Benjamin Franklin Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-15-02-0131

To Benjamin Franklin from James Parker, 17 October 1768

From James Parker

ALS: American Philosophical Society

NYork, Octob 17. 1768
9 o Clock PM.

Honoured Sir

Tho’ I am hardly able to hold a Pen, from a Fit of the Gout in my Right Hand, yet I will try a few Words, to acknowledge the Receipt of one from you of Aug 9: giving an Account of my Son’s base Behaviour in attempting to get Money of Mr. Cummings6 &c. It grieves me to find his Vices still predominate; but am pleased at your letting me know it: for I hope he will not meet with any other Treatment than he may deserve. His Wife died the 7th of this Instant.7 He leaves me a Girl of 3 Years old: I hope God may spare my Life, till she can arrive above the Reach of Want of a little Education: tho’ I think I shall not be long on this Side the Grave my self. I cannot add more now, but may by next Packet if able: she is just come in. With humble Respects Adieu

James Parker

Addressed: For / Benjamin Franklin Esqr / Craven-Street / London

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

6In all likelihood Thomas Cumming, the London merchant and Quaker, for whom see above, X, 345 n. Young Parker, if his father can be trusted, also tried to swindle BF; see James Parker to BF below, Oct. 24, 1768.

7Sarah Ford (or Foord) Parker of Woodbridge, for whom see above, XI, 416 n.

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