William Temple Franklin to Jonathan Williams, Jr. (unpublished)
Passy, 6 May 1785.

I know, my Dear Friend, you will be happy to hear that the Fever has left me, and that I am regaining my lost Flesh an Strength, which I can assure you were much diminish’d by so long and severe an Illness.

With this you will receive a Letter from my Grandfather, informing you that he has at length recd the Permission he so long and earnestly wish’d for of retiring from his Public Employ in Europe. He desires you will inform him about Vessels; &ca and makes you the Offer of accompanying him; if it is not inconvenient to you. I cannot tell you, my dear Friend, how much I wish this Proposition may suit you: You will know the Pleasure it will give everyone of us—& I hope you will consider that as an Argument in favor of your coming. The sooner we get away the better, for many Reasons—some of which relate more intimately to myself.—The Desire my Grandfather has of sailing directly to Boston, pleases me much,—and will I doubt not suit you. Endeavor therefore if possible to send a Vessel for that Port in Preference to any other.—The Vessel expected in Holland, seems to me very uncertain, at least as to the time of her returning.—If no Opportunity offers for Boston, then N. York is to be prefer’d, for my Grandfather would still visit Boston:—but if he once arrives at Philada you may rely on it, he will not budge.

I wish you could contrive Matters so as to get us away the middle of next Month, we could easily be ready by that time. If you conclude on going with us, remain no longer in London than is absolutely necessary for your Affairs, for we shall much want you here, to assist in getting away the Things, getting my Grandfather down to the Sea Side—laying in Tea Stores &ca &ca

Pray let me hear from you soon and believe me ever most sincerely Your affectionate Friend

W. T. F.

Pemégen is not dead, as my Grandfather wrote you,—but is even something better, tho’ not much.—
Mr. Williams
Notation: W. T. Franklin:
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