From Mather Byles (unpublished)
Boston May 14 1787
Sir

It is long since I had the Pleasure of writing to you, by Mr. Edward Church, to thank you for your friendly mention of me in a Letter that I find was transmitted to the University of Aberdeen. I suspect whether you ever received it: but, under great Weakness by old Age and a Palsy. I seize this Opportunity of employing my Daughter to repeat the Thanks which I aimed to express in that Letter. Your Excellency is now the Man that I early expected to see you: I congratulate My Country upon her having produced a Franklin, and can only add, I wish to meet you where compleat Felicity and we shall be forever united. I am, my most dear and early Friend, Your Excellencys, Most affectionate humble Servant,

M Byles

p.s I refer you to the Bearer Mr. Peirpont, to inform you how my Life and my Daughters have been saved by your Points.
Addressed: His Excellency, Benjamin Franklin Esq. Philadelphia Favored by Mr. Peirpont.
Endorsed: D. M. Byles
643627 = 045-u013.html