To Caleb Whitefoord (unpublished)
Passy, May 19. 1785.
My dear old Friend,

I have desired my Nephew Mr. Williams to buy a Book for me, Blackrie’s Disquisitions upon Medicines for dissolving the Stone. It treats I understand of the Sope-Lye, which is recommended in the Pamphlet you were so kind as to send me. But as he may not easily find an Opportunity of sending it to me, I have directed him to consult with you; hoping that if it is not too big, you may prevail to have it come by the Court Courier, under Cover to your Friend here, who will immediately give it to me.

I am really griev’d to learn by your Letter to my Grandson, that your public Services at the Treaty remain yet unrewarded. You were long and usefully employ’d here, and it is a shame you should be so long neglected. The Ministry being chang’d does not lessen your Merit with regard to the Public. You had a great Loss in the Death of that truly good Man Mr. Oswald: For I know it was his Intention, tho’ he would not accept of any thing for himself in Account of his Employment here, to make it a Point with Government, the obtaining a handsome Provision for you. It is unlucky, I think in the Affairs of this World, that the Wise and Good should be as mortal as common People, and that they often die before others are found fit to supply their Places. I am ever, my dear Friend, Yours most affectionately

B. Franklin

Mr Whitefoord
Addressed: Caleb Whiteford Esqr / F. R. S. / Craven Street / London.
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