To the American Sage, Benjamin Franklin, one of the eminent and Venerable Father’s of his Country

Whereas I was permitted to deliver my petition into the Hand of the chief precedent of the united States of America, and His Answer to me was Gracious, Therefore, I Render unto Him, Hearty and cordial Thanks, in the Name of the Most High God, possesor of Heaven and Earth, and I hope that He will continue to be the Friend and Advocate of an honest Man, who was unhappily crushed under the Wrongs of Time, Also, Sage Sire, as far as I have enjoyed your Favour and influence, I Render you Hearty and sincere Thanks for the same.

From first to last, I have been artefully provocked, powerfully Extorted, and driven perforce to the supelative Degree of Extramity, the unjust Wrongs which have been imposed upon me, is certainly known to a Number of Judicious Gentlemen, in the forks of James River, Rockbridge County, and in Contuckey Lincoln County, and those Gentlemen will undoubtedly speak the Truth in due Time.

The Spirit in Man cannot bear always, my Soul is weary, and I am worn out with sickness at this present Time. Therefore, Graciously Deign ? to set me free from this dark System of policy, that I may enjoy my free born Rights and Liberties, and be permitted to live in peace and quiteness, while I endeavour to act the part of a good Citizen. Sage Sire, your gracious Consent and Voice in this Matter will do a great Deal, my waiting eyes are upon you with earnest Expectation, may God incline your Heart to be gracious, and to grant me an Answer of peace, for the Sacred Sake of the powers of Heaven and Earth. Sage Sire, I remain hoping, and am your Humble petitioner, And most obedient Humble Servant