table Cloths, a Piece of Crimson Morin for Curtains, with Tassels, Line and Binding. A large true Turky Carpet cost 10 Guineas, for the Dining Parlour. Some oil’d Silk; and a Gimcrack Corkscrew which you must get some Brother Gimcrack to show you the Use of. In the Chest is a Parcel of Books for my Friend Mr. Coleman, and another for Cousin Colbert. Pray did he receive those I sent him before? I send you also a Box with three fine Cheeses. Perhaps a Bit of them may be left when I come home. Mrs. Stevenson has been very diligent and serviceable in getting these things together for you, and presents her best Respects, as does her Daughter, to both you and Sally. There are too Boxes included in your Bill of Lading for Billy.
I received your kind Letter of Feb. 20. It gives me great Pleasure to hear that our good old Friend Mrs. Smith is on the Recovery. I hope she has yet many happy Years to live. My Love to her.
I fear, from the Account you give of Brother Peter that he cannot hold it long. If it should please God that he leaves us before my Return; I would have the Post Office remain under the Management of their Son, till Mr. Foxcroft and I agree how to settle it.
There are some Droll Prints in the Box, which were given me by the Painter; and being sent when I was not at home, were pack’d up without my Knowledge. I think he was wrong to put in Lord Bute, who had nothing to do with the Stamp Act. But it is the Fashion here to abuse that Nobleman as the Author of all Mischief. I send you a few Bush Beans, a new Sort for your Garden. I shall write to my Friends per Packet, that goes next Saturday. I am very well, and hope this will find you and Sally so with all our Relations and Friends, to whom my Love. I am, as ever, Your affectionate Husband,
B Franklin

P.S. A Young Man, by name Joseph Wharton, came to me the other day, said he had been sick and was in distress for Money, and beg’d me to take a Draft on his Brother at Philadelphia for Twelve Guineas. I did not remember or know him, but could refuse nothing to the Name of my Friend. So I let him have the Money, and enclose his Bill. You will present it for Payment.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Ezra Stiles, 10 April 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sir
Newport April 10. 1766.
I should not so soon have troubled you with another Letter, before I had known your receipt of my former ones, but to oblige my Friend Capt. Fred Hamilton. Mr. Swift Attorney at Law in Bo[ston] by a Letter to Capt. Hamilton last Winter, informed him that a Gentleman in London had, in the Name and at the desire of the “Lady of the Earl of Peterborough and her Sister” addressed to him an Inquiry after the Children of Mr. Andrew Hallyburton late of Bo[ston] in N. England. As Mrs. Hamilton is a Daughter of Mr. Hallyburton, she has taken the Liberty of addressing a Letter to the Earls Lady; and that she may be certain of its reaching her hands, she begs you will do her the favor personally to present it. I know it to be intirely her own Composition. What were the Countesses Views in this Inquiry are not precisely known, yet suggest some flattering hopes.
This Evening for the first Time we saw a Comet in the Northwest. From a cursory View, with the assistance of a Celestial Globe I think it was in or below the Constellation Musca, and nearly in a Line from Pleiades to the first star of Aries. It sat about VIIIh. 45’. P M. Your indefatiguable Assiduity for the american Interest we hear of with the sincerest Pleasure and Gratitude; but have not heard the success. I am Dear Sir Your most obliged and obedient Servant
Ezra Stiles
Dr. Franklin in London


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to the Pennsylvania Assembly Committee of Correspondence, 12 April 1766
From:
To:

Gentlemen,
London, April 12. 1766
I received your Letters of Jan. 13. and 20. and communicated them to Mr. Jackson. The Petition, praying a Repeal of the Act of Parliament prohibiting the Paper Money of the Colonies being a lawful Tender, was immediately presented according to your Directions, and referred to a Committee. We have for a long time been extreamly busy with our general American Affairs. I sometime since advis’d the Speaker of the Repeal of the Stamp Act. The Regulations of our Trade came next under Consideration. On Monday next the Committee are to report on the American Commerce. A Number of good Evidences have been thoroughly examined on that head before the House, and it is now seen in a Light much more favourable for us than ever heretofore. We have a Ministry extreamly well dispos’d towards us, from whom, if they continue, and become firmly established, we may hope every thing we can reasonably expect. But there is a strong Opposition against them, which makes them cautious of going all the Lengths at once which they wish to go in our Favour. It is now intended to reduce the Duty on foreign Mellasses to 1d. per Gallon; to permit Duty-free the Importation into North America as Articles of Commerce, to be stored in King’s Warehouses, and afterwards exported to Europe, all foreign Sugars, Coffee, &c. and to Britain, Cotton, Indigo, &c.—and such Sugars as are consum’d in America, tho’ clay’d and fine, to pay a Duty of 5s. per hund. only. The Reducing the Muscovado Duty to 2s. 6d. was talk’d of; but that is yet doubted. A free Port is also intended at Dominica, and if it succeeds, another or two more may be made next Year, at Jamaica and Pensacola. The direct Importation of Wine, Oil and Fruits from Portugal and Spain to America is also to be allow’d, if it can be carried in the House; but that meets with particular Opposition, and may possibly fail, tho’ I rather think it will be carried, as Mr. Grenville’s Party seem daily diminishing. As to the Paper Currency I last Week at the Request of one of the Members drew a Bill for Repealing the Act of 1763 relating to legal Tender, which he intends to bring in after considering it with Mr. Townsend. The principal Point was to satisfy the Merchants, who obtain’d that Restraining Act, they having suffer’d in Virginia by the Depreciation of the Currency there in which their Debts were paid: I therefore inserted a Clause to make Sterling Debts due to British Merchants and payable here, recoverable according to the Rate of Exchange at the Time, which I think is no more than we have always practis’d in the Courts of our Province. What Alteration will be made in the Draft it is impossible to say; and I doubt whether if a Bill be brought in, it will be compleated this Session; the Ministry being inclin’d to consider the Affair of Paper Money more extensively, and therefore to leave it to another Year; which, if they do, I hope will not be attended with any great Inconvenience, as we have still a considerable Sum extant that is legal Tender. I shall however use my best Endeavours to get it compleated now.
There is a Bill also under Consideration relating to Admiralty Courts and other Admiralty Affairs in America, on which I have had several Conferences with the Ministry: It is among other Things propos’d that the Act made 19 Geo. II. to prevent the Impressing of Seamen in the Sugar Colonies for the King’s Ships, unless with Consent of Governor and Council, be extended to North-America. And on a Suggestion that had been made to the Admiralty, that the Men were entic’d from the King’s Ships by the Merchants, and that the Governors and Councils of some North American Colonies would probably refuse to give their Consent, whatever might be the Necessity, a Clause was drawn to direct an Application to be made to them for Men when wanted, and that in case of their Refusal or Neglect to provide a sufficient Number, it should be lawful for the Officers of the King’s Ships to impress, &c. I oppos’d this strongly, in a long Conversation with my Lord Egmont, who is at the Head of the Admiralty Board; and he was so obliging as to say he was satisfy’d with my Reasons, and the Power of Impressing should be omitted. It appear’d to me a terrible Thing to establish such Violence by a Law, however necessary it may be in some Cases; and I conceiv’d it a Power not fit to be given the Officers of the Navy, who might use it greatly to the Oppression and Injury of particular Colonies.
The Merchants trading to America have been of great Service to us in all our late Affairs, and deserve the Thanks of the Colonies. I hope the Behaviour of the Colonists on the Repeal, will be decent and grateful to Government here, which will greatly strengthen the Hands of their Friends the present Ministry, as very different Things are prognosticated. I send you the Lords Protests; and also the best Account we have of the Debates on the Repeal; but it is very short and imperfect, Mr. Pitt having spoke in the whole near three Hours. Our particular Provincial Petitions remain ready to be proceeded on, as soon as these other Affairs are out of hand.
Please to present my Duty to the Assembly and believe me, with particular Esteem, Gentlemen, Your most obedient humble Servant
B Franklin
Committee of Correspondence.


