"Yes, sir," said Franklin, "I think that would be a great advantage."

"Well, then," said the governor, "get yourself ready to go on the next
regular ship to London. It shall be at my expense."

At that time there was only one ship that made regular trips from
Philadelphia to England, and it sailed but once each year.

The name of this ship was the _Annis_. It would not be ready to sail
again for several months.

And so young Franklin, while he was getting ready for the voyage, kept
on working in Mr. Keimer's little printing-office.

He laid up money enough to pay for his passage. He did not want to be
dependent upon Governor Keith for everything; and it was well that he
did not.

* * * * *

X.--THE FIRST VISIT TO ENGLAND.


At last the _Annis_ was ready to sail.

Governor Keith had promised to give to young Franklin letters of
introduction to some of his friends in England.

He had also promised to give him money to buy his presses and type.