Personal: BF's friend and patron Andrew Hamilton died on 4 Aug. William Allen was elected Recorder of Philadelphia in Hamilton's place, 7 Aug.

Business: The continuing Pennsylvania Assembly of 1740-41 met 5-8 Jan, 20-21 April, 25 May-6 June, 10-11 and 17-22 Aug, and 22 Sept. Franklin, for past printing, was paid 142.0.4 (22 Aug). He was also, as clerk and official printer, paid 50.7.0 (22 Sept). The new asssembly of 1741-42 met 14-22 Oct.

C. W. Miller recorded that BF published 47 imprints (Miller 225 to 271) in 1741. Two were brief job printings, ten were government printings, eight he printed for other people or organizations, and twenty-seven were published at his own risk. The two job printings were a meeting notice (21 July) and a subscription receipt (2 May 1737) for the Library Company. For the Pennsylvania government he published the Speech of John Wright, "by order of the Grand Jury" (ll June); the Votes for the session of 1740-41 (post 22 Sept); the Governor's Proclamation "concerning Recruits for Expedition against Havana" (28 Sept); the Votes for the session of 1741-42 (issued serially but collected post 23 Sept 1742); and the Charters of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia commissioned by the government of Pennsylvania (see year-end). In addition, one imprint that Miller included in 1740, Gov. George Thomas's letter to the Lords of Trade, dated 20 October 1740, was obtained in England and sent back to Pennsylvania, so it too was a 1741 imprint, probably published as anti-Proprietary propaganda shortly before the election of 1741 (Ante 1 Oct).

For Delaware, he printed two pieces: The Act for Establishing a Militia (18 Sept); and the Laws of the Delaware General Assembly (24 Feb 1741/2). William Penn's Charter of Privileges was printed to accompany the Delaware Laws (24 Feb 1741/2). And for New Jersey, he published the Votes (post 4 Nov).

Samuel Blair, a New Side minister, responded to the 1740 Querists (above, 25 Sept 1740) with A Particular Consideration of A Piece entitled "The Querists" (9 April). Franklin twice published tracts paid for by the Old Side "Querists": A Short Reply to Mr. Whitefield's Letter, and An Extract of Sundry passages (4 June and 22 Sept). On 4 June he also published Some Remarks Upon the Times for an unidentified author. On 20 Sept he printed a letter written by Conrad Weiser and James Logan exhorting the German electorate "to support the proprietary candidate." He printed two pieces by Quakers supporting defensive warfare: on 22 Sept he printed Logan's address To Robert Jordan, and Others the Friends of the Yearly Meeting, in which Logan said that civil government is founded upon force and that Friends "who for conscience-sake cannot join in any law for self-defense [should] decline standing candidates at the ensuing election"; and post 21 Nov he brought out Samuel Chew, Speech delivered to the Grand-Jury, New-Castle, arguing that defensive war was not against Quaker principles. He also printed The General Cause of All Hurtful Mistakes for Joseph Morgan (Ante? 29 June). And for Joseph Grover, he printed an almanac and a sheet almanac (Nov).

It was a prolific year for Franklin's personal publishing ventures. The religious revival inspired by George Whitefield's itinerant preaching made the publication of his sermons and the replies to his sermons profitable. Franklin published two of Whitefield's works, A Continuation of his Journal from his Arrival at Savannah to his Leaving Stanford (19 March) and A Letter to the Rev. Mr. John Wesley in Answer to his Sermon entitled Free Grace (7 May). Franklin had published Wesley's Free Grace (15 Jan 1740/1. John Dylander translated John Gerhard's Free Grace in Truth (26 Feb) in reply to Wesley. Ralph Erskine, A Scots divine, took Whitefield to task in A Letter to the Rev. Mr. Whitefield (end of year). Whitefield was not alone in his objection to Wesley's belief in free grace; BF reprinted on 29 Jan a sermon by J. Oswald (it originally appeared anonymously in London) entitled Free Grace Indeed! Meanwhile, BF's publication of Robert Cross' A Protestation presented to the Synod on 11 June, as Miller noted, "started a controversy" between "the Old Side Presbyterians and the New Siders and followers of Whitefield" that "split the Synod of New York and Philadelphia." Replying to Cross, Gilbert Tennent wrote and BF published A Sermon upon Justification (16 July) and Remarks upon a Protestation (1 August). The Querists responded to Tennent in Part III which BF published for them privately (24 Sept).

Taking advantage of the atmosphere of religious speculation and argumentation, Franklin published several religious tracts which were not directly related to the above debates. On 23 April he published Samuel Finley's Christ Triumphing and Satan Raging, a Sermon. On 13 August he published a second edition of Robert Dodsley's The Art of Preaching, and Jeanne de la Nativitie's Daily Conversation with God. On 20 August he published Issac Watts' Psalms of David, and Miller speculated he also brought out (14 Oct 1742) an edition of Watts's Hymns and Spiritual Songs. On 26 Nov he published Joseph Allein's An Alarm to Unconverted Sinners and sometime during 1741 he also published a second edition of Sir Matthew Hale's Sum of Religion and Hymns (see end of year).

In addition to his own Poor Richard (3 Dec) and a pocket almanac (29 Dec), BF published Jerman's Almanac (24 Sept) and William Ball's New Jersey Almanac (22 Oct). BF also printed and sold copies of Extract of a Letter from one of the Officers, before Cartagena (7 May), and John Ury's defence to the Supreme Court of New York with the speech he made at his execution for "being concerned in the late Negro-conspiracy" (post 29 August). PG advertisements rose to four full pages on 11 June and to more than five full pages on 25 June. Those issues of the paper, like many others, were extremely profitable. In addition to the PG, Franklin published The Yearly Verses of the Printer's Lad (c. 30 Dec). Though he attempted to print the Library Company Catalogue before the annual meeting (13 April and 4 May), he simply did not have the time and the Catalogue actually came out sometime post 13 July. And he published a magazine, The General Magazine and Historical Chronicle (16 Feb), which failed after six numbers.

Activities and Social Life: BF's monthly routines remained the same as in 1740. He probably attended Junto meetings every Friday night. As usual, he tried to attend all the meetings of the Library Company, missing just one, on 14 Sept. Since several of his close friends also missed that meeting, I suspect they had a social obligation in common. He attended all but three of the Union Fire Company meetings this year (absent 26 Jan, 30 March, 29 June; there was no Oct meeting).

Intellectual Interests: In the winter of 1740-41, BF was evidently experimenting with stoves, and on 5 Feb, Thursday, advertised an early version of his Pennsylvania fireplace.

Pennsylvania Politics: The Pennsylvania assembly for 1740-41 met for its second session from 5 to 8 Jan; third session, 20 to 21 April; fourth, 25 May to 6 June; fifth, 10 to 11 Aug; sixth, 17 to 22 Aug; and seventh 22 Sept. The Quaker-controlled assembly continued to refuse to contribute to the War of Jenkins' Ear except by paying for the time of the indentured servants whom the government had enlisted as soldiers. The early victories at Carthegena (7 and 14 May) were followed by enormous numbers of deaths through sickness and disease and the consequent collapse of the campaign (2 July). Captain John Sibbald, on the privateer sloop Victory, began his amazingly successful career (28 May). In the late summer, Thomas Penn promised Jeremiah Langhorne, William Allen, and others that he would support a petition to prohibit Quakers from being assemblymen (ante 1 Sept). Thomas Penn, who had come to Philadelphia on 12 Aug 1732 in order to insure that the quit-rents due to the proprietors were paid, left Philadelphia for England on 20 Aug. He took back with him a petition to the crown to force the Pennsylvania assembly to make defense preparations. Gov. Thomas was instructed to raise more troops in August. By personally advancing a bounty of £4 for each man, Thomas was able to raise about 170 recruits (26 Nov). James Logan tried to have the Quakers reconsider their position in the annual Yearly Meeting, but he failed (22 Sept). The disgusted governor thought the English authorities should disenfranchise the Quakers. But his advice backfired. The various sects all feared the establishment of an Anglican church (25 July). The voters again backed the Quakers in the October election when (as usual) there occurred some fisticuffs (1 Oct). At the election, Thomas Penn, who had become increasingly unpopular because of his hardline policy on collecting quitrents, was burned in effigy.

