Elkanah Watson, Jr. to William Temple Franklin (unpublished)
London 5th. May 1783
Dear Sir

At foot I send you a little sketch of the articles you ordered. The remainder of the shoes I have ready, & shall find an immediate opportunity to forward them. As to the handkerchiefs they are not yet done, however I shall press them as fast as possible. It is astonishing how general the spirit of emigration prevails in these kingdoms. A small bounty from Congress would enliven our back rivers & Lakes with Shoals of Mechanicks who itch to get over as well as the poor sailors who are glad to go without wages rather than stay here. My God when one leaves the mind to run into the wide field that’s opening we shall be lost in a confusion of pleasing anticipations that will carry us beyond the Misisippi. Please to make my respectful Compliments to your venerable Grandfather & believe me most sincerely Dr. Sir Your very hble St.

E Watson Jr.

Memo. Jones, ye. Taylors Bill
2 ¼ Yds Sf Cloth at 19/...£2..2..9
2 ½ Doz plated Buttons Making &c...1..4..
Printed [?] Waistcoat...—..17..
Riding Breeches...1..1..
5..4..9
Shoe maker’s
2 pr. dress Shoes...9/—...—..18..
2 pr. morning shoes..8/—...—..16..
1..14..—
Bot. B & L
2 pair Mens thd. hose...5/—...—..10..—
6 pair do. Silk do....13/—...3..18..—
4..8..—
1 pr. plated buckles...—..6..6
£11..13..3 Stl.
Mr. Wm. Franklin.
Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin fils / Passy pres de / Paris
Notation: Watson London 5 May 1783
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