To [Francis Hopkinson] (unpublished)
Nov. 25. 1786.
Dear Sir,

I hope your Gout will be of Service to you, as I have always found mine has been to me. I return the Piece. And since you seem to wish for my Advice, tho’ without asking it, I will give it. Do not publish the Piece immediately. Let it lie by you at least a Twelvemonth. Then reconsider it, and do what you find proper. Such personal public Attacks are never forgiven. You both have Children, and the Animosity may be entail’d to the Prejudice of both sides. With great Esteem and Affection, I am, Ever yours

B Franklin

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