Without doubt you will be surprised at this Singular address of a Stranger, but I hope the presumptive will be excused when you are informed of his Motives for Writing.

I was a few Evenings ago at a Friends house who had a number of books on his Table, among them I observed two Intituled, The Preceptor treating of the Polite Branches of Leterature, Compiled by a Society of Gentlemen. These books my friend informed me were the Gift of Doctor Benjamin Franklin to Sylvester Folger. They are now in possission of his Widow who is very unwilling to Loan them, having a great desire to obtain some Instructions from them, and presuming Sir on your known Liberality to Merit in adversity, I take the Liberty of thus humbly requesting your friendship to one who if he may peruse the Inestimable Gift will forever feel the most Grateful sensations to the Beneficent Giver. I am Respected Sir With Sentiments of Esteem Your most humble Servant