Benjamin Franklin Papers

To Benjamin Franklin from Thomas Cushing, Sr., 28 February 1777

From Thomas Cushing, Sr.5

ALS and copy6: American Philosophical Society

Boston Feby: 28. 1777.

Sir

I embrace this opportunity by Capt. Adams to congratulate you upon your safe arrival in France. It gave me a sinsible Pleasure when I heard that the Congress had appointed a Gentleman of your Abilities Influence and Character one of the Commissioners of the United States of America at the Court of France. I sincerely wish you success in your Negotiations and doubt not this Country will soon realize the happy fruits and Effects of this Appointment. The aid and assistance of the Court of France will be much needed the ensuing Summer especially if Great Britain should send any considerable reinforcement to Genl. Howe. As for news I beg leave to refer you to the Letter and news papers sent you by the Council, which renders it entirely needless for me to add any thing upon this Subject. Your Freinds Dr. Winthrop, and Dr. Cooper are well, Mr. Jona. Williams and Family are all well, they send their best respects.7

I shall always be glad to hear of your Welfare, and as we now seldom get any News from England, any Intelligence from your part of the World will be very Acceptable, Whenever Your other Engagements will permit. My most respectful Complements to Mr. Dean and Dr. Lee. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Esteem and regard your most humble Servant

Thomas Cushing

Honble Benjamin Franklin Esqr.

Notation: T. Cushing Boston 28 Feb. 77

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

5This is the first extant letter in two years from the former speaker of the Mass. House of Representatives. He had served for a time in Congress, and was now active in providing ships for the navy: Sibley’s Harvard Graduates, XI, 389–92.

6The copy, unsigned and differing in minor details, was attached to Cushing’s letter below, March 31.

7The Council’s letter of the previous day is above. Cooper and Winthrop sent not only respects but also letters, on Feb. 27 and 28 respectively; Williams also wrote, but not until March 29.

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