Benjamin Franklin Papers

From Benjamin Franklin to Lafayette, 13 September 1782

To Lafayette4

Press copy of ALS: Historical Society of Pennsylvania

Passy, Sept. 13. 1782.

Dear Sir,

I am oblig’d to you for communicating M. de Viemerange’s Letter, which I return. I wish you would continue your Application to the Marquis de Castries to provide Means for the Embarkation of the Goods: It is impossible for me to do it.—

I believe Mr Jay did not suspect your knowing of Mr Rayneval’s Departure; he only wonder’d that you did not know it.

I am oblig’d by your kind Enquiries. I have had a bad Night, but at present have some Ease. Your natural Activity will always preserve you from the cruel Disorders that arise from too little Excercise. God give you good Health & long Life for the Advantage of our two Countries.—

With the greatest Esteem & Affection, I am, Your most obedient and most humble Servant

B Franklin

P.S. I congratulate you on the Improvement of your Hand-writing since yesterday. It is more legible than Mr Viemerange’s—

M. le Marquis de la Fayette

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

4In answer to Lafayette’s of the previous day, above.

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