Title: Petition to the House of Commons, [12–15 April 1766]
From:
To:

At the request of members the House of Commons ordered to be read aloud on Friday, April 11, 1766, part of an act that provided for the transportation of felons from England to the American colonies. Thereupon the House granted leave to bring in a bill extending to Scotland the system of transporting felons to America. Within a few days Franklin had drawn up a petition against the proposed measure and had given it to Richard Jackson for presentation. As Franklin explained when sending a copy of the petition to Joseph Galloway six months later, it would have needed “some Alterations” if it were actually to be presented to the Commons; Jackson understood Franklin’s intentions and went no further than to show the paper “among the Members, and it occasion’d some Laughing.”
Readers of these volumes will at once recall Franklin’s previous writing on the same general subject, when in 1751 he proposed in the Pennsylvania Gazette that, as “suitable Returns” for the felons England insisted on sending to America, the colonies send back quantities of rattlesnakes for the parks and gardens of the mother country. It will be observed that Franklin showed rather more subtlety and finesse in the petition than he had in the Gazette piece. Perhaps the difference shows a development of his skill in satire; more probably it reflects his recognition that a paper intended to be read by members of the British governing elite called for greater delicacy of touch than had been necessary or even desirable in a communication directed to the generality of readers of a colonial newspaper.
It would be pleasant to report that Franklin’s petition won over enough votes to defeat the bill in the House of Commons. But amusement among the members did not prevent the smooth passage of the bill through both Houses; it received the royal assent on May 14, 1766.

[April 12–15, 1766]
To the honourable the Knights Citizens and Burgesses of Great Britain in Parliament assembled,
The Petition of BF. Agent for the Province of Pensilvania,
Most humbly Sheweth,
That the Transporting of Felons from England to the Plantations in America, is and hath long been a great Grievance to the said Plantations in general.
That the said Felons being landed in America, not only continue their evil Practices, to the Annoyance of his Majesty’s good Subjects there, but contribute greatly to corrupt the Morals of the Servants and poorer People among whom they are mixed.
That many of the said Felons escape from the Servitude to which they were destined, into other Colonies, where their Condition is not known and wandering at large from one populous Town to another commit many Burglaries Robberies and Murders, to the great Terror of the People, and occasioning heavy Charges for the apprehending and securing such Felons, and bringing them to Justice.
That your Petitioner humbly conceives the Easing one Part of the British Dominions of their Felons by burthening another Part with the same Felons, cannot increase the common Happiness of his Majesty’s Subjects; and that therefore the Trouble and Expence of transporting them is upon the whole altogether useless.
That your Petitioner nevertheless observes with extream Concern, in the Votes of Friday last, that Leave is given to bring in a Bill, for extending to Scotland the Act made in the 4th. Year of the Reign of King George the First, whereby the aforesaid Grievances are (as he understands) to be greatly increas’d by allowing Scotland also to transport its Felons to America.
Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays, in behalf of Pensilvania and the other Plantations in America that the House wou’d take the Premisses into Consideration, and in their great Wisdom and Goodness repeal all Acts and Clauses of Acts for Transporting of Felons; or if this may not at present be done, that they would at least reject the propos’d Bill for extending of the said Acts to Scotland; or, if it be thought fit to allow of such Extension, that then the said Extension may be carried farther, and the Plantations be also by an equitable Clause in the same Bill permitted to transport their Felons to Scotland.
And your Petitioner, as in Duty bound shall pray, &c.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to [Joseph Galloway], 12 April 1766
From:
To:

April 12, 1766.
Our Friends here are in Pain, lest the Condescension of Parliament, in repealing the Stamp-Act, will encourage the Americans to farther Excesses; and our Enemies, who have predicted it, hope to see their Prophecies fulfilled, that they may disgrace the present Ministry; but I hope we shall behave prudently, and disappoint them, which will establish the Ministry, and thereby effectually secure the American Interest in Parliament. Indeed I wish this Ministry well, for their own Sakes, as well as ours, as they appear to me to be really very honest worthy Men, with the best Intentions; by no Means deficient in Abilities, very attentive to Business, and of Course daily improving in their Acquaintance with it.
The Proposal of free Ports in America, has been attended to, and one, for a Trial, will be established at Dominica.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from George Read, 14 April 1766
From:
To:

Sir,
New Castle, April 14th, 1766.
From your known goodness, and the knowledge you have of me and my family, I have presumed to beg the favor of you to apply to the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury on my behalf, for the appointment of Collector of the Port of New Castle, made vacant by the death of Mr. William Till yesterday morning. My pretensions to this post are solely founded on your good offices in my favor, for which I shall have no other return to make than a grateful remembrance of the service done me, and this, I am well assured, will be satisfactory to your generous mind. Should this appointment be obtained for me, I am persuaded I can give very satisfactory security for the due execution of the office in the city of Philadelphia. Among others, I can venture to name Mr. Rees Meredith and Captain John Mease, whose very independent fortunes, I do suppose, you are well assured of.
Good sir, pardon the freedom I have taken to address you on this occasion, and you will much oblige your most obedient, humble servant,
George Read.
To Dr. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Thomas Ronayne, 20 April 1766
From:
To:

