From Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, 21 April 1779
To John Adams
LS:1 Massachusetts Historical Society; copy: Library of Congress
Passy April 21. 1779
Sir,
I have received your two Favours of the 13th. Inst. I am much obliged to you for undertaking the Trouble of contenting the Officers and People of the Alliance. I must now beg leave to make a little Addition to that Trouble, by requesting your Attention to the Situation of the Officers and Sailors, late Prisoners in England, which Mr. Williams will acquaint you with; and that you would likewise Order for them such Necessarys and Comforts as we can Afford. I wish we were able to do all they want and desire, but the Scantiness of our Funds & the Multitude of Demands prevent it.
The English Papers talk much of their Apprehensions about Spain: I hope they have some Foundation.2
With great Esteem, I have the honour to be Sir Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B Franklin
Honble John Adams Esqre
1. In WTF’s hand.
2. On April 1, the General Advertiser, and Morning Intelligencer reported war with Spain inevitable; two days later the Public Advertiser carried a similar item. Other issues of the two papers discussed Spanish military preparations (e.g., the former on March 30, and the latter on April 7).