Benjamin Franklin to Mary (Polly) Stevenson Hewson, July 8, 1772

Birmingham, July 8. 72

Dear Polly

I arrived here yesterday in my Return from the North. This Morning I had the Pleasure of receiving yours of the 6th. I am sorry that my Engagements here will not permit to be in London on your Wedding Day, but I repeat my Wishes of Happiness to you on that Occasion, and pray that you may have many Returns of that Day each happier than its Predecessor, from a Reflection on the constant Felicity the Nuptial State has afforded you.

I must request Mr. Hewson to get the Machine sent by Osborne if possible. 4 The Direction will be the same with that of the enclos’d Letter. [ In the margin :] Upon second Thoughts I write no letter to Philadelphia from hence. The Direction is For Dr. Cadwalader Evans, Philadelphia .

I rejoice to hear of all your Welfares. My Love to all. I hope to be in Town on Sunday. I am, my dear Friend, Yours most affectionately

B Franklin