John Hancock to Benjamin Franklin, June 30, 1783

Boston June 30. 1783

Dear Sir

I beg leave to introduce to your Excellcy Mr. DeValnais the bearer, late Consul of
France, here; who is going home wth his lady. 6 I take the Freedom to refer your Excellcy, to
this Gentleman, for the particulars relative to the present Scituation of Affairs in
America after so advantagious a Settlement of Peace, with which, I in the most cordial
manner take this opportunity to Congratulate you.

Mrs. DeValnais is nearly connected wth my family, and Mr DeValnais his Conduct, during
his residence among us, and in the Office of Consul as far as I have had any knowledge
of the Same, entitles him, I think, justly to the favor of the court & ministry of
France.

As I rely much upon the honor of my former acquaintance wth your Excellcy, permit me to
ask an interest in your Friendship, influence & credit, in behalf of Mr DeValnais,
in order to his more effectually accomplishing the business he is going upon wth the
Court and Ministry of France—

I have the honor to be with peculiar esteem & regard (tho. at present much
afflicted with the gout) Dear Sir Your most Obedient and very Hble Servt

John Hancock

His Excellcy, Doctr Franklin