George Walker to Benjamin Franklin, December 1, 1782

Calais 1st December 1782.

Dear Sir,

An old friend will excuse this familiarity of address to the Minister.

I found by Mr. Wharton of Philadelphia, when he did me the honour of a visit at Calais, 4 that I was still alive in your memory and good opinion; and that you were content with the excuses I had made you thorough him for my silence. Circumstances however seem now to be approaching, which call upon me to trouble a friend. Publick fame announces the prospect of a speedy peace. It may be so. Sore experience is a mistress that will teach men wisdom, who would not learn it from Dr. Franklin.

Suppose therefore a Peace! Or suppose the war to continue!

In either case is there any way in which your advice and assistance can be of service to an old and honest fellow-labourer in the same cause? You know my history; you know the history of Barbadoes. I fall a sacrifice to the accursed politicks of the British ministry, and the vengeance of their Secretary for America. 5 The hurrican followed and compleated the ruin. 6 Creditors had no mercy, because my wife’s separate property had been settled for her separate use. I now subsist upon the kindness of Mrs. Walker, whom I refused to drag down with me in my fall. Sufficient to her is a share of the calamities upon all estates in England.

I had proposed that the common misfortune should have been born in common by all parties concerned; but neither the Publick of England, nor the Publick of Barbadoes, was disposed to apply an adequate remedy: indeed Barbadoes could not without the approbation of England, and England satisfied itself with an act of charity, like a wealthy man to a poor beggar, instead of some wise political regulations becoming a great people.

I have found in France more than I expected. From the national character, I expected civility from all individuals in the class of gentlemen; and from government an azylum and personal liberty; even that was denied me in all places to which the British dominion extends. But I have found too what I was not to have expected. I have had the good fortune to be distinguished by the notice of several persons of rank and consequence: particularly I am honoured with the favour of the Duc de Croÿ, and the Prince his Son. 7 The Duc is so kind as to say he will see you, and hopes to interest M. de Vergennes in my behalf. With such friends in conjunction with Dr. Franklin, I must no longer look upon myself as quite unfortunate.

I have seen Mr. Laurens on his return to Paris; but his stay was short; and as his voyage had been tiresome, and himself seemed indisposed in body and mind, we had but little conversation. I could have wished for much. I only mentioned my intention of writing to you, he offered to be the bearer of the letter; but it was not then written. If you see him inclined to co-operate with you in any thing for my advantage, perhaps this is an opening to be improved.

I will not waste your valuable time in compliments or excuses, but believe me as formerly, Dear Sir, Your very affectionate and respectful humble servant

George Walker