Benjamin Franklin to Henry Laurens, August 21, 1783

Passy, Augt. 21. 1783.

Dear Sir,

I do not doubt but you have written to some one or other of your Colleagues since your
Arrival in England; and as we have heard nothing from
you, I thought it necessary by a Line to inform you that none of your Letters are come
to hand.

After making and sending over many Propositions of ours & of Mr. Hartley’s, and
long Delays of Answers, it is come finally to this, that the Ministers propose our
signing as a Definitive Treaty the Preliminary Articles, with no Alteration or Addition,
except a Paragraph of Preamble setting forth that the following Articles had been agreed
to, & a concluding Paragraph confirming them. Thus I suppose the Affair will be
concluded. Wishing Health & Happiness to you & yours, I am ever, with sincere
& great Esteem, Dear Sir, Your most obedt humb Servt.

B. Franklin

Honble. H. Laurens Esqr