From Benjamin Franklin to John Paul Jones, 9 May 1779
To John Paul Jones
LS:7 National Archives; copies: National Archives, Library of Congress
Passy May 9. 1779.
Dear Sir,
I received your Favour of the 1st Instant, I have made the Application you desire in behalf of the Officer who wishes to have leave to go with you, and for the Americans who are come from Senegal, and I hope for a favourable Answer.8
I need not tell you that I wish you a good Voyage, and all the Success that I am sure you will deserve; being with great Truth, Your affectionate Friend and most obedt humble Sert.
B Franklin
Honble. Capt. Jones
Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Le Cape. Jones / Commandant la Fregatte / Le Bon homme Richard, / au Service des Etats-Unis / à L’Orient.
Notations in different hands: Letter from Doctor Franklin May 9th. 1779. / No.4 Letter from his Excellency B. Franklin to Capt Jones May 9th 1779—
7. In WTF’s hand. WTF had also sent a letter to Jones the previous day conveying the same information as the present letter. National Archives.
8. The request from the Americans captured at Senegal actually had been forwarded by Jones on May 2. BF called Sartine’s attention to it when he wrote him on the 8th; with the same letter he enclosed Edward Stack’s request to serve with Jones.