Читать книгу The Works of Benjamin Franklin, Volume 9 - Бенджамин Франклин - Страница 33

Passy, 15 December, 1781.

My Dear Friend:—

I received your favor of September 26th, containing your very judicious proposition of securing the spectators in the opera and play-houses from the danger of fire. I communicated it where I thought it might be useful. You will see by the enclosed that the subject has been under consideration here. Your concern for the security of life, even the lives of your enemies, does honor to your heart and your humanity. But what are the lives of a few idle haunters of play-houses, compared with the many thousands of worthy men and honest, industrious families butchered and destroyed by this devilish war? O that we could find some happy invention to stop the spreading of the flames, and put an end to so horrid a conflagration! Adieu, I am ever yours most affectionately,

B. Franklin.