James Lovell to Benjamin Franklin, February 24, 1780
Philada. Feby. 24th. 1780
Sir
I forward the Gazettes to Boston for you, as usual without knowing when they will find a Passage from thence. Your Letter of Sepr. 30th and one from Doctor Lee of Decr. 8th. came to hand two days ago, your prior being May 26 recd. augst. 17th.— 2 I hope you have got news Papers from me often, tho I have written few Letters. The commercial Comtee. are impressed with yr. Sentiments respecting Draughts. It is but a mere name at present. I hope that Branch may for a Time be conducted by the Admiralty-Board, till a new Arrangement can be formed to be executed by Persons not members of Congress. 3 We are about calling on the States according to their Staples so that the Prospect of suitable Remittances is enlarged. This Plan is consequent upon the Resolve of Decr. 14. 4 I am With much Respect Sir your Friend & humble Servant
James Lovell
Honble. Doctr. Franklin
The Chevalr. De la Luzerne expressed to me an Anxiety because we do not correspond by Cypher. I early communicated to you from Baltimore a very good one, tho’ a little tedious like that of Mr. Dumas. 5 I inclose you a Sample at this Time. 6