FRANKLIN, Benjamin (1706-1790). Autograph letter signed ("B Franklin ") to [Rodolphe-Ferdinand] Grand Southampton, 24 July 1785.

One page, 190 x 117mm with integral transmittal leaf addressed in his hand (loss from seal tear to address panel, a few minor chips at lower margin not affecting text).

On his return home from France, some of his belongings go astray. A good-humored letter on his arrival in England written to his Paris banker "after a Voyage of 45 Hours. I find myself better for the Journey, by land, and Passage by Sea, instead of being fatigued as I apprehended. I send this by Way of London; and shall write you fore fully by the Return of the Pacquet Boat that brought us here." After sending his wishes to those he left behind in Paris, he adds that "We have brought with us the Part of our Baggage that came in the Roulier to Havre. The Part by the Boat from Rouen was not arrived." Provenance: Charles Hamilton, 24 July 1975, lot 133.