London, April 20, 1766.
I received your very obliging and ingenious letter by Captain Kearney. Your observations on the Electricity of Fogs, and of the air in Ireland, and of the several circumstances attending a thunder-storm, are very curious; and I thank you for them. I have endeavored to get Father Beccaria’s book for you, but find it is not to be had here: ’tis in 2 vols. 4to. in Italian, printed at Turin. In my opinion no part of the earth is, or can be, in a negative state of electricity naturally; and though an inequality may in some circumstances be occasioned, an equality would soon follow, from the extreme subtilty of the electric fluid, and the good conductors the moist earth is filled with. But yet I think when a highly-charged positive cloud comes near the earth, it repels and drives inward the natural quantity of electricity in the superficial parts, and in buildings, trees, &c. so as to bring them into a real negative state before it strikes. And I think the negative state you often find your balls in that hang to your apparatus, is not occasioned always by negative clouds, but often by positive clouds having passed over it, which, in passing, have repelled and driven out part of the natural quantity of electricity that was in the apparatus; so that when they are passed, the remainder diffusing itself equally in the apparatus, the whole is in a negative state. If you have read my experiments in pursuance of those made by Mr. Canton (they are in vol. 40 of the Transactions), you will easily understand this. But you may readily make some experiments that will show it clearly. Make a common wine-glass warm by the fire, that it may keep quite dry for some time; set it on a table, and place on it Mr. Canton’s little box, the balls hanging from the box a little beyond the edge of the table. Rub another warm wine-glass with a piece of black silk, or even a common silk handkerchief, so as to excite it. Then bring the glass over the box at the end farthest from the balls, at three or four inches’ distance, and you will see the balls diverge, being then electrified positively by the natural quantity of electricity that was in the box, driven to that end by the repelling force of the atmosphere of the rubbed glass. Touch the box near the balls (the rubbed glass remaining as at first), and the balls will come together, your finger taking away the quantity driven to that end. Then withdraw finger and glass at the same time, and the quantity left in the box diffusing itself equally, the balls will diverge again and be negative. While in this state, rub your glass afresh, and pass it over the box without coming too near, and you will see, as you approach it, the balls first close; they are then in a natural state: as the glass comes nearer, they open again; they are then positive. When the glass passes and begins to leave them, they close again, and are then in the natural state. When it has quite left them, they open again, and are then negative. The rubbed glass may represent a positively charged cloud, which you see is thus capable of producing all the changes in the apparatus without the necessity of supposing any negative cloud at all. But yet I am convinced there are negative clouds; because they will sometimes drink at and through the apparatus a large full bottle of positive electricity, of which the apparatus itself could not have received and retained the hundredth part. And, indeed, it is easy to conceive how a strongly charged large positive cloud may reduce smaller clouds to a negative state, as it passes over or near them, by driving their natural quantity out of them to their under side, whence it strikes into the earth, or to their farther end, whence it strikes into neighboring clouds; so that when the great cloud has passed or removed farther, they are left in a negative state, like the apparatus; they being, as well as it, often insulated bodies, not in contact with the earth or one another. And in the same manner it is equally easy to conceive how a large negative cloud may make others positive. The experiment you mention of filing the glass is similar to one I made in 1751, or 1752. I had supposed in my letter that the internal pores of glass were less than those near the surface, and so denied a passage to the electric fluid. To try whether this was so in fact, I ground one of my phials on one side extremely thin, passing a good way beyond the middle of the thickness, and very near to the other side, as I found on breaking it after the experiment. It charged as well after grinding as before; which satisfied me that my hypothesis was in that particular wrong. It is hard to conceive where the additional quantity on the charged side of glass is deposited, there is so much of it. I send you my meteorological paper, which has lately been printed here in the Transactions, following a paper of Mr. Hamilton’s on the same subject. I am, &c.
B. Franklin.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Wharton, 26 April 1766
From:
To:

My Dear Friend.
Philadelphia April 26. 1766.
I had the pleasure of writing thee, on the 25th. Ulto, since when We have not had the satisfaction of receiving any of thy Favours.
Various have been the Reports spread through the Continent, respecting the Repeal of the Stamp-Act; and as often as they arrived sometimes in favour and other times against Us, we were acted upon, by our Fears, and different views of this matter; But about 10 Days past we received via Ireland, a certain Account; the Vote of the House of Commons, with Secretary Conway, W. Pitt, Grey, Cooper and several other Patriots, their speeches in our favour; which has greatly relieved us: and I hope the March Packet will give the joyful News—that the King and Lords have accorded therewith: From whence I hope also We shall see at least for some time—Peace restored. Not that I beleive but a certain Sect, or at least some among them—have by means of the Opposition given to this Act, been capable of ascertaining their Numbers; which must amount to many Thousands on the Continent. I think it would be of great advantage could the Bishop of London, (or Those to whom the Power belongs)—think of some easier and less expensive way of Ordaining their Clergy, than that of going to London. We know the Synod performs this part—twice in every Year; and by this means joined with the uncommon Diligence of this Sect of People, to establish Places of Worship—even where there are but a few Families seated together; their society encreases extreamly: And in many Instances at the Loss of the Church, for they don’t regard whether the generality of the Persons be of their society or the Church, if they have not a more convenient Place of Worship to attend; by these means however the Parents sentiments may be retained to the Church of England, Yet, their Children become fixed in the other Principles: And the Church sustains a Loss from the rising Generation. I am confidently assured that We have but Eight Churches belonging to the Church of England; when there are Eighty or upwards of the Presbeterian Meeting Houses—in this Province. I dont mean by this to persecute any Sect; But could wish to see that Religion bear the Reins of Government throughout the Continent, whose Sentiments are founded on the most Catholic-Principles—I mean the Church of England. However I am clear—that unless some speedy and just Methods be taken to set this Affair right; it does appear to me that in a few years it will scarce be worthy of the notice of those at the Helm. I got into this train of thought without the least premiditation—and which perhaps it will be best to quit lest it tire thy patience.
We have but little News among Us; Our Trade greatly stagnated: And unless the Parliament allows the Continent a general and free Trade—I cannot see how we can possible pay our Debts to or continue our Trade with Great-Britain.

The Factory has bought this spring 20,000 lb. Weight of Flax in Connecticut; and the Poor receive great advantage from that Institution: We pay about £25 a fortnight to the Poor-Women for Spinning, and I think there are near 200 employed, who find it a great Relief.
It pleased Providence this day fortnight to grant my Wife the happy delivery of a fine son; Governor Franklin and his Spouse were then in this City. I waited on thy spouse and them, and requested to know if they thought it would be agreable to thee, and was so to themselves, that, I should call his Name Franklin Wharton, to which they kindly answered in the affirmative; In consequence of which—we have undertaken to place that Character on him: And hope it will not afford my Friend a disagreable sensation—as I do assure him it arises from the strict Regard—I bear you.
Thy Family are all well, I remain thy real Friend
Tho Wharton

Addressed: For Benjamin Franklin Esqr / Deputy Post master General / of North America / In / Craven street / London / per Cap. Johnson / via Liverpool


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Johnson, [28 April 1766]
From:
To:

[April 28, 1766]
The Bishop of Worcester presents his Respects to Dr. Franklin and begs the favour of Him to let the Inclos’d to Mr. Hopkinson go in his Packet when He has an opportunity of sending to Philadelphia.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Franklin, 30 April 1766
From:
To:

