To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 25 July 1777
From Jonathan Williams, Jr.
ALS: American Philosophical Society
nantes 25 July. 1777.
Dear and honored Sir.
Inclosed is a Letter which I have written to Mr. Holkar.9 If you think there is no impropriety in it I shall take it as a favour if you will send it him, letting him know at the same time who I am, as perhaps he may not reccollect me. I hear you intend coming here soon to see the Salt works, if so it will be best to make haste as the Season advances fast.1 In expectation of seeing you I shall not at present trouble you with any thing on the Subject of my affairs. I thank you for the advice contained in your last which I am determined to take every method in my power of following. I am with the greatest Respect most dutifully and affectionately Yours
J Williams
Addressed: A monsieur / Monsieur Franklin LLD / a / Passy
Notation: Jona Williams Nantes 25 July 77
9. It was of the same date and presumably to John Holker, the father of the Jean Holker who was providing arms for the commissioners (see the headnote on their contract with Montieu above, June 6); for the senior Holker, English by birth and a prominent businessman in Rouen, see André Rémond, John Holker, manufacturier et grand fonctionnaire en France au XVIIIme siècle, 1719–1786 (Paris, 1946). In JW’s letter he asked, now that he was likely to stay in France, for the names of manufacturers who might help in his business. JW letterbook, Yale University Library.
1. He had heard through WTF, and was eagerly awaiting them both. To WTF, Aug. 6, 1777, APS.