To Benjamin Franklin from Edward Bridgen, 6 September 1782
From Edward Bridgen
ALS: Historical Society of Pennsylvania
Sepr: 6 1782
Dear Sir
I am just requested to pass through your hands the inclosed to Mr Jay I therefore hope for your pardon for the liberty I take it goes round by Antwerp and Consequently its arrival will be later than by the Usual conveyance Which, I am informed, will not be material; will you do me the favour to present my most respectful compliments to that Gentleman, as a Meritorious Man whom I have the pleasure to know only by Character.7
I have been much engaged lately in the copper buisness; in which I flatter myself to have been not useless, when that Matter may come under consideration. Will you, My Dear Sir, permit me to send you my thoughts on that Subject?8 It is late, and I am hurried at present and therefore shall hastily conclude myself with all veneration and respect Dr Sir Yr: most Affect Friend
E B
Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsr: Franklin / a Passeè / Pres / Paris
7. BF forwarded the letter to Jay on Sept. 17, below.
8. BF and Bridgen first corresponded in 1779 about the latter’s plan to supply blank copper rounds to America for coinage: XXX, 355–6, 429–31; XXXI, 129–30. For Bridgen’s thoughts see his letter of Oct. 23.