Honoured Father
Burlin. 30th April, 1766
Your Favour of the 25th. of Febry. is just come to hand. The one you mention to have sent me on the 16th. I have not receiv’d. Perhaps it was on Board that unfortunate Vessel from Bristol which was lost on our Coast. If so, and you have kept any Copy do favour me with it for I should be very loath to lose any of your Letters.
You cannot conceive the Satisfaction which the Accounts of your Examination at the Bar of the H. of Commons have afforded your Friends. Dr. Fothergill and Mr. Whitefield have mentioned your Behaviour on the Occasion in high Terms. I am told that the latter says America owes the Repeal of the Stamp Act to the assiduous Endeavours of Alderman Trecothick, Capel Hanbury and Dr. Franklin. I can’t learn however that any of the Merchants have mentioned your Services at all. It would appear by their Letters that each of them would willingly have his Correspondents think that he alone by his Interest and Management had done every Thing that was done in favour of the Colonies. If you obtain a Copy of your Examination, pray send it me. The N.Y. Mercury of Monday, contains a very sensible judicious Letter from the Committee of Merchants in London but you will see notwithstanding our Advertisement directly counter to their Advice, and I really fear our People’s Indiscretion will be such as to [frustrate?] all endeavours to serve them. However, I shall strive to get our Assembly to address the Parliament in the manner you [mention?].
 I don’t wonder at your disapproving my mentioning in my Speech the villainous Reports of the Proprietary Officers. It is impossible for you at so great a Distance to be acquainted with every Circumstance necessary to form a right Judgment of the Expediency or Inexpediency of particular Transactions. I have all the Evidence the Nature of the Case will admit, that They had taken their Measures so effectually with the Presby[terians] and the Sons of Liberty in this Province, that had it not been for the Paper I publish’d in Answer to the Lodge-Paper, I should have had my House pull’d down about my Ears and all my Effects destroy’d. I did not think the Notice I took of this in my Speech to be concerning myself with the Affairs of Pensylvania, all I intended by it was to fix a Brand of Infamy on the Transactions of the Officers of that Government within this Province, and I should have done the same had the Officers of New York, or any other Colony, given the like Occasion. All my Friends in every Part of the Province have approv’d my Conduct, and I have ever since experienc’d the good Effects of it; having, by thus removing the Prejudices of the People, render’d abortive every successive Attempt of my Adversaries to hurt me. For my Part I always think it best to nip in the Bud every Report which may tend to hurt a Man’s Character or Interest; and that no Man should deem such Reports below his Notice. Governor Hutcheson, for Instance, knew very well that his Enemies had by their Intrigues spirited up the Populace against him, and made them believe, among other Things, that he was a Promoter of the Stamp Act. But he thought it beneath him to take any Pains to undeceive the People, in Consequence of which the Reports gain’d Credit, his House and Effects were destroy’d, and his Life endangered. It is possible that the Province will be obliged to make him some Reparation but great Part of his Loss is irreparable. On the whole, I am of Opinion, that it is best at all Times, but more especially in Times of Ferment and Confusion, for a Man to lower himself a little, rather than let others lower him.

Enclosed are two Applications for Favours from the Ministry, One from Col. Croghan, and the other from Mr. Geo. Reed of New Castle. They are both our Friends, and, I doubt not, but if you can that you will serve them. Croghan is highly incens’d at the Treatment he has received from the Proprietary Officers in Pensylvania and has been a means of bringing Sir Wm. Johnson and Genl. Gage to think favourable of the Assembly Party, and to wish them Success. A few of us, from his Encouragement, have form’d a Company to purchase of the French settled at the Illinois, such Lands as they have a good Title to, and are inclined to dispose of. But as I thought it would be of little Avail to buy Lands in that Country unless a Colony was established there, I have drawn up some Proposals for that Purpose, which are much approved of by Col. Croghan and the other Gentlemen concerned in Philadelphia and are sent by them to Sir Wm. for his Sentiments; which when we receive, the whole will be forwarded to you. It is proposed that the Company shall consist of 12 now in America, and if you like the Proposals, you will be at Liberty to add yourself, and such Gentlemen of Character and Fortune in England, as you may think will be most likely to promote the Undertaking. Mr. Galloway has met with a Pamphlet at Mr. Hall’s, on the Subject, which I wish I had seen before I had drawn up the Proposals, as it might have afforded some Hints. However, as I believe you have not seen it, it being printed, and I believe wrote, in Scotland, I send it enclosed. You will find your Name mentioned in it, page 52. Pray did you receive the Carolina Pamphlet I sent you.
I would not have you stop the Chronicles coming from the G.P.O. unless you can contrive some other cheaper Way for me to get them. But the Gazette and Magazines I would have stopp’d immediately. In the last Pacquet they missd sending me No. 1429, of the Chronicle. I wish I had it, as the Want of it spoils my Set. Betsy desires me to return her most cordial Thanks for the Notice you have taken of her Nephew. Enclosed is a Letter for him, which please to send, and let that for Miss Clarke be put in the Penny Post Office. Upon an Invitation from my Mother we have been at Philadelphia and spent a Fortnight very agreeably. I intended to have copy’d this, but some Gentlemen from Philadelphia are just come in which prevents, and indeed hinders me, from adding several other Matters. Betsy joins in Duty with your dutiful Son
Wm: Franklin


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from David Hall, 1 May 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sir,
Philada. May 1. 1766.
In mine of the Third of March, Via Belfast, by Captain Henderson, I told you Mrs. Franklin had of me Fifty Pounds, for the Purchase of a Bill from Mrs. Stevens. On the 18th of February One Hundred Pounds, towards paying for the Purchase of the Lot; and that on the Tenth of March I was to give her One Hundred Pounds more, for the last mentioned Use, which she has received. Also Twenty Pounds since, which she wanted for some other Use. And I have told her often, that what she wants at any time, she shall be most readily supplied with by me; and she has as often told me, she will apply, when there is Occasion.
My Landlord, Mr. Grace, is dead, and I am told Mrs. Grace has her Life in the House, to whom I have applied, to rent it of her, when the Time of your Lease is out, but have not yet received her Answer. I make no Doubt you wrote to Mr. Grace in my Favour, according to Promise, with respect to the Preference of renting the House, when your Time was expired.
The Double Demy Paper was returned to Unwin by the Philadelphia Packet, Captain Powell; but as I understand that Gentleman is dead, no Doubt you or Mr. Strahan, have made some Enquiry about it. The large Moulds must also be returned by the first Ship, as we have no Use for any of their Size in this Country. I am, Dear Sir, Yours, &c.
D.H.
To Benjamin Franklin Esq;Sent by Captain Sparks to London.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Pemberton, 1 May 1766
From:
To:

