Benjamin Franklin to Peter Blake, August 22, 1781

Passy, Augt. 22. 1781

Sir,

The Congress having judged that the private Trade carried on with England under various Pretences, is prejudicial to the general Interest of the United States, and having lately pass’d several strong Resolutions for preventing it; I cannot presume to give any Countenance to it by the Passport you desire.

I have the honour to be Sir,

Mr. Peter Blake, Mercht. London