From Edward Bridgen (unpublished)
London Augt: 4 1785
My Dear Sir

The day after I sent my last by the Delawar, I received the inclosed from Mess. Shipley, and this day Mr. Alexander desired that I would forward the other to Mr. Williams, which I now take the Liberty to put in your cover with my respectful compliments to that Government.

A very worthy old Gentleman a Friend of mine, who has just left me, has been lamenting the unsettled situation the North American States are in. I told him that I had no doubt that all would be well e’er long; that you would be a great, and a happy Nation. You know Sir, said I, that after a Storm at Sea is over, it takes some time before the waves subside, and why will you expect that every thing should immediately be smooth, after so great a Conflict? He then hoped that Doctor Franklin, on his arrival in America, would throw in some of his Oyle, and Still the troubled waters of America? I assured him that you would do all in your power, and that if you lived I did not doubt but your Oyle Would have its due Effect.

As far as I have been able to learn, the sensible and moderate among ye, wish that the Souvereign Power may have more Strength given them; when that is accomplished I am certain the whole face of things will receive [a] most flattering alteration thoughout your Nation, and give the Lie to its enemies here and convince all Mankind, that this great and Important revolution will be of general good to the world.

Excuse me my good Sir for breaking in upon your more important concerns by this political Chit Chat, which I by no means wish to have replied to, or that any political answer is requested. But when you are at Leisure and can give me any news respecting my Interests in No. Carolina, or about my proposal sent to Congress respecting the Copper Coin, [you] will do a singular favour by noticing it to Dear Sir Your faithful and affectionate

Edwd: Bridgen

Addressed: The Honble: Benjn: Franklin Esqr / Philadelphia
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