My Worthy Friend
Philad. 1. 5 mo. may 1766
It is not with a view to add to the number of thy Correspondents, and thereby encrease thy trouble of writing; but from a motive of regard that I Send this. Conscious of thy integrity abilities and firmness to Serve thy Country I rest fully Satisfied in respect to myself but Observing with Concern every occasion however frivolous is taken to keep alive the flame of prejudice which Envy has raised against thee I take the liberty to give thee a hint that the Committee of Correspondence not having for some time received particular information from thee of the State of public Affairs [struck out: of the province under thy Care] is made use of in aggravated terms of [objection?] by some without doors, and a blunderer within up[b]raiding thy Friends with it as a neglect of design. I therefore wish that altho nothing material may occurr in respect to our Provincial affairs thou wouldst satisfy the discontented by writing to that Committee as frequently as the packet or a direct Conveyance offer;
I am well pleased to find the Speaker has a letter from thee per the packet, with the minutes of Parliament, as thou knows he is not a Scribe pray to Excuse his neglect of acknowledging the receipt of the several he has heretofore received from thee.
 The Intelligence brought per this packet gives universal Joy, as there is a danger of it’s being carried by many imprudent people to an immoderate degree. On receiving account of the final determination of the very important affair, I hope no pains will be spared to press the necessity and good policy of keeping within due bounds; I have a very judicious Letter from our truly valuable Friend Dr. Fothergill on this subject worthy the strictest attention which I hope may be of great Service as far as I can give it an [illegible]. I am likewise much pleased that he has furnished me with such authentic intelligence, as must tend to confute the charge industriously propagated of thy being a promoter of the Stamp Act or Convince the unprejudiced it is base and groundless, and that thy Endeavors in obta[in]ing a repeal of it have been indefaticable and upright.
The Assembly meets the 5. Inst. when I hope the most Cool, and deliberate Consideration will take place of the part. It will be the duty of this Province to act in decent and thankfull acknowledgement to the Parliament &ca. for their Lenity in favour of the Colonies.
Thou has doubtless received Information of the proceedings of the last Sitting that I need not now repeat it. A comendable harmony prevailed except now and then some [illegible] I shoud like to have [illegible] exceptions and the business transacted with good dispatch. Pray do not omit every favorable opportunity of warmly soliciting our Address in favour of paper Currency, the province is so much involved in debt the pub[lic] Credit must suffer unless we are releeved in this respect, and I hope Every Endeavor will be used to obtain a Confirmation of the Laws passed last Sitting particularly that for the better Employment of the poor &ca.
Please to Excuse this freedom, and believe me to be very Sincerely thy respectfull Friend
J P

If thou hast opportunity please to present my kind respects to D. Fothergil. I cannot answer his very acceptable letter per this packet. Shall write him in a few days &c.

Endorsed: 5 mo. 1. 1766 Letter to Benj Franklin Esqr


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from James Parker, 6 May 1766
From:
To:

Honoured Sir
New York, May 6. 1766.
Agreeable to your Requisition and Opinion, in yours to me of the 11th of May, and 8th of June last, I am now come up to this City: and been accepted to the Exercise of the Place of Land-Waiter here the 3d of this Month: and an Account with the Bond executed, and a Certificate of the Matter would be sent with this Packet, but the Surveyor-General, Mr. Stewart, who is at philadelphia, having wrote the Collector here Word, that he would be here in a Day or two, the sending him the Bond and Certificate was delayed, and he being the Officer directed to send them home, they will probably not be sent till next Packet. I had been let to know, a considerable Deal of Trouble and Fatigue was expected to be the Share of this Office, and I am fully satisfied it is so: but I am resolved to do my Endeavours to the best of my Ability to give Satisfaction, more from a Principle of honouring my Recommender, than from any great Benefit or Advantage by the Office. I thank God, I am pretty well in Health now, and while that continues, I hope all will go well, but as that is precarious, I know not what will be the Case, if that fails me again.
With respect to the resuming the Printing Business here I have a Press here, and some Letter, and shall do any Work that offers, that my Hands are capable of: but from the most deliberate Consideration, and consulting my own Mind, I think it not quite expedient to print a News-Paper myself yet a While: and for these Considerations: In the present unhappy Times, when the Sons of Liberty carry all before them, Mr. Holt has gained very great Popularity, and being back’d by them, seems to have a Run of Business: his Brother Royle being dead, who had purchased the Printing-Office that was Mr. Stretch’s, and which was never Used, Mr. Royle’s Right in it was disposed of, and Mr. Holt’s own Brother in Virginia, aided by the Sons of Liberty has purchased it for him. With those Tooles, if I take mine from him, he disigns to set out another Paper. Now, as he will be supported by the Sons of Liberty here, who are all-prevalent, and who look with bad Aspect upon every King’s Officer, and in particular on those of the Customs and Post-Office, I apprehend I should scarce be able to Stem the Torrent, and while he and I, like two Dogs, were fighting for a Bone, the Third would run away with it: Therefore, as he is desirous to keep on good Terms with me, if I will let him carry on the Paper alone in his present good Prospect, so I apprehend, as he owes me a great Sum, that it must be the only Way for me to get my Money; for tho’ I might be able to distance him in Time, which in the present Circumstances of Thi[ngs is] very doubtful, yet it would probably be at my own Ruin: These Considerations see[m to] weigh with me, but whether you will or can conceive them in the same Light, is w[hat I] am not so clear in: However, I submit it. I have been a Father to him for he [could] neither have carried on his Business or held it at any Rate but for my Help. [The] Office of Stretch’s, by the Invoice I have seen, is very compleat, full and good, and the Price Royle gave was but £209 Sterl. and I doubt whether Holt’s Brother gave that: and in that is included two Presses and a Quantity of Ink: whilst mine that Holt has is almost entirely wore out, at least all the Common Used Small Letter: which would make the Match the more unequal against me, if I engaged. Should I arrest Holt for what he owes me, it might look like Spite too much, and he might take the Benefit of the present Act of Insolvency here, and be afterwards set up and supported by the Sons of Liberty, as they are called. It is possible nay probable that Times may alter, and if I shall ever be able to procure two or three Fonts of new Letter of the common small Sort, I might then be able to encounter with better Hopes and better Strength: Also, I think Weyman is still declining, and if we quarrel, he will recover Strength, which I am not very desirous of contributing to, tho’ I shall never attempt to hurt him on Principle, yet I had rather avoid benefiting him. I am preparing to fit up my Shop, and to put the best Foot foremost that I can. I just opened your Box of Goods, and find they are not damaged. I have offered them to two or three at the most moderate Terms from the Invoice, but tis said some of the Articles come too high charged, and none would purchase for Cash: Holt would have taken them on Trust, but I could not betray mine in that, so I think I must take them myself, and make the best of them I can, and am willing to allow you Interest from the Day I take them, which is this present: if I could do better for your Satisfaction and Interest, I would. I have not the Electrick Machine yet for Want of the [Bill of Lading] and Mr. Hughes keeps close himself, tho’ he is one of the Sons of Liberty. He desired [torn] your kind Offer of the Loss of it.
The New-Haven Affair with Mr. Holt is not yet determined: for tho’ the Sons of Liberty have been so powerful, yet in Fact, little or no Business has been done in any place in the Law Way. The Courts indeed begin to open now: Benny Mecom pays one of the Hartford Riders which I suppose to be nearly what his Office produces, otherways my Hopes of him wax fainter and fainter. I have repeatedly wrote and pressed him, but he renders [abortive] all I can do: He has never paid me one Farthing Rent yet, tho’ he promises me some this Month, and promises all his Post-Office Accounts also, so that I hope by the next Packet, to give you a more favourable Account of him: God grant it may be so!
I have not heard from Mr. Foxcroft for two or three Weeks past, he has been above a Month expected from Virginia, whence he went in the Winter. I don’t know any Thing very material on the Head of the Post Office, but this: That the Sons of Liberty finding themselves the Ruling Party, begin to take upon themselves the governing part also: Mr. Colden tells me they make the Captains of Vessels deliver their Letters at the Coffee-House after their old accustomed Manner, tho’ against the Captain’s Wills, except now and then one who happens to get in unperceived or in the Night, and he durst not say any Thing against it, nor does the Collector refuse to enter them: It is surprizing to see the Influence they have, and the Dread every one is Under of Opening their Mouths against them.
Tho’ we have had a very mild Winter, we have had the coldest and most backward Spring I think that ever I knew. There has not been but one warm Day properly speaking since the Month of February, and it is so cold now, that I am obliged to keep by the Fire: The Fruit I believe will be much affected by it. Trade and Business seems very dull in this City in Comparison to what it us’d to be, and yet Provisions as well as every Thing else, are excessive dear and indeed scarce.
I received yours of Feb. 26. by this Packet, and observe the Contents thereof, but as there is nothing more material to say in Answer to it, than what is already wrote, I have only to add respectful Complements and remain Your obliged Humble Servant
James Parker.

