From Francis Childs (unpublished)
New York Sept. 26. 1785
Honored Sir,

Amidst those congratulations which approach you from evry quarter for your safe arrival, permit me also to offer my dutiful Respects, and kindly welcome you to your home again.

Since the day of your arrival I have been impatient to write, but have desisted till the present moment, in order that it might not interfere in the notice you would bestow on those of more moment.

Your esteemed favors from Paris of the 8th of Feb. and 23d. April last I should done myself the honor of answering e’er this, only that I was fearful they would miscarry, as you was on the point of returning at that time. But as it is not too late now to answer the Subject matter of the first, Shall observe, That as nothing can be more flattering to my expectations in life than that of your patronage and assistance, so I shall esteem myself particularly happin in having the honor to receive any proposal which your Generosity shall condescend to dictate; And as at present the line of Business I am engaged in is not so lucrative and agreeable as I could wish—would gladly embrace any opportunity of bittering myself ½ and shall seek the same thro’ your Benevolence—added to my own Industry and the Smiles of Fortune.

I have not been able to make myself acquainted with those Conditions on which you assisted Mr. Parker—and shall therefore be under the necessity of troubling you for some further information of the Subject. This, if you think proper, I will wait on you for in person.

Wishing you may yet long enjoy the grateful encomiums of your Country and experience every gratification of your wishes is the sincere prayers of him who has the honr to subcribe himself Honored Sir Your Most obliged Devoted and affectionate Servant

Francis Childs

Benj. Franklin, Esqr.
Addressed: The Hon. / Benj. Franklin. Esqr. / Philadelphia
Endorsed: Francis Child Sept. 26. 85
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