Thomas Ridout to Benjamin Franklin, April 4, 1780

Bordeaux 4th: April 1780—

Sir

On my embarking at Annapolis, in the Ship Buckskin of Baltimore, the 26th of December last, Mr: Carroll committed to my Care the Letter herewith enclosed for yr. Excellency— 1

An intense Frost detained the Ship near two Months in the River Potuxent, & it was not till yesterday She arrivd at this City—

Some Mercantile affairs at this place, deprives me at this time of the Honor of Personally paying my respects to you—

I am Your Excellency’s most obedt: & very Hble: servant

Thos. Ridout

a l’Hôtel D’Angleterre His Excellcy: Benjn: Franklin Esqr