From Patrick Wilson (unpublished)
Glasgow University May 27 1786
Most Esteemd Sir

With Sentiments of high Affection and gratitude for the many instances of kind attention shewn me when I had the happiness of seeing you at London in 1772, I presume at present to address You, by a few Lines, from a wish of making known to you Doctor Minto a most deserving Gentleman, at present going for America, and who has been warmly recommended to my Father and me by some friends at Edin. to whom he has been long known.

Both on account of Doctor Minto’s professional Merit, and of his great Proficiency in the Mathematicks, already manifested by publick Specimens highly respectable, I flatter myself that this Introduction will be in a peculiar manner acceptable to you; whose patriotick heart is ever so much alive to every valuable accession to your Country.

My worthy Father would have, in my room, written you on this occasion, but I am sorry to acquaint you that at present he labours under much Indisposition—seemingly the affects of advanced years. I have it however in charge from him and from the rest of your friends of his family, who have been so happy in the honour of your acquaintance, and he joind with me in the tender of best wishes and most respectful compliments with the truest Esteem and veneration I ever am Dear sir Your most Obedient and Most faithful Servant

Patrick Wilson
joint Professor of Astronomy
here
Benjamin Franklin Esqr.
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