Letter
John Bourne to Benjamin Franklin, March 9, 1783
John Bourne advises Benjamin Franklin on shaping post-war America by urging freedom from land taxes, promoting agriculture, limiting shipping growth, and avoiding titles to prevent division. He recommends modest naval forces, trade policies favoring France, restrictions on land ownership to prevent monopolies, and a simplified legal system with strict penalties for corruption. Bourne emphasizes building a strong, equitable state through these measures.