The assembly of 1741-42 met from 14 to 22 Oct. Contrary to tradition, when the House, 14 Oct, presented Kinsey to Gov. Thomas as the new Speaker, Kinsey did not apologize and ask to be replaced, but said he would accept the office. In doing so, he was following the lead of the recent British parliament and of John Randolph as Speaker of the Virginia House of Burgesses. The irritated Gov. Thomas fired back that Kinsey was the cause of strife and turmoil in the province. The chastened Kinsey requested the usual rights and privileges of the Assembly. Gov. Thomas guaranteed them and challenged anyone to prove that he ever violated them. Partially because the Quakers knew that Governor Thomas had recommended that Quakers be excluded from government, the new assembly on 21 Oct voted 3,000£ for the King's use, saying that the assembly was making the grant in view of the great taxes being paid by the people in Great Britain to support the war.

Though BF generally identified with the assembly and published anti-proprietary propaganda (see post 20 Oct 1740), he favored defense measures.

Background: Philadelphia had a yellow fever epidemic, with about 500 deaths (3 Sept 1741). Moravians founded a settlement, Bethlehem, on the Lehigh River. Writings: "Introduction to The New Year's Gift, ante 1 Jan. In the Jan General Magazine (which appeared 16 Feb) "An Account of the Export of Provisions from Philadelphia." On 26 Feb, "Teague's Advertisement," BF's satire of John Webbe's 19 Feb advertisement for the American Magazine. In the Feb General Magazine 117-21, "An Essay on Paper-Currency, proposing a new Method for fixing its Value" (24 March). In the March General Magazine 201-202, a letter from "Theophilus," relating to the Divine Prescience (30 April). "A Short Account of the Library," 13 July 1741. Poor Richard for 1742 (3 Dec). Sometime about 1741, he wrote the song "Fair Venus Calls" (see year-end).

Chronology:

2 Jan, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

5 Jan, Monday. Assembly reconvened; continued through 8 Jan. Votes 3:2665.

5 Jan (b) probably attended the Masonic meeting.

6 Jan, Tuesday, became 35

6 Jan (b). House met at 10am; again at 3pm. Votes 3:2665-68. Governor's speech to House in PG, 15 Jan.

7 Jan, Wednesday, House met at 10am; again at 3pm. Votes 3:2668.

8 Jan, Thursday, House met at 10am; again at 3pm. Adjourned to 20 April. Votes 3:2668. Assembly's speech to governor printed in PG, 15 Jan.

8 Jan (b). PG reported Philadelphia news: "Great Quantities of English Half-pence being Imported here, since the falling of our Exchange, to be pass'd as Pennies, some considerable Dealers were apprehensive we should be overstock'd with them, and began last Week to refuse them otherwise than at the Rate of five for four pence. Their Example being follow'd by many of the Shopkeepers; while others continued to take them for [one] pence apiece, it occasion'd Considerable Confusion in small Dealings. And the Bakers refusing to make any more Bread 'till the Money was settled, the Mob rose on Friday Night and went round the Town breaking the Windows of several Merchants and others, and very much disturbed the City. They began to assemble again the Night following; but by the Vigilance and Resolution of some of the Magistrates, they were timely surpress'd and the City has since remain'd quiet." P 2:316.

9 Jan, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

12 Jan, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at Widow Roberts. B. Franklin nominated Tench Francis, who was admitted a member.

15 Jan, Thursday, PG advertised as "Just Published," John Wesley, Free Grace, A Sermon (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Cambell 223; Evans 4839; Miller 268. BF noted in the advertisement: "This SERMON is said to overthrow entirely the Calvinistical Doctrine of Reprobation." In an example of the divergence between BF's advertising and his personal opinion, BF said in summarizing both it and Free Grace Indeed! (see 22 Jan) in the General Magazine, Feb 1741, p. 112, that they contained "no new Arguments on the Subject."

16 Jan, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

22 Ja22 Jan, Thursday, PG advertised, "On Saturday next [24 Jan] will be published, Free Grace Indeed! A Letter to the Rev. Mr. John Wesley (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 199; Miller 238. Advertised as "Just Published" in 29 Jan PG. BF noted: "This LETTER is said, entirely to overthrow the horrid Misrepresentations of that sacred Truth of GOD, the Doctrine of Election, and to reconcile those Scriptures which Mr. Wesley advances in Favour of rotten Free-Will." The two books (see 15 Jan) were advertised beside one another on 22 and 29 Jan.

22 Jan (b). PG: Poem praising Wesley's sermon. Calendar 587. A puff for the sermon (15 Jan).

23 Jan, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

26 Jan, Monday, Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 25. "The Company met at the house of David Evans. Present: Benj. Shoemaker, Lloyd Zachary, Hugh Roberts, Stephen Armit, Phillip Sing, and Wm Bell. Absent: Benja. Franklin, Richd Sewell, Thomas Hatton, Edwd Roberts, Joseph Paschal, Saml Coates, John Armit, Wm Rawle, Wm Parsons, Jams Morris, Wm Plumstead, John Dilwyn, Wm Cooper, Edwd Shippen, Saml. Powell Junr, Thos. Lloyd, George Emlyn, Charles Willing, Joseph Turner, and Thomas Lawrence. This Day Wm. Harrison appear'd in the behalf of Capt. Wm Bell with the Companys Stock amounting to 16.16.0. which money remains in the hands of Wm Harrison to be deliverd to Joseph Turner the Succeeding clerk. Recd. Jany 27th 1740 of Wm Harrison 16.16.0. being the Companys Stock.

30 Jan, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

1 Feb, probably attended Masonic meeting.

5 Feb, Thursday, PG advertised an early version (presumably without the airbox underneath and without the sun design on the front--see P 12:386) of the Franklin stove. At P 2:316, the editors doubted that this ad referred to BF's Pennsylvania fire-place, though at 2:419 the editors suggested he had invented it as early as the winter of 1739-40. Ad repeated, 12 Feb.

5 Feb (b). PG advertised, "Next Week will be published." The General Magazine and Historical Chronicle for Jan (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741); Campbell 200a-f; Evans 4722; Miller 239. P2:301-02. Actually appeared on 16 Feb. For a discussion, see Richardson 17-35, 363-64; Sappenfield 105-08.

6 Feb, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

9 Feb, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at Widow Roberts.

12 Feb, Thursday, PG advertised that the General Magazine would appear next Monday.

12 Feb (b). AWM advertised that the American Magazine would be published "tomorrow."

13 Feb, Friday, American Magazine appeared. It failed after three numbers.

13 Feb (b). BF probably attended Junto meeting.

16 Feb, Monday. "An Account of the Export of Provisions from Philadelphia, printed in The General Magazine, Jan, p. 75. P 2:302-03. Reveals his interest in statistics and pride in American achievements: in just "a few Years, in making a Garden of a Wilderness."

19 Feb, Thursday, PG advertised, "On Monday next [23 Feb] will be published," John Gerhard, Free Grace in Truth (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 196; Evans 4723; Miller 240. "Just Published," 26 Feb.

19 Feb (b). PG advertised, "Shortly will be Published," George Whitefield, A Continuation of his Journal (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 225; Evans 4846; Miller 269.

