Benjamin Franklin Papers

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

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

7The 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.

8Two 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).

9Polly’s first child, William, born on April 26, 1771.

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