Benjamin Franklin Papers

To Benjamin Franklin from John Whitehurst, 12 April 1774

From John Whitehurst

ALS: American Philosophical Society

Derby 12 April. 1774

Dear Sir

Miss Moresby, the Young lady for whom you so kindly applyed to Mr. West, for his instructions; is now at a loss for some person to introduce her, should it be convenient to you, to do her that friendly office, I should esteem it a singular favour; but if not, I have desired Mr. Bentley to do it.5 Mrs. Kirk the bearer and her niece will wait upon you, any hour for that purpose.

I am much concerned to hear you have thoughts of leaving England soon, but I hope it will not happen before I come to London, who am Sir Your Most Obedient Servant

John Whitehurst

Addressed: To / Docr. Franklin / Mrs. Stevensons Craven / Street the Strand  Charing / Cross / London

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

5For Benjamin West’s acceptance of Miss Moresby as a pupil see Whitehurst’s letter above, Jan. 30. Mr. Bentley may well have been Josiah Wedgwood’s partner, Thomas Bentley (1731–80), who had moved to London in 1769 and who had a wide acquaintance in artistic circles. DNB.

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