From Benjamin Franklin to Nathan Blodget, 19 March 1779
To Nathan Blodget
Copy:1 Library of Congress
Passy Mar 19 1779
Sir
I lately received yours of the 3d inst. I conceive that it is with the Capt. alone to give his Officers Leave of Absence; and that If I had such a Power it would be very improper for me to exercise it, especially at this Distance, unacquainted as I must be with the Persons & Circumstances. For it might be attended with great Inconveniencies to the Service & would weaken that Subordination which is necessary to good Government in the Ship.2 I have the Honor to be &c
Nathan. Blodget
1. This page of BF’s copy book, containing letters of March 19 to Cazaneuve and March 20 to Sartine, in addition to the present letter, has been struck through. The actual letters, however, may well have been sent; see our annotation of BF to Sartine, March 20.
2. There is no record of a response by Blodget; he retained his position as the Alliance’s purser, signing in that capacity a certificate of c. Oct. 22, 1779, given by the ship’s officers to Capt. Landais (University of Pa. Library).