19 Feb (c). AWM printed long advertisement for American Magazine. P 2:317-18. Cf. 26 Feb.

20 Feb, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

23 Feb, Monday, Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 26. The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF present. Charles Willing dropped his membership. The company paid Obadiah Eldrige the remainder of his account for the 54 buckets. BF paid 6p for list money.

26 Feb, Thursday, PG: "Teague's Advertisement," BF's satire of 19 Feb advertisement for American Magazine. P 2:305; Calendar 610.

27 Feb, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

Feb 1740/41. John Gerhard, Free Grace in Truth. Adv. as "in the Press" in BF's Gen. Mag. for Jan (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 196; Evans 4723; Miller 240.

2 March, Monday, probably attended Masonic meeting.

5 March, Thursday. AWM: p. 4, Bradford replied to BF. Discussed by Sappenfield 102-04.

6 March, Friday, 1740/1. BF, Philadelphia, to James Alexander. 1p. Not in P. Marked for addenda. BFPAPERS file 28382; John Rutherfurd, Jr.

6 March (b), probably attended Junto meeting.

9 March, Monday. Miles Strickland, BF, and George Chubb witnessed the will of Simon Edgell. APS.

9 March (b). Attended Library Company directors meeting at Widow Roberts. Breintnall wrote William Alexander of Maryland, reminding him that William Allen had taken up his bond and furnished the Library Company with a bill of exchange for it. Since Allen has not yet been paid, he "talks of returning the Bond to the Directors in a short Time." Breintnall said that the directors would have to put the bond in suit. For Dr. Sydserfe's gift to the Library Company of William Alexander's debt, see 11 Sept 1738.

10 March, Tuesday, William Coats, Release to William Maugridge, witnessed by BF, 2p. APS. BFPAPERS 26690.

13 March, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

19 March, Thursday, PG advertised as "Just Published," George Whitefield, A continuation of his Journal from a few Days after his Arrival at Savannah (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 225; Evans 4846; Miller 269.

20 March, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

24 March, Tuesday. On 19 March, Thursday, PG advertised "On Tuesday next [24 March] will be published" The General Magazine and Historical Chronicle for Feb. (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741); Campbell 200a-f; Evans 4722; Miller 239. Cf. 26 March.

It contained BF's "Essay on Paper-Currency, proposing a new Method for fixing its Value." Draft version in APS. Hays ("BF to --- ---- dated c. 1766"), 3:464; printed in Sparks 7:322-24n. Canon 102; W 286-90. Note: in some aspects, the proposal anticipates his 1765 "Scheme for Supplying the Colonies with a Paper Currency." P 12:47-60.

25 March, Wednesday. Gov. Thomas to John Penn: "If you do not part with them [the Quaker majority in the assembly] they will in the end part with you, for they publickly avow their design to throw the government into the hands of the crown, and from hence the more confusion the better, as that is the most probable way of bringing it about." Penn Off. Corresp, 3:139. PHi. Quoted in Osgood 4:61.

26 March, Thursday. PG: printed long advertisment for Feb General Magazine. P 2:318-19. Cf. 24 March.

27 March, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

29 March, Sunday. John Bartram to J. Slingsby Cressy: "Espetialy if a desighn succeeds which many gentlemen of generous tastes in several of our northern governments hath industriously endeavored to assist me in by raising anualy A sufficient sum by subscription to enable me to spend most of my time for several years in searching & observing natural production of the mountains plains lakes rivers springs & grotoes in our four northern governments of york jersey pensilvania & marlyand that I may oblige the world with perticular account maps or pourtratur of the scituations of animals minerals & vegitables of the before mentioned provinces but I cant yet know whether thay will raise A competent sum by reason of this grevous hard winter." Bartram, Correspondence 153. Bartram also mentioned the scheme to Collinson in the late summer; ibid, 166. See 17 March 1742.

30 March, Monday, Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 27. "The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF absent.

3 April, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

6 April, Monday, probably attended Masonic meeting.

9 April, Thursday. PG: Good news report on the cold weather. P 2:320-21.

9 April (b). PG advertised as "Just Published," Samuel Blair, A Particular Consideration of a Piece Called the Querists (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 187; Evans 4675; Miller 228.

9 April (c). PG advertised as "Shortly will be published," Samuel Finley, Christ Triumphant and Satan Raging (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 198; Evans 4716; Miller 235. As "Next Week will be published" on 16 April; and "Just Published" on 23 April.

10 April, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

13 April, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at Widow Roberts. Agreed to print 200 copies of the catalogue before the next election, May 4. BF, however, simply did not have the time to do it by then. Cf. 13 July.

16 April, Thursday, PG advertised: "THE Subscribers to the Library in Philadelphia are hereby advertised, that Monday the fourth of May ensuing, at Two in the Afternoon, is the Time appointed for the Company's Choice of Directors and a Treasurer for the succeeding Year, and for making the Ninth Annual Payment, in the Library Room belonging to the State-House. J. Breintnall, Secr." P 2:321.

17 April, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

20 April, Monday, Assembly convened; cointinued one more day. Votes 3:2671.

21 April, Tuesday, House met at 10am; again at 3pm. Adjourned to 25 May. Votes 3:2671-72.

23 April, Thursday. PG: In an obituary of the Rev. Archibald Cummings, BF wrote that he was "universally esteem'd ... especially for his Charity and Moderation towards all Religious Societies of differing Persuasions." P 2:321.

This was not true of Cummings, Minister of Christ Church, who had just been embroiled in religious controversies with Whitefield (e.g., 20 April 1740), but reflected BF's beliefs, and his attempt to use his newspaper to inculcate what he believed to be the right values.

23 April (b). PG advertised as "In the Press, and speedily will be published," George Whitefield, A Letter to the Rev. Mr. John Wesley (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 228; Evans 4856; Miller 270. Advertised as "Next Saturday [2 May] will be published," in 30 April PG, and "Just Published" on 7 May.

24 April, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

27 April, Monday, Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 28. "The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF present. "This Evening paid Benja. Franklin for Enlarging & binding this Book [the minute book] nine shillings.

30 April, Thursday, PG advertised as "Just Published," The General Magazine and Historical Chronicle for March (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 200a-f; Evans 4722; Miller 239. P 2:322.

The March General Magazine 201-202 contained BF's letter from "Theophilus," relating to the Divine Prescience. Canon 103-04; W 290-91.

1 May, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

2 May, Saturday. Library Co. of Phila., Subscription Request (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Miller 248.

4 May, Monday, 2pm, annual Library Company election held in the Library Room at the State House: Hugh Roberts, Benjamin Franklin, William Coleman, Thomas Hopkinson, Philip Syng, Evan Morgan, Samuel Rhoads, Joseph Stretch, Phineas Bond, and Israel Pemberton, Jr. Also Joseph Breintnall, secretary, and James Morris, treasurer. The directors remained the same as last year, but BF had regained most of his popularity, moving from fifth to second place in the election. Hugh Davy (81) paid for a share in the Library Company. Breintnall noted, "The whole Number now in Partnership, including Hugh Davy, who has paid but not yet subscribed, is 72."

4 May (b), probably attended Masonic meeting.

6 May, Wednesday, James Logan to BF. P 2:306-07. (In Coxe Papers--Alverthorpe, PHi.)

7 May, Thursday, PG announced victory at Cartagena. Cf. 14 May and 2 July.

7 May (b). Extract of a Letter from one of the Officers, before Catagena (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Bristol 1153; STE 40256; Miller 259. Ascribed to BF's press on evidence of type used. Found bound in various PG files, e.g., that in Isaiah Thomas' copy after the issue of 7 May.

