To Benjamin Franklin from Henry Wilmot, 8 May 1761
From Henry Wilmot2
ALS: American Philosophical Society
Greys Inn, 8th May 1761.
Sir,
I am informed by Mr. Penn, that the £100,000 Act passed by Mr. Hamilton,3 has been transmitted to you under Seal. This I presume is with an Intention to be presented to the Councill. If You have any thoughts of presenting it, I should be very glad, if before you do it, you wou’d allow me a Quarter of an hours Conversation with you on this head, and I will meet you, when and where you please, having something I think, and therefore, I hope, you will think, material to say to you, before that Act is presented.4 I am with the greatest regard. Sir. Your most Obedient humble Servant.
Heny: Wilmot
Addressed: To / Ben: Franklin Esqr in / Craven Street / Strand.
Endorsed: Mr. Wilmot Sollr
[Also noted in a list on the cover:] Hall Hunter Parker Thomson Mrs. F. Sally.5
2. Ferdinand J. Paris’ successor as the Penns’ agent and solicitor; see above, p. 16 n. I. Minis Hays (Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin, I, 22) incorrectly suggests that the writer was “[Sir John Eardley?] Wilmot,” a puisne judge of the King’s Bench.
3. The Supply Act of April 12, 1760; see above, pp. 43–4 n.
4. For BF’s reply, setting an appointment at Craven Street on Monday, May 11, see below, p. 318.
5. This list of friends and relatives, in BF’s hand, probably served as a reminder of letters received or to be written.