1To Benjamin Franklin from Charles Carroll, 12 August 1777 (Franklin Papers)
...introduction of foreign mercenaries; I own it ought to be avoided, if possible. Handycraftsmen would be very serviceable to us, such as black Smiths, nailors, Shoemakers, weavers and persons skilled in the management of Hemp and flax. One of the greatest distresses we have yet felt, is the want of salt: but, I hope, we shall not be in so great want of that essential article for the future,...