8 May, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

11 May, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at the Widow Roberts. "We the Subscribers Directors of the Library Company for the current Year, do agree to attend all our appointed Meetings, at Half an Hour past Eight in the Evening until the first Meeting in August next, inclusive; And from that Time till November at Eight in the Evening; And from that Time till May ensuing at Seven in the Evening. And that for every Failure we will each of us pay to the others One Shilling. Witness our Hands May 11th, 1741. B. Franklin, Hugh Roberts, Joseph Stretch, Israel Pemberton, jr., Evan Morgan, Philip Syng, Thomas Hopkinson, Phineas Bond, William Coleman, Samuel Rhoads." Document also recorded fines for absence through 12 April, 1742. Facsimile in PMHB 23 (1899):106; original in Haverford College Library. Tench Francis, having purchased Joseph Rolfe's share, subscribed. Resolved that William Alexander's bond be put in suit, and that William Allen should be repaid. Cf. 11 Sept 1738.

14 May, Thursday, PG gave fuller account of Cartagena victory. BF reported the local reaction: "Last Thursday [7 May], with inexpressible Joy, we received News of taking and destroying all the Forts, Castles and Batteries on the Harbour of Cartegena; the taking the Spanish Admiral Don Glass's Ship, with the Admiral's Flag on board; and blowing up and sinking all the rest of the Spanish Men of War and Galleons there, by his Majesty's Ships and Forces under the Command of the brave Admiral Vernon, and General Wentworth; which has so exposed that Town, as to make the Conquest of it, in all human Probability, but the Work of a few Days.

"So Glorious an Event, to which even We may boast in some Measure, to have contributed, inflamed every loyal and honest Heart here, with a Warmth, unfelt before, in this Infant Country. Next Day [Friday, 8 May], before Noon, two Companies of Gentlemen met, under Arms, at the State-House, and from thence, with his Honour the Governor, in the Center, accompanied with our Honourable Proprietor, the Council, and the Mayor and Corporation, by a long March through the City, during the continual firing of great Guns from the Ships and Wharffs, came to the Court-House, where they discharged three Volleys. There all the Loyal Healths, and the Healths of our Victorious Commanders were drank with loud Acclamations, and the People had some Barrels of Beer given amongst them. The Proprietor and Governor dined publickly with a large Company of Gentlemen, and the Afternoon was spent in drinking all the former Healths, at the discharge of Rounds of Cannon. At Night four fifths of the Houses in Town were Illuminated, which delighted the Eyes of the Spectators, but much more the Hearts of those who interpreted them as unfeigned Demonstrations of Joy, in this meek and pacifick Country, for the Success of his Majesty's Arms. The whole concluded with a Bonfire, and distributing a Pipe of Spanish Prize Wine amongst the Populace.

"That His Majesty's future Service may receive no Prejudice from the Reports which have been industriously spread here by Persons disaffected to His Majesty's Measures: It is thought necessary to inform the Publick, That not only the Bills drawn by Col. Blakeney on the Right Honourable Henry Pelham, Esq; for the Subsistance of the Troops raised here and in the Government of the Lower Counties; but that those also, drawn by our Governor on the Commissioners of his Majesty's Navy, for Victualling and Transporting the Seven Companies raised in this Government, have been duly honoured."

14 May AWM contained the same news report, though omitting the last paragraph.

14 May (b). Gov. Thomas to F. J. Paris: Pennsylvania would never be adequately protected until the Quakers were excluded from the legislature by the necessity to take the oath. Root 284, citing Penn Mss, Official Corres., 3:169. Provost William Smith argued the same in January 1755.

17 May, Sunday. Early in the morning "a Fire broke out in a House at the Upper End of Front Street, near the Ship yards ... the People sav'd their Goods, and it was extinguished before it got to the second Floor." Evidently this was the fire at Thomas Ashton's where Union Fire Company members William Plumsted and Charles Willing each lost a bag and where Philip Syng had a bucket damaged. Cf. 29 June.

20 May, Wednesday, BF et al, Library Company order to James Morris, Treasurer, to pay William Allen £51.13.6 "in full of his demand against the Library Company of Philadelphia." 1p. Printed in facsimile: Samuel T. Freeman, Sale Cat., Feb. 19-20, 1948, p. 33.

21 May, Thursday. In a list of books for sale, BF inserted a humorous aside: "Every Man his own Lawyer, Every Man his own Doctor, (Note, in a short time will be published, Every Man his own Priest)."

21 May (b). PG noted: "On Thursday next [28 May] will be published the General Magazine, for the Month of April, 1741." Advertised as "Just Published" on 28 May. (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 200a-f; Evans 4722; Miller 239.

22 May, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

25 May, Monday, Assembly convened; continued through 6 June. Votes 3:2672.

25 May (b), Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 29. "The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF present.

26 May, Tuesday, House met at 10am. Votes 3:2672-73.

27 May, Wednesday, House met at 3pm. Votes 3:2673.

28 May, Thursday, House met at 9am. Committee of grievances reported that at least 262 servants had been taken out of the province to serve in the West Indies, and that the number would be greater. Met again at 3pm. Votes 3:2673-74.

28 May (b). PG contained good news account of the successful engagement of Captain John Sibbald, Sloop Victory, against the Spanish.

28 May (c). PG advertised April General Magazine. P 2:323-24.

29 May, Friday, House met at 10am. Votes 3:2674.

29 May (b), probably attended Junto meeting.

30 May, Saturday, House met at 9am. Votes 3:2675.

1 June, Monday, House met at 3pm. Votes 3:2675.

1 June (b), probably attended Masonic meeting.

2 June, Tuesday, House met at 9am; again at 3pm. Submitted message to governor. Voted to recompense persons whose servants had joined the army. Votes 3:2675-77.

3 June, Wednesday. House met at 10am; again at 3pm. Votes 3:2677-78.

4 June, Thursday, House met at 9am; again at 3pm. Andrew Hamilton presented a petition signed by 85 gentlemen and merchants of Philadelphia, asking the House to make "some Provision to guard us against" the Spanish privateers." (Petition recorded the following day, Votes 3:2680-81). Votes 3:2679-80. BF probably signed. Cf. 6 June. And cf. 7 Aug 1740 for an earlier petition presented by Hamilton asking for funds for raising a militia.

4 June (b). PG advertised Some Remarks Upon the Times (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 214; Evans 4811; Miller 262.

4 June (c). PG advertised as "Just Published," A Short Reply to Mr. Whitefield's Letter (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 212; Evans 4805; Miller 260.

5 June, Friday, House met at 9am; again at 4pm. Votes 3:2680-82.

5 June (b), probably attended Junto meeting.

6 June, Saturday, House met at 9am. Rejected the 4 June petition by Hamilton and others. Replied to the governor, refusing to act. Met again at 3pm. Adjourned to 10 Aug. Votes 3:2682-86.

8 June, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at Widow Roberts. Philip Syng, Evan Morgan, and William Coleman were absent. Cf. 11 May. William Plumstead had arrived from London bringing with him "for the Company a Camera Obscura & a double Microscope being a Present from John Penn Esq." The directors voted to repay William Allen £51.13.6; and to send William Alexander's bond to "Mr. [Daniel] Delany to be put in Suit."

11 June, Thursday, PG: reported division in Philadelphia Presbyterian Synod and news of Gilbert Tennent's preaching. P 2:324-25.

11 June (b). PG: "Just Published," John Wright, The Speech to the Court and Grand-Jury (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 229; Evans 4872; Miller 271.

11 June (c). PG: "Just Published," [Robert Cross], A Protestation Presented to the Synod of Philadelphia, June 1, 1741 (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 207; Evans 4704; Miller 230.

11 June (d). PG advertisements took up three full pages.

11 June (e). PG and AWM on Whitefield's New Building: "THESE may inform all Persons who are inclined to contribute any Thing towards finishing the CHARITY SCHOOL and House of Publick Worship, begun last Year in Philadelphia, in the Province of Pennsylvania, either in Money, or any Goods that will suit Workmen, in Carpenters Work, Bricklayers Work, Lime, Smiths Work, Nails, Shingles, Boards, Plastering, Labour, &c. may apply themselves to the Subscribers, or any of them, who are appointed, by the Trustees for said Building, Receivers of Money &c. and also to contract with Workmen.

