154 Benjamin Franklin [1772 
Company have on hand, and so have prevented their 
present embarrassment, yet the honor of govern- 
ment 1s supposed to forbid the repeal of the American 
tea duty; while the amount of all the duties goes on 
decreasing, so that the balance of this year does not 
(as I have it from good authority) exceed eighty 
pounds after paying the collection; not reckoning 
the immense expense of guarda-costas, &c. Can an 
American help smiling at these blunders? Though, 
in a national light, they are truly deplorable. 
With the sincerest esteem and inviolable attach- 
ment, I am, my dear friend, ever most affectionately 
yours, B. FRANKLIN. 
mn