Holt has never settled any Accounts with me, I shall try now to get ’em done amicably while I [let?] him to continue the Paper, perhaps I may get it better than if we differ first.
To Dr B Franklin.

Endorsed: J Parker May June and July 1756


Title: Pennsylvania Assembly Committee of Correspondence to Richard Jackson and Benjamin Franklin, 8 May 1766
From:
To:

When the Assembly reconvened in May after a recess of about three months, “A Member of the Committee of Correspondence,” undoubtedly Joseph Galloway, presented letters from Franklin “addressed to that Member only, and not to the said Committee, though relative to the Business of the Public.” When the letters had been read the House resolved that the Committee “do acquaint the Agents for this Province, that the House enjoin and direct that their Letters, respecting the Business committed to their Care by the Assembly, whether jointly or separately wrote, be addressed to the Speaker and Committee of Correspondence,” in order that these letters might come “with proper Authority” before the House. The Committee was directed to send a copy of this resolve to the agents.

Gentlemen
Philadelphia May 8th. 1766
We transmit you herewith all the Laws. passed by the Present Assembly at their late Sessions in January. The Proprietaries no doubt will in Convenient time lay them before his Majesty in Council agreeable to the Directions of Royal Charter. In that Case the House Request, should Any Objections be made Against them, That you will Exert your Utmost Interest and Abilities to remove such Objections, and Obtain their final Conformation. The Law entitled, “An Act for the better Employment Relief and Support of the Poor &c,” is of the Utmost Importance to the City of Philadelphia and the Neighbouring Townships thereby United with it, And will we have not the least Doubt for this reason Obtain your Particular attention and Industry to save it from a repeal.
The not receiving any Letter from you Directed to the Committee of Correspondence, Agreeable to the late order of the House Communicated to you by Us, has given the House some Uneasiness which has induced it to make a new order which we Inclose You here with, In Pursuance whereof, in future you are Desired to Direct your Letters Respecting the Publick matters Committed to Your Care, To the Speaker and Committee of Correspondence for the reason in the order mentioned. We are with Esteem, your Assured Friends, and Humble Servants

Jos: Fox
Thos. Livezey

Jos. Galloway
Isa: Pearson

Jos. Richardson
Giles Knight

Copy. Origl. per Capt.Boggs Via. DublinTo Richard Jackson. and Benjamin Franklin Esqrs.

Endorsed: Commee. of Correspe. May 8. 1766


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Cadwalader Evans, 9 May 1766
From:
To:

Dear Sir:
London, May 9, 1766.
I received your kind letter of March 3, and thank you for the Intelligence and Hints it contained. I wonder at the Complaint you mentioned. I always considered writing to the Speaker as writing to the Committee. But if it is more to their Satisfaction that I should write to them jointly, it shall be done for the future.
My private Opinion concerning a union in Parliament between the two Countries, is, that it would be best for the Whole. But I think it will never be done. For tho’ I believe that if we had no more Representatives than Scotland has, we should be sufficiently strong in the House to prevent, as they do for Scotland, any thing ever passing to our disadvantage; yet we are not able at present to furnish and maintain such a Number, and when we are more able we shall be less willing than we are now. The Parliament here do at present think too highly of themselves to admit Representatives from us if we should ask it; and when they will be desirous of granting it, we shall think too highly of ourselves to accept of it. It would certainly contribute to the strength of the whole, if Ireland and all the Dominions were united and consolidated under one Common Council for general Purposes, each retaining its particular Council or Parliament for its domestic Concerns. But this should have been more early provided for. In the Infancy of our foreign Establishments, it was neglected, or was not thought of. And now, the Affair is nearly in the Situation of Friar Bacon’s Project of making a brazen Wall round England for its eternal Security. His Servant Friar Bungey slept while the brazen Head, which was to dictate how it might be done, said Time is, and Time was. He only wak’d to hear it say, Time is past. An explosion followed that tumbled their House about the Conjuror’s Ears.
I hope with you, that my being here at this Juncture has been of some Service to the Colonies. I am sure I have spared no Pains. And as to our particular Affair, I am not in the least doubtful of obtaining what we so justly desire if we continue to desire it: tho’ the late confus’d State of Affairs on both sides the Water, have delay’d our Proceeding. With great esteem, I am, Dear Friend, Yours affectionately,
B. Franklin.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Francis Hopkinson, 9 May 1766
From:
To:

Dear Friend
London, May 9. 1766
I have been so busy that I have not had time to go to the Customhouse about your Salary, since mine of Feby. 26. (but will now do it soon) nor to write to you since I saw the Bishop, which was some time after he receiv’d your Letters. He express’d a Pleasure in hearing of and from his Relations, enquir’d in what manner he could send Letters to you, and said he hop’d you would not think his Slowness in corresponding was from any want of Regard; this he desir’d me to mention when I should write to you. I told him, that if he sent his Letters to me, I would forward them to you with Pleasure, and I took the Opportunity of saying every thing of you that Friendship and Truth dictated. He ask’d concerning your Views in Life, mention’d your Inclination to come over to England, and said he should be glad to show you a proper Regard here, if it suited you to come. I told his Lordship, that his Countenance to you and introducing you to the Knowledge of Persons of Worth, as well as your having such an Opportunity of seeing the World a little, might be of great Use to you. He invited me very politely to come and see him in Worcestershire. The other Day his Lordship call’d when I was not at home, and left a Packet for your good Mother, which I send by this Opportunity. I suppose from the Contents, she and you can judge better how proper it may be for you to make a Visit here, than from anything I can say; so I do not take upon me to advise.
I deliver’d your Present to Mr. Burrow, who returns his Thanks; but the Apples were rotten, all to 4. I paid Freight and Porteridge, which I shall receive with the other Charges I have been at, when I see Mr. Barclay.
I am oblig’d to you for the Concern you express at the Abuses I receive from unreasonable People. They are a sort of Things that are more blessed to receive than to give. I must, with much better Men, take my share of them, if they were harder to bear than they are.
I will see about Hogarth’s Works, and get them for the Library if they have not been sent. I am, my dear Friend, Yours affectionately
B Franklin
F. Hopkinson Esqr.

