When I had the pleasure of seeing you in Paris last winter, I communicated to you my intention of marrying a young Lady of this City. To facilitate that desirable purpose, it is necessary for me to obtain from Mr. Le Comte de Vergennes the permission of His Majesty, which will render said Mariage lawful and prevent any disputes hereafter. The difference of Religion in which we were brought up causes Scruples and difficulties on the part of the Clergy of this Country and of consequence we should be under the necessity of going to Paris or out of the Kingdom to get married, which is done every day by Parties under similar Circumstances whereas a Permission from Mr. Le Comte de Vergennes will obviate those difficulties.

You were so obliging as to promise me your Protection, and endeavours to obtain the same, which I shall esteem an Honor conferred on me and entertain an high hope of the Favor, and as some Merchants of this Town have already obtain’d similar requests of the Ministre I make no doubt the weight and consideration which you have at Court will induce the Minister to grant you mine.

I have taken the liberty to inclose a Memoire for the purpose to be laid before Mr. De Vergennes (if you think it expedient) and should it not be expressed sufficiently energetick, I must solicit you to have added to it such amendements as you think proper.

I have also inclosed a Letter for His Excellency Dr. Franklin, soliciting his interposition in my behalf; I have been brief in my Letter to His Excellency, that I might not encroach upon his Time constantly employ’d in publick Business.

Should any further Information be requested relative to the Young Lady, or the legitimacy of our intended Union, I beg leave to refer you to Mr. Jonathan Williams, who is acquainted with both Parties. Relying on your customary disposition to oblige, I hope to have the honor of thanking you in Person next Month, and remain with Sentiments of Respect and Esteem,Sir,Your most obedient and very humble Servant