To Joseph-Mathias Gérard de Rayneval (unpublished)
Passy, May 3. 1785.
Dear Sir,

Having receiv’d what I have so long solicited from Congress, their Permission to return home, I shall probably depart in a few Weeks. I shall not be able to see you at Versailles, and must therefore use this Method of taking Leave of you, and thanking you, as I do most cordially, for the many Civilities and Favours you have shown me during my Residence in France, which I shall never forget. If it should ever be in my Power to serve you or any Friend of yours in America, pray command me freely: You will do me Pleasure. My best wishes of every kind of Felicity attend you and yours; in which my Grandson joins, with Dear Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant

B. Franklin

M. de Rayneval
642161 = 043-u090.html