To Benjamin Franklin from Margaret Stevenson, 4 August 1772
From Margaret Stevenson
ALS: American Philosophical Society
Craven Street Tuesday Evening Augt 4 [17727]
Dear Sir
I am Hartly glad to hear your so well. I have sent all Leters that ar in my Posstion.
Mr. Alexander and Mr. Small has called, and that is all.8 News I have none Capt. Falciner I have not seen. Hewsons ar well but Litill Boy is verey Poorly.9 I my self am, verey so so, I can not write but if aney news should come to my hear your Poly shall Transmit to you for Dear Sir Your Most Oblogied humble Servant
Margt. Stevenson
7. The only year between the birth of Mrs. Stevenson’s grandson, mentioned below, and BF’s departure for America when Aug. 4 fell on a Tuesday. She had apparently heard from BF, and forwarded mail to him, while he was staying at May Place.
8. Two of BF’s friends fit each of these references: Robert or William Alexander, the brothers who were Scottish merchants and bankers (above, VIII, 444 n); and Alexander Small, the Scottish surgeon, or William Small, the Birmingham scientist (above, IX, 110 n; XI, 480 n).
9. Polly’s first child, William, born on April 26, 1771.