N.B. Those Workmen who have already Subscribed, are desired to repair to said Building on the 15th Day of June, 1741, or as soon after as they can, in Order to frame the Roof of said Building, at which Time said Work (God Willing) will actually be begun, when Subscriptions will be taken in. Edmund Woolley, John Coats, Robert Eastburn, jun, William Price, Edward Evans.

12 June, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

17 June, Wednesday, James Bingham subscribed to the Library Company, having purchased Anthony Benezet's share for £6.10s.

19 June, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

24 June, Wednesday. "The same Day [Wednesday 24 June] at a Grand Lodge of FREE and ACCEPTED MASONS, held for the Province of Pennsylvania, at the Indian King in this City; Mr. Philip Syng was chosen GRAND MASTER for the Year ensuing; Mr. Thomas Boude was appointed DEPUTY GRAND MASTER, and Mr. Lambert Emerson and Dr. Thomas Bond GRAND WARDENS." 25 June PG. P 2:325.

25 June (b). PG advertised, "Saturday next [ 27 May] will be Published," The General Magazine and Historical Chronicle for May, (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 200a-f; Evans 4722; Miller 239. P 2:325.

25 June (c). PG advertisements filled 5 full pages; AWM advertisements of same date occupied two full pages.

26 June, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

29 June, Monday, Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 29. 7pm: "The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF absent. Wm Rawle informed the members present that Wm Plumsted & Charles Willing acquainted him that they had Each of them lost a Bag at the Late Fire at Thos. Ashton's. Philip Syng ... had a Buckett Damaged at the sd. Fire."

2 July, Thursday, PG reported news of abandoning attack at Cartagena: "All our Accounts from Jamaica confirm the News of our Fleet and Forces With-drawing from before Cartagena, and Return to that Island. The violent Heats, and the bad Water the Men were forced to drink, occasioned a Sickness which carried off a considerable Number; and the Rainy Season coming on, made it necessary and prudent to retire for the present. The Attack of Fort St. Lazarus, was the only unsuccessful Attempt in the whole Expedition; the Spaniards haveing Notice of the Design by some Deserters, made full Preparation to receive our Assault, and plac'd in that Fort a Number of Men extraordinary, and made Entrenchments round it, defended by several concealed Batteries of Cannon. Our Troops behaved with great Bravery, and continued the Attack three Hours, during which we had by the exactest Accounts 143 Men killed, and 465 wounded: At length finding it impracticable to enter, the Retreat was sounded; and soon after the whole Army re-embark'd in order to return to Jamaica. Before the Fleet sail'd, an Exchange was made of Prisoners, and having recovered all our own Men, there were still 250 Spaniards remaining in the Fleet. All the Forts and Batteries which we had taken were by the Admiral's Order blown to Pieces, destroyed and levelled with the Ground, and the most valuable Cannon brought off, the rest ruined. The Town itself is almost reduc'd to Rubbish by the 6000 Bombs thrown into it, and the great Number of Cannon Shot; which, with their Men of War, Galleons, &c, sunk and burnt, makes the Loss of Spain very great; whereas Britain has only lost a few Men, of which, God be praised, the Nation has plenty, the Expence being a Trifle, as the Money all circulates among our-selves; so that upon the whole it may be esteem'd no inglorious Expedition. Five Men of War were left behind, being ordered to go and attack St. Martha, a Place a few Leagues to Windward of Cartagena. Great Preparations are making in Jamaica for a new Expedition, the Assembly of that Island having granted the Admiral 5000 pick'd Negroes; and 'tis said the Fleet were to sail the 20th of June, designing to divide and attack at once, St. Jago de Cuba and La vera Crucz. All the Sick and Wounded were put into Hospitals in Jaimaica, and taken care of in the best Manner, so that they were recovering daily. The most exact Account of the Number of Men lost in the whole Expedition to Cartagena, does not exceed 2700, of which 2500 were carried off by the Sickness. The Sickness was very mortal in the Town also, and great Numbers of the Enemy were killed and wounded; but the Place was continually supplied with fresh Men from the Country. It is however, agreed by all, that if we could have been there a Month sooner, the Town must inevitably have fallen into our Hands: There being no Want of Conduct in our Officers, or Bravery in the Men; but the Season was against us." Cf. 7 and 14 May.

3 July, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

6 July, Monday, probably attended Masonic meeting.

10 July, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

11 July, Saturday. In her will, Elizabeth Benny appointed BF co-executor with her daughter Elizabeth. Witnessed by Joseph Breintnall and others. 2p. APS. BFPAPERS file no. 27469.

13 July, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at Widow Roberts. "Ordered that Wm. Coleman, Benj. Franklin and Thos. Hopkinson be a Committee to write a Letter of Thanks to the Honorable John Penn, Esq." for his present of a Camera Obscura and a double microscope. "B. Franklin read a Paper containing a Brief Account of the Library, which he said he wrote to fill up a Blank that happens to be at the End of the Catalogue he is printing; of which he desired the Opinion of the other Directors present, & they approved of his Design." The sketch appeared in the Library Company, Catalogue of Books (see next entry). P 2:308­09.

post 13 July. BF compiled and printed A Catalogue of Books Belonging to the Library Company of Philadelphia (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 188; Evans 4787; Miller 246.

16 July, Thursday. PG: The Philadelphia owners of the Sloop Victory fitted out Captain John Sibbald with a much larger command, the Ship George, carrying ten carriage and ten swivel guns.

16 July (b). PG advertised as "Just Published," Gilbert Tennent, A Sermon Upon Justification (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 216-217; Evans 4824-25; Miller 264.

17 July, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

20 July, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting. To consider the rumors against accepting a charter from the Proprietor, a general meeting was called for, Monday, 3 Aug, at two in the afternoon.

21 July, Tuesday, Library Co. of Phila., Meeting Notice. Ascribed to BF on evidence of type. [Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741]. Bristol 1134; Evans mp. 40255; Miller 247.

23 July, Thursday, PG advertised as "Monday next [27 July] will be Published," The General Magazine, and Historical Chronicle for June (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 200a-f; Evans 4722; Miller 239. Table of contents printed in 30 July PG (P 2:326).

24 July, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

25 July, Saturday. Johann Philip Böhm: "No other opinion prevails here in Pennsylvania than that we shall have, according to all indications, a royal government here in a short time. To this end our governor, his Excellency Mr. George Thomas, works most strenuously. Against it all sects, Quakers, Dunkers, Mennonites and all others put forth all their efforts. However, it seems that the Protestants will win. On October 1, 1740, there was a great tumult in Philadelphia, as it was election day for a new assembly, through which the governor tried to bring about his purpose. But he did not succeed. The Protestant country people were so prejudiced by the Quakers and other sects, which told them of all kinds of hardships that would follow, that they, therefore, clung to the old liberty and the old assembly. A large part of them were persuaded by these arguments and gave the Quakers a plurality of 128 votes against the new assembly, the party of the governor. His Excellency was very angry about it, especially with the Germans." Böhm seemingly believed that all Pennsylvania citizens would have to pay for the Protestant ministers--including him! Böhm to the Classis of Amsterdam. Journal of the Presbyterian Historical Society 7 (1914): 369.

27 July, Monday, Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 30. "The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF present.

30 July, Thursday, PG: "Just Published," the June General Magazine, the last issue.

30 July (b). PG: "Saturday next will be Published," Gilbert Tennent, Remarks upon a Protestation (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 215a-b; Evans 4820; Miller 263. In 6 Aug PG, "Just Published."

