From Emanuel Wolleb-Ryhiner
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Basel, January 3, 1778: I have seen in the Pennsylvania constitutions,
sections 38 and 39, that you intend to reform the
penal laws to render them less savage, and gladly send you
the enclosed pamphlet on the same subject; hatred of cruelty
and the desire for clement correction guide the author. My
birth and duty as a republican commit me to hating violence
and promoting humane treatment of criminals. The same
principles, I hope, will prevail in more important areas, and
will repel “the rough wind of North.” Hail to you and our
future brothers, especially if our latest news from Paris is true.
I am a most devoted friend and servant, “as a gray man of 72
years,” to you and all republicans.>
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