I yesterday received a letter from my Son Jos. Viny who hath been one compleat year in Dublin, in connection with a Mr. Costello Coach-maker, endeavoring to turn to their own account the best Felloe-wheel. To execute the Machinery, they Engaged a person whose name is Ovendon, and whom possible Dr. Franklin may remember, as being foreman to Messrs. Jacob and Viny at Black-fryars. My Son Josh. speaks in the warmest terms of respect of him, as to his fidelity, and capacity which he says is unbounded, connected with an unwearied industry in the persuit of his Object. Having accomplished Mr. Costello’s and my Sons views to their satisfaction; Ovenden returns to England immediately, leaving his late Employers in prospect of success. Ovenden by my Son Josh. expresseth a desire of making an Essay with the wheel at Paris in connection with a younger Son of mine should I approve. On this ground I rest my apology for interrupting that repose so desirable to old Age, and especially after such incessant Labor as hath been appointed to Dr. Franklin. Your reward is with heaven, and on Earth the highest veneration of every good and liberal mind. I most respectfully request Dr. Franklin to inform me if in his power wether Oak, Ash, and Elm at   be procured; and what is Your opinion of the Object. It is no compliment to say, after the Example of Nations, that the most entire confidence and determination will follow Dr. Franklins report. Dear Sir on my part it will be attended with fillial supplication and repose, if any thing further shall be attempted.

I have no doubt but you received that, in which I gratified myself, by the favor of Your Son Mr. Franklin. To him I bear affection from the Impression of his youth on me, and in the relation of a Child to Dr. Franklin I honour and love him, as the Image of the Man, to Whom I offer with all lovers of wisdom and Goodness the most heart-felt Veneration. Permit me Sir in truth to subscribe Your affectionate humble Servant.