Addressed: To / Francis Hopkinson Esqr / Philadelphia / via N. York / per Packet / B. Free Franklin
Endorsed: 12a Dr. Frankl[in] 1766


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Baynton, Wharton & Morgan, [10 May 1766]
From:
To:

This is the first of three brief extracts from letters by Franklin, the originals of which cannot be found, expressing approval of the proposed western settlement. All three have been tentatively dated May 10, 1766. The present extract and that to Galloway are contained in a letter from Baynton, Wharton & Morgan to Sir William Johnson, July 12, 1766, where they are said to have arrived “by the May Packet,” and the merchant firm wrote Franklin on August 28 acknowledging his letter of May 10. The extract to William Franklin was first printed by Jared Sparks, who gave it the specific date of May 10. William’s letter to his father of about July 13 mentions receiving “your Letter per the Packet of May 10.”  Probably all three letters were written on the same day. The member of the firm who wrote the letter to Johnson added, after the quotations, that “Upon the first thoughts of the Scheme, Mr. Galloway and I wrote to Dr. Franklin, so that he might essay it, with the Ministry.”

[May 10, 1766]
I join fully in opinion with you, that a western Colony, would be highly advantageous and very easily settled.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to William Franklin, [10 May 1766]
From:
To:

May 10th, 1766.
I like the project of a colony in the Ilinois country, and will forward it to my utmost here.


Title: From Benjamin Franklin to Joseph Galloway, [10 May 1766]
From:
To:

[May 10, 1766]
I think that a strong Colony in the Illinois Country, is a most desirable measure. The Proposal is much listened to here.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Charles Thomson, 20 May 1766
From:
To:

  My Worthy and much Esteemed Friend,
May 20, 1766.
I sincerely and heartily congratulate you on the repeal of the Stamp act, and from my heart thank you for the pains you have taken to bring that happy event. Your Enemies at last began to be ashamed of their base insinuations and to acknowledge that the Colonies are under obligations to you. I was exceeding glad at the Publication of your Letter to Governor Shirley. That, joined to what you have done of late, shews such uniformity of Sentiment and Conduct that malice itself is almost struck dumb. For my own part whether you succeed or whether you miscarry in the first design of your agency—I shall ever deem it a kind dispensation of Providence that brought you to London at this most critical conjunction.
It is impossible for me to describe the situation of People’s minds on this Continent during the late debates in Parliament. Almost every vessel that arrived brought different accounts; and every different account excited different sensations and emotions. Determined in their own mind what part to act should matters come to extremities, the sensible and judicious waited the event with patience and temper, tho with much anxiety and distress of mind; while the turbulent and weaker spirits (of which there are but too many in every State) giving way to the sallies of their passions expressed their Resentment or Joy in acts which Cannot be justifyed, tho they may be excused. The Justice and tenderness of the mother Country (of which the late repeal is so striking an Instance) will, I am confident, distinguish and not impute to a whole people the acts of some individuals provoked to madness and actuated by despair.
I can with great Confidence assure you and all the Friends of America in England that they need be under no uneasiness about our Conduct on account of the Repeal. Our hearts are still towards Britain, our love and allegiance to our King is entire and unshaken, and I am sure never did a dutiful and Affectionate Son feel more sincere pleasure from a Reconciliation with a much loved parent unjustly offended at him, than the Americans feel at the prospect of re-establishment of harmony, peace and Concord between Great Britain and them.
I wish those Enemies of Britain and her Colonies who have so unworthily exerted their abilities to make a misunderstanding between them to the Ruin of both could but have seen in what manner the news of the repeal was received—Joy there was to be sure—a heart felt joy—seen in every Eye read in every Countenance; a Joy not expressed in triumph but with the warmest sentiments of Loyalty to our King and a grateful acknowledgement of the Justice and tenderness of the mother Country—and what man who has the feelings of humanity (not to mention more) but rejoices that an affair which might have had such terrible Consequences is thus happily accommodated. May there never arise a like occasion! I am, with most sincere esteem and respect, Dear Sir your Affectionate.
  Cha. Thomson.
To Benjn Franklin, Esqr.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Isaac Hunt, 21 May 1766
From:
To:

Worthy Sir
Philada. [May 21, 1766]
It is with great Reluctance that I trouble you with [torn] at a time when you must be busily engaged in Affairs of the [torn] to Great Britain and her Colonies. I hope however you will pardon [torn] indulge me in a Freedom which I do and ever shall esteem a great [Favour?].
One of the Medals which Mr. Sargent sent to the College [was awarded at] the last anniversary Commencement to Dr. Morgan for the best [essay on?] the reciprocal Advantages of a perpetual Union between Great [Britain and] her American Colonies. There was but Eight that enterd the [torn] among whom I was one, and although I fell, yet I hope to rise [again.] Some who heard Doctor Morgan read his Performance at the Commencement are of Opinion that he has not done the Subject Justice. Be that as it may I cannot but think that a Peice wrote by a Gentleman of Doctor Morgan’s Sense, Age, Advantages and Connections, and approved by Men of such eminent Abilities as our Trustees and Professors are must be vastly superior to any Thing of the like Nature that a Person of my Years and slender Abilities should attempt. The Determination of this matter I must leave, and would be glad to be honored with your Sentiments when you have read both Performances, which I propose sending you by the Packet. This much I would beg Leave to observe that I could not expect to receive Honors from Men to whom I am so obnoxious. This is evident from the ill Usage I have very lately received. According to custom I made Application for my Master’s Degree, an Honor which I had not forfeited and was therefore entitled to. The Trustees after sending for my Printer and strictly examining the poor, ignorant Man with respect to the Political Pamphlets I had wrote, without hearing what I had to say, rejected my Application and refused to give me my Master’s Degree. There are no Honors for me, this Side the Water unless your patriotic Endeavors for a Change are crowned with Success. Had I not so great and sincere a Friend as you are, good Sir, I candidly confess that my Ambition would have been greatly checked by this cruel Behaviour, cruel because it flows from the poisoning Fountain of Faction and Revenge.
I beleive by Advice of my Friends I shall publish the Essay I wrote for the Medal. Gratitude great Affection and perhaps a little Selfishness will induce me to dedicate it to the justly respected Patriot and Agent of Pennsylvania. I hope I shall not give offence by taking so great a Freedom without first obtaining Permission. Excuse me when I say that your Name will be [illegible] [torn] Travellers, and tempt them to taste of my coars fare [torn]
[Torn] to write fuller by the Packet. I had very little Time [torn] [opport]unity, and therefore should make an Appology for my rude [torn] of your great Candor and Goodness.
[Ameri]cans are all rejoicing at the agreeable News of the Stamp [Act being repeal]ed. Due Honors are paid our honored Agent for his great Activity in [behalf of the?] Colonies by all in Pennsylvania who have Honor, Honesty and [torn] those whose bad Hearts will not permit to give Merit its Due [torn] put to Confusion when we had the glorious Account in sundry [torn] of your so honorably nobly and satisfactorily acquitting yourself in our Be[half before?] the House of Commons.

