John Jay to Benjamin Franklin, March 8, 1785

Office for foreign Affairs 8th March 1785

Dear Sir

You will perceive from the enclosed Resolution of Congress which passed Yesterday That you are permitted to return to America as soon as convenient. 1

This Circumstance must afford great Pleasure to your Family and Friends here, and I am persuaded you will derive great Satisfaction from revisiting a Country which, exclusive of ordinary motives of Attachment, must be exceedingly dear to you from having so long and usefully served it—

With great Respect and Esteem I have the Honor to [be] Dear Sir Your most obt. and very hble. Servt.

John Jay

The Honorable Doctr. Franklin Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at the Court of France.

Office for foreign Affairs 8th March 1785

Dear Sir

This will be delivered to you by Paul Randall Esqr. whose Father is a respectable Merchant of this City, and together with all his Family espoused the american Side of the Question during the late War. 2 Permit me to recommend this Gentleman to your friendly Attention, and be assured that I am with great Respect and Esteem—Dear Sir Your obliged & obt. Servt.

John Jay