31 July, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

31 July, Friday, BF bought a lot of two acres and 90 perches in the Northern Liberties from the brickmaker William Coats. Witnessed by William Maugridge and Robert Greenway. P 2:310. Roach 148. The "pasture" was used to keep William Franklin's pony (17 June 1742).

1 Aug, Saturday. BF purchased a house and ground rent from the bricklayer Christopher Thompson and his wife Mary, located on the north side of Mulberry or Arch Street, between Fourth and Fifth streets. The deed was witnessed by John Knight and Joseph Breintnall. He paid ground rent on it until 13 December 1771. P 3:311; 18:262.

3 Aug, Monday. At a general meeting, the Library Company members agreed at 2 pm to apply for a charter.

3 Aug (b). Letter, Library Company directors to John Penn. P 2:312.

4 Aug, Tuesday, Andrew Hamilton died.

5 Aug, Wednesday, Hamilton buried at Bush Hill, "attended to the Grave by a great Number of his Friends."--PG 6 Aug. BF and DF probably attended.

6 Aug, Thursday, PG: BF's obituary of Andrew Hamilton. P 2:327-28; W292-93.

6 Aug (b). PG: Deborah Franklin asked that William Law's A Practical Treatise on Christian Perfection and his A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life be returned, "for the Owner has now leisure to read them." Repeated 13 Aug (where Deborah is identified). P 2:328-29.

7 Aug, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

7 Aug (b). William Allen elected Recorder of Philadelphia in place of Andrew Hamilton. Minutes of the Common Council 404.

10 Aug, Monday, House met, continued for one day. Votes 3:2686.

10 Aug (b). Thomas Hancock to BF. P 2:312-13.

10 Aug (c), attended Library Company directors meeting at Widow Roberts. Israel Pemberton, jr., was absent. Agreed that each member of the General Assembly, Peter Collinson, and John Penn, all be given a copy of the catalogue. The directors thanked John Penn for the present of a curious microscope and a camera obscura. George McCall was admitted a member, but since he was under age, Samuel McCall had to subscribe for him (for Samuel McCall, see 12 August 1741). Charles Meredith (who took James Piller's share) subscribed.

11 Aug, Tuesday, House met at 10am. Adjourned to 17 Aug. Votes 3:2686.

12 Aug, Wednesday. Samuel McCall paid for a share (82) in the Library Company.

13 Aug, Thursday, PG advertised as "Just Published," Jeanne De La Nativite, Daily Conversation with God (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 194; Evans 4732; Miller 244.

13 Aug (b). PG advertised as "Just Published," Robert Dodsley, The Art of Preaching [2nd BF Ed.] (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741); Campbell 213; Evans 4807; Miller 233.

13 Aug (c). PG and AWM advertisement: Poems by Aquila Rose (Philadelphia: "Printed at the New Printing-Office," 1740 [1741]). Campbell 160; Evans 4593; Miller 207. P 2:238-239. Joseph Rose, who was working as an apprentice for BF, secured his permission to print his father's poems on BF's press. As the title page stated, "Collected and published by his Son Joseph Rose, of Philadelphia." Rose evidently thought he had finished in 1740 and presumably printed the title page then; subsequently, he seemingly found or heard of more of his father's poems and delayed releasing the volume until August 1741.

13 Aug (d). AWM: "On Friday last, at a Meeting of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council of this City, came on the Election of a Recorder, in the room of Andrew Hamilton, Esq; deceased, when William Allen, Esq; was chosen."

14 Aug, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

17 Aug, Monday, House met at 3pm, continued through 22 Aug. Votes 3:2686.

18 Aug, Tuesday, House met at 10am; again at 3pm. Votes 3:2686-87.

19 Aug, Wednesday, House met at 10am. Agreed on address of farewell to Thomas Penn. Met again at 2pm. "Ordered, That a Collection be made of the Laws of this Province, and a new Edition thereof printed, under Direction of John Kinsey, Esq; Thomas Leech, and Isaac Norris; and that One Hundred and Twenty Copies be bound for the Use of the Publick." Votes 3:2687-89.

20 Aug, Thursday, House met at 8am; met again at 5pm. Votes 3:2689-90.

20 Aug (b). PG: Thomas Penn sailed "this day" for England. He had arrived in Philadelphia on 12 Aug 1732. P 2:329.

20 Aug (c). PG: "Just Published," The Psalms of David (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 221; Evans 4673; Miller 227.

21 Aug, Friday, House met at 9am; again at 3pm. Votes 3:2690-91.

21 Aug (b), probably attended Junto meeting.

22 Aug, Saturday, House met at 9am. Votes 3:2691. "To Ditto paid Benjamin Franklin, for Printing, &c. 142.0.4." Votes 3:2696. House adjourned to 22 Sept.

28 Aug, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

post 29 Aug, Saturday. The Defence of John Ury (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Evans mp. 40262, 40263; Miller 265. From May to Sept, accounts of New York slave conspiracy appeared in PG and AWM. Ury was hanged as a promoter of the conspiracy.

31 August, Monday. Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 30. "The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF present. "The Company Stock being Nine pounds fifteen Shillings and Six pence was paid into the hands of Benja Franklin the Succeeding Clerk. Received per B Franklin."

ante 1 Sept. In the late summer, Thomas Penn promised Jeremiah Langhorne, William Allen, Lawrence Growdon, John Kearsley, William Clymer, Septimus Robinson, William Plumsted, and James Hamilton, that he would support a petition to prohibit Quakers from being assemblymen (Cf. 21 Oct; Horle, "Jeremiah Langhorne" 2:647, "Harmanus Alrichs" 2:196; and PMHB 23:383, 499.

3 Sept, Thursday. Because of the yellow fever epidemic, Franklin published the death statistics from 1 June to 1 Sept. Susan E. Klepp, Swift Progress 9, n.32, commented, Franklin "sought to minimize the impact .... by publishing the number of deaths just prior to the most severe phase of the outbreak." BF could not have known on 3 Sept that the epidemic was just entering its most deadly period.

4 Sept, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

11 Sept, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

14 Sept, Monday. BF, Hugh Roberts, Evan Morgan, Thomas Hopkinson, Phineas Bond, and William Coleman all missed the Library Company directors meeting at the Widow Roberts. They may well have had some social obligation in common. William Alexander sent up bills of exchange to Mr. Nelson to discharge his bond; therefore Franklin wrote Daniel Dulany to send back the bond with the costs of suit. Cf. 11 Sept 1738.

14 Sept (b). The Council made seven resolves concerning the authority of the governor and the council vs. the assembly. Colonial Records 497-98. Printed in AWM 24 Sept. Surprisingly, the resolves did not appear in the PG. Cf. 15 Jan 1742.

17 Sept, Thursday, PG carried one of first inter-colonial advertisements for a colonial specialist: "John Dabney, Mathematical Instrument Maker from London, In King-Street, Boston, New England, Makes and Mends all Sorts of Mathematical Instruments." P 2:330 reprinted the ad from 19 Nov.

18 Sept, Friday, Militia Act Established (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Evans mp. 11222; Miller 231. See accounts.

18 Sept (b). probably attended Junto meeting.

20 Sept. Sunday. [Conrad Weiser], Ein Wohl gemeindter und Ernstlicher Rath an unsere LandsLeute, die Teutschen [Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741]. Campbell 222; Evans 4836; Miller 267; not in Arndt and Eck. Dated 20 Sept. Weiser recommended the Proprietary party candidates. He said that Governor Thomas had tried to defend the Germans on the frontier but that the Quaker party had prevented it and abused him. Cf. 29 Sept. Wallace, Weiser 112-15, printed Weiser's English translation: "A Serious and Seasonable Advice to our Countrymen the Germans in Pennsylvania" from the Penn Papers, Official Correspondence, 3:195. Christopher Saur replied on 29 Sept; and John Wright also defended the Quakers against Weiser, with The Speech of John Wright (Philadelphia: Bradford, 1741); Evans 4872.

