212 Life of Count Rumford. 



and has assisted in her education ; and your daughter has im- 

 proved greatly on the opportunities she has had. She possesses 

 a noble mind, and wants nothing but the aid of her father to 



make her accomplished I am sure you will not hesitate at 



bestowing upon her every blessing a parent can impart. Your 

 daughter will be the bearer of this, and will sail to-morrow 

 (weather permitting). The season is advanced, but the weather 

 easy and fine. I shall feel anxious until I hear of her arrival. 

 Pray, write me by the very first opportunity. 



" In answer to your inquiry, I can say that it is my opinion 

 that you can freely return to America, either with or without 

 official leave from the State, as you may choose ; and that you 

 would realize a hearty welcome from all your old friends and 

 citizens in general. I can say for one, that there is not a per- 

 son on earth that I should rejoice so much to see Sally 



will be able to inform you particularly what your mother's situa- 

 tion is, and that of many other of your friends ; but I trust you 

 will yet return. Pray, come and see your kind mother. Make 

 us a visit, if you do no more. 



" I am, dear Sir Benjamin, with much respect and esteem, 

 " Your most obedient servant, 



"LOAMMI BALDWIN. 



"SiR BENJAMIN THOMPSON, KNT." 



The Count returned the following in reply: 



"LONDON, a6th March, 1796. 



"Mr DEAR SIR, I return you many thanks for your 

 friendly letters which I received by my Daughter, and I beg 

 you would accept my warmest acknowledgments- for all the 

 kindness you have shown to my Daughter for the many years 

 she has been known to you. 



" Her gratitude to you is without bounds, and she says noth- 

 ing on earth will ever make her forget your goodness to her. I 

 do not despair of being able, at some future period, to express to 

 you in person, by word of mouth, the sense I entertain of your 

 kindness to my dear Child. You will not expect that I should 

 attempt to describe the pleasure I felt at seeing my dear Girl, 



