exceed the grateful sentiments they have excited. I consider the noble
present offered me in the name of the United States, as the most flattering
honor. It is my most fervent desire, soon to employ that sword in their
service, against the common enemy of my country and their faithful and
beloved allies. That liberty, safety, wealth and concord may ever extend
and bless these United States, is the earnest wish of a heart glowing with
a devoted zeal and unbounded love for them, and the highest regard, and
most sincere affection for their representatives.

"Be pleased, Sir, to present my thanks to them, and to accept yourself the
assurance of my respectful attachment.

"LAFAYETTE."

Letter of Dr. Franklin, to the Marquis Lafayette.


"_Passy, Aug_. 24, 1779.

"SIR,

"The Congress, sensible of your merit towards the United States, but unable
adequately to reward it, determined to present you with a sword, as a small
mark of their grateful acknowledgments. They directed it to be ornamented
with suitable devices. Some of the principal actions of the battles, in
which you distinguished yourself by your bravery and good conduct, are
therefore represented upon it. These, with a few emblematical figures, all
admirably well executed, make its principal value. By the help of the
exquisite artists France affords, I find it easy to execute every thing,
but _the sense we have of your worth, and our obligations to you_. For