I owe to Mr. Elphinston the happiness of addressing you after a separation of such length of time that you might doubt we had ever been acquainted, did not the enclosed from him assure you we once were School fellows.

Under that sanction, I presume to introduce my friend John Paterson Esqr. to your acquaintance.—This Gentleman, by whom the letter I write will be delivered, a Partner in the house of Messrs. Wm. Herries Geo. Keith & Co. of Ostend; and purposes shortly to cross the Atlantick for the business of that House, & of Messrs. Herries & Co. here, with whom I am now connected—He will visit most parts of the United Provinces, from Charlestown to New York; but as it is his intention to return to Europe in the course of a year or two at farthest, he coud no where make a very long abode—Yet wherever you or Dr. Franklin, have any Commands, Mr. Paterson will be proud to execute them; as I shall at all times, to prove myself Dear Sir Your most affectionate & obedient humble Servant