To the Honorable Benjamin Franklin Esquire L. L. D.

It is with the highest satisfaction that the officiers of the Militia of the city of Philadelphia and districts annexed, avail themselves of the opportunity to congratulate you on your safe arrival in your native land; and of testifying their sincere joy on the auspicious occasion in common with all their fellow citizens, they venerate the character of the man, who endued by nature with a scientific mind, and animated with an amiable philanthropy and a sublime zeal for his country’s welfare, has been distinguished as a philosopher and a patriot.

The Officers of the Militia entertain the most grateful sense of the numerous and important services which you have rendered to your country, for a long series of years; and they consider your return as an additional testimony of your attachment to its interests. As Americans, they conceive themselves participating in the honor which is conferred on their Republic, by its venerable friend and advocate returning, after he has attained to a great length of days, in an honorable and well spent life, to the open arms of his countrymen, now in the enjoyment of peace liberty and independence.

The Militia Officers most cordially thank you Sir, for all your past services to your country; services which were so instrumental in effecting its deliverance from bondage. But they cannot debar themselves of the pleasure of hoping that you will still permit them to look up to you for counsel, they intreat a continuance of your good offices; and, that the valuable talents you posses, may be exerted for the benefit of that Government, which was framed under your immediate auspices.

Permit the Officers of the Militia to express an anxious concern for your welfare, with a fervent wish, that America, and particularly Pennsylvania may long be benefitted by your exalted abilities.

Signed at the request of the Officers,