Benjamin Franklin Papers - From Thomas O’Gorman (unpublished)

Give me leave to congratulate with you on the great events that the Almighty in his infinit Wisdom and goodness brings to pass every day in Support of the Independance of your Virtuous Country, and to tender you my most Sincere Compliments on the just choice the united Provinces of America have made in you to represent them at our Court. It is, I can assure you, with the greatest pleasure that I have read in our prints your presensation in that public character to the royal family at Versailles. I hope your laudable endavours, for the freedom of America will soon be crowned with success and that I shall have the pleasure, ’ere it be long, to partake with you in that happy Country the Sweets of that desirable Liberty which she is likely to enjoy in a short time.

I have the honour to be with great respect Sir Your most obedient and humble Servant

p.s. Please to present my most respectful compliments to your worthy Colleagues Messrs. Deane and Lee and to your agreable Grandson. I hope you’l follow my instructions in managing the Wines I Sent you and that they will prove to your liking. The Scarcity of that comodity this year occasions their dearness, but be assured the prices are in proportion to their quality, and that in a more plentiful Season you’l perceive from me a proper diminution in these prices. I beg you’l point out to my friend Mr. Drouet Cul de Sac notre Dame des champs a Paris where he is to receive for me their Amount, as my long delay in Ireland and the Speedy preferment of my children constitute me in some expences that call immediately for Money.