22 Sept, Tuesday, "The House met according to Adjournment: But there being only Sixteen Members present, the Year near expiring, and no Business of Importance appearing that might require their longer Stay, the House adjourn'd." Votes 3:2700. "To Benjamin Franklin, as Clerk of the House, and for Printing, 50.7.0." Votes 3:2701.

22 Sept (b). Gilbert Tennent to BF. P 2:313-14.

22 Sept. (c). James Logan, To Robert Jordan, and others the Friends of the Yearly Meeting (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 202; Evans 4740; Miller 249. Logan had addressed a letter to the Friends Yearly Meeting, but John Kinsey, Speaker of the Assembly and Clerk of the Yearly Meeting, appointed a committee which recommended that the letter not be given a general hearing. Logan therefore had the letter printed, but did not allow it a general circulation. Logan favored defensive war and urged a legislative bill establishing a voluntary militia. He argued that less than one-third of Pennsylvanians were Friends, that the colony's prosperity made it ever more vulnerable, and that those Quakers who were against defensive warfare should decline serving in the assembly. Logan said that civil government was founded upon force and that Friends "who for conscience-sake cannot join in any law for self-defense [should] decline standing as candidates at the ensuing election." See 20 Oct. The letter was reprinted in PMHB 6 (1882):402-11. A113. Kinsey may have feared that Israel Pemberton and other Friends (who opposed granting money) might have used the occasion and prevailed.

post 22 Sept. Pennsylvania, Votes and Proceedings, 1740-41 (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 218; Evans 4784; Miller 256.

24 Sept, Thursday. PG advertised as "Just Published," John Jerman, The American Almanack for the Year 1742 (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 201; Evans 4733; Miller 245. P 2:329.

24 Sept (b). PG advertised as "Just Published," The Querists, Part III (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 209; Evans 4792; Miller 261.

25 Sept, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

28 Sept, Monday. Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 31. BF, clerk. "The Company met at the house of David Evans, except Joseph Paschel, Jno Armit, Wm Rawl, Benj Shoemaker, Hugh Roberts, Philip Syng, Wm Cooper, Richd Sewell, Stephen Armit, Joseph Turner, Edwd Shippen, Loyd Zachary, Samll Powel, Geo Emlen, Cha Willing, Thos Lawrence, Wm Bell, Wm Plumsted. The Companys Stock being Ten Pounds Thirteen Shillings and 6 pence to be paid into the Hands of Philip Syng, the succeeding Clerk. Recd. per Philip Syng."

28 Sept (b). Pennsylvania, Governor George Thomas, Proclamation concerning recruits for the expedition against Havana. See 1 Oct.

29 Sept, Tuesday, "Samuel Hassell, Esq; Mayor of this City, made the Customary Feast at the Expiration of the Mayorality, when the Governor, Council, the Corporation, and a great Number of the Inhabitants were entertain'd at the Court-House in the most handsome Manner."--PG 1 Oct. P 2:329.

29 Sept (b). Christopher Saur printed (and wrote?) a broadside answering Conrad Weiser (20 Sept). Saur suggested that Weiser's recent appointment as a justice of the peace influenced him. Wallace, Conrad Weiser 114-15 said that it was given the Germans as they went to vote. Copy in Penn Papers Official Correspondence, 3:199. Saur urged the Germans to continue supporting the Quaker party. Weiser translated it: "Worthy Friends and Country People," PPOC 3:199.

Ante 1 Oct. Franklin surreptitiously published Gov. George Thomas, A letter to the Lords of Trade, Octob. 20. 1740 [Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741]. Evans 4613; Miller 212.  The letter was published as anti-Proproetary propaganda. [Entry added, 5/20/99.]

1 Oct, Thursday, Pennsylvania, Governor George Thomas, Proclamation [dated 28 Sept] (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741); Campbell 206; Evans 4781; Miller 258. The proclamation for raising troops appeared in the 1 Oct PG and AWM.

1 Oct (b). Annual election. Rev. Richard Peters was accused of casting two ballots and someone hit him. Seeing the exchange, Israel Pemberton came to separate the two, but James Hamilton, the future governor, threatened to beat Pemberton, who replied he had no fear of Hamilton. Thayer 16, citing Samuel Noble to John Smith, 3 Oct 1741 (3rd. 8th mo, 1741); Corresp of John Smith, 1740-1770; PHi. The Quakers won by a wide margin. Thomas Penn was hanged in effigy. See Richard Peters to Thomas Penn, 8 Oct, Peters Letter Book, PHi.

2 Oct, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

6 Oct, Tuesday. PG, 8 Oct: "On Tuesday last [6 Oct] Clement Plumsted, Esq; was elected mayor of this City for the ensuing Year: When Robert Strettell, William Parsons, William Rawle, Thomas Hopkinson, Samuel Rhoades, and Andrew Hamilton, Son of Andrew Hamilton Esq; lately deceas'd, were chosen Common-Council-Men. And the following Gentlemen were promoted Aldermen, to wit, William Till, Joseph Turner, James Hamilton, and Benjamin Shoemaker." P 2:329-30.

9 Oct, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

12 Oct, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at Widow Roberts. Only Israel Pemberton, Jr., was absent. Drew up a letter of thanks to the proprietors for the charter, the individual members to sign. (Original at PPL.)

14 Oct, Wednesday, House met. John Kinsey "unanimously chosen Speaker." Contrary to Pennsylvania tradition, but following recent Parliamentary practice (and the lead in the colonies of Sir John Randolph as Speaker of the Virginia House of Burgesses), Kinsey did not apologize and disable himself but said he intended to accept the office. Gov. Thomas made an extemporaneous, irritated speech accusing Kinsey of being the primary cause of difficulty in the government. Votes 4:2705; Horle, "John Kinsey," 2:597.

15 Oct, Thursday, House met at 10am. "Resolved, That Benjamin Franklin be apointed Clerk of this House for the ensuing Year; and he was qualified accordingly." Met again at 3pm. Committees appointed. "Ordered, That Isaac Norris, Thomas Leech, and Israel Pemberton, be a Committee to revise the Minutes before they are printed." Votes 4:2707-08.

16 Oct, Friday, House met at 10am; again at 3pm. House censured the governor's manner and remarks. Votes 4:2708.

16 Oct (b), probably attended Junto meeting.

20 Oct, Tuesday, House met at 3pm. Votes 4:2708.

20 Oct (b): Richard Peters to John Penn on Logan's publication (22 Sept): "Mr. Logan in resentment as I suppose to such Treatment [by the Yearly Meeting] caused thirty Copies to be Printed off, to save the Trouble of Copying with a design to send them to his Friends in England, but whether he will or no is now doubtful, tho' I will persuade him if possible to send one to the Proprietors. It is said but I advance this without knowing any thing from him of the matter, that either by the persuasion of Mrs. Logan or in a Conference that was had in his house with some of the principal Members of the Meeting, he has altered his mind, keeps the contents a Secret and is disposed to suppress the whole, however, he has promised the Governor, Mr. Allen and myself the reading of it but under Secrecy at this time which I can't account for." Peters Letterbook, Phi. Discussed by Wellenreuther, "Quest" 542.

21 Oct, Wednesday, House met at 10am. Voted 3,000£ for the King's use. Met again at 3pm. Votes 4:2709. Wellenreuther, "Political Dilemma" 159-60, gives two reasons for the abrupt shift: first, the Quaker party needed to prove their loyalty to England and the King, especially in view of the petition by the proprietary party to make them ineligible to be assemblymen (citing Wolff 99-101); second, Influential English Quakers felt that the party had been intransigent.

