To Benjamin Franklin from John Foxcroft, 2 February 1772
From John Foxcroft
ALS: Historical Society of Pennsylvania
Philada. feby. 2d. 1772
Dear Sir
I have the happiness to acquaint you that your Daughter was safely brought to Bed the 20th. Ulto. and presented me with a sweet little Girl, they are both in good spirits and are likely to do very well.8
I was seized with a Giddyness in my head the Day before yesterday which alarms me a good Deal as I had 20 oz. of Blood taken from me and took Physick which does not seem in the least to have relieved me. I am hardly able to write this. Mrs. F joins me in best affections to yourself and Compliments to Mrs. Stevenson and Mr. and Mrs. Huson.9 I am Dear Sir Yours affectionately
John Foxcroft
Mrs. Franklin Mrs. Bache little Ben. the Family at Burlington are all well I had a Letter from the Governor yesterday.
J. F
Addressed: To / Benjamin Franklin Esqr / at Mrs. Stevensons in Craven Street / Strand / London / J: Free: Foxcroft
8. In the summer of 1770, just before the end of his leave in England, Foxcroft had married Judith Osgood, and BF had given away the bride. For that reason, apparently, she was referred to thereafter as BF’s “daughter,” which has generated the legend that she actually was; see above, XVII, xxviii n.
9. William and Polly Hewson.