To John Ellis
ALS: Linnean Society, London
Cravenstreet Dec. 26. 73
Dear Sir,

I return the Book you were so kind to favour me with. Upon Consideration, tho’ I wish to do any thing you can be desirous I should do, I find it impossible for me to write any thing worth reading on a Subject that will be exhausted by Dr. Fothergill and yourself, who are both so much better acquainted with it. I am ever, with the greatest Respect and Esteem, Dear Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant

B Franklin

Addressed: To / John Ellis Esqr / Grays Inn / Mr Griffiss No 32 Fleet market
Endorsed: Decr. the 26th 1773 Benjn. Franklin
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