21 Oct (b). Amos Strettell paid for a share (no. 83) in the Library Company.

22 Oct, Thursday, House met at 10am; again at 3pm. Adjourned to 4 Jan. Votes 4:2710-13.

22 Oct (b). PG advertised as "Just Published," William Ball, The New Jersey Almanack for the Year 1742 (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 186; Evans 4670; Miller 226. P 2:330.

23 Oct, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

26 October, Monday. No Union Fire Company meeting, p. 31. Syng forgot to notify the members; see 30 Nov.

30 Oct, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

Oct, John Kinsey replaced as Attorney General by Tench Francis. Richard Peters reported to the Proprietors that Kinsey was "exasperated with his Removal as Attorney General" and that he would therefore "never promote an agreement with the Governor nor a Coalition of Parties." Bronner, "Disgrace," 404.

5 Nov, Thursday, PG: Governor Thomas's speech, 20 Oct, to the assembly of the three lower counties and the speaker's reply, 22 Oct.

post 4 Nov. New Jersey, Votes and Proceedings (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 204; Evans 4760; Miller 251.

6 Nov, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

9 Nov, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at the Widow Roberts. Only Phineas Bond, "who departed for England the 27th of last Month," was absent. Amos Strettel (share no 83) subscribed. The treasurer was ordered to pay B. Franklin £3.15.10 Pennsylvania money for Daniel Dulany, Franklin having undertaken to pay it to Dulany for the cost of the suit against William Alexander. See 11 Sept 1738.

13 Nov, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

15 Nov, Sunday. John Read Jr., BF's brother-in-law, sold his western lot to BF for £390. See 9 April 1734.

20 Nov, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

Post 21 Nov. The Speech of Samuel Chew delivered to the Grand-Jury, New Castle, Nov 21, 1741 (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 191; Evans 4708; Miller 230. On the lawfulness of self-defense against an armed enemy. Cf. 4 March, Post 20 Aug, and 18 Oct 1742. 21 May and 21 June 1744.

26 Nov, Thursday, at the end of an advertisement for "BOOKS, &c. SOLD by B. Franklin, PG advertised "Shortly will be reprinted, Allein's Alarm, and Watt's Hymns." Joseph Allein, An Alarm to Unconverted Sinners, (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741); Campbell 185; Evans 4663; Miller 225. Isaac Watts, Hymns and Spirital Songs (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741 [1742?]). Campbell 253; Evans 5087; Miller 266. See 14 Oct 1742.

26 Nov (b). PG advertised as "next Week will be Published," BF's Poor Richard's Almanack for the Year 1742 (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 211; Evans 4719; Miller 237. P 2:330. 3 Dec PG noted it was "just Published."

27 Nov, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

29 Nov, Sunday. "Sunday Night last, Count Zinzendorff arrived here from New York, attended by some of the Moravian Brethren, who are, with a considerable Number more expected in the Spring, to be settled at Nazareth on the Forks of Delaware."--PG 3 Dec. P 2:331.

30 Nov, Monday. Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 31. "The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF present. "Philip Syng having forgot to give Notice to the Company of the time and place of Meeting did according to their Original Agreement pay to the next succeeding Clerk 5s, which with the Sum of £10.13.6 makes the Company's Stock £10.18.6 which I have received. William Parsons.

c. Nov, Joseph Grover, Almanack for 1742 (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Evans mp. 11223; Miller 241. Accounts, March, 1742.

c. Nov, Joseph Grover, Sheet Almanack for 1742 (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Miller 242.

3 Dec, Thursday, PG advertised: "To be Sold at the Post-Office in Philadelphia, THE NEW INVENTED IRON FIRE-PLACES; where any Person may see some of them that are now in Use, and have the Nature and Advantages of them explain'd." P 2:331.

4 Dec, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

10 Dec, Thursday. AWM: John Webbe advertised his business as a "Conveyancer." "At his Office, at the North-East Corner of Fourth Street and Chestnut street, in Philadelphia."

11 Dec, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

14 Dec, Monday, attended Library Company directors meeting at the Widow Roberts. Hugh Roberts and Evan Morgan were absent. Benjamin Shoemaker (share no. 84, 18 Dec), Thomas Bond, William Peters, Joseph Shippen, Joseph Hatton (85, 9 Jan 1742), and Andrew Hamilton were approved as members.

17 Dec, Thursday, PG noted: "As it may be satisfactory to the Publick, to be inform'd of the Number of Recruits sent from the several Governments in North America, pursuant to His Majesty's late Orders; We cannot but blame ourselves for not having inserted it sooner, That Ninety-eight private Men and two Cadets were raised here and embarked last Month on board the Industry, Capt. Hogg, and the Hampshire Capt. Calcott."

18 Dec, Friday, probably attended Junto meeting.

18 Dec (b). Benjamin Shoemaker (84) paid for a share in the Library Company.

28 Dec, Monday. Union Fire Company Minutes, p. 32. The Company met at the house of David Evans, with BF present. "The Members mett unanimously agreed that a small Fire Hook might be Necessary to Every member of the Company, and it is accordingly order'd that Each Member be provided with one at the Expence of the Companys present Stock, and Hugh Roberts is requested to procure the Hooks as soon as Conveniently may be."

29 Dec, Thursday, PG advertised: "Next Week will be Published," Pocket Almanack for the Year 1742. (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 210; Evans 4718; Miller 236.

c. 30 Dec, Friday, The Yearly Verses of the Printer's Lad. (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 254; Evans 5036; Miller 255. Not extant? Probably by Jacob Taylor. In a letter dated 11 Nov 1741, Joseph Rose asked him to write the verses "for my younger Apprentices" because "Mr. Joseph Breintnall, their former Bard, is now so fatigued with business, that he can't perform his usual Kindnesses that way." Rose also supplied Taylor with eight topics for possible inclusion. PMHB 3 (1879):114-15.

Four BF imprints of 1741 lack a more specific date:

1. Ralph Erskine, A Letter to Rev. Mr. Whitefield (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 197; Evans 4714; Miller 234.

2. Sir Matthew Hale. Sum of Religion and Hymns [Second Edition]. (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Evans mp. 40236; Miller 243. (See June 19, 1740 for first printing).

3. Joseph Morgan, The General Cause of All Hurtful Mistakes, a sermon (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 203; Evans 4755; Miller 250. See Ante 29 June 1742.

4. Pennsylvania, The Charters of the Province of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia: Franklin, 1741). Campbell 189; Bristol 1151; Evans mp. 40254; Miller 253. Miller noted that the Charters were probably printed to accompany the Laws of 1742 and that Franklin later changed the date to 1742. See below, Evans 5033.

The 'Advertisement to the Reader' prefacing the appendix ("Containing a summary of such Acts of Assembly as have been formerly in Force ... For Regulating of Descents, and Transfering the Property of Lands, etc"), iii-iv, is written in BF's absolutely clear expository prose: "Many Conveyances have been made by virtue of these Acts whilst they were in Force; and the Titles of the present Possessors of Lands depend on them: And no Person, however skilful, can form a right Judgment of the Validity of the Title to those Lands, without being first well informed how the Law stood at the Time when the several Deeds, of which such Title is composed, were executed: Hence the Necessity and Usefulness of preserving those Laws which have been made for regulating Descents and transfering the Property of Lands must be evident."

[c. 1741] Fair Venus Calls. In BF to Abbé de La Roche, 29 March 1781, BF says he wrote the song forty years ago. S 7:434, prints the letter in French, with the song in English, from WTF, whose version of the song has variations. Carleton Sprague Smith discovered a version in David Vinton, comp., The Masonic Minstrel (1815). Smith, "A Tune for Benjamin Franklin's Drinking Song Fair Venus Calls," Inter-American Music Review 10 (1989):147-55. Ellen R. Cohn, "BF and Traditional Music," in Reappraising BF, ed. Lemay, 303-04, prints the words and the music. See 29 March 1781.