From Thomas Backhouse (unpublished)
London 7th February 1783
Respected Friend

Apprehending it wou’d be unsafe at this Crisis for an English Vessell to approach the American Coast without a Passport, I take the liberty of requesting that favor from thee for the Ship Active, I. Powell Master now loaded at Liverpool with Salt and other Merchandize for Philadelphia provided such request shou’d not be incompatible with the Policy of the United States the granting thereof will confer a singular obligation on Thy Assured Friend

Thomas Backhouse
(No. 9 Great St. Kellens)
Benja. Franklin, Esqr. Paris.
Addressed: Benjamin Franklin Esqr. Paris
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