Benjamin Franklin Papers - From Benjamin Vaughan (unpublished)

I remember some time ago I was desired to enumerate the virtues of castor oil, and the mode of taking it. Its first virtues arise from its being an innocent evacuant, and which gives no pain when it operates. The West Indians add a thousand others; as for the gravel, and so on. The mode of taking it is putting a table spoonful, more or less according to constitution or use, into a little cold water, or into milk or brandy or rum. I use the former method; and when the oil is good, that is, not rancid, it is not unpleasant altogether in point of taste.

I am keeping open my letter to learn news for you, without missing however my opportunity.

nb. My friends not returning in time I close this letter, with my usual assurances that I am, my dearest sir, Your ever devoted, most affectionate and grateful

p. s. In speaking above, I wish to convey, that it will not be wholly well taken to be cavalier like and cold about the English connection. I do not indeed see how sensible men here could help themselves upon this subject, but men who have not sense may feel less embarrassed on the subject; and though they may be forced to come to, at last, yet they will first ty to get many other methods of putting an end to the business.