Sir Edward Newenham to Benjamin Franklin, November 25, 1783

25 Novr 1783—

Dear Sir—

You will see by the enclosed, 1 what has been done in the Grand National Convention; The Variety of Sentiment & Contending Interests are Objects almost unsurmountable objections to any Plan; the Speeches are not fully enserted, but the Substance is—In my private opinion—all will end in a just & Equitable place Bill, which in a few sessions will prove a real reform—and to which there cannot be so many Objections—

I Still keep up the Idea of our entering into a Treaty Seperately & distinctly with the united States of North America, but I cannot do it without your Excellencys Assistance & Advice; I hope, therefore, (on the part of a Nation), who always Supported the Just Claims of the United States to be honoured with your Advice; I am anxious to unite both Countries in the bonds of friendship & Commerce; America never had a more Sincere or warmer advocate & friend than I & my friends here, were—when the Very mention of our Principles were deemed Treason—

Our Parliament is dayly sinking in the Estimation of the public; Prodigality & Profusion—Venality & its attendant consequences, direct its proceeding—the People will be Drove to Violent resolutions; Such Conduct cannot long be endured, it must—be resisted—from Vice to Vice they are dayly running, & every hour adds new distress to the People— I wish we were a thousand Leagues removed from a Selfish Wicked Ministry, whose sole View is the Slavery of the People & the Aggrandising of themselves— 2

So much was their own friends ashamed of them, that the Prime [ Serjeant ] (who hourly expects to be made a Judge) left them on my motion for Supporting the City Petition— Leinsters Corrupted Duke, & Shannons profligacy gave way to truth, & their Squadrons joined us on that division— At 8 oClock, the house was Cleared & Kept Shut for two Days; Such violent Speeches never occurred in any Parliament; the People have been grosly insulted— 3

I am obliged to make this a Short Note—but am desired to assure your Excellency & your Worthy Grandson of Lady Newenhams & my Constant wishes for your health & Prosperity; I entreat the honor of a few Lines from you—when convenient—

I have the Honor to be with Every sentiment of Respect & Esteem your Excellencys Most Obt & Humble st

Edwd Newenham

you will please, when read, to Send the papers to my much respected friend, the Marquiss Le Fayette—