From Reuben Harvey (unpublished)
Cork 17th May [1782]
Respected Friend

I take the liberty to ask thy advice on the following Matter [and request] an answer as soon as possible. A      here named Stubbeman who has continued warmly attach’d to America is now loading a Ship called the Ann Benjn. Edmonton Master for Philadelphia which will be ready to sail in 20 days; There are about 100 poor Tradesmen and Husbandmen offering to proceed on board this Ship in order to settle in America, but they have not Money to pay their Passage, and therefore propose to indent as Servants for a certain term, as has been the custom heretofore; but my friend Stubbeman is unwilling to accept them in this manner until he has thy opinion respecting the propriety of it, least Congress may disapprove of such Men being carried out to America; I own I think that those sort of useful laborious Men will be very acceptable in your Country, and I can assure thee there is not a Convict or Felon amongst them. Thy immediate answer will be acknowledg’d a great favour, as the Vessel will only be delay’d until it comes. I am with the most respectful regard Thy sincere Friend

Reuben Harvey

I have had the pleasure to receive the first consignment that arrived from the United States; viz—The Enterprize Capt Garzia from Rhode Island, She was address’d to me by a Gentleman named Charles Green a Cousin Germain of General Green. They will go to a Country where People do not export their Beef and Linnen to import Claret, while the Poor at home live on Potatoes and wear Rags. Indeed America has not Beef and Linnen sufficient for Exportation, because every Man there, even the poorest, eats Beef and wears a Shirt.
Benjamen Franklin Esqr.
Addressed: Benjamen Franklin Esqr. / Ambassador from the / United States of America / at / Paris
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