Letters to Benjamin Franklin 305 



goyne six days before the surrender; had the happiness to be a witness of 

 this scene. Magnificent conduct of Gen. Gates. Howe's army in pos- 

 session of Philadelphia; his situation thought to be almost as bad as 

 Burgoyne's. Description of the retreat of the English, the horrible 

 scenes of death and destruction and the final glorious surrender of the 

 entire army. L. S. 2 p. VII, 88. 



From John Wendell. 1777. October 30. Portsmouth. 



Congratulating him on the grand events in America; what the Ameri- 

 cans owe to Franklin's influence and counsels. His uncle, Col. Josiah 

 Quincy, prevented from writing Franklin by the danger of the times. By 

 the impolicy of Britain the militia of America have become disciplined 

 troops. Britain's perilous situation. His son serving with Capt. Jones 

 on the Ranger ; if Capt. Jones should promote him, would be obliged for 

 Franklin's support; sure the family of the Wendells and Quincys are 

 not disagreeable to him. Mentions Capt. Jones as a sensible, well-bred 

 gentleman, who has the honor of America much at heart. A. L. S. 

 3 p. VII, 89. 



From John Wendell. 1777. October 30. Portsmouth. 



Introducing Lieut. Thomas Simpson of the Ranger, a most distin- 

 guished officer. A. L. S. i p. VII, 90. 



From Thomas Gushing. 1777. October 30. Boston. 



Introducing Mr. Jonathan Loring Austin to Franklin's favorable 

 notice. Congratulates him on the success of the American arms in the 

 Northern Department; news from the southward not discouraging; 

 Gen. Howe and his army said to be preparing for a retreat from Phila- 

 delphia; Washington at or about Germantown waiting to cut him off. 

 Wishes to know what effect Gates's success will have on England and 

 also on the Courts of Europe. A. L. S. 2 p. VII, 91. 



From De la Gonterie. 1777. October 30. Paris. 



A manufacturer of materials for soldiers' and sailors' uniforms desires 

 to send a cargo of these goods to New England; failure of a previous 

 attempt owing to capture; is the owner of a well-appointed vessel; de- 

 sires Franklin to furnish him with letters of marque that he may carry 

 this merchandise safely across. Served some months under Capt. Wickes. 

 A. L S. 3 P- (In French.) VII, 92. 