God give you all true Blessings and preserve you long for the Sake of dear Pennsylvania. I am, Worthy Sir, With great Faithfulness, Your Affectionate and oblig’d Humble Servant.
  Isaac Hunt.

Endorsed: Mr Isaac Hunt May 21: 1766 concerning his Competition for the Medal


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Wharton, 22 May 1766
From:
To:

My Dear Friend.
Philada. May 22, 1766
I had the pleasure of writing thee, on the 9th Inst. via Ireland to which please to refer.
On the 19th. by a Vessel from Pool we received the truely joyous and satisfactory News of the Repeal of the Stamp-Act; which diffused such universal pleasure that, it was easily to be seen in the Countenance of every Person. On which some Friends waited on all the chief Magistrates of the City, and requested they would use their Influence with the People to moderate their Joy on the Occasion; and that every Step, which might be taken should evince our sincere Acknowledgements to the Parliament for the Repeal: which they severally promised to do. The 20th. in the Evening being fixed for the Illumination, it was conducted with great Prudence: The Recorder, and several other Magistrates appeared and kept the Peace. Yesterday a handsome Dinner was provided at the Stadt-House and concluded with much decency. It was there unanimously agreed, that all those, who (from a Patriotic Spirit) had procured Suits of Cloaths made of this Country Cloth, should give them to the Poor; and on the King’s Birth Day appear in new suits of Broad Cloth made in England. We hourly look for the Packet and I think the Adjournment of our Assembly will answer very well. ’Tis intended by a few of Us to introduce in the Address (after setting forth our Willingness to comply with the King’s Requisitions) to declare that, nothing can bar the good Inclinations of the People of this Province, from chearfully answering such Requisition, unless it be Proprietary-Instructions; which have generally prefer’d private Interest to Public Good. It is not [to be doubted] but that, this will meet with an opposition from a few in the House; But as [torn] some Pains herein—there’s no doubt it will be done. We dispatched a [rider to Gov. Fran]klin with the News of the Repeal assoon as it was received.
I hope what I have now to mention will not give thee Offence and should it not square with thy judgement to make application therefor—Please not to prosecute it.
I make no Doubt, thou art apprized that Springet Penn stands possess’d in right of his Father of a Chain of Lotts, which lay between the second Street of the City and the River Schuylkill; Bounded on the South by Cedar, or south Street; on the West by Schuylkil River; on the North by Lotts belonging to the Proprietaries and others; and on the East by Second Street: Which Lotts we have been informed he inclined to sell; but as its not determined what Width on Second street and Sch[uylkil he] has a Right to leaves us at a loss how to make an Offer: We understand—He claims three f[ourths] parts of 204 Feet—and Thos. Penn says it is but ¾th. of 102. We cannot yet find in the Office such Papers as will set this matter in a clear Light. There are five of Us here, who intend to be concerned, and should thou and Governor Franklin think well of the Scheme—we shall be glad of your joining us. If on trial thou should find him willing to dispose thereof, it may be prudent to get something from under his Hands—which shall oblige him to comply on our agreeing to his Price. He has also a Right to Pennsborough Mannor in Bucks-County, which we should be glad to know if he will dispose of, and at what price: ’Tis said that T. Penn claims 2000 Acres of what used [to] be called part of this Mannor; which will (as I am informed) reduce his quantity to about 4000.
Have inclosd the News Paper of the day. The Election for Managers for the building &c. of the Work house came on the 12th Inst. when J Fox, H Roberts, J Wharton senr. P. Syng, J Lewis, A James, J. Palmer, S [illegible] L Morris, E Story, W Masters and J Redman were chosen and Jeremh. Warder Treasurer. They intend the buildings about 400 feet Long by about 60 feet Wide and its proposed to Erect them, on the Square next but One to the Hospital on the West; And having Purchased the Square next Westward of the Hospital that is to be left Open for the Accomodation of both the Institutions.
Thy family are well, my Father desires his sincere Respects paid to thee, Please to Accept the same from thy Real friend
  Tho Wharton

Endorsed: Mr Th [Wharton] from April 24 to July 29. 1766 Speak to Dr Fothergil about Interest Money  Write to S. Penn abt Lotts and Pensbury


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Joseph Galloway, 23 May 1766
From:
To:

Dear Friend
May 23d. 1766. Philada.
I have now the inexpressible Pleasure of informing you that we have, Via Poole, the great News of the Royal Assent to the Repeal of the Stamp Act. Upon its Arrival agreable to your Advice, Our Friends exerted their utmost Endeavours to prevent any indecent Marks of Triumph and Exultation. We opposed the Intended Fire Works Illuminations, firing of Canon &ca. and Advised more Temperate and Private rejoicing on this great Occasion. The Chief Justice Mayor and Recorder with several other of the Majistrates were Spoke to, but to no Purpose, The City was illuminated by the P---y Party, Our friends refused to join with them but [were?] constantly Patroling the Streets in order to preserve the Peace; Which prevented any Great Mischief. And I find this Morning an Indiscreet Puff in Mr. Halls paper on the Occasion. However, I hope, the Indiscretion of a Small Part of the People of this City will not fix the Complexion of the whole Province.
Our Assembly meets on, the second of June when you may be assured, They will Send over to his Majesty and his Parliament a most Dutiful Address of Thanks for their Attention to the Ease and Happiness of the Colonies &ca. I have fixed the Measure with all the members our Friends whose Hearts cannot utter the Gratitude they Owe to the Present Virtuous and Worthy Ministry for the Infinite Trouble and fatigue they have undergone in the Arduous Task of Repeal. I have now no doubt that all Discontent will Subside in America, for altho I am every Day more and more Convinced, that [torn] Peoples Views, went further than a Repeal, and even wishd it might not take Place, in order to furnish them with a Pretext for other Designs, Yet their Number is so comparatively Small, that they will, I beleive, generally withdraw their Intentions.
The Numerous Accounts we have of my Dear Friends Integrity and Address in procuring the Repeal give us all the greatest Pleasure, and has open’d the Eyes of Many who entertained a Contrary Opinion of you, from the wicked Calumnies of your Enemies. Some few there are yet, who with unwearied Industry are endeavouring by their Malevolent Falsehoods to injure your Good Name. But it will be without Effect—The Prop[rietar]y Party never will desist from their Abuse of you. Tho they are Dayly put to Shame on that Account.
As I expect to write you in a few Days by the Packet which is hourly Expected, and as I fear I shall Miss my Opportunity I conclude with the sincerest wishes for your Happiness and am Dear Sir yours Affectionately
J. Galloway

Addressed: To / Benjamin Franklin Esqr. / Deputy Post Master General / of No. America / in Craven street / London / per Favor / Mr. Hopkinson