From Benjamin Franklin to Henry Laurens, 31 March 1784
To Henry Laurens
ALS: American Philosophical Society; ALS (draft): Library of Congress
Passy, March 31. 1784
Dear Sir,
The Ratification of the Definitive Treaty is arrived, and we have written to Mr Hartley that we are ready to exchange with him whenever it is convenient to him. Enclos’d you have Copies of the Recommendatory Resolution, Proclamation, & President’s Letter.5 We imagine Mr Hartley has an Inclination to come hither on the Occasion. Perhaps we are mistaken, and that he would as willingly make the Exchange there. In that Case, as a Duplicate is sent via London, by Major Franks, who probably is arriv’d by this time, and may have delivered it to you, it will be very agreable to us, if you, who are equally impowered, should finish the Business. With great and sincere Esteem, I am, dear Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
B. Franklin
His Excelly. Henry Laurens Esqr
Endorsed: Doctr Franklin 31st. March 1784 Recd & Answd. 7th. April
5. BF also enclosed a copy of his March 31 letter to Charles Thomson; see Laurens to BF, April 7.