Benjamin Franklin Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-29-02-0212

From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee, 3 April 1779

To Arthur Lee

ALS: American Philosophical Society; AL (draft):5 Historical Society of Pennsylvania

Passy, April 3. 1779

Sir

As I had no Knowledge of the Gentleman, & he said he had lived in Virginia, I referr’d him to you, imagining you might know something of his Character, and whether it would be proper to give him the Pass he desires. If upon conversing with him you apprehend it may be safely done, I would do it on your Recommendation: But as the Use of it is to be in America and not here, I imagine it would be as well for you to give it as me.— I have the honour to be with great Respect, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant

B Franklin

Honble Arthur Lee Esqr

Notation: April 3d. 1779

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

5Written on the verso of Lee’s letter of the same day. There are minor differences in phraseology between this and the ALS. The draft, for example, begins “As I knew nothing of the Gentleman …”. “Character” in the ALS is in the draft, “him or his Connections”.

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