Amelia Barry to Benjamin Franklin, July 25, 1777

Tunis 25th July 1777

I did myself the honor of writing to you my ever-revered Friend, the 25th. Feb. and 3 inst. but as I am doubtful of their having reached your hands, I take the liberty of troubling you with a copy of my last a Gentleman at this place, undertaking to transmit it to a friend of his at Paris, to deliver to you; and a few lines (I dare not presume to sollicit a long letter,) given to the same person, will be conveyed safe hither. 2

And now my dear Sir, permit me to sollicit one favor more and perhaps it may be the last request I may ever make you; it is that you will inclose a lock of your hair in your letter, which with your Picture, and letters will be invaluable treasures to me. Oblige me in this I beseech you.

Mr. Barry begs his most respectful compliments to you. He has quitted the sea, and has entered into partnership with a Mr. Blanc in establishing a Mercantile house at this place. When the Bey permits a free exportation of Corn, a good deal of money may be made here; but as the periodical rains have failed for 2 years past, the harvests have been too moderate for him to suffer any grain to be shiped for foreign markets. 3 The other staple commercial articles such as wax, hides &c. are monopolized by a society of Jews. Hence I cannot say that our residence here, is likely to be attended with any considerable advantage. Patience!

Your little God-daughter presents her most dutiful comp[liment]s to her dear Doctor-Papa, as she always calls you.

Offers of service from this remote and savage Region are almost ridiculous to make you; yet I should be happy to receive your commands, as in the execution of them, I should hope to convince you how sincerely I am Dear Sir, Your most faithful obliged and Devoted Humble Servant

A. Barry