To Benjamin Franklin from Richard Bache, 1 May 1778
From Richard Bache
ALS: American Philosophical Society
Manheim8 May 1, 1778
Dear and Honored Sir
The bearer Doctor Rigger visits Europe with a view of improving himself in his profession, which is that of Physick, and to secure some money, which is due to him in Germany. I have not the pleasure of knowing him; but a worthy Friend of mine, who does, having solicited a few Lines in his behalf, I take leave to introduce him to your acquaintance and civilities,9 and should he want your advice or assistance, I am very certain you will not withhold them from him. Sally and the Children are well, they join in sincere affection with Dear Sir Your affectionate Son
Rich Bache
Doctor Franklin
Addressed: The Honble. / Docr. Benjn. Franklin / One of the Comrs. from the / United States of America / at the Court of France / per Docr. Rigger
Endorsed: M. Richard Bache
Notation: May 11. 1778.
8. In Lancaster county. The previous September, when Howe’s army was approaching and Sally Bache’s daughter was only four days old, the family had fled Philadelphia for the second time; they had gone first to their old friends the Duffields, and then to Manheim: Frederic R. Kirkland, “Three Mecom-Franklin Letters,” PMHB, LXXII (1948), 267 n.
9. Jacob Rieger, as he spelled his name (he also appears as Riegner), had been a surgeon in a Pa. battalion: ibid., XXXV (1911), 480 n. RB’s friend was doubtless Thomas Bond, Jr., who recommended the Doctor in his letter to BF below, June 5.