From Benjamin Franklin to David Hartley, 5 February 1778
To David Hartley
Transcript: Library of Congress
Feb 5. 1778
Dear Sir,
I am exceedingly obliged by your interesting yourself so warmly in behalf of those unhappy people.8 I understand you advanc’d money: Your bills on that account will be punctually paid. As yet I have heard of none.
Understanding that a certain Person promised to make proposals for healing a certain Breach, I postpon’d and delayed a material Operation till I should hear what those proposals were.9 I am now told that he will not make them till he finds it in his power to do what he pleases. Therefore Adieu my dear friend; and I bid you all Good Night.
Your brave and indefatigable exertions will forever endear you to all good Men.
I write this line from home: and not having your last before me, I must take another opportunity of answering it. I am ever Yours sincerely.
Notation: Benjamin Franklin to Mr. Hartley
8. See Hartley’s discussion of the American prisoners in his above, Dec. 25.
9. Lord North’s conciliatory plan, which led to the